I'm headed to the region with my wife and kids in May and June, and I intend to snag some solo day trips of 20 to 80 miles that work with our route through the area. I've seen some prior discussions about safety and strategies for multi-day tours, but I haven't heard much discussion about safety from crime, particularly if I'm riding a $9,000 Cervelo.
My wife just had a Bosnian client who, while not understanding how I ride a bike, completely dismissed the idea of riding in Bosnia due to crime and probably because of busy roads. He suggested that my bike was likely to get stolen out of the car if it was at all visible. I definitely wouldn't leave it unattended or unlocked in almost any situation (I've never left a bike in my car overnight). He seemed to suggest that Montenegro might present similar dangers. We will also be in Slovenia, but it sounds like riding there is generally pretty agreeable.
The routes would likely be a mix of point-to-point rides while they are driving the car and loops or out and back training rides up and down a climb that's in the area. While I'm quite comfortable riding in traffic, I'm more inclined to find the alternative routes that offer a little bit more interest and less fuss.
by General_Tea_2833
5 Comments
Roads are a bit narrower out there and drivers aren’t as likely to give you space when passing but altogether I’d say it’s still pretty safe. I did see quite a few drivers tossing beer bottles out the window while driving though lol.
I’d say go for it, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss out on. Nothing like exploring countries by bicycle.
Definitely keep your eyes on your bike though.
Also I’m not sure where you’re from but the sketchiest riding I’ve ever done was in the United States.
I’m generally not concerned with city traffic, as I’ve ridden extensively in Boston and Washington DC, plus Melbourne, Tuscany, Corsica, Seattle, San Diego, SF, etc (most US states).
I suppose my main concern is organized crime or petty theft while I’m out on the bike, based on the comments from the Bosnian. I suppose I could keep a “burner wallet” with a few Euros in my pocket to toss out or a small knife for personal protection, that’s really not the kind of confrontation I’m interested in getting into.
Croatia, Montenegro and Bosnia I never felt any concern regarding crime in fact I felt quite safe. Narrow roads with shit drivers yes. But had some fantastic rides in all three.
Ive ridden in all three, croatia only the coast and the islands, Montenegro around the bay of kotor and Bosnia along the Ciro trail to Sarajevo.
Never had any problems with riding if you know what to expect. The condition of the roads in Bosnia is a bit more knarly though at times. Traffic along the coast in croatia can be heavy so you should look for alt roads if possible (for example the road from Dubrovnik airport to montonegro is crazy busy. But the back roads had almost no cars and road was in great shape.
I never felt unsafe or worried about my gear, but always brought everything inside at night.
I’ve ridden across all three and never felt unsafe. Most people in the street wouldn’t know a £500 bike from a £10,000 one.