BEE Japan

The BEE Ride FAQ. An incomplete and utter list of questions and answers concerning the BEE Ride. If you feel we have missed something then just send us an email with your question and we will add it to the list.

How do I apply?

Firstly, find out about the ride by looking around the website to learn about BEE. Once you have done that then download and fill out the “initial interest form” at the join page. After we receive that we will send you a full application form. We have places for up to 8 riders. The recruitment period varies from year to year. In 2008 the deadline is May 30th.

How is the ride organized?

The BEE SIG recruits a coordinator who then recruits a team. As team members sign up they become fully involved in organizing the ride. A full library of resources has been built up over the past 10 years since BEE was started in 1997.

When do you start & finish?

For two months, from around early to mid August to early to mid October.

How long/how far will we ride every day?

Depends on the next event & the terrain. Up to about 120 km, on average more like 75 km. In mountainous areas, you may have to climb up to around 1700 meters in altitude.

What route do you take?

We travel from Wakkanai in Hokkaido to Kagoshima in Kyushu or on to Okinawa. Particular routes are flexible, but we usually pass through Sapporo, Tokyo, Osaka, Shikoku, and Hiroshima.

How much does it cost?

Y70,000 for full-time riders (approx Y1000/day) for those able to contribute to planning of the ride. This includes accommodation, 3 meals/day and ferry rides. You can fund raise for this. This does not include transport before & after the ride, equipment, or extra cash for snacks.

How can I raise funds?

Many ways. For example, have a party, ask a band to play (tell them what its for) & have a door charge. Have a look at our events section to see what is going on and how you can get involved.

What activities do you do?

Anything green, it’s up to the team. Going by past rides: Presentations about BEE or the environment (eg Okinawa Dugong in 2006, Rokkasho in 2007), environmental forums, green games with kids, tree planting, picking up litter at beaches, rivers, etc. We also do a wee bit of cycling.

Where do you stay?

Camping (ranging from some beautiful beach or riverside campsites to supermarket carparks!!) and homestays and other free accommodation.

What sort of bike do I need?

A touring or hardtail mountain bike is best. Not necessarily expensive, a sturdy bike which can handle the stresses of prolonged use with a load is what is needed.

Are people of any fitness level able to do the ride?

No. Long distance cycle touring is not to be taken lightly, especially in mountainous Japan. Cycling experience is not necessary, but you do need to demonstrate physical and mental stamina.

How much space do I need to carry my stuff?

If you’re using panniers, you’ll want a set of front & rear to hold your own things plus a portion of team gear. Individual gear includes cycling tools & spares, sleeping bag, clothes, shoes, eating utensils. Team gear includes tents, food, cooking gear, presentation equipment.

How do I get my bike to the start of the ride?

Takyubin. Ferry. Ride it (an opportunity to experience more of Hokkaido than BEE offers).

What sort of free stuff will I get?

The opportunity to both plan and particiapte in the ride, events planning experience, and experience with the media. This is better than a university internship or a gym membership.

What about insurance?

It may be difficult to have your bike covered, but all rider must prove that they have health insurance before the ride starts.

I’ve never been vegetarian before. What will I eat?
Tofu, miso, veggies, bread (& ice cream if you buy snacks). All done according to the team’s abilities & imagination.

Don’t you need more protein for heavy exercise?
The only nutrient which a whole foods, vegetarian diet may lack is B12. For a science-based valuation of this see the China Study.

What should I drink while I’m riding?
Keep it simple & drink water, which can be filled up easily in Japan. You should normally carry around 1.5 – 2 liters.

What do I do if my bike breaks? I don’t know the first thing about fixing it.
Learn how to at least fix a puncture before the ride and carry the appropriate tools. With other problems, you may have to improvise until you find a suitable bike shop.

How should I waterproof my stuff?
You may have to leave your bike & gear outside in the rain at times (or even bike in the rain!). Re-use those plastic shopping bags to put your belongings in, or have waterproof covers for your panniers.