|
FAQ'S
What will the accommodations be like?
All accommodation is 3-5 star hotel and motel style accommodation, twin share with queen beds (double beds may be substituted depending on the accommodation available at time of booking).
Do the rooms have separate beds?
All accommodation is based on twin share rooms with separate beds unless you have chosen the single room option.
Is Internet access available in accommodations?
Yes internet access is available in most areas but the use of the internet may incur an additional cost by the hotels.
How do I get ready for this cycling tour?
Given that any physical exercise should be done with caution and in consideration of your personal circumstances, we strongly recommend a training programme designed with longer rides in mind and can make suggestions on how you can achieve this. We also welcome you to ride with us if you live in the Sydney area, or we can advise you on local bunch rides which can also assist your training.
What will my cycling day be like? Will I be able to do it?
Most days consist of hours spent in the saddle enjoying what you like, riding your bike! While the days may be long and the hills may be high, with the right training and mental preparedness you should have no problem completing each day. Remember, this is not a race and there are no prizes for first to finish.
Since you move luggage, should we bring bike bags, panniers or helmets?
Your luggage will be carried in the support van and includes any incidentals you don’t want to take on your bike. You should bring a safety approved helmet as most local laws require cyclists to wear a helmet at all times.
Can you outfit us with rented bicycles?
OTH Tours does not currently provide rented bikes. We can provide advice on what would be great bicycle options suited to your needs.
How do I get there/get away?
Several airlines fly to our start destinations with regular daily/weekly flights. Information on the accommodation and how to get there will be included in participants information pack. Our departure points have regular flights heading back to Australia. Check with your airline on dates/times. We can provide assistance with airline options.
How do I bring my bicycle on a plane?
Most airlines transport bicycles as luggage if they are packaged appropriately and some consider your bike as a regular piece of checked baggage. Check with your airline what their options are. We offer a bikebag rental facility for the duration of the tour. All bike bags/boxes are transported with the support vehicle for repacking at the end of the trip.
Are children or non-cycling partners welcome on the tour?
Given the nature of the OTH Tours children cannot be accommodated at this time. It is also advisable to have non-cycling partners either see you off at the beginning of the tour or meet you at the end. We can advise on the best method of doing this. They are able to come along in the support van but will be subject to the requirements of staff who will be ensuring that your OTH Tours needs are being met. Non-cycling partners incur the same costs as the riders and will receive the same inclusions
I plan on going by myself. Do you pair me with someone or do I pay extra for my own room? If my own room, how much extra?
If you come on the OTH Tours by yourself we will pair you with someone of the same gender and interests. If you have someone you specifically want to share with then let us know and it can be arranged. The cost of the OTH Tours is based on twin share accommodation. If you want your own room there is a different cost for this. See the Tour page for more details.
How do I pay?
We accept payment via our secure online facility. All reservations are subject to the clearance of funds.
What kind of payment/refund policy do you have?
A 50% deposit is due 90 days in advance with the balance due 60 days prior to departure. A full refund is offered 90 days before the start of the OTHT and 50% refund 60 days before the start of the OTHT. There is no refund 60 days or less prior to the start of the OTH Tours. Before booking any trip you should read our Terms & Conditions.
Are Airfares Included?
Airfares are not included in every Tour. See the specific Tour page for inclusions. We can provide air travel assistance for participants at an additional cost. Contact us to discuss your needs. We provide airport transfers at the start and end of our international Tours and will need to be confirmed beforehand as many participants will be arriving/departing at different times.
What is the weather like?
We are riding through the summer months and the weather gets hot. Don’t forget your sun block and sunglasses! Bring some wet weather gear and cooler clothing as it can rain and it can get a bit cooler when you’re at altitude.
What is included in the trip?
You can view the inclusions on the specific Tour page.
Where can I find information on the OTH Tours stages?
All stage information can be found on the specific Tour page.
How many riders will there be and I assume that they break into groups. Does each group have a guide?
The OTH Tours is limited to 25 riders to ensure participants are well catered for. Given this number it is likely smaller groups will develop based around people’s ability and desire to experience the region at their own pace. The guides will accompany different groups according to need.
How much riding do we do? What is the distance and intensity of the rides?
Each day varies in distance and averages approximately 100-110kms. The level of intensity also differs depending on the terrain. Remember, the OTH Tours specialise in Tours which encourages you to get out there and get fit! See the Tour page for more details.
Does a tour leader accompany the riders on every ride?
The Tour Leader rides with participants everyday come rain, hail or shine!
What is the recommended gearing for the mountains?
Most riders have a 12-25 on their bikes and manage well. I am pretty fit and find an 11-23 cassette with a 52-38 chainring to be just right.
Do I get to ride everyday and how far?
Yes, we ride every day except on rest days. On these days participants can either take in what the local area has to offer or go on smaller side day-trips.
Are there many women who ride the OTH Tours?
Yes we usually have a number of women on our trips.
Is there a support vehicle for those who cannot finish the days ride?
We do have a support vehicle each day. However they don’t necessarily stay at the back the whole time and will travel up and down the road following the riders in case there is a problem that requires extra assistance.
Approximately what time does the ride leave in the morning?
Most rides depart around 9am. The terrain covered can lower riders average speed and we want you to arrive at the days accommodation in the mid to late afternoon. This gives you a chance to freshen up and enjoy the local towns.
When should I purchase airline tickets?
Airline tickets can be purchased as soon as you receive confirmation of your place on the OTH Tours. You shouldn’t purchase a ticket until you have paid a deposit and have received this confirmation.
What is your policy on travel insurance?
It is a company policy of OTH Tours that all participants have adequate travel insurance covering accident, personal injury, loss of luggage and cancellation. We are not responsible for participants insurance needs.
Do most cyclists bring their bikes?
Yes, it is our experience that riders are most comfortable on their own bike.
Is mechanical assistance available to build up and repack bikes?
Yes, we are happy to assist as much as is required. However, most people like to put their own bikes together and repack them, but if you need us to help then we can do that for you.
What type of bike should I bring?
Given that all riding will be done on paved sealed roads then a road bike is the obvious answer. A mountain/off road bike would not be suitable for the OTH Tours. Touring bikes would also be suitable, but since all of your luggage is being carried in the support vehicle you might not want the extra weight of such a bike.
Can you elaborate a bit on the spares available?
We will have enough spares for roadside support including tubes, cleaning equipment, and basic maintenance. Major repairs such as truing of wheels and the like cannot be done, but there are bicycle shops at different points on the OTH Tours that riders can see for major repairs.
How many meals are provided?
All breakfasts are included, lunches whilst on the road, a welcome dinner and departure dinner. Energy food will also be provided for riders to take with them when on the road. Each Tour is different and you should check the inclusion page of your Tour.
What do we do about power bars, gu, gatorade etc while riding?
We provide appropriate snacks for riders to take each day, but it’s best for you to bring your preferred food with you if this doesn’t meet your needs. From our experience riders rely on the snacks we provide as more than adequate for their energy needs.
Click here for our Terms & Conditions Click here for our Privacy Policy
|
