Cycling the West Coast Expressway: Taiwan's Longest Flat Coastal Training Ground

Introduction to the West Coast Highway

The TW61 West Coast Expressway runs along Taiwan’s western coast, from Bali in New Taipei to Cigu in Tainan, with a total length of about 300 km. Its service roads (at-grade sections) provide the longest continuous flat riding environment in Taiwan, making it a favorite among cyclists seeking flat-road training.

Suitable Riding Sections

Northern Section: Bali → Hsinchu (approx. 80 km)

• Best road surface quality
• Passes through Guanyin and Yong’an Fishing Port
• Bike paths and service roads along the way
• Plenty of supply points

Central Section: Hsinchu → Lugang (approx. 100 km)

• Passes through Miaoli and Taichung’s coastal areas
• Some sections have heavier traffic
• Gaomei Wetlands is a famous attraction

Southern Section: Lugang → Beimen (approx. 120 km)

• Passes through Yunlin and Chiayi’s coast
• Less populated
• Wind turbine clusters are a distinctive feature
• Salt pans and fish farm scenery

Advantages of Flat-Road Training

The flat environment of the West Coast Highway is especially suitable for:

1. Time trial training: Long straight sections are ideal for practicing steady power output
2. Team paceline riding: Wide roads suit group paceline practice
3. Aerobic base: Long-distance Zone 2 training without climbing interruptions
4. Wind resistance training: Strong coastal winds make headwind training highly effective

Wind Direction Strategy

The biggest challenge on the West Coast Highway is the wind. Coastal wind speeds are often 2-3 times higher than inland.

Seasonal Wind Patterns

• Winter (Oct-Mar): Prevailing northeast winds → tailwind when heading south
• Summer (May-Sep): Prevailing southwest winds → tailwind when heading north
• Spring/Autumn transition periods: Unpredictable wind directions

Strategy

• Headwind out, tailwind back: This way you won’t face a headwind while fatigued at the end
• Plan turnaround points based on wind direction
• Ride in groups: Pacelining can significantly reduce the impact of headwinds
• Wind speeds above Force 6 (40 km/h): Consider indoor training instead

Safety Notes

1. Crosswinds: Coastal crosswinds can push you out of your lane—stay alert
2. Sand and gravel: Some sections have windblown sand; watch the road surface
3. Large vehicles: Industrial areas have many trucks; avoid rush hours
4. UV exposure: Strong sunlight reflection near the coast—use adequate sun protection
5. Supplies: Some southern sections have distant supply points; carry extra water and food

Recommended Riding Approaches

Half-Day Training (3-4 hours)

• Choose a 40-60 km out-and-back section
• Ride into the headwind for aerobic work, return with the tailwind for speed

Full-Day Challenge

• Bali → Lugang (or farther), about 150-200 km
• Requires thorough supply preparation
• Recommended to ride with fellow cyclists for more efficient pacelining

Group Training Routes

• The Yong’an Fishing Port section commonly used by northern cyclists
• Flat, straight, and wide—suitable for group paceline training

Related Reading

• Taiwan West Coast 400 km Ride: Alternative Route Planning + Complete Coastal Supply Guide
• Taiwan West Coast Flat Riding: Rural Scenery of Changhua, Yunlin, and Chiayi
• Taitung Changbin to Chenggong Fishing Port Route: A Complete Guide to Riding the Scenic East Coast Highway
• Taiwan West Coast Cycling Tour: A Slow Coastal Ride from Hsinchu to Tainan