Question 1

What is a self-guided tour?

Accepted Answer

Don't worry. We are not leaving you to fend for yourself in an unfamiliar corner of Southwestern Ontario!  Self-guided means you are in control in terms of pace, distance, start and finish times, coffee & leisure stops, etc.   Due to the easy use of apps and routes digitally, cyclists who are more experienced or independent can take advantage of our expert local knowledge and extensive local contacts.  Our team produces an in-depth, detailed, up to date Itinerary for your entire trip, we transfer your luggage from A-B-C and leave you free to adjust your trip as much or as little as you choose.
 
We make available if necessary local mechanics and van support where needed (at an extra cost) and can pre-book all your main meals (breakfast and dinners) along with places to stay.  Behind the scenes we are your extensive support team and other things you would rather forget about to focus, instead, on the days' ride and your holiday on two wheels.

Question 2

What is a Guidebook?

Accepted Answer

Our guidebooks are information packages designed to give you an overview of what to expect on each of our tours. The information in each guidebook package is relatively fixed and precisely just that, an overview of your experience with our team.
 
Whereas, once you have registered and begun the process of working towards your adventure with NCT, we provide a more detailed itinerary that outlines exact maps and what to do and when to do it (i.e., group breakfast and dinner). The information in our itinerary is a little more variable depending on availability, seasonal operations, etc.  Itineraries are typically provided 5-7 days out from your booked trip.

Question 3

I am a novice cyclist, but I really want to do my first ever multi-day Tour, can your team accommodate me?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, our tours are exactly designed for someone who is already able to ride on their own (mostly) for 50-75 kms in one day (and the next day you can actually walk!).  If that is you now, it is just a few more big rides and higher than usual volume weeks of cycling to get you one step closer to the fitness you require to enjoy these tours.  The keyword is Enjoy!

It won't be a pleasant cycling vacation if you are so exhausted after Day One that you can't enjoy dinner and camaraderie in the evening, and we have to wake you up the next day and your muscles are too sore to continue!   Finally remember that we have  2-day Intro Tours that are designed for someone who may not be ready to jump right into a full-on 4-5 day trip.  These entry-level tours start and finish in Niagara-on-the-Lake or really any other market, and can include a Friday or Monday add-on to give you the perfect start to the 2022 cycling season.  All participants in these early season Tours will be offered generous discounts on longer Tours later in future.

Question 4

Will you offer some coaching and mentorship for novice riders?

Accepted Answer

Yes, depending on how busy we are the team we have assembled includes experienced cyclists and coaches whose role includes helping all of our participants to be 100% ready on Day One for a safe, enjoyable, and challenging bike tour.  We can provide you with some general guidelines and training plans to get you from where you are now to where you need to be when your Tour starts.  Once we are out on the roads it is probably too late so make sure to be honest with yourself and more importantly take this new challenge ahead of you seriously and train like you mean it!   A well-trained athlete in any sport or discipline is a happy one.

Question 5

My partner is not as fit or willing as I am to spend all day riding, what does your Tour offer for the 2nd person in a group of two looking to join the fun but at less the volume of cycling?"

Accepted Answer

Our spring 2-day rides are best suited to novice cyclists who will have more flexibility to choose your own adventure as these tours start and finish from Niagara-on-the-Lake.  The Classic Four-Day Tours will have options for shorter-day riding but overall these Tours are designed for those cyclists who want to spend 6+ hours each day on their bike.  Each day you can skip some of the longer duration routes and take a more direct path to our next destination, BUT, your luggage and support options will be limited so its better in this instance to start later in the morning and meet the first returning riders mid-afternoon.  Plus many of our rooms will not be ready.  Can you carry a book with you?
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Question 6

I am one of those nervous cyclists who is terrified of traffic and busy roads, what are the routes like on these Tours?"

Accepted Answer

One of the best features of these Tours are the quiet roads and "roads less travelled".  Our routes also include some paths and trails (paved) so we strive as much as possible to keep everyone off major roads.  A surprisingly large number of your travels wil include secondary roads with ample bike path room but understand these roads are "open" to regular traffic and this includes many tractors and farm vehicles.  We expect all cyclists to ride like they would anywhere else, wearing a helmet and not being distracted with headphones or smartphones.  Safety is our first and foremost concern.
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Question 7

Are there vegetarian or other options at the group breakfasts and dinners?

Accepted Answer

Yes we will strive to accommodate all dining options including vegetarian and vegan friendly options.

Question 8

I don't drink, will I get a reduced rate?"

Accepted Answer

Alcohol is only included where explicitly listed or when our team provides it at a group dinner. So fear not, those costs are not part of the price.

Question 9

What if it rains?

Accepted Answer

Like any outdoor event, it's rain or shine, so we encourage everyone to train in all conditions and pack the necessary rain gear if the day starts with a grey forecast.  The support vehicle(s) will always be available at a minimum of 2x per day, so it is also possible to grab extra clothes or change into dry ones at the first coffee stop or lunch break.  The exception is severe weather conditions such as lightning or dangerous, high winds.  Sometimes a Bike Tour like ours can either resort to a Plan B and re-route the day's agenda if storm clouds ahead arrive sooner than expected, or it is normal for everyone to pull over and seek safe shelter while the weather passes.
 
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Question 10

If I get lost, or my bike breaks down, will someone get me?"

Accepted Answer

All riders regardless of the level of experience MUST carry with them a spare tube and repair kit, for the most common bike malfunction (Flat Tire).  We may even ask you to send us a video of you doing this before you show up.  (:   Repairs beyond normal repair like a damaged tire, broken derailer, or worse will be managed in several ways.   We will have bike repair shops, mechanics, and service providers at our beck and call and none will be more than 30-minutes away no matter where you are on the route.  Plus everyone on the Tour will be connected with a shared WhatsApp or similar communications strategy, so we expect everyone to never be too far away if trouble arises.  If you reach the outskirts of Hamilton, Port Dover, Toronto, or Buffalo you have taken a wrong turn!
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Question 11

My friend and I want to start early and finish late, we want to ride as many kilometers as we can, how will these Tours support this habit?"

Accepted Answer

All routes are designed and planned to allow any cyclists the opportunity to add extra riding before the day starts or at the end of the pre-determined routes.  So yes, if you want to add 25-50 or even more kilometers we can assist you even on short notice, BUT, we cannot guarantee any vehicle support (drinks, snacks, repair support) for these extracurricular endeavours.
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Question 12

What if I change my mind after the first day and decide to scale back my enthusiasm for this much riding?

Accepted Answer

We have designed our routes and itinerary to allow for rest or shortened day in the middle of your experience.  This means your luggage will still be delivered and you can opt for a shorter duration ride.  BUT this also means you may arrive early at our next destination before the support vehicle delivers your luggage, and/or your room may not be ready so plan for that outcome.

Question 13

My friends and I are really into wine (first), then cycling, will there be many wine tastings and winery stops?"

Accepted Answer

This Tour is not a wine tour, there are many local Niagara-on-the-Lake Bike Tour companies that focus on half or full day bike tours with lots of wine stops, and usually, these great tours provide bike rentals.  Niagara Cycling Tours are more for riders and cyclists (first) who of course love wine, as we will pass by most major wineries on these routes.  You can drink wine with your lunch and you can stop as much as you want to try and taste different types of wines.  And of course at dinner wine will always be available, but if you are still reading our website and are now on your second glass it is probably not for you.  Our schedules and itineraries are designed for cyclists who want to spend most of the day "in the saddle".  We encourage our cyclists to keep water and sports drink in their bottles!

Question 14

I really don't like road bikes and prefer a hybrid bike, is that allowed?"

Accepted Answer

Yes, technically depending on your style and ability/fitness level you could complete some or all of our Tour on a non-road bike, especially if you keep your stops to a minimum and you do some group riding (2 riders at least taking turns at the front). ​

Question 15

Can I bring my electric bike?   Or Pedal Assist Bike?

Accepted Answer

Yes.  E-bikes, Pedal Assist Bikes and other similar types of bikes with assistance are allowed under certain circumstances.  Our philosophy is mostly traditional, standard bike riding and tours but already in 2022 we have been able to accommodate many small groups of Tours where one member within the group is unable to match the experience or power of others.  We prefer Pedal Assist bikes where no throttle (100%) is deployed as we feel the majority of this flat region lends itself to minimal assistance.

Question 16

What if my bike or luggage gets lost or stolen?

Accepted Answer

All Tours include comprehensive insurance coverage against these unfortunate circumstances, but we also suggest you consult your own policy to determine what if any coverage you might have.  We will have access to some spare bikes rentable from local bike shops and other Tour Operators so you will still be able to continue your trip even if your bike requires repair work that takes a few days.
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Question 17

What are the roads like and the terrain on these tours?

Accepted Answer

Almost 100% of the roads we travel on will be paved highways and bike paths, but the creative genius(s) behind these interesting routes and roads have included a few very small and short gravel / hard-packed sections for the purpose of the views, passing of unique historical stops or interesting trails we have scouted to ensure any road bike will be fine for a short section.  This literally may mean a few hundred yards or on one section we think a 10k detour will have you raving about the change of scenery.  There will always be options to bypass or skip these "off-road" adventures and believe us the last thing we want is to have to change everyone's tires at once!

Question 18

My small group has our own ideas for accommodations and we prefer to eat together as a group.  What would that outcome be like on these Tours?

Accepted Answer

Great question. We don't expect everyone to want to eat and enjoy the company of others at all times and we will make exceptions where possible.  This is why Niagara Cycling Tours offers custom group packages sometimes at the same timeframes as you see listed in our calendar and then also anytime your group or company wants to join us.  We have a special form, HERE, for anyone considering this alternative, keep in mind if we become too busy or unable to specialize your trip details you may be required to pay a special advance deposit against this package. For more details before filling out the form, visit our custom tour page. Remember custom trips usually mean a little higher cost, if you are looking to save or reduce the advertised packages and pricing maybe consider starting with our 2-day intro packages that have lower costs.  While here you can add-on your own extra riding days on your own

Question 19

Can I travel/sign-up alone?

Accepted Answer

Absolutely! Our Classic tours have a lot of group related activities so there is plenty of opportunity for social interaction - or not. You can choose what works for you.
 
Our Into Ride and One-Day Mega Ride are more independent endeavour, but depending on how many people have registered for the same day, you may have a chance to see others. 
 
Solo riding is welcome though and we are around to support as needed.

Question 20

I hate spandex and can't imagine "looking" like those road cyclists I see on tv.  What to do?"

Accepted Answer

We love your style.  We don't or won't judge anyone regardless if your bike was a hand-me-down from your parents' generation or your cycling attire is fashionable but maybe not as functional.  If you want to ride the higher volumes as advertised here we think based on experience that ultra-comfort should take precedence over anything else.  You may be able to ride locally on your own for a few hours or half a day but over time this strategy may come back to bite you...know...where.....
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We just ask that everyone wear an approved OCA cycling helmet and have reflective clothing or items if needed, but we know some retro road bikes are just as good as the latest and greatest (and $$$$) road bikes. It is all about comfort so whatever your game plan make sure it's been tried and tested well ahead of time.  Our on-site medical kit will handle sore bums (Bike Bum is a real thing, look it up).  And Bike Rashes.  Chafing.   etc.

Question 21

What are your Covid-19 precautions and planning like?

Accepted Answer

Like any events and tourism planning company in 2021, we will be doing everything and anything we can to help make your experience with us safe.  Our staff have been trained to handle all protocols and situations that may arise and this includes safe execution already of events within the timeframe of the pandemic.  Our first and foremost interest is to execute and organize a safe cycling vacation and this starts from the first day you arrive until we finish on our last day. No venues, accommodation partners, dining facilities or organized rest stops will be chosen without careful vetting ahead of time. Masks will not be required while riding but unless stated otherwise we expect these will be needed indoors when not eating or drinking.
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NCT has recently been awarded a #SafeTravelStamp, which is recognized globally for adopting proper, standardized health and hygiene protocols. Check out our stamp on our home page and in our guide!

Question 22

What about hills?  I hate hills, going up and especially bombing down.  Can I get a lift in the van to avoid these?"

Accepted Answer

Funny.  We have heard this before, but don't worry, there are very few "hills" in the entire Niagara Region, which may be a turn off for some cyclists who have enjoyed Italian and French mountain riding.  You may only encounter 2-3 climbs of any significance over an entire 4-5 day Tour with us and we're talking a 3-4 minute MAX incline, nothing really to sweat about and if you really had to walk your bike up these few sections you won't lose much time on the group.

Question 23

I don't want to be last! I often find myself at the back of the pack in my endurance sports activities.

Accepted Answer

The last riders gets the biggest piece of cake?  We understand your frustration but remember its not a race but a Tour.  If you are last it means you go your moneys worth, and you took the best photos.   Plus we have many great excuses you can use, for free.  My tire blew.  I got lost in that tornado that swept through my area.  I helped an injured squirrel back to safety.  I picked random berries for a snack and fell asleep like that girl Dorothy.  I stopped at the golf course and played 9.  etc.

Question 24

What happens to my car for the duration of the tour?

Accepted Answer

Ride assured as we have fantastic accommodation partners that will allow you to leave your car on-site for the duration of your tour. This parking option is available to all participants across all tours. So, even though you may be meandering through the Niagara Region, taking in the beautiful sights of over 30 towns and villages we pedal through, your car will be safe and permitted to stay where you originally parked it.
 
Since we will be finishing up in Niagara-on-the-Lake, we will get you right back to it after the ride is over.

Question 25

How does luggage transfer work? What do I need to do?

Accepted Answer

While our tours are self-guided, we do offer support. A team member of ours will coordinate and take care of your luggage from stay-to-stay. 
 
All you need to do is leave your luggage in a predetermined place on-site at the accommodation, but don't worry about that yet! Our coordinator will give you all the specifics when you meet them in person.

Question 26

How many KMs will I be cycling each day?

Accepted Answer

Our tours focus on high-mileage, really looking to test your limits and all the training you have been putting in to get to this point. With that said, our terrain is primarily flat and friendly, so while there will be a lot of miles to cover, many will be forgiving.
 
Each tour will offer options - both short and long - on the long routes you can expect to cover anywhere between 90-200 kms per day. The short route options will regulary offer days of 60+ kms.
 
Feel free to alternate between short and long, especially if you are doing our 4 or 5 day tours.

Question 27

Can I listen to music as I ride?

Accepted Answer

We strongly, strongly encourage safe cycling. To us, that means no music or headphones in as you ride. While many of the routes will take you outside villages and towns where traffic may be sparse, we believe it is best to remain aware and engaged by being distraction free as you ride - besides, you will be cycling some of the most beautiful terrain in Ontario, enjoy it (: .
 
We also reccommend taking pictures, commemorating your experience and enjoying yourself - but please, stop and get off your bike to do so. This is a fun trip and we want to keep you safe, but we need your help. Enjoy the scenery a snap some shot from a stationary position and we can all 'ooh' and 'awh' over your shots in the evening over dinner.

Question 28

Why book with Niagara Cycling Tours?

Accepted Answer

Our new company is not new to creating amazing experiences and memories for our customer. Over 10,000 satisfied customers enjoyed a successful event experience with Good Times Running Inc. (Monster Dash Canada, the Toronto Corporate Run, Midnite Run Toronto and Isolation Run 2020) and over 1,000 clients signed up and worked with All Sports Marketing ( MyNextRace.com and RoadRaceResults.com) over the 19 years in business.  Niagara Cycling Tours brings a wealth of direct knowledge, expertise, enthusiasm, and roll-up-the sleeves hard work in making sure every detail is covered and every contingency is planned and prepared for.  We guarantee if you show up ready with us you will enjoy your time spent with our team.
 
We have partnered with an experienced Tour Operator in the USA so you can feel good knowing everything we do comes with thorough research, exceptional attention to detail and team members who have years of experience behind two wheels.

Question 29

I am ready to book, now what?"

Accepted Answer

Things are getting exciting! You are ready to sign-up and start the process to join us this summer, so now what?
 
Well, hop on over to our tours page and either review our offerings or select the one you intend to sign-up for. 
 
Once you hit the 'book now' button you will be taken to our registration page. Once you create a profile with our registration provider, RaceRoster, you will be able to selct your tour. You will then be asked to provide some information and read some of our requirements, such as:
 
- A bit about yourself (name, age, medical alerts we should be aware of, cycling history, etc.)
- Provide your credit card information to make your deposit and hold your spot.
 
Please note: we are currently only allowing for $100 deposits to be made. As the state of the province improves, we will then invite you back with a $100 off promo code to complete youur registration. This will be in early May.
- Read and sign our waiver
 
Once this is complete, you will get some communications from us confirming your awesome decision! Review the Question below for more details on what is next.

Question 30

What happens once I book?

Accepted Answer

First off, congratulations! Taking the first step towards an awesome riding vacation is huge and we are excited to share this experience with you.
 
Once hitting that 'book' button, you will soon after recieve confirmation email/receipt from our registration provider - Race Roster - confirming you have held your place. Within 24 hours of signing-up, you will receive an email directly form us again confirming your spot and outlining some of the next steps. 
 
When we invite you back to complete your registration, you will be able to add on protection insurance at that time.

Question 31

What is included in my trip/purchase?

Accepted Answer

At NCT, we aim to take the stress and coordination challenges off your hands.
 
For your convenience, trip prices include the following:
 
Lodging with pre-approved and vetted accommodation partners
All breakfasts and dinners (1 on our Intro Tour)
Niagara Cycling Jersey for all participants
Top quality water bottle as part of our Classic Tour (can be added at checkout for all other tours!)
Luggage transfers (see Van support below)
Group connection and coordination via a WhatsApp or other communication strategy
Comprehensive Tour Details with detailed pre-trip information
Detailed route instructions and maps (digital or paper-based form)
Van support with local staff for emergencies, some rest stop support, snacks and occasional tips and advice 
Welcome goodie bag with useful items from local merchants and suppliers for our Classic Tours
Listings of all the great Stop and Shoot Photo opportunities
Loyalty Program on future trip bookings, plus referral promotions too!
 
Trip prices do not include the following:
 
GPS devices & Handlebar mount - Can be added as part of the checkout process
Excursions and activities in the towns we pass through - We are excited to connect you with local experts and attractions and help with suggestions, additional costs depend on the individual attraction you look to book
An on-bike tour guide - We do offer custom tours where this is a potential add-on. As part of our curated classic weekday and weekend packages though, there is no on-bike guide
Add some other important cycling-related swag from NCT like arm warmers, rain or cold weather apparel, and a water bottle, or two,  if you are a two-cage kind of cyclist
BIKE RENTALS - we do have access to a limited number of high-quality road bikes, so if this is something you need add this when you register  OR find, test and fit your own rental from a local bike shop in your area - we do not include or provide bikes, helmets or any accessories with all Tour Packages
Lunch or Coffee stops except where explicitly listed

Question 32

What if I get injured or sick a few days before my tour starts?

Accepted Answer

Please consult our refund policy before booking.  As you may imagine, many details and plans go into building each trip, and if you cannot provide enough notice or fill your spot with someone else we will not be able to provide a partial or full refund.  This is why you can buy cancellation insurance with your Insurance Provider.

Question 33

Where can I find more about refunds, cancellations, policies, and need-to-know payment information?"

Accepted Answer

Please view our detailed policies and all other need-to-know information here
 
If there is something you want to know that we do not have listed on our pages, send us a message through our website chat, our email - info@niagaracyclingtours.ca, or any of our social media channels! We would be happy to answer your questions and then post them on our site for like-minded cyclists who may have the same question.

Questions? Call, Text or WhatsApp today 416-707-5944