Frequently Asked Questions at America by Bicycle

Questions Frequently Asked of
America by Bicycle

Q: How long has America by Bicycle been in business?

A: America by Bicycle was founded in 1994 to take cyclists on first-class, fully-supported, long-distance bicycle tours. America by Bicycle was founded by cyclists for cyclists!

Q: What type of cyclists ride America by Bicycle events?

A: America by Bicycle rides attract all types of cyclists. A typical group has an age range of 18-72. From college students to professional people to retired individuals, we see a great diversity of cyclists from all over the USA and the world. We also average a 60%/40%, Male to Female ratio.

Q: How fast a pace do cyclists ride?

A: Our groups of cyclists are not only diverse in ages and occupations but also in level of ability. The average cyclist will ride between 13 and 16 mph when on the bike over the course of a typical day. We see many cyclists ride a touring pace, 11 to 13 mph, and a fair number of cyclists like to pick it up a little and ride in the 16 to 20+ mph range. We happily accommodate all levels of ability. 'Fast America' series riders must average at least 16 mph.

Q: What type of roads do you ride on?

A: We pick the best cycling-friendly routes possible. Our major focus is on back country rural roads. As we cycle cross-country, we will see all types of roads, from rural country roads and county roads to state highways. We work hard to find roads with good shoulders and low traffic volumes. You will see the real America from your bicycle on an America by Bicycle tour.

Q: What kind of bicycle should I ride?

A: 95% of our cyclists will ride a standard, diamond frame Touring/Racing bicycle (700 tires, triple crank, clipless pedals, etc.). However, we see and accommodate recumbents, tandems and hybrid/mountain bikes. Generally the question of bicycle comes down to comfort and endurance! Can you comfortably ride the daily average mileage?

Q: Does America by Bicycle require helmets?

A: Yes!! All cyclists are required to wear a bicycle helmet at all times when on the road on a bicycle.

Q: Does America by Bicycle require bicycle flags?

A: Safety is always a priority, but bicycle flags are not mandatory.

Q: How experienced are the support staff?

A: Experienced!! Here at America by Bicycle, we realize the support staff can make the difference between an average ride and a great bicycle tour. All our support staff members are experienced cyclists and have been trained extensively in the art of supporting long distance cyclists. Our support team is comprised of a variety of fine people who bring a lot of knowledge, experience, encouragement, diversity and fun to the ride. Support team members have many years of experience touring and supporting bicycle tours. Eighty percent of the support staff have crewed on an America by Bicycle event and know what it takes to help our guests achieve their cycling goal. We work overtime to make sure your experience is a first rate one.

Q: Is there a deadline to Sign-Up or Register?

A: Once you have chosen the event you would like to participate in, you should register as soon as possible. This will reserve your spot and start the information trail to your door. Some events will fill up quickly and require a waiting list. You should reserve your spot as early as possible to ensure you will be able to participate on the event of your choice. The last day to register is generally 30 days before the ride start date. Space is available on a first come basis.

Q: Can I customize the number of days I may participate?

A: Yes. Participate in at least one sectional stage of five days or more, then add as many days as you like on any America by Bicycle event for $200.00 per day, per diem.

Q: What type of overnight accommodations are provided?

A: America by Bicycle specializes in motel based bicycle touring. Overnight accommodations are provided in AAA rated hotels/motels. Generally we stay in Best Western, Day’s Inn, Holiday Inn to name a few. Good, comfortable accommodations are always provided.

Q: What meals are provided? What is the food like?

A: Breakfast and Dinner are provided daily. (breakfast and lunch for 'Fast America' series rides). Meals are usually Buffet style and, in many cases, all-you-can-eat catered functions contracted with a hotel or at an adjacent restaurant. These are not chuck wagon meals or church fund raiser spaghetti suppers. The food is very good quality and generous quantity. America by Bicycle works with a nutritionist to make sure all meals are nutritionally balanced to provide the cyclists the fuel necessary to tackle the miles.

Q: Are there any refreshments provided at SAG stops?

A: Yes! SAG stops are set up along the day's route to offer cyclists a chance to take a break, fill water bottles and get a snack. While it is not meant to replace lunch, SAG stops always have plenty of cold water and Gatorade plus a variety of snacks ranging from bananas and other fruit to granola bars, peanut butter crackers, cookies, and miscellaneous other nibbles.

Q: How much spending money do I need to bring?

A: America by Bicycle events are great cycling vacations. You should plan to bring along spending money just as you would on any vacation. How much you spend is up to you. Typically, you'll need spending money for: souvenirs, lunch, entertainment, food (you will eat a lot on these trips), etc.

Q: How do I get my bike to the start of the tour and home once the tour has ended?

A: Everyone brings their own bicycle on America by Bicycle tours. The best choice seems to be either UPS/FedEx the bicycle directly to the starting motel or bring the bike on the airplane when you fly out. Costs tend to be similar at around $100.

Pros/Cons? UPS/FedEx is generally easier. You can have your local bike package the bike up professionally and ship it out. Your bike then arrives right at the hotel where the it will be put under lock and key. Bringing the bike on the airplane is a little more of a hassle, but the bike will be out of your sight the shortest amount of time and have less chance for damage. Your choice!

Either way, on Opening Day of the tour the America by Bicycle mechanical staff will be on hand to reassemble and safety check the bicycle so you will be ready to cycle with confidence. At the end of the tour the America by Bicycle staff will also assist in packing and shipping logistics to help you and your bicycle get home easily and safely. Bicycles can be rented on the 'Fall Foliage' rides.

Q: Can I use my hard case shipping box?

A: Yes, you can use a hard case box for shipping. However we will not have room to carry it for extended periods on the road. On the longer tours, most riders will ship the empty case to the end of the tour. It is then available to use to ship the bicycle home.

Q: Do we accept Credit Cards as a method of payment?

A: No. We currently do not accept credit card payment. We will however set up convenient payment plans to assist in helping make the payment process a little less painful.

Q: Is airfare included in the tour cost?

A: No, airfare is not part of the tour fee. Transportation costs to the ride start and home from the end of the event are the participants responsibility.

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Copyright © 1997 2003 America by Bicycle.
All rights reserved.
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America by Bicycle
P.O. Box 805
Atkinson, NH 03811-0805
(603)382-1662, (888)797-7057
FAX (603)382-1697, E-Mail:America by Bicycle Info

Last Updated: 13 Feb 03

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