People do charity rides on almost every kind of bike. Mountain bikes, racing bikes, recumbents, hybrids, comfort bikes.... You'll see many of each and happy riders on every type. But be careful to do the long rides recommended in your training schedule. Day-long rides feel different, and adjustments at your bike shop - or a new saddle - may be required to keep your about-town bike comfortable for longer distances.
Kitting Out Your Bike
Be ready for less-than-perfect pavement with tires that are wider than road standard. On a road bike, the standard width is 23, but many bikes designed for this kind of tire can fit 28s or even 32s. Consider going with as wide a tire as can fit comfortably in your brakes - the extra contact on the road can make your ride much more comfortable and secure.
Tires on mountain bikes often have a width of well over 40. If you plan to use a bike with "fat tires," consider going a little narrower than for off-road and choosing a "slick" tire rather than a knobby. Also, you'll want to keep the maximum air pressure in your mountain tires for this kind of riding; the narrower, fuller tire will make your bike roll more easily.
Kitting Out Yourself
Be prepared to hydrate on the road by carrying at least two water bottles or a hydration pack. Charity rides have outposts where you can refill your bottles, but you still need to carry fluids. And not just water; you'll want to use sports drinks as well to keep your salt level appropriate.
You may encounter heavy winds or rain on your ride, so bring raingear. Consider carrying it every day you ride, even if it's pretty out. You might decide to drop out in the middle of a riding day, but you may need to wait to be picked up - and you are even more vulnerable to wind and rain when you are sitting by the side of the road than when you are cycling.
Day One!
You and your bike are there and checked in, your gear is stowed, and the riders are lining up for their first ride out together. This is the beginning of a great adventure! And perhaps a life-long love of bicycle touring.
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