I have been an independent rider.. I did the Bon Ton Roulet for the past 2 years and doing the Erie this year.
The tour director is the same for the erie as the bon ton, and I had no issues on the trips. wide range of people and I made a couple of out of state friends I am still in contact with and am riding with this year. If you come find me and we can ride together..Look for the yellow fenders & trekking bars.