Originally Posted by
tarwheel
Organized tours are not for everyone, but I think they are a lot of fun. Some reasons:
-- Routes designed to minimize traffic and maximize scenery and attractions, with cue sheets and maps provided.
-- Organizers carry your luggage so you can just ride your bike rather than lug around a bunch of gear at a slow pace.
-- Free camping (as part of entry free) and often transportation to nearby hotels for an extra charge.
-- Opportunity to ride with other like-minded people, make friends, socialize.
-- Costs often very reasonable if you camp out.
-- SAG support as well as rest stops with food, drinks, mechanical support.
+1
The only organised tour I've been on is the Elbow Valley Cycle Club's Golden Triangle tour, and their Logan's Pass Hub-and-Spoke tour.
At the time I didn't have anyone in Canada to tour with, and I wanted to do a short tour in the mountains. I could have gone by myself, but I wasn't really keen on that idea, so I decided to go with a nearby touring club. I also rode with them a couple times on day rides, so I had met a few people involved.
And it was a lot of fun.
The Golden Triangle tour had about 250 people on the years I did it, and people of all different skill levels. It was really well run and very enjoyable. The Logan's Pass hub-and-spoke had about 25 people or so, and was quite different, but it was also really nice.