We describe Cycle of Life Adventures as a boutique style bicycle and active vacation company.

• We are a very personal business — not the giants of the industry. Most of our tours will be priced at least $100 per day lower than the large tour operators. Our singular goal is creating exceptional trips for all of our guests at an unbeatable value.
• We focus on excellent service to small, intimate groups.
• It's us on the other end of the phone in the off-season. It's us laughing with you at dinner. It's us on the roads scouting routes, bonding with local innkeepers, and sampling the local food and attractions. We do not subcontract to other tour companies.
• Our lodging and dining options are among the finest that an area has to offer.
• One of our owners will always be on tour with you. Additional guides are mature, experienced guides and mechanics. We have participated in hundreds of cycling adventures, both as guests and as guides, and led trips across the breadth and depth of North America.
• We are committed to providing challenging, memorable, and original trips in extraordinary, beautiful parts of the country for all levels of riders.

Practically everything you need — and other things you didn't think of.

• Two or More Qualified Guides. If your group is larger than 12, we add additional guides. You will be assured of personalized, superior service and attention throughout your adventure.
• Lodging. Each night we stay at 3-star or better accommodations — from national park lodges to chain hotels to local B&Bs. Lodging begins the evening before we start riding and concludes the evening before our final ride.
• Meals. All breakfasts, some lunches, and all dinners are included on most tours. If a lunch stop is not available, a picnic lunch is provided.
• Social Hour. On the evening before we start, we gather to get everyone acquainted.
• Snacks and Drinks. A stocked buffet of energy foods and drinks — not just junk food and recovery drinks.
• Full Support. One guide is always in a support van while another rides with you. Our van carries an extra bike and the most commonly used parts. We fix flats, repair breakdowns, fill water bottles, and handle any service you need.
• Cue Sheets and Maps. Each day you receive detailed cue sheets with directions and lodging phone numbers. Many rides are also available on Ride with GPS.
• Entry Fees. All national park, state park, and attraction fees listed as part of the tour are included.
• Transportation and Luggage Transfer. We greet you at the airport, move your luggage from inn to inn, and get you back to the airport or starting hotel at the end of your adventure.
• Souvenirs and Extras. All riders receive our water bottles. We share photos at the end of the trip. A cycling jersey is included on our Epic tours.

What's Not Included:

• Airfare
• Gratuity for guides, mechanics, and tour staff (a 12% gratuity is greatly appreciated but not required)
• Rental bikes
• Single room supplement
• Personal purchases
• Trip insurance

Guests are welcome to bring their own bikes or rent one through Cycle of Life Adventures.

If I bring my own bike, how do I get it to my destination?

There are many ways to ship a bicycle. Some Amtrak stations accept them as boxed checked baggage. FedEx will ship bikes, and we work with ShipBikes.com. Ask your local bike shop for packing tips, or give us a call.

What quality are your rental bikes?

We currently offer the 3T RaceMax Rival AX — full carbon fiber, SRAM 2×12 wireless electronic shifting, 46×33 gearing with 10-36 cassette. Suitable for both road and gravel trails.

Our legacy fleet includes Trek Domane 2.3 aluminum endurance bikes with ISO Speed technology, Shimano compact crank, 105 drivetrain, and Tiagra cassette. We keep bikes ranging from 48cm to 60cm, including women-specific designs in smaller sizes.

We also have a small selection of Specialized Sirrus 2.0 in medium and large frames — straight bar, aluminum, disc brakes, Shimano 8-speed double crank, 32mm tires.

E-Bike Options

We offer Giant Explore E and Gazelle electric-assist bicycles through November 2026, after which e-bike rentals will be discontinued. Both come with a Bosch motor offering three or four power modes. These are Class 1 hybrid e-bikes — you must pedal to engage the motor, and the assist cuts off at 20 mph.

Important e-bike notes:

• Reservations must be made no less than 2 months in advance
• We allow a maximum of two e-bike guests per trip
• Rental prices start at $300 for Four Day tours and $375 for week-long tours
• Weight limit: 42 lbs with one battery installed; tire width limit: 40mm (no snow or balloon tires)
• Throttle e-bikes are not permitted
• If using your own e-bike, you must have sufficient battery for the longest day's mileage, or bring a spare

E-Bike Etiquette:

• Mind your manners when riding with non-electric riders
• Don't draft off others — the hum of your motor can be distracting
• Avoid saying "that hill wasn't so bad"
• Know all standard road cycling signals and procedures
• Be willing to help your guide lift, transport, and charge your e-bike

Getting the most enjoyment from our tours starts with finding your comfort level. Our color-coded icons help you find the adventure that fits your ability and challenges you appropriately. A comfortable support vehicle follows all of our tour groups.

Recreational

Ability & Style: Riding regularly for fun, fitness, or commuting.
You enjoy: Cruising flat routes, rolling terrain, or the occasional short climb. Comfortable riding in light to moderate traffic and enjoy stops for sightseeing and snacks.
You can ride: 15–40 miles, and believe you could ride further with group support.

Active

Ability & Style: Fitness and activity are integral parts of your life. You ride 3 or more times per week and enjoy 2+ hour workouts.
You enjoy: All terrain, mountain passes up to 3,000 feet of climbing. You handle descents safely and at speed.
You can ride: 40 miles on average, up to 60–70 on longer days. Comfortable at elevations up to 8,000 feet.

Advanced

Ability & Style: Averaging 75–100+ miles per week. You prefer a faster pace and the physical training of the ride.
You enjoy: Mountain passes, big hills, and steep descents. Comfortable climbing 5,000+ feet in a day.
You can ride: 60 miles on average, up to 100 on a long day, for 5–7 consecutive days. Comfortable in heavier traffic and capable of basic bicycle repairs.

All Levels

Lifestyle: Fit, active, and enjoy the company of like-minded people.
You enjoy: Riding at your own pace — whether faster or slower than others — with optional side trips and activities.
You can ride: 40 miles or more, and you're comfortable asking for van support on a difficult day.

Most of our adventures can be customized for all levels. Please call our office to discuss your comfort level.

We describe Cycle of Life Adventures as a boutique style bicycle and active vacation company.

• We are a very personal business — not the giants of the industry. Most of our tours will be priced at least $100 per day lower than the large tour operators. Our singular goal is creating exceptional trips for all of our guests at an unbeatable value.
• We focus on excellent service to small, intimate groups.
• It's us on the other end of the phone in the off-season. It's us laughing with you at dinner. It's us on the roads scouting routes, bonding with local innkeepers, and sampling the local food and attractions. We do not subcontract to other tour companies.
• Our lodging and dining options are among the finest that an area has to offer.
• One of our owners will always be on tour with you. Additional guides are mature, experienced guides and mechanics. We have participated in hundreds of cycling adventures, both as guests and as guides, and led trips across the breadth and depth of North America.
• We are committed to providing challenging, memorable, and original trips in extraordinary, beautiful parts of the country for all levels of riders.

Practically everything you need — and other things you didn't think of.

• Two or More Qualified Guides. If your group is larger than 12, we add additional guides. You will be assured of personalized, superior service and attention throughout your adventure.
• Lodging. Each night we stay at 3-star or better accommodations — from national park lodges to chain hotels to local B&Bs. Lodging begins the evening before we start riding and concludes the evening before our final ride.
• Meals. All breakfasts, some lunches, and all dinners are included on most tours. If a lunch stop is not available, a picnic lunch is provided.
• Social Hour. On the evening before we start, we gather to get everyone acquainted.
• Snacks and Drinks. A stocked buffet of energy foods and drinks — not just junk food and recovery drinks.
• Full Support. One guide is always in a support van while another rides with you. Our van carries an extra bike and the most commonly used parts. We fix flats, repair breakdowns, fill water bottles, and handle any service you need.
• Cue Sheets and Maps. Each day you receive detailed cue sheets with directions and lodging phone numbers. Many rides are also available on Ride with GPS.
• Entry Fees. All national park, state park, and attraction fees listed as part of the tour are included.
• Transportation and Luggage Transfer. We greet you at the airport, move your luggage from inn to inn, and get you back to the airport or starting hotel at the end of your adventure.
• Souvenirs and Extras. All riders receive our water bottles. We share photos at the end of the trip. A cycling jersey is included on our Epic tours.

What's Not Included:

• Airfare
• Gratuity for guides, mechanics, and tour staff (a 12% gratuity is greatly appreciated but not required)
• Rental bikes
• Single room supplement
• Personal purchases
• Trip insurance

Our scheduled cycling tours typically range from 4 to 12 participants. If your group exceeds 12, we add additional guides to ensure personalized service.

Participants must be 21 years of age or older. Riders aged 15 and older are welcome if accompanied by a parent or legal guardian. Our groups generally consist of men, women, couples, and solo travelers ranging across all ages — we've had guests well into their 80s.

Are meals included in the price?

Yes! Breakfast, lunch (picnic if no restaurant is available), and dinner are included each riding day, unless otherwise specified. Guests may order as much or as little as they like. Wonderful appetizers and desserts are always welcome. Alcoholic beverages are the financial responsibility of the guest.

What type of meals will be served?

All cyclists know the importance of well-rounded, healthy meals. With our years of cycling experience, we provide dining choices that are both enjoyable and nutritionally appropriate for the calorie output of a full day of riding. We always seek at least one restaurant for fine, memorable dining. Coat and tie will never be necessary — dining is generally upscale, casual, and comfortable.

Is lodging included?

Yes! Our accommodations range from modest family-owned inns and Bed & Breakfasts in rural areas to nice hotel chains in populated areas. Luxurious hotels and national park lodges are booked when available and convenient to our tour locations. Note: lodging costs are not included in our Four Day tour series.

What if I am a solo traveler?

Tour rates are based on 2 guests per room. If you'd like a room to yourself, we offer a single room supplement for an additional charge. Select "Single Occupancy" when registering.

If you're willing to share a room, select "Two Beds (Share)" when registering. No supplement will be charged if we match you with a same-gender roommate 30 days or more prior to departure. If we cannot find a match 30 days out, you'll be charged 50% of the listed single room supplement.

Our Cycle of Life Adventures support van, driven by a commercially licensed driver, is available on every tour. It can carry up to 15 passengers, up to 16 bicycles, and a trailer for luggage and equipment.

The driver delivers your luggage to your accommodations before you arrive and accompanies the group on the road to provide:

• Snacks and refreshments
• Bicycle repair supplies
• First aid
• A ride for anyone who needs a break from the saddle

Getting the most enjoyment from our tours starts with finding your comfort level. Our color-coded icons help you find the adventure that fits your ability and challenges you appropriately. A comfortable support vehicle follows all of our tour groups.

Recreational

Ability & Style: Riding regularly for fun, fitness, or commuting.
You enjoy: Cruising flat routes, rolling terrain, or the occasional short climb. Comfortable riding in light to moderate traffic and enjoy stops for sightseeing and snacks.
You can ride: 15–40 miles, and believe you could ride further with group support.

Active

Ability & Style: Fitness and activity are integral parts of your life. You ride 3 or more times per week and enjoy 2+ hour workouts.
You enjoy: All terrain, mountain passes up to 3,000 feet of climbing. You handle descents safely and at speed.
You can ride: 40 miles on average, up to 60–70 on longer days. Comfortable at elevations up to 8,000 feet.

Advanced

Ability & Style: Averaging 75–100+ miles per week. You prefer a faster pace and the physical training of the ride.
You enjoy: Mountain passes, big hills, and steep descents. Comfortable climbing 5,000+ feet in a day.
You can ride: 60 miles on average, up to 100 on a long day, for 5–7 consecutive days. Comfortable in heavier traffic and capable of basic bicycle repairs.

All Levels

Lifestyle: Fit, active, and enjoy the company of like-minded people.
You enjoy: Riding at your own pace — whether faster or slower than others — with optional side trips and activities.
You can ride: 40 miles or more, and you're comfortable asking for van support on a difficult day.

Most of our adventures can be customized for all levels. Please call our office to discuss your comfort level.

At Cycle of Life Adventures, we won't prescribe a rigid conditioning regimen — but we do have a few suggestions to help you prepare and maximize your enjoyment.

• The best preparation for any bicycle tour is to ride your bicycle. Then ride some more. Running, swimming, and other aerobic exercise helps, but nothing replaces saddle time.
• Practice on hills whenever possible. If hills aren't accessible, ride what you have — we'll give you on-the-ride training when you arrive.
• Progressively increase your weekly mileage. Gear down as terrain and wind dictate to maintain a comfortable pace.
• Western climbs are longer than those in the East, and you'll reach higher altitudes. Most mountain pass grades stay under 6%, occasionally reaching 8% in short stretches.
• Psychological preparation is just as important as physical. You are not in a race — you're striving for pride, not a prize. Gear down as needed and enjoy the ride. This is your vacation.
• If you'll be riding at altitude, drink plenty of fluids — more than you're accustomed to.

Suggested Training Schedule for a Multi-Week Tour

4 Months Out: Get a bike fit from your local shop. If you haven't ridden much, start with 2–3 rides per week at 20–30 miles.

3 Months Out: Ride 2–3 days per week with at least one ride in the 40–50 mile range. Vary terrain and use intervals to build strength. Use the saddle, shoes, and pedals you'll use on the trip.

2 Months Out: Increase to 3–4 days per week with at least one 50+ mile day. Begin hill repeats.

1 Month Out: Ride 4–5 days per week, including 3 consecutive days. Average 40–50 miles with one 70-mile day.

2 Weeks Out: Ride back-to-back 75-mile days. Get your bike tuned, install new tires (widest possible for your rims), chain, and cassette. Check brakes and all cables.

1 Week Before: Ride 60–70 miles on Sunday, rest Monday, easy 25–30 miles Tuesday. Pack your bike, travel to the starting location, get it reassembled, and take an easy 15–20 mile shakeout ride.

Guests are welcome to bring their own bikes or rent one through Cycle of Life Adventures.

If I bring my own bike, how do I get it to my destination?

There are many ways to ship a bicycle. Some Amtrak stations accept them as boxed checked baggage. FedEx will ship bikes, and we work with ShipBikes.com. Ask your local bike shop for packing tips, or give us a call.

What quality are your rental bikes?

We currently offer the 3T RaceMax Rival AX — full carbon fiber, SRAM 2×12 wireless electronic shifting, 46×33 gearing with 10-36 cassette. Suitable for both road and gravel trails.

Our legacy fleet includes Trek Domane 2.3 aluminum endurance bikes with ISO Speed technology, Shimano compact crank, 105 drivetrain, and Tiagra cassette. We keep bikes ranging from 48cm to 60cm, including women-specific designs in smaller sizes.

We also have a small selection of Specialized Sirrus 2.0 in medium and large frames — straight bar, aluminum, disc brakes, Shimano 8-speed double crank, 32mm tires.

E-Bike Options

We offer Giant Explore E and Gazelle electric-assist bicycles through November 2026, after which e-bike rentals will be discontinued. Both come with a Bosch motor offering three or four power modes. These are Class 1 hybrid e-bikes — you must pedal to engage the motor, and the assist cuts off at 20 mph.

Important e-bike notes:

• Reservations must be made no less than 2 months in advance
• We allow a maximum of two e-bike guests per trip
• Rental prices start at $300 for Four Day tours and $375 for week-long tours
• Weight limit: 42 lbs with one battery installed; tire width limit: 40mm (no snow or balloon tires)
• Throttle e-bikes are not permitted
• If using your own e-bike, you must have sufficient battery for the longest day's mileage, or bring a spare

E-Bike Etiquette:

• Mind your manners when riding with non-electric riders
• Don't draft off others — the hum of your motor can be distracting
• Avoid saying "that hill wasn't so bad"
• Know all standard road cycling signals and procedures
• Be willing to help your guide lift, transport, and charge your e-bike

Each guest is allotted space for 2 approved carry-on sized pieces of luggage, with a total weight limit of 40 pounds (no more than 30 pounds in a single bag). We suggest a small rolling bag and a small soft-sided bag or backpack. One additional small personal backpack or computer bag is allowed. All items need identification tags.

Don't over-pack. Most everything fits in a medium-sized duffel. Our support van transports your clothing and belongings. On certain days you may be without van access, so be ready to carry a daypack with essentials.

Your daypack should hold at least 2 water bottles. A fanny pack water bottle carrier or CamelBak-style pack works well.

Clothing Recommendations

• Bike shorts (2–3)
• Jerseys (2–3)
• Cycling shoes, pedals, and saddle (yours)
• Helmet
• Rain gear
• Gloves — both long and short finger
• Fleece, sweater, or jacket (evenings can be cool)
• Leg tights or warm-up pants
• Leisure clothing — informal, casual, and comfortable
• Swimsuit
• Multi-purpose shoes and socks
• Short- and long-sleeve t-shirts
• Hat or head covering for sun protection
• Bandanas
• 2 water bottles

Personal Articles / Other Gear

• Cell phone and charger
• Daypack
• Sunglasses
• Sunscreen (SPF 15 or higher) and lip protection
• Camera and binoculars