Frequently Asked Questions

General Information

What's included on the tour?

What will the accommodations be like?
Most lodging is in bed and breakfast or small inns. We have selected your lodging because of their comfortable rooms and gracious hosts. Rooms have a private bath, and the inn may have a common room or broad porch where you can make yourself at home. Many hosts will have a supply of books or games to borrow to make your stay enjoyable. Since they are experts on the area they will happily give you recommendations for restaurants or things to see and do.

How do I get ready for this cycling tour?
We have designed our tours to be reasonable in length and difficulty. There is no need to sprint or set land speed records. Your cycling day is an integral part of the tour. Take your time and enjoy it.

We suggest that you ride a bicycle at home with some frequency before starting your cycling vacation. Generally, if you can ride 60% to 70% of the expected distance without a problem at home, you should be just fine on our tour. Walking and other general exercise is also suggested.

What will my cycling day be like? Will I be able to do it?
Your cycling day is an integral part of the tour. Getting to your evening destination is at least half the fun. Most tours average 35 miles per day (60 km,) and you should plan on 4 to 6 hours depending on how many stops you make. You may want a leisurely lunch or like to stop at antique shops or take pictures along the way. We can sometimes make a custom tour with shorter distances if you prefer.

If you are uncertain about you ability for these tours send an e-mail with your concerns. We will be happy to advise you.

What methods of payment do you accept?
We accept Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Discover. Pay online with your credit card using a PayPal account. Go to Reserve a Tour, complete your reservation request and make payment.

Or, complete your reservation request and then call us with your credit card information at (573) 876-1212 or toll free (866) 269-9913 (US and Canada).

Personal checks drawn on US banks will also be accepted. Payments by check must be received at least two weeks before the beginning of your tour.

I am not comfortable buying online. Can I still pay by credit card?

Yes, just call us with your credit card number and information at (573) 876-1212 or toll free (866) 269-9913 (US or Canada).

Can I send a personal check?

Yes, if it is drawn on a US bank in US currency. Checks cannot be used for payment of tours that begin in less than two weeks.

Since you move luggage should we bring bike bags, panniers or helmets?

We will move your luggage during the day, but we recommend bringing some sort of pannier or bags to hold your day's gear such as camera and rain gear. Bike rentals generally include a helmet and lock. Also, you can usually rent panniers and handle bar bags from the bike rental shop.

Can we share a room but have separate beds?

Yes, that is usally no problem. At busy times of the year, this may result in an additional charge based on availability and your preferred start dates. Some rooms can accommodate a third person usually for a small additional charge.

Can you outfit us with rented bicycles?
We work with local bike stores with good reputations and service and will help you with a reservation. A deposit is usually required and you will pay the remainder directly when you pick up your bicycle.

Keep in mind that no matter how well maintained and sized for you a rented bike will not be guaranteed to be the same as what you may be used to at home. If you have a particular fondness for your own bicycle you may want to seriously considering bringing it with you.

Can I use my skinny tire road bike on the trails?

We recommend more of a hybrid bike tire on the trails, but our road bike customers tell us they are happy with the hard packed surface of the trails.

Can you help if we have a flat or mechanical problems?

You can call our help number at any time of day during the tour. If you encounter bad weather or a mechanical breakdown, we will help or find someone who can. The availability of help and timing will depend on where you are along the route, so we cannot guarantee an immediate response. There may be an additional charge for this service.

We will also supply you with phone numbers and addresses of bike shops along your route as well as for your next lodging. They may be the best resource for mechanical problems.

While not essential, some basic bike mechanical knowledge can make your tour easier. A small tool kit and flat repair items (including a small tire pump) can come in very handy. It is helpful to know how to fix a flat tire.

Finally, you should carry a cell phone on your tour.

Can I bring my own bicycle? How do I bring it on a plane?
Yes, you can bring your own. Many people prefer the fit and feel of the bicycle they regularly ride. Plus, you can know for sure if it has all the right features.

Domestic US or Canadian flights and flights between the two countries will charge about $50 US per bicycle each way. Most other international flights have no extra charge count the bike as one of your two checked bags. So be careful how you pack. An "extra" or third bag will incur a cost.

Most airlines require that you transport bikes in a cardboard box or plastic bag obtained from the airline. Pedals have to be removed and handlebars turned parallel with the bike.

The Independent Tourist has expertise in transporting bikes by air. We will provide you with recommendations and directions to make your experience a good one.

Are children welcome on the tours?

Yes, children are always welcome. We have had cyclists as young as eight years old on our tours. Most of our preferred inns welcome children. Our only requirement is that all of our cyclists, children included, be capable of riding the daily distance of the tour selected. If you are renting bikes, be sure to reserve well in advance. Most cycle shops keep fewer small bikes on hand.

What is your cancellation policy?

Please see our Reservation and Cancellation Policy.

Can I start my tour any day of the week?

Check the Tour Prices for start days for your tour.