Cycling
All RAW travel cycling trips used well maintained 21 or 24 gear mountain bikes, with front suspension and shimano or other reputable gears components. Overseas we have our own bike operation and workshop in Phnom Penh and Kathmandu where bikes are overhauled after each trip. We keep a range of spare parts at hand, anything that needs replacing can be promptly repaired. Your cycling guides also act as bike mechanics to fix any problems on the road or provide you a replacement bike which are carried on each trip.
A moneyback guarantee!
At RAW travel, we like to walk the talk! We're the only company that offers a money back guarantee on our cycling trips. You will receive a well maintained bike at the start of your trip and if the bike provided proves to be defective it will be repaired or replaced to your satisfaction.
On a RAW trip you will never be forced to ride for an entire tour on a substandard bike and we are the only operator to stand by this with a full money back guarantee.
What can you expect on a RAW cycling holiday?
The time of your life! You will experience a country with all your senses and at pace that allows to really take it in. At the end of the day you and your fellow riders will be on a high from what you've experienced. With RAW you can ride as little or as much as you want to and go as fast or slow as you like. All our long distance trips have the back up of a support vehicle and crew and our leaders our sensitive to individual needs as well as the groups. Most importantly this is a holiday not a race!
What's a typical day?
We tend to start around 8am in hot climates so that you can make the most of the mornings when it's the best time to cycle. The back up vehicle travels with us throughout the day with regular stops for refreshments and refilling water. Should encounter a problem on the road, either the vehicle or one of your cycling guides can assist you.
Throughout the trip we transport your luggage and will provide you with a lift if needed. There's no competition, we're there to lend a hand and make it as enjoyable as possible for you. If you need a head start we're there to take you out a few kilometres and take some distance off a long day.
What equipment do I need to take part?
We'll provide you a quality well maintained bike on most of our trips ( see inclusions on each trip page) and the assistance of a guide mechanic should you need one. It's recommended that you bring your own bike helmet, as inheriting someone else's on a long distance trip in hot climates is not ideal! Cycling shorts are also recommended for our long distance trips as they help eliminate any potential chafing issues. You are also welcome to 'customise' your bike with your preferred saddle or bar ends as you see fit.
How fit do I need to be?
We offer 3 different levels of cycling trips that can appeal to all types of cyclists from the first timer through to the veteran adventurer, so it's just a matter of choosing the trip that's right for you. All trips provide the opportunity for alternate routes on most cycling days meaning every level of cyclist can be satisfied and there is a support vehicle available when you need it. The trip gradings below help outline the physical demands of each trip but please read carefully through the online trip brochure and question us further should you have any questions.
1. Introductory adventure
Adventure for everyone! These trips are accessible to anyone who enjoys basic fitness and suitable for first timers wanting to experience the thrill of cycle touring. The emphasis is on exploring your destination and taking in the many attractions along the way. Terrain is usally fairly easy or with some good downhills. Full support is provided throughout, so you can ride as much or as little as you want to. A typical day would involve anything from two to four hours cycling with an average daily distance of around 25-35 km.
2. Moderate
You don't need to be a highly experienced cyclist to join these multi-day trips but a reasonably good level of fitness is required to participate fully. Though full support is provided throughout, so you can ride as much or as little as you want to. Be prepared for moderate to strenuous physical activity as you will be cycling for between 5 and 7 hours each day on average and some pre-trip training is recommended to get the most from your adventure. Terrain is varied but generally on sealed roads and no technical skills needed to enjoy the trip.
3. Demanding
Adventures to really get you out there! Be prepared for strenuous physical activity with mountainous terrain and some off road riding. You will be cycling between 6 and 8 hours a day with roads and tracks that are usually well defined but confidence with off road riding is required. Again these adventures have backup throughout but to participate fully it's recommended you attain a good level of physical fitness. Start a regular training program in the months leading up to the adventure where your goal is to be able to ride 70km on successive days without discomfort (include hill training).
Please refer to our cycling guide as this provides good advice on how to start a fitness program.
Apart from the cycling what else should I expect?
This is what makes RAW trips stand apart from other active adventures and bring to bear our 20 years of on the road knowledge to make your trip an outstanding experience. We like to explore close to the heart of the region we are visiting and get to know it's people. Local experts provide insights into aspects of local culture and history. Special events and visits are arranged with our contacts on the ground so you may meet a Tibetan Lama or a enjoy private tour around a vineyard! We'll usually have special awards during our evening meals on group tours and try to make your experience as fun and educational as possible.