I don't actually know what the cost structure of touring companies are, but your question assumes cost-based pricing, which is basically where a company adds up the cost to conduct the bike tour, then tacks on a profit margin they like to arrive at a price. I suspect that the prices are high simply because, in those companies' estimation, there are enough people that are willing to pay that price. That being said, I'm sure insurance is a big cost, especially in the States. You probably have a better sense of that, staehpj1, since you've looked into starting a touring company