Finding a good bike tour operator?
 

My wife and I are thinking about doing a multi-day bike tour in California this year. I know VBT is one reputable company, but who are the others?

Thanks!

Randy
Washington DC

anyone?

While I have no experience with them, Backroads is one company that comes to mind. But I will suggest you go to some websites run by bicycling organizations to see what links are on their pages - and perhaps you can find some discussions about various companies.
www.adventurecycling.org
www.bikeleague.org

Also look to see if any bicycle clubs are hosting tours. With no profit to be made, cycling & sports clubs often put on a better trip at a smaller price. However sometimes there's less "hand holding" with a club -- such as you're on your own to fix a flat, but assistance is given for bigger repairs than that -- a sensible policy. Just make sure they do have a "sag" and you might care whether or not they have a cargo-vehicle to haul your bags -- or maybe you carry your own.

Often fund-raising events sponsored by organizations like MS Society, Lung Association, and other (usually) health-related groups are well organized and worth paying the minimum fund-raising requirement out of your own pocket if you don't wish to pester your friends for buck$.

The only tour operator that I used is no longer in business:-( But you might look into organized rides that aren't done by tour operators. I've had a wonderful time the two times I have done multi-day rides with Bike Florida.

Keith

Butterfield & Robinson