Can I bring my own bicycle?
Most certainly, our bike racks accept most bike styles, including hybrid and road touring tandem bicycles.
What kind of pedals and seats do the bicycles have?
A choice of a standard flat pedal and the same pedal with a toe clip are available, if you prefer to ride with clipless (spd. etc.) pedals, we recommend you bring your own. The bike seats are comfortable ladies’ or mens’ gel saddles. For our multi day tours for your comfort we recommend you bring your own. We are only too happy to fit it for you.
What additional expense can I expect?
As we work with you to build your bicycle tour, we like to keep things as simple as possible so that the only extras are optional activities, like kayaking or flightseeing, and personal expenses including alcohol. We are however mindful that this is your tour and you may wish for example to choose where you eat on the day. In this case, some meals may be excluded at your choice.
Should I bring my own helmet?
We have quality helmets available in small, medium, large and extra large sizes; however nothing fits like your own, so for a multi-day tour we recommend you bring your own.
What kind of bicycle do you provide?
Our most popular bikes are our 22 speed Shimano 5800 105 equipped Specialized Roubaix Sport road bikes, using 700 x 28 tyres to suit our NZ roads, equipped 32T rear cassettes, with Vaude road front bag , water bottle, and computer, available in sizes XXS to XL. We also have 20 speed Scott S20 road bikes, on 700 x 25 tyres, with 34T rear cassettes. For correct sizing please check the manufacturers website, or use the guideline below
44cm frame Ruby, 4'8" to 5'
49cm frame Roubaix, 5' to 5'4"
52cm frame Roubaix, 5'4" to 5'7"
54 cm frame Roubaix, 5'7" to 5'9"
56cm frame Roubaix, 5'9" to 5'11"
58cm frame Roubaix, 5'11" to 6'2"
We also have the 27 speed Shimano Tiagra equipped Specialized Sirrus using 700 x 28 tyres, equipped with rear rack bag, water bottle and computer, available in sizes XS to XL.
For those who prefer to see NZ from the seat of a tandem, we have the 30 speed T2 Cannondale Tandem's in both L/S and M/S sizes.
We ride on the left hand side of the road and to facilitate hand signals our brake levers are the opposite to those in the USA.
Our bicycles are all fitted with large hi vis reflectors for your safety. If you have a right mounting helmet mirror please bring it with you. Handlebar mirrors are available on request.
How big are the hills?
Not that big. New Zealand might be a mountainous country, but the roads generally follow the valleys, anyway what's the van for? So if you run out of puff, we'll be there.
When is the best time to cycle in New Zealand?
It depends on the exact route for your tour, however for the best weather on the West Coast South Island we recommend any time between Christmas and April. The two busy times for tourist traffic on the roads are Christmas /early January when New Zealanders and Australians are on holiday and Chinese New Year, which varies from year to year, but is generally early February.
February is usually the hottest month, but remember you are cycling through temperate rain forest and although we can’t promise "four seasons in one day", its not that uncommon at any time of year!!
Can I get lost?
We provide detailed coloured maps, clearly showing the routes. Our guides will also be close by to assist you with directions. To see sample maps, please email us.
How safe are the New Zealand roads?
Our quiet back roads are paved and well maintained. Traffic is usually light and is very considerate to cyclists.
On some sections of our tours we have no alternative but to ride on the main road. In these cases we provide red flashing lights for each bike and follow with our trailer displaying a warning message to motorists of cyclists ahead.
We recommend riding single file for your safety.
Everyone is encouraged to ride at your own speed. It is not a race.
From time to time slower riders will need to hop in the support vehicle, to keep the group together.
Your safety is our priority.