Bicycles and Training
We have a training schedule to help you strive for a better fitness before the tour. Being in shape can add to the enjoyment of the trip. If you don’t have the time to train, our support van is always available to shorten the miles. Everyone rides at her own pace, so you don't have to worry about keeping up with anyone else.
About half of our guests bring their own bicycles. Cross-country cyclists must ride their own bikes. Upon signing up for a tour, you will receive information for packing, shipping and flying with your bike.
We have a fleet of women-specific bicycles available for rent for $195 for most tours in the U.S. We will need your height and inseam measurement to fit you properly. You can choose a hybrid bike with straight handlebars or an adventure road bike with racing-style drop handlebars. We also have electric-assist bikes, Gazelle T10 or the Specialized Vado, available for $350 for most tours. Our rental bicycles have a phone holder, back rack, water bottle holders, and back bag.
Tours labeled Leisurely are flat tours at an easy pace on bike paths free of motorized traffic. Tours labeled Leisurely-Moderate are flat tours on a mix of roads and bike paths. Tours labeled Moderate have some hilly terrain. Tours labeled Moderate-Advanced have more challenging terrain with a mix of hills, longer climbs and flat stretches. Their daily mileages tend to be longer than on our other tours.
Electric-assist bikes - or e-bikes - have quiet, battery-powered motors that add power to your pedalng. They increase your speed and assist you in cycling up hills. Most e-bikes have a range of assistance, so you can choose how much of a boost you'd like. E-bikes make it easier to do all the miles in all types of terrain. We allow electric-assist bicycles on our tours if you'd like to bring your own. We also have e-bikes available for rent on most of our trips -- look for the e-bike symbol. We do not make e-bike recommendations if you're considering purchasing your own. We suggest you rent one on a tour first so you can try it!