FAQ

Planning an adventure should be exciting, not complicated. Here you'll find answers to the questions we receive most often about our tours, expeditions, bikes, accommodation, logistics and booking process. If there's anything else you'd like to know, we're only a message away.

Most Common Questions

Which tour is right for me?

Each BiciRadVelo tour has been designed for a different style of rider and adventure. Our Explore tours are ideal for riders looking to experience a destination from a single hotel base, while our Tours and Expeditions involve greater distances, more climbing and a higher level of self-sufficiency. Each tour page includes recommended rider experience, daily distances and terrain. If you're unsure which trip is right for you, simply get in touch and we'll help you choose the best option.

How fit do I need to be?

The honest answer is that it depends on the tour. Some of our Explore tours are designed to be achievable for riders with a reasonable cycling background, while our Expeditions can involve long days, significant climbing and challenging terrain. We don't expect professional athletes, but we do expect guests to arrive prepared for the challenge they've signed up for. If you're unsure, simply ask. We'd rather have an honest conversation beforehand and help you choose the right adventure than have you spend the week worrying whether you're fit enough.

Can I travel alone?

Absolutely. Many of our guests join solo and quickly become part of the group. Cycling has a wonderful way of bringing together people who may never otherwise have met. Some riders arrive knowing nobody and leave with friendships that continue long after the tour has finished.

What bike should I bring?

The recommended bike is listed on each individual tour page. For most gravel tours we recommend a modern gravel bike with 40–50 mm tyres and suitable climbing gears. Hardtail mountain bikes are also welcome on many routes. If you're unsure whether your bike is suitable, we're always happy to advise.

Can I rent a bike?

We appreciate that travelling internationally with a bicycle isn't always practical. Bike hire can be an excellent option, allowing you to arrive with less luggage, avoid airline handling concerns and start your holiday with a professionally prepared bike ready to ride.

Depending on the destination, we can often arrange gravel bikes, road bikes, mountain bikes and, in some locations, e-bikes. If you're unsure what bike is most suitable for the tour, we'll happily advise.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes.

All participants must hold valid travel and activity insurance covering the full duration of the tour.

Your policy should specifically include cycling activities, medical treatment abroad, emergency evacuation, mountain rescue where applicable, repatriation, trip cancellation, travel disruption and personal liability.

Proof of insurance may be requested before departure. While BiciRadVelo maintains appropriate business insurance for its operations, this does not replace the participant's responsibility to hold suitable personal travel and activity insurance.

What happens if I need to cancel?

We understand that plans can change. Cancellation charges increase closer to departure as accommodation, staff, support vehicles and logistics are booked in advance. Full details are available in our Terms & Conditions. Depending on the reason for cancellation, you may be able to recover costs through your travel insurance provider.

Are airport transfers available?

Many tours offer optional airport transfer services, while others may include them within the tour package.

We understand that travelling with bicycles, bike bags and riding equipment can be stressful, particularly in unfamiliar destinations. Wherever possible we aim to simplify the logistics and help riders arrive relaxed and ready for the adventure ahead.

Full transfer details are provided before departure and we're always happy to advise on the best travel options.

Booking & Payments

How do I book a tour?

Complete the application form on the relevant tour page and tell us a little about yourself, your cycling experience and what you're hoping to get from the trip. Every application is reviewed individually to ensure the tour is a good fit for both the rider and the group.

A booking is only confirmed once your application has been accepted, the required deposit has been received and written confirmation has been issued by BiciRadVelo.

How much is the deposit?

A deposit of 20% of the tour price is required to secure your place on a tour or expedition.

Once your application has been accepted and the deposit received, planning and preparation for your tour can begin.

When is final payment due?

The remaining balance is normally due no later than 90 days before departure.

We understand that many riders book closer to departure and, where practical, alternative payment arrangements may sometimes be agreed. Any such arrangements must be confirmed in writing before the booking is accepted.

What payment methods do you accept?

Bank transfer is preferred and helps us minimise unnecessary transaction costs that ultimately add little value to the experience itself.

Alternative payment methods may be available depending on your location and circumstances. If you require a different payment method, simply contact us before booking and we'll do our best to accommodate you.

Can I join a waiting list?

Yes.

If a departure is fully booked, we can add you to a waiting list and contact you if a place becomes available. We may also be able to suggest an alternative departure date or discuss a custom departure if sufficient interest exists.

Do tours have minimum and maximum group sizes?

Yes.

Minimum and maximum group sizes vary between tours and are shown on the relevant tour page. Unlike traditional scheduled tours, many BiciRadVelo departures operate on a demand-led basis and are often established around the first booking party before additional riders join the group.

Is there a minimum age requirement?

Most tours are designed for adults aged 18 and over.

Younger riders may be accepted on selected tours where accompanied by a parent or guardian and where the tour is considered suitable for their experience, fitness and ability.

What happens if I need to cancel?

If you need to cancel your booking, please contact us as soon as possible.

Once a tour is confirmed, accommodation, transport, support staff, vehicle hire and other services may already have been secured on your behalf. For this reason, cancellation costs increase closer to departure and may depend on the costs already committed to delivering the tour.

We will always seek to minimise cancellation costs wherever possible and may, at our discretion, be able to offer an alternative departure date or transfer arrangement. Full details can be found in our Terms & Conditions.

Can I recover cancellation costs through insurance?

In many cases, yes.

All participants are strongly encouraged to obtain comprehensive travel and activity insurance that includes cancellation cover. Depending on the circumstances, your insurer may be able to recover some or all of your costs.

We are always happy to provide supporting documentation to assist with legitimate insurance claims where appropriate.

Fitness & Riding

Are your tours suitable for beginners?

Most BiciRadVelo tours are designed for riders with some previous cycling experience and a reasonable level of fitness. You don't need to be a racer or an elite athlete, but you should be comfortable spending several hours on the bike and riding on consecutive days.

That said, "beginner" can mean very different things. Someone who has ridden regularly for a few years but has never joined an organised cycling trip may still be perfectly suited to many of our tours.

If you're unsure, get in touch. We'd much rather have an honest conversation beforehand and help you choose the right experience than have you book something that isn't a good fit.

How many kilometres do we ride each day?

That depends entirely on the tour.

Our Explore tours typically involve between 70 and 110 km per day, while some Expeditions can include significantly longer distances and more challenging terrain. Full details are provided on each tour itinerary.

That said, we don't believe every group should have exactly the same experience. We always consider the group's ability, interests, priorities and energy levels. During the planning process and throughout the tour we can often adapt routes, add café stops, include additional climbs, shorten stages, extend days, incorporate cultural visits or even build in recovery days where appropriate.

Our goal isn't simply to ride a predetermined number of kilometres. It's to create the best possible adventure for the people who have joined us.

What pace do you ride at?

Our cycling tours and expeditions are not races. Comfortable and confident is fast.

We ride at a pace that allows people to enjoy the experience, the scenery and the company, while still feeling like they've earned their dinner at the end of the day.

Naturally, riders spread out on climbs and more challenging terrain. Stronger riders are welcome to ride at their own pace before regrouping at agreed locations, while others can settle into a rhythm that suits their fitness and goals.

On larger tours, we will often split riders into smaller groups based on ability, fitness and objectives. Faster riders may ride with the lead guide and tackle the full route or additional challenges, while a second group is supported by the support vehicle and can ride a slightly modified route if required. The groups will often rendezvous for lunch, coffee stops or at the end of the day, ensuring everyone still shares the overall experience.

We've found this approach works extremely well. It removes pressure from riders who prefer a more relaxed pace, while allowing stronger riders to fully enjoy the terrain and challenge themselves without constantly waiting or feeling held back.

The emphasis is always on the overall experience rather than staying glued to a wheel. We'd rather arrive at a viewpoint with smiles on faces than set any records on the climb getting there.

That philosophy applies whether you're riding a gravel bike, mountain bike or, on selected tours, an e-bike. The objective is the same for everyone: enjoying an unforgettable adventure by bike.

What happens if I can't complete a stage?

irstly, don't panic. This situation is far less common than people imagine.

Depending on the tour, options may include route shortcuts, modified routes, support vehicle assistance, transfers or simply adjusting the pace and schedule. Our guides and support team are experienced at finding practical solutions that keep the adventure enjoyable rather than turning it into an ordeal.

Every rider has good days and bad days. Weather, fatigue, illness, mechanical issues and life in general can all influence how you feel on any given day. Our priority is always your safety, wellbeing and enjoyment of the tour.

Sometimes the smartest decision is not pushing through, but adapting the plan and saving your energy for the following day.

Can I ride an e-bike?

Yes, on selected tours.

In fact, unlike many cycling tour operators, we actively encourage the use of e-bikes where they help riders get more from the experience.

We believe e-bikes can be a fantastic way of making adventure cycling accessible to more people. Whether you're recovering from injury, managing fatigue, riding with stronger friends, carrying extra equipment or simply want a little assistance on the climbs, an e-bike can help make the journey more enjoyable.

We've found that riders who are comfortable and confident often enjoy the experience more than riders who spend the entire day riding at their physical limit. They're more likely to look around, stop for photographs, enjoy conversations, take in the landscape and arrive at the end of the day with enough energy to appreciate the destination rather than simply collapse into bed.

As long as riders are experienced and confident in handling their bike safely, we have absolutely no issue with e-bikes joining many of our tours. In some destinations they can actually open up remote regions and experiences that might otherwise be inaccessible to many people.

An e-bike doesn't mean you're not pedalling. In reality, most riders still spend the entire day turning the pedals and putting in the effort. The difference is that assistance is available when you need it, whether that's on a steep climb, into a headwind or simply towards the end of a long day. Think of it as assistance, not replacement.

Ultimately, we're far more interested in helping people experience extraordinary places by bike than worrying about how much assistance their motor provides.

The bicycle is simply the tool. The adventure is the objective.

Am I too old for your tours?

Absolutely not.

We've ridden with cyclists ranging from their twenties to their seventies and, in many cases, some of the strongest riders aren't the youngest. Fitness, experience, attitude and a sense of adventure are far more important than the date on your passport.

Our goal isn't to turn every ride into a race. It's to help riders experience extraordinary places by bike. Whether you're chasing personal performance goals, ticking off a bucket-list adventure or simply want to enjoy the journey with friends, we'll help you choose a tour that's appropriate for your experience and fitness level.

Age is rarely the limiting factor. Preparation, pacing and enjoying the ride usually matter far more.

Should I train before the tour?

Yes.

The better prepared you are, the more you'll enjoy the experience.

You don't need to train like a professional cyclist, but arriving with a reasonable level of fitness will allow you to enjoy the scenery, the camaraderie and the riding rather than simply focusing on getting through each day.

Most of our guests find that a few months of regular riding before the tour is more than enough preparation. If you're unsure whether you're ready for a particular trip, we're always happy to discuss your experience and recommend the most suitable adventure.

Remember, the objective isn't to suffer. It's to enjoy some of the most spectacular riding in the world.

What happens if the weather is bad?

Adventure cycling means working with nature rather than against it.

While we always hope for perfect conditions, mountains, coastlines and remote regions can be unpredictable. If conditions become unsafe or significantly impact the riding experience, routes, accommodation, schedules or support arrangements may need to be modified.

Adventure travel requires flexibility and safety will always come before sticking rigidly to a plan.

The good news is that some of the most memorable moments often come from unexpected conditions, whether that's dramatic mountain scenery, misty forests, changing light or simply sharing the adventure with the group. We always have alternative options available and will make decisions based on delivering the best and safest experience possible.

What if I'm worried about keeping up?

This is one of the most common concerns we hear and, in reality, it's rarely a problem.

Our tours are designed around the experience, not racing. Riders naturally spread out on climbs and technical terrain before regrouping at agreed points along the route. The strongest riders still get a challenge, while others can ride at a pace that allows them to enjoy the day.

For some tours, e-bikes can also be an excellent option. We see them not as "cheating", but as a way of allowing more people to enjoy the adventure. Whether it's helping a rider manage fatigue, recover from injury, keep pace with stronger friends or simply enjoy a big day in the mountains, the goal is the same: helping everyone have a fantastic experience.

Bikes & Equipment

Can I bring my own bike?

Absolutely.

Many riders prefer travelling with their own bike because it is familiar, comfortable and already set up exactly how they like it.

We recommend arriving with a well-maintained bicycle that has been serviced before departure and is suitable for the terrain of your chosen tour. If you're unsure whether your bike is appropriate, simply ask and we'll happily advise.

What tyre width do you recommend?

For most gravel tours we recommend tyres between 40 mm and 50 mm depending on the route, terrain and riding style.

Our own guides typically favour larger volume tyres than many riders expect, often using 2.25" mountain bike tyres on modern gravel bikes. While they may not be the fastest option on perfect roads, they provide significantly greater comfort, confidence, traction and puncture resistance when the route becomes rough.

Comfortable and confident is fast.

Can I use a mountain bike?

Yes. Hardtail mountain bikes are suitable for many of our tours and expeditions. Even modern dual suspension XC mountain bikes are ideal for some of the harsher sections of expeditions such as the Balkans, however gravel bikes are still the best tool for the job on 95% of the routes on our tours & expeditions, larger volume tyres will help greatly however. Our staff tend to use gravel bikes with MTB gears and MTB 2.25" tyres.

Do I need a GPS device?

No. Guided tours are fully led by BiciRadVelo guides. Riders who prefer to navigate independently can request GPX files or GPS hire can be arranged, we have a limited number of wahoo gps and mounts available for rental.

What equipment should I bring?

Guests are responsible for providing their own helmet, sunglasses, shoes, pedals, riding kit, sunglasses, hydration systems and other personal cycling equipment. A detailed packing list will be provided before departure.

Do you provide pedals?

No. Riders should bring their own pedals and cycling shoes. If you can let us know in advance and we have spares available then we will try to facilitate.

What happens if I have a mechanical problem?

Guides can assist with common repairs and troubleshooting. Replacement parts, workshop labour and major repairs remain the responsibility of the rider.

If the tour includes a support vehicle, there will normally be a comprehensive bicycle tool kit and a selection of commonly required spares available. Any consumables or replacement parts used, such as tubes, tyres, brake pads, chains or other components sourced during the tour, will need to be paid for by the rider.

Participants bringing their own bicycle are responsible for ensuring it is safe, mechanically sound and suitable for the terrain before the tour begins.

Trip Preparation

Are flights included?

No. Flights are not included unless specifically stated. We can advise on group arrival time to coordinate and a WhatsApp group will be started for each tour group once booked.

Can you help with travel arrangements?

Yes. We're happy to advise on flights, arrival airports, transfer options and travel logistics.

What airport should I fly into?

This depends on the destination. Full travel information is provided before departure.

What weather should I expect?

Weather varies considerably by destination and season. Often in the same day in the mountains it can be summer heat and storms - prepare for both, the weather and risks will be discussed each morning at the briefing and it's advised to bring a day-bag for the support vehicle to carry for you or bring essentials in your bike-packing bags. Detailed guidance and packing recommendations are provided before travel.

What should I pack?

A detailed packing list is provided during first consultation and before departure and tailored to the destination and time of year.

Do I need specialist cycling insurance?

Yes.

All participants are required to hold suitable travel and activity insurance for the tour they are joining.

It is your responsibility to ensure your policy provides adequate cover for the destinations visited, the type of riding involved and any activities included within the tour. We strongly recommend policies that specifically cover cycling activities, trip cancellation, medical treatment, emergency evacuation and travel disruption.

Should I bring my own nutrition?

This depends on the tour. On Explore tours riders are generally responsible for their own ride nutrition. On fully supported expeditions nutrition may be included. Details are always stated on the tour page.

Accommodation & Logistics

Where do we stay?

Accommodation varies by tour but is carefully selected for location, comfort and suitability for cyclists.

We prioritise places with character, good food, secure bike storage and hosts who genuinely care about the guest experience. Depending on the destination, that might mean family-run guesthouses, mountain lodges, boutique hotels or unique local accommodation that helps connect riders to the places they're visiting.

The goal isn't simply somewhere to sleep. It's part of the adventure itself.

What type of rooms are provided?

Most tours are based on twin-share accommodation unless otherwise stated.

Can I request a single room?

Yes. Single occupancy and room upgrades may be available for an additional supplement, subject to availability.

Will I share with someone of the opposite sex?

No. Unless travelling together as a couple.

Are meals included?

This varies by tour and is clearly listed within each itinerary.

Can you cater for dietary requirements?

In most cases yes, provided we are informed before departure.

Can I arrive early or stay longer?

Usually yes. We're happy to arrange additional accommodation and travel arrangements.

Girona & The Pyrenees

Why Girona?

Girona has become one of the world's premier cycling destinations, but for us it's much more than a cycling hotspot.

Within a single day you can ride Mediterranean coastline, medieval villages, dense forests, volcanic landscapes, world-famous gravel roads and high mountain passes. Few places in Europe offer such variety from a single base.

It's one of the reasons so many professional cyclists choose to live here and why we chose to build BiciRadVelo in Girona.

When is the best time to ride in Girona?

Spring and autumn offer ideal conditions, although Girona provides excellent riding opportunities throughout much of the year. Our favourite time is actually October / November.

What makes Girona gravel special?

Girona offers an extraordinary variety of terrain, including forests, farmland, Mediterranean coastline, medieval villages and iconic gravel sectors made famous by events such as The Traka.

Are the Pyrenees suitable for gravel bikes?

Absolutely. The Pyrenees offer some of Europe's finest gravel riding, combining high mountain scenery, remote tracks and challenging climbs.

Can I combine Girona and the Pyrenees in one trip?

Yes. Private and custom itineraries can combine multiple regions and riding styles.

Atlas Mountains Expedition

Is Morocco safe for cyclists?

Yes. Morocco has become an increasingly popular destination for adventure cyclists. As with any international destination, sensible precautions should always be followed.

Do I need desert riding experience?

No, although previous gravel and bikepacking experience is beneficial.

What temperatures should I expect?

Conditions vary considerably depending on season, altitude and region. Detailed guidance is provided before departure.

What bike is recommended?

A capable gravel bike with generous tyre clearance is ideal. Hardtail mountain bikes are also suitable.

How much support is provided?

Support levels vary by expedition but may include guides, luggage transport, support vehicles and local logistical assistance.

Balkans Expedition

Which countries do we ride through?

Routes may include Albania, Montenegro and Bosnia & Herzegovina depending on the specific expedition itinerary.

Is the route fully guided?

Yes. BiciRadVelo guides lead the route and manage logistics throughout the expedition.

What type of terrain should I expect?

Expect a mixture of gravel roads, mountain tracks, quiet tarmac roads and remote adventure riding.

What bike is recommended?

A gravel bike with 45–50 mm tyres is ideal, although hardtail mountain bikes are also suitable.

Is the Balkans expedition suitable for solo travellers?

Absolutely. Many riders join solo and quickly become part of the group experience.

About BiciRadVelo

Who is BiciRadVelo?

BiciRadVelo was founded in Girona by ultra-endurance cyclist and expedition rider Craig McColl.

After years of exploring remote regions by bike, from the Pyrenees and Morocco to the Balkans and beyond, the idea behind BiciRadVelo became simple: create the sort of adventures we would genuinely want to join ourselves.

Small groups. Extraordinary places. Real riding. Real experiences.

We don't measure success by average speed or FTP numbers. We measure it by the stories riders take home afterwards.

Why the name BiciRadVelo?

The name combines the words for bicycle from several European languages: Bici (Spanish), Rad (German) and Velo (French/Italian), reflecting the international nature of cycling and adventure travel.

Are routes ridden and tested beforehand?

Yes. Routes are developed through extensive personal riding, scouting and refinement before being offered to guests.

Can you organise private groups?

Absolutely. We can create bespoke tours for clubs, groups of friends, companies and teams.

Can you create custom itineraries?

Yes. We regularly design private itineraries tailored to specific goals, dates and riding preferences.

Are you insured?

Yes.

BiciRadVelo maintains appropriate business insurance for its operations and activities.

However, this does not replace the participant's obligation to hold suitable personal travel and activity insurance for the duration of the tour. All riders remain responsible for ensuring their own insurance provides adequate cover for the activities, destinations and risks associated with their chosen tour.

Other Questions

Should I tip guides or support staff?

Tips are never expected but are always appreciated as recognition of exceptional service.

Can non-riding partners join?

On selected tours this may be possible. Please contact us to discuss options.

Can I bring children?

Most tours are designed for adults. Family and private tours may be available on request.

What happens in an emergency?

Many BiciRadVelo tours and expeditions travel through remote mountain, gravel and wilderness environments where immediate assistance may not always be available.

Depending on the location, there may be limited mobile phone coverage, delayed emergency response times, no nearby settlements and restricted vehicle access. Before each riding day, guides provide safety briefings covering the route, weather, resupply opportunities, potential hazards and emergency procedures.

Where included within the itinerary, support vehicles may also provide logistical, mechanical and emergency assistance.

In the event of an accident, illness or emergency, BiciRadVelo will make reasonable efforts to coordinate assistance and contact the appropriate emergency services where available.

Can routes or itineraries change?

Yes.

Adventure travel requires flexibility and conditions can change quickly. Weather, trail conditions, road closures, local events, accommodation availability, operational requirements and safety considerations may occasionally require us to modify routes, schedules, accommodation or support arrangements.

These changes are a normal part of adventure travel and are made with the aim of delivering the safest and best possible experience for the group.

Can't find the answer you're looking for?

Contact us at hello@biciradvelo.com or use the contact form on the website and we'll be happy to help.