-
How much riding experience must I have?
- You
must have the ability to handle a large motorcycle in a variety of road
and traffic conditions. If you have been riding a 600cc or larger motorcycle
for at least a year, you should be fine. Completion of a motorcycle
safety course is recommended. All riders must have a valid motorcycle
operator's license or endorsement on their drivers license.
- I used
to ride when I was younger, but haven't ridden for several years. Will I be ok on
these tours?
- We strongly
recommend that "re-entry riders" (those who used to ride and have now re-entered the
sport) take a refresher course and then beg, borrow, or steal (or buy) a motorcycle
to log some miles before coming on one of our motorcycle tours. The bike you rode years
ago was probably a lot smaller and lighter than any of the modern Harleys. For your
safety and that of your passenger, it's really important that you are truly capable
of handling a heavy-weight motorcycle in a variety of road, weather and traffic conditions.
Getting some real-world seat time is the best way for you to gain confidence in your
ability to handle a heavy weight cruiser.
- Why
would I take a guided tour when I could just get a Harley rental and
a map?
- You
could do that, but you will most certainly miss some of the best roads
or interesting side trips that you can only find after years of trial
and error. Maps show the primary and secondary roads, but don't do such
a good job with the tertiary roads that are often the most fun, scenic,
and lightly traveled. We go out of our way to find those roads, since
we focus on the journey, not the destination, and dislike riding on
freeways! Plus, on your own you'd have to make your hotel bookings in
advance without knowing the area or seeing the properties. We book accommodations
in historic lodges, bed & breakfasts, or hotels that are distinctive
and offer the "right" atmosphere for a bike tour.
- Do
I have to ride with the group?
- No,
you can travel at your own pace, take side trips or stop along the way
if you so desire. The only requirement is that you get to our daily
destination in time for dinner.
- If
I don't ride with the group, how will I know where to go?
-
Each day you will be given an itinerary with a map showing primary and
alternate routes. This includes directions to the hotel for that night.
However, there are a few instances where you will find it advantageous
to stay close to the guide to avoid getting lost.
- What
weather conditions should we expect?
- California
and the desert southwest are famous for near-perfect weather. You can
expect temperatures between 60F and 95F most days. Mountain temperatures
tend to be cooler and may dip into the 40's in the early morning hours.
- Do
we ride if it rains?
- Yes,
but this is rare. Usually we can wait out a short duration storm. Our
tour schedule is designed to avoid rainy periods, but occasionally we
encounter a morning rain or afternoon thundershower.
- Is
there a chase vehicle?
- Usually,
no. We have found that we don't need or want a chase vehicle unless
we have several couples travelling two-up.
- If
we don't have a chase vehicle, what will I do with my luggage?
- After
you book your tour, CMT will provide you with a list of recommended
clothing and riding gear which can be packed in the saddlebags and trunk
of the various bike models. We will teach you how to travel light. If
you come with extra luggage and extra clothing, it can be safely stored
at the CMT office during your tour.
- What
happens if a motorcycle breaks down?
- If
we encounter a problem that can't be readily repaired on the road, the motorcycle
will be towed (trucked) to the nearest H-D dealer or repair facility. If the
bike can't be readily repaired, CMT will make arrangements for a replacement
motorcycle either locally or trailed from San Diego (in 10 hours or less). Today's
motorcycles are nearly as reliable as the car you drive every day, so breakdowns
are rare.
- Are
the motorcycles insured?
- All
of our motorcycles have liability insurance, which covers damage to others.
VIP collision and comprehensive insurance with a $1000 deductible is available
for $24 per day —
this means you would be responsible for the first $1000 of
damage. There is no medical coverage for the rider or passenger
so we strongly advise you to secure your own accident and/or
trip interruption insurance.
- Do
the tours include airfare?
- No,
but CMT will be happy to assist you with travel reservations or bookings.
Contact us if you would like our help or advice in this area.
- Can
I ride my own motorcycle?
- Yes,
you can ride your own motorcycle. Please contact us for tour rates.
If you want to ship your bike, we will put you in touch with a freight
company that specializes in motorcycle shipping within the U.S.
- What
riding gear and clothing should I bring?
- After
you reserve your place on a tour, CMT will send you a list of suggested
clothing, riding gear, and incidentals. We do not have riding gear available
so you must supply all of your own gear.
- What
expenses will I have?
 On
the 7 and 10-day tours, you'll only need to pay for alcoholic
beverages, and incidentals (film, souvenirs, etc.). On the
Day-Tripper tours, you'll need to pay for breakfasts and dinners
(except for the welcome dinner), alcoholic beverages and incidentals.
- How
do I book a tour?
- You
can make your tour reservation right here by going to the Reservation
page, completing the required information, then click on the "Submit" button. (Alternatively
you can print the completed reservation form, then fax it to CMT or mail it along with
a check for the deposit.)
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