General Questions
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General Questions •
How do you accommodate varying riding abilities and what are ‘levels’?
We welcome riders of every ability. To give you the best experience possible, we simply ask that you let us know in advance if you have any physical limitations, so we can provide the right support from the very start.
The easiest way to choose your perfect tour is to explore the descriptions below. Ask yourself: Which level feels right for me? Which level could I reach with a little training? In truth, all Mamma Mia tours are comfortably within most people’s ability on an e-bike.
And remember: every Mamma Mia trip is fully supported. We know that holidays are for joy, discovery and unforgettable memories – not competition. If you’d like advice in choosing the right adventure, our team would love to hear from you. This is not an exact science but nearly.
Level 1 Tranquillo 20 - 50 km per day on tour
- I ride once a month.
- I am thinking more about the wine and food than the cycling.
- I love riding my bike and chatting along the way.
- I ride once a week or so back home with friends or family.
- I can’t do a wheelie or ride no-handed.
Level 2 Gentilissimo 30 - 60 km per day on tour
- I ride my bike every week back home.
- I enjoy chatting to friends and stopping to take photos along the route.
- When I go to bed at night I dream about cheese and not campagnola.
- I can’t do a wheelie yet.
Level 3 Medio 40 - 80 km per day on tour
- Cycling is part of my life and I am passionate about cycling.
- I own more than one bike and can change an inner tube.
- The satisfaction of reaching the top of a hard climb is a real motivation for me.
- I tried to do a wheelie once with some success.
Level 4 Esperto 50 - 100+ km per day on tour
- Cycling is part of my daily thoughts.
- I can’t get the Italian mountains and countryside out of my mind.
- If I could, I would move to Italy and cycle every day and drink coffee.
- I do wheelies all the time.
What are the hotel rooms like?
Hotel rooms in Europe tend to be smaller than in The USA, however the standard is always good and we check all our hotels beforehand. If you wish to upgrade or have special requirements please mention them when booking and we will be happy to assist.
What is a ‘Single Supplement’?
A Single Supplement is an additional charge that secures a private room for solo travellers.
Are Non-Riders welcome on the trip?
Of course! We are able to provide non-rider activities while your friend or partner is off on a ride. Sometimes the riders also decide to join the non-riders for the day.
What happens if I don’t fancy riding a day?
It isn’t a problem! Some of our guests enjoy spending time at the hotel relaxing, strolling into town or reading a book. Speak to your guide and they will offer you some suggestions for the day.
What bike should I hire and what size?
On our website you’ll see our featured e-bikes – the Guerciotti Navir ION and the Guerciotti Brera Touring ION (with flat handlebars). However, we can also provide other brands and styles of bike on request, so please don’t hesitate to ask.
The best choice of bike often depends on both the terrain of your tour and your personal preference. For rides that include surfaces beyond tarmac, we recommend gravel bikes, while our e-bikes are suitable for both tarmac and gravel routes.
When you receive your pre-tour questionnaire, we’ll ask for your height (in cm or inches). Please complete this carefully so we can prepare the perfect bike for your adventure.
New for 2026 Ridley e-bikes, so watch this space………..
What is the food like?
Do you have to ask?! Italy is world-renowned for its food. In every province you’ll find typical dishes that showcase the flavours of the region. Please ask your guide about local specialities – they are the true experts.
Menus are often generous, beginning with a pasta or rice course, followed by meat or fish, and finishing with a classic dessert such as tiramisù. Italy is also excellent at catering for special diets, so please let us know at the time of booking if you have any dietary requirements.
Italy is as much about the food as it is about the cycling – come hungry!
What about rain / bad weather?
Our tours run in all weather – after all, it’s part of the adventure! If it’s raining heavily at the start or during a ride, our professional guides will assess the conditions and, together with the group, decide on the best plan.
We recommend checking the forecast before your trip so you can bring the right clothing. And don’t worry – on supported rides you’ll always have the option to keep extra layers and a rain jacket safely in the van, ready when you need them.
Whatever the weather, we’ll make sure your journey is safe, seamless and unforgettable.
Should I tip Mamma Mia staff?
Our staff truly appreciate receiving tips, and in Italy it is customary to tip for excellent service. If you would like to leave a gratuity, please hand it to your Tour Manager, who will ensure it is fairly shared among the team.
A small gesture goes a long way in showing appreciation for the people who make your journey unforgettable.
Where will we eat?
Food is at the heart of every Italian adventure – and with us, it’s no different. During your tour you’ll usually have one or two evenings free to explore on your own. On these nights, our team or your hotel will happily point you towards their favourite local gems.
On the other evenings, you’ll join us in handpicked restaurants where the atmosphere is warm, the flavours are authentic, and the dishes tell the story of the region. One or two of our team will dine with you, sharing their knowledge (and maybe a few secrets!) about the local specialities.
Because in Italy, every meal is more than food – it’s part of the journey.
Do you use WhatsApp during tours?
At Italy Bike Tours we use WhatsApp to share updates, reminders and photos with our guests – both before and during your tour. If you don’t already have the app, we recommend downloading it prior to arrival.
WhatsApp isn’t just practical – it often sparks lifelong friendships, allowing guests to stay in touch and relive the memories long after the tour has finished.
More than updates – it’s a community that rides together, laughs together, and stays connected.
Are tours guaranteed?
Yes – we are proud to be the only tour operator in Italy that never cancels a tour because of group size. Even if there is just one guest, your tour will go ahead.
Your adventure is guaranteed – because your journey matters to us.
Booking the Trip
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Booking the Trip •
Where are the guides from?
We pride ourselves on having the best guides in the business. For our Italian trips, all our guides are locals who speak both Italian and English. In other parts of the world, we continue this tradition by pairing local guides with our expert Italian guides.
Can I cancel or defer my tour?
Please refer to our Terms and Conditions for Cancellation Policy Details. We always want to help, so please contact us and we will do our best to rearrange your trip.
What’s the best way to book?
Selecting a tour/event online is the best way to secure your place. Once a deposit is taken, you’ll be contacted by the team with further information regarding the tour/event and finalising the balance of the payment.
What if I have an issue with payment at checkout?
Italy Bike Tours uses a third party payment gateway provided by Squarespace.
Possible reasons for your card not being accepted could be
If your card number is incorrect, a red warning will display. Check your card number for errors and try again.
Incorrect Information - If your expiration date or CVV code is incorrect, your bank will deny the charge. Correct the information and the issue should resolve.
Transaction Declined - If your card number, expiration date, and CVV are all correct, then your bank is denying the charge for another reason. Contact your bank with the date and time you tried to make a charge to either Squarespace Inc.Also, Squarespace is unable to accept Verified by Visa and MasterCard with SecureCode cards at this time.
Are the dates fixed on the website?
We can be flexible with start and finish dates of tours; we also organise bespoke tours. Please contact us below to find out more.
What's not included?
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What's not included? •
What am I required to pay for?
Flights
Insurances
Personal hotel expenses e.g. drinks, spa facilities
Pre- or post-tour accommodation and expenses
Some meals and drinks may not be included for all days of a tour, but we’ll be happy to provide recommendations to the best gelaterias, cafes and restaurants in the region.
Alcoholic drinks and soft drinks
Tips and gratuities
Preparing for the tour
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Preparing for the tour •
Can I bring my own bike?
Yes, if you prefer to use your bike on tour, you will be responsible for all shipping arrangements. Our team will ensure that during the event your bike will be maintained and cleaned, to allow for safe and fun riding. NB if you are flying please remember unfortunately, airlines do not allow e-bikes with their batteries to be transported by air, as the lithium batteries are considered hazardous goods. For this reason, we provide high-quality e-bikes for you here in Italy, so you don’t need to worry about bringing your own.
Travel light, ride happy – we’ll have the perfect e-bike waiting for you in Italy.
Can I bring my own pedals and/or bike seat and/or helmet/and or lights?
It is recommended to bring your own cycling shoes and pedals which can be fitted by our guides at the beginning of the tour. If you prefer to use your own saddle, you are more than welcome to bring it. Our guides will fit it for you at the start of the tour. Helmets can also be hired at the time of booking or before you arrive. We will provide you with lights and a small saddle bag, but you are always welcome to bring your own if you feel more comfortable. If you like to use hi-vis straps or jackets please bring those with you.
What bike should I hire and what size?
On our website you’ll find our featured e-bikes – the Guerciotti Navir ION and the Guerciotti BreraTouring ION (with flat handlebars). We can also arrange other brands and bike types on request, so please don’t hesitate to ask.
The best bike for you depends on the terrain of your tour and your personal preference. When you receive your pre-tour questionnaire, we’ll ask for your height (in cm or inches). Please complete this carefully so we can prepare the perfect bike for your adventure.
The right bike, the right fit – ready and waiting for you in Italy.
Do you cater for specific dietary requirements?
Yes – absolutely. When booking your tour, simply let our team know about any dietary restrictions, either by email or by adding a note in the online booking form/questionnaire.
Italy is renowned not just for its food but also for its hospitality. Restaurants and hotels will be delighted to cater for your needs, ensuring you enjoy the same authentic flavours and memorable dining experiences as everyone else.
Because every guest deserves to taste the best of Italy.
Am I fit enough to come on a tour?
Of course – our motto is “Ride easy. Experience more.” We pride ourselves on being an inclusive company, and most of our trips offer multiple daily riding options to suit different abilities and preferences.
If you have any questions, we encourage you to get in touch with our team before booking. They’ll be happy to share details on average ride speeds and help you choose the option that’s right for you.
Cycling adventures designed for everyone – because your pace is the perfect pace.
What cycling clothing do I need to bring for the tour?
As the weather during an event can change suddenly from warm sunny blue skies to cold rain, the need to bring clothing for all occasions is essential. If possible, bring a second set of cycling kit, just in case, and the second set can be stored within the support vehicle, should you need it. Remember as part of your goodie bag you get one of our sport cycling tops!
Recommended minimum clothing:
Arm warmers
Bib-shorts
Gilet
Long-sleeved jersey
Leg warmers
Neck warmer
Short-sleeved jersey
Rain jacket
Winter gloves
Winter base layer
Cycling cap
Socks
Helmet
Cycling shoes/comfortable trainers
Kit measurements
Any other question?
Please let us know