Frequently Asked Questions

We understand the thought of riding abroad for some can be nerve racking, however you will generally find the conditions in Europe are much better than the UK as the quality of roads are better and much less traffic. Each tour will have a brief guide as to the level of experience required and approx mileages we cover. Just ensure you are comfortable with the distances and don’t be over ambitious with your first tour.

 

Will I hold everybody up? 

Our trips are entirely focused on touring; and not racing or riding at high speeds. We do not encourage riders to ride beyond their abilities as yours and all our clients’ safety is paramount at all times and we prefer to have a relaxed riding group. There will always be mixed levels of experience and abilities on each tour, as we are used to this we will always try to restrict our speed to a pace everyone is comfortable with, whilst making satisfactory progress. All we ask is that you are a competent rider and select a tour that is within your ability.

 

Will my bike be suitable for touring? 

Each tour is different, for shorter tours 4 – 5 days or weekend breaks most bikes over 600cc will do the job, as comfort and luggage is generally not that significant. However for our longer trips most bikes are generally bigger engine machines like FJR’s, PAN’s Kawasaki GTR’s and BMW's that have the capability to cover at least 150 miles before needing any fuel, certainly if you are going to be carrying a pillion and luggage then a larger capacity machine would be much more comfortable and suitable.

 

How many miles do you cover each day? 

Each tour has a brief description of the mileages that are involved each day and are very much dependant on what roads we are using. The maximum we would ever do is 350 miles although generally most days are circa 150 -200 miles some much less, However we do ensure we stop regularly for a brew , rest breaks, photo opportunities and of course a decent lunch break.

 

Should I try a UK based Tour before trying a Euro Tour? 

If you have never toured or ridden in a group before it is a great way to dip your toe in the water to see if you like it, it isn’t essential and very much down to personal choice.

 

Do I have to ride in a group? 

In a nutshell no, you don’t have to ride in the group if you feel uncomfortable, you will find on tour the group usually breaks down into smaller units. You will receive a comprehensive tour pack prior to departure which will give you all the routes hotels and directions for your chosen tour; as long as everyone arrives at the destination safely we are fine with most riding arrangements that are agreed. All we ask is that you make it clear to your tour guide if you will be riding in the group or not. We can also arrange to have all routes loaded onto your Garmin if you have one.

 

Is everyday spent on the bike? 

We want to ensure your holiday is as enjoyable as possible and try and build in rest days whilst away, It is a given on our longer tours and we always allow for rest days once we have reached our destination giving you the time to unpack your clothes for a few days, relax unwind and explore the local area.

 

What are the hotels like that you use? 

We always use a minimum 3 stars and above, and ensure the hotel has good facilities. We constantly monitor the feedback these hotels are given as they are a crucial part of what we do to ensure standards are maintained.

 

We always try to create a good impression and whilst most hotels are bike friendly we feel it only right to respect other clients on tour and the wishes of the hotels that we use, don’t worry no need to pack your Sunday best but generally smart casual if we are using dining facilities. This means slacks, chinos ,jeans, polo and short sleeves shirts etc. We would kindly ask that (gentleman) refrain from wearing sleeveless t shirts or vests,  sports shorts, tracksuit bottoms or baseball caps in the dining room / restaurant areas.

 

When choosing hotels, we do look at secure parking facilities as it is one of our key criteria for choosing a hotel. We do however encourage you to bring some form of security for your vehicle with you just in case.

 

What is the average age of your customers? 

35 to 55 plus.

 

What shall I bring with me? 

Weather is a very unpredictable thing and if we tell you to cater for one it will do the other. The best advice is to try and cater for all eventualities – We will provide you with a full touring checklist with your tour pack which will give you a guide of what and not to bring.

 

How much money will I need to bring? 

Your chosen tour will inform you of how many evening meals are included as we prefer to give you the option of doing your own thing the days we are not on the bike and breakfast is provided everyday you are with us. Leaving you only to budget for fuel, tolls, vignettes, lunch and drinks, the euro is the common currency of Europe, credit cards are widely accepted and a numerous amount of ATM’s available.

  

Is my money safe? 

Yes, any money that you pay to us will be paid into a trust fund. This means you are fully protected against financial insolvency.

 

Any other questions? 

If you have a question that you feel we have not answered, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01744 732649 or email info@europabiketours.com with your enquiry.