Biking along the Rhine (port-to-port cruise)

CROISIBIKE
Practical Information

+ Types of bikes:

• Unisex hybrid bikes that can be used by both men and women (flat handlebars), similar or equivalent to the Alpenchallenge AC01 with Shimano 105 or Ultegra derailleurs.

- High-quality Shimano 105 or Ultegra derailleurs make climbing hills easier
- Disc brakes for better stopping ability and avoiding skidding during rain
- A maximum 10 kg (22 lbs.) bike weight for optimal comfort

• The bikes used currently are BMC Alpenchallenge AC01 Deore XT/SLX. Our partner will be upgrading their fleet in 2017.
• Extra-padded seats for women.
• Pouch for accessories (camera, windbreaker, etc.). Please do not carry large items with you.
• Each bike is equipped with a GPS programmed with the day's itinerary so that everyone can bike at their own pace.
• Passengers can bring their own cleated cycling shoes, but you must also bring your own pedals so that they can be attached to our bikes.

+ Where we bike:

• On paved roads or bike paths.
• We will not go on mountain bike routes.

+ Biking while the ship cruises

• One or more minivans with guide(s) will follow the group of cyclists.
• Bikes will be stored in the minivan and picked up each day by passengers.
• For the slightest problem, the driver of the minivan will either repair the bike or replace it.

Here is a FAQ list for several recurring questions:

• Can I stop cycling during the day's tour, and if so, how do I get back to the ship?
         o Yes. Vans will be provided with an extra seat for each passenger if needed.
         o The return to the ship will be done at the first opportune moment; the passengers on the bike tour will remain our immediate priority.

• Can we request an e-bike?
         o Yes. Please ask for our rates.

• What happens if I get a flat tire?
         o Our guides will repair it!

• Some travel agencies think that tours over 31 miles per day (50 km) are too much for the average client.
         o That's why the shortest option each day will not be over 22 miles (35 km), except for one specific day on the Rhine.
         o If needed, our vans will be available for passengers who would like to stop.
         o Don't forget that elevation gain is a very important aspect of biking: 31 miles (50 km) along the flat Danube route is very different than even 6 miles (10 km) up to Mont-Sainte-Odile.
         o Our goal is to offer as many options as possible so that different level passengers can participate in the same tours.
         o Even beginner cyclists will enjoy our tours because the shortest itinerary will never be longer than 22 miles (35 km).

Just for kids:

• Do you have bikes for kids? What age must they be and what are the sizes?
          o We can provide wheels for children under the following conditions:

                         Kids' bikes
                               • Children can ride on their own from 8 years and up
                               • 20” bike for children between 3' 11” and 4' 3” (120 to 130 cm)
                               • 24” bike for children between 4' 3” and 5' 1” (130 to 155 cm)

                         Trail-a-bike
                               • Maximum weight = 83 lbs. (38 kg)
                               • For ages 4 to 7

                         Bike trailer
                               • Maximum weight = 60 lbs. (27 kg)
                               • For ages 1 to 3

                  o Parents must have the Trail-a-bike or bike trailer attached to their bikes
                  o PLEASE NOTE: you must request these accessories when placing your order

• Are the tours and itineraries adapted to children?
          o All of our tours are designed to limit contact with road traffic as much as possible.
          o If vehicle circulation during a specific tour becomes excessive, transfers for the children will be organized to remove them from any possible danger.

• If our kids get tired, can they recuperate in the minivan?
          o This is always possible when accompanied by a parent.
          o For children less than 4 years, parents must provide an adapted car seat for the van.
          o For children who are older, booster car seats are usually provided.

• Can children ride in the minivan without a parent?
          o NO
  
   

If you have any questions, please feel free to get in touch with us. We update this information sheet regularly.