Wednesday 11 September 2024

We've got a new passion, and a new website! 

Why Pay for Expensive Bike Tours? Plan Your Own Adventure with Rides.bike

As someone who’s always loved bicycle touring, there’s one thing that’s baffled me for years: the cost. Organized tours are everywhere, and sure, they offer convenience and structure, but do they really need to come with such a hefty price tag?


I started rides.bike because I believe the adventure of a lifetime shouldn’t cost you thousands of dollars. The open road, the freedom to explore, the joy of riding at your own pace—these experiences should be accessible to everyone. But instead, I kept seeing people held back by one thing: the cost of organized tours. And honestly, it’s something I never understood.


Why Are People Paying So Much?


Look, I get it—there’s value in having someone else plan the route, book the hotels, and carry your bags. But what I couldn’t shake was this nagging question: Why can’t people just do it themselves? Why is the market so focused on all-inclusive packages when half the fun of bicycle touring is the sense of freedom and self-sufficiency?


The reality is, with the right resources, anyone can plan and execute an incredible bike tour without paying for a company to do it for them. And yet, this gap in the market persisted. So I decided to do something about it.


Enter Rides.bike: Your DIY Touring Guide


I built rides.bike because I want to empower riders to take control of their own trips. Whether you're a seasoned cyclist or new to bike touring, the truth is, planning your own tour isn’t rocket science—it’s about having the right tools, information, and confidence.


With rides.bike, my goal is simple: help people plan their own bike tours for a fraction of the cost of a guided tour. We provide up-to-date, detailed information on the best touring locations worldwide, along with tips, tricks, and practical advice to make your adventure seamless—without the premium price tag.


The Problem with the Market Today


Here’s the thing: the bike touring market is saturated with organized tours that charge you a premium for things you don’t necessarily need. You’re paying for guides, pre-set itineraries, and logistical support—things that are nice to have, but not essential. The real magic of bike touring comes when you’re the one in charge, deciding where to go and what to see.


The truth is, planning a bike tour yourself isn’t as intimidating as it’s made out to be. That’s where I saw the gap—no one was providing comprehensive, accessible information to help people feel confident planning their own tours. 


Most cyclists who dream of a big adventure are either convinced they need to shell out big bucks for a tour or are too overwhelmed to even start the planning process. I knew this had to change.


What You’ll Find at rides.bike

At Rides.bike, we give you everything you need to plan your own tour—whether it’s a weekend getaway or a multi-week expedition:


- Top Bicycle Touring Destinations: From quiet coastal paths to adventurous mountain routes, we cover the best bike touring locations worldwide.

- Planning Tips: We break down everything—how to pick the right route, what gear you need, how to stay safe, and more.

- Budget-Friendly Strategies: Bike tours shouldn’t cost a fortune. We’ll show you how to plan your trip without draining your savings.

- Gear Reviews: Picking the right equipment can make or break your tour. We review and recommend bikes, bags, tents, and other essentials.

- Real-Life Advice: Hear from experienced riders who’ve done it all—from cross-country tours to international treks—so you can learn from their successes (and their mistakes).


 The Freedom of DIY Touring


There’s a reason people are drawn to bicycle touring in the first place: freedom. The freedom to go where you want, at your own pace, stopping whenever the mood strikes you. That’s the beauty of touring on two wheels, and it’s why I’m so passionate about empowering more people to plan their own trips.


The market for bike tours today often strips that freedom away by locking you into a set itinerary, pace, and route. And you’re paying a premium for it! I believe there’s a better way—a way that gives you control over your journey while keeping the costs down.


## So, Why Pay More? Head over to https://rides.bike today!


Ask yourself this: why pay more for a guided bike tour when you can have the same incredible experience—on your terms—for less? With rides.bike, you don’t need to choose between quality and affordability. You can have both, and all it takes is a little planning.