Preparations for the ride

Hadrian's Cycleway NCN 72 is a lot less strenuous than the C2C - however - you should still prepare before embarking on any long distance cycle ride.

Planning
Sustrans map of Hadrian's Cycleway NCN 72
OS Landranger maps, 85, 86, 87, 88, 89, 96 cover the whole route.
Northumbria's Cycling Kingdom Map shows the interim route between Haltwhistle and Tynemouth.
Read these guide notes and plan your daily journey. Read the advice page before setting of to check for any problems, detours, advice from other riders etc.Some sections of the route involve riding through exposed, isolated, upland areas so be prepared. Check the weather forecast, take adequate foul weather clothing (i.e. waterproof NOT showerproof and preferably breathable) and emergency rations.
You will need to carry all your personal belongings, clothing, tools etc. either in some panniers or in a rucksack.If you have friends or family in a support vehicle please ask them to stick to the main roads where possible in order to keep the traffic on the Hadrian's Cycleway to a minimum.

Duration
This route should easily be accomplished in three days and for the super fit in two or even one !!
For those that want to stop and visit the Roman sites 4,5 or 6 days should be allowed.
Those cyclist's who are planning to camp along the route should bear in mind that the extra weight of the camping gear will slow you down considerably and this should be taken into account when planning your ride times.

Training
Make sure that you are physically prepared by doing some training rides prior to attempting the route. You don't have to be Superman to complete it, but, you do need to know that you can manage more than 10 miles on a bike before collapsing in a heap! Include some hill climbing - although this route does not have the steep, long hills of the C2C - there are still some climbs over the Pennine watershed and along the Tyne valley.

Bikes
As most of this route is either on minor roads or surfaced off-road tracks most bikes will be suitable but I would not recommend a full racing bike.
Tandems, Recumbent, Tricycles may find some sections awkward but not impossible due to control barriers.

Tyres
Anything apart from full slick or racing bike tyres - I use Specialized Nimbus Armadilio 26" x 1.5" tyres which have low rolling resistance and have the added benefit of full Kevlar jacket protection - well worth it if you cycle a lot in Urban areas with attendant broken glass problems.

Essential tools and spares to carry - see side panel
At least one spare inner tube - preferably two - the urban areas of the cycleway can be plagued with broken glass.
Know how to repair a puncture and replace a broken chain link.

Check over your bike
Give your bike a service and try it out before the ride.
Below is a basic (very basic) list of checks you should carry out on your bike before you start and don't do them the night before you set off!
If you are in any doubt as to your competence regarding cycle maintenance then take your bike into the local bike shop to get it serviced.
Brakes
Make sure that the blocks are not rubbing on the tyre when you apply your brakes, also check that the blocks hit the rim squarely and do not slide under the rim. Check that the blocks are not overly worn and that they connect with the rim cleanly.
Cables
Check that neither the gear or brake cables are frayed. If they are replace them.
Tyres
The yires should be inflated correctly to manufacturers recommendations and check the amount of tread left, if in doubt replace them.
Lubrication
Apply lubrication to front and rear mechs, brake holder pivots, all entry and exit points on cable outers, chain, brake lever pivot points and reapply lubrication at the end of each days riding.
Clean and lubricate your chain before the ride - you will be amazed at the difference in pedalling efficiency this makes.
Spares
Check out the spares list on the right hand side of this page for a basic list of kit to take with you.

Accommodation
Book your accommodation in advance and advise your lodgings if you are going to arrive late - to avoid having your room being given to someone else.

Wear comfortable clothing- padded shorts are a must - get used to wearing them before the ride and above all wear them next to the skin - NEVER wear underwear beneath them.
Wear layers of light breathable clothing - that way you can remove a layer as you warm up and replace it when you cool down.

Carry enough fluids / drinks especially if it is a hot day.

Do not underestimate the amount of liquid you will need to carry, the norm should be two bottles in the morning and two in the afternoon but a lot more if it's hot.

Personally I prefer High Energy Isotonic drinks backed up by energy bars during the actual ride and leave the main meal until completion of the days cycling.

By all means take a mobile phone with you but for some of the  route the reception will be non-existent or poor at best especially in the hilly central areas.

If you plan to ride road sections late in the day then take some lights with you because even in summer the mist can come down very quickly in the hills or unforeseen punctures etc. can slow you down - it is still a good idea to carry lights with you regardless.
A rear flashing light is excellent for letting cars know you are ahead even in daylight.

It is a good idea to take a bike lock with you, whether going into shops etc. for food/drink or just visiting somewhere en-route as it makes it a lot less daunting for you leaving your pride and joy knowing your bike is safely locked and will be there on your return.

You will find that your bike handling skills quickly improve during the ride, hills that were near impossible at the start of the ride will seem a lot easier at the end and you will very quickly learn how to pick the best line between the doggy deposits!

Carry some identity with you including an emergency contact phone number.

Check List

Tool kit
chain splitter
chain links
pump
allen keys
screwdriver
adjustable spanner
spoke key
tyre levers
strong tape/zip ties
lubricant