5 Must-Do West Coast Bike Tours: Reviews

The West Coast of the United States is a cyclist's paradise, boasting stunning coastlines, challenging mountain passes, and vibrant urban landscapes. From leisurely cruises along the Pacific Coast Highway to adrenaline-pumping mountain bike trails, there's something for every type of rider. Choosing the right tour can be overwhelming, so we've compiled a list of five must-do West Coast bike tours, complete with reviews, product recommendations, and pricing information to help you plan your next adventure.

Pacific Coast Highway Cycling Tour Reviews Scenic Routes and Coastal Views

The Pacific Coast Highway (Highway 1) is an iconic route that stretches along the California coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. A cycling tour along this route is a truly unforgettable experience, with opportunities to stop at charming coastal towns, explore secluded beaches, and witness stunning sunsets. This tour typically spans several days, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of the California coast. The terrain varies, with some challenging climbs and exhilarating descents, making it suitable for intermediate to experienced cyclists.

Pros: Unparalleled coastal scenery, charming towns, diverse terrain.

Cons: Can be crowded, exposed to the elements, requires good physical fitness.

Product Recommendation: A comfortable road bike with good gearing is essential for this tour. Consider the Specialized Roubaix or the Trek Domane. These bikes offer a smooth ride and are designed for long distances. Price range: $2,500 - $6,000.

Usage Scenario: Ideal for cyclists looking for a multi-day road cycling adventure with stunning coastal views.

Product Comparison: The Specialized Roubaix emphasizes comfort with its Future Shock suspension, while the Trek Domane offers IsoSpeed technology for vibration absorption. Both are excellent choices, but the Roubaix might be preferred for riders prioritizing comfort, while the Domane might be better for those seeking a more responsive ride.

Redwood National Park Bike Tour Exploring Ancient Forests and Nature Trails

Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of Redwood National Park. This bike tour takes you through towering redwood forests, along scenic nature trails, and past cascading waterfalls. The terrain is generally moderate, making it suitable for cyclists of all levels. Expect to encounter some gravel roads and unpaved paths, so a hybrid bike or a mountain bike with suitable tires is recommended.

Pros: Stunning redwood forests, peaceful atmosphere, suitable for all skill levels.

Cons: Can be remote, limited services, requires preparation for variable weather.

Product Recommendation: A hybrid bike like the Trek FX or the Giant Escape is a good choice for this tour. These bikes are versatile and can handle both paved and unpaved surfaces. Price range: $700 - $1,500.

Usage Scenario: Perfect for cyclists who enjoy nature and want a relaxing ride through redwood forests.

Product Comparison: The Trek FX focuses on comfort and practicality with features like rack and fender mounts, while the Giant Escape offers a more sporty feel. Choose the Trek FX if you prioritize comfort and practicality, or the Giant Escape if you prefer a more agile and responsive ride.

Columbia River Gorge Cycling Adventure Waterfalls and Scenic Vistas

The Columbia River Gorge is a natural wonder, carved by the Columbia River over millions of years. A cycling tour through the gorge offers breathtaking views of towering waterfalls, dramatic cliffs, and lush forests. The terrain is challenging, with steep climbs and fast descents, making it suitable for experienced cyclists. However, there are also some flatter sections that are suitable for less experienced riders.

Pros: Stunning waterfalls, dramatic scenery, challenging climbs.

Cons: Steep climbs, potential for strong winds, requires good physical fitness.

Product Recommendation: A gravel bike like the Salsa Warbird or the Cannondale Topstone is ideal for this tour. These bikes are designed for mixed terrain and can handle both paved and unpaved surfaces. Price range: $2,000 - $5,000.

Usage Scenario: Ideal for experienced cyclists who enjoy challenging climbs and stunning scenery.

Product Comparison: The Salsa Warbird is designed for long-distance gravel riding and features a comfortable geometry, while the Cannondale Topstone offers a more aggressive riding position and a stiffer frame for better power transfer. Choose the Salsa Warbird if you prioritize comfort for long days in the saddle, or the Cannondale Topstone if you prefer a more performance-oriented ride.

Seattle to Portland Bike Ride Urban Exploration and Cityscapes

This iconic bike ride takes you from the vibrant city of Seattle to the quirky city of Portland, offering a mix of urban exploration and scenic countryside. The route is mostly flat, following paved roads and bike paths, making it suitable for cyclists of all levels. You'll have the opportunity to explore the cultural attractions of Seattle and Portland, as well as enjoy the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest.

Pros: Mix of urban and rural scenery, relatively flat terrain, suitable for all skill levels.

Cons: Can be crowded in urban areas, potential for traffic, requires awareness of surroundings.

Product Recommendation: A touring bike like the Surly Long Haul Trucker or the Salsa Marrakesh is a great choice for this tour. These bikes are designed for carrying luggage and are comfortable for long distances. Price range: $1,500 - $3,000.

Usage Scenario: Perfect for cyclists who want a multi-day bike tour with a mix of urban and rural scenery.

Product Comparison: The Surly Long Haul Trucker is a classic touring bike known for its durability and reliability, while the Salsa Marrakesh offers a more modern design and features like disc brakes. Choose the Surly Long Haul Trucker if you prioritize reliability and classic styling, or the Salsa Marrakesh if you prefer a more modern bike with disc brakes for improved stopping power.

Lake Tahoe Loop Cycling Challenge Mountain Views and Alpine Scenery

The Lake Tahoe Loop is a challenging but rewarding bike ride that takes you around the perimeter of Lake Tahoe, offering stunning views of the lake and the surrounding mountains. The terrain is hilly, with some steep climbs, making it suitable for experienced cyclists. However, the breathtaking scenery makes it all worthwhile.

Pros: Stunning lake and mountain views, challenging climbs, rewarding experience.

Cons: Steep climbs, high altitude, requires good physical fitness.

Product Recommendation: A road bike with good gearing is essential for this tour. Consider the Cannondale CAAD13 or the Giant TCR. These bikes are lightweight and responsive, making them ideal for climbing. Price range: $2,000 - $5,000.

Usage Scenario: Ideal for experienced cyclists who enjoy challenging climbs and stunning mountain scenery.

Product Comparison: The Cannondale CAAD13 is known for its lightweight aluminum frame and responsive handling, while the Giant TCR offers a carbon fiber frame for even greater weight savings and stiffness. Choose the Cannondale CAAD13 if you prioritize value and responsive handling, or the Giant TCR if you're willing to spend more for a lighter and stiffer bike.

Choosing the Right Bike Tour Essential Gear and Preparation Tips

Before embarking on any of these West Coast bike tours, it's important to choose the right tour for your skill level and interests. Consider the terrain, distance, and weather conditions. Make sure you have the appropriate gear, including a comfortable bike, cycling clothing, a helmet, and plenty of water. It's also a good idea to train beforehand to ensure you're in good physical condition.

Essential Gear: Helmet, cycling shorts, cycling jersey, cycling shoes, gloves, water bottles, sunglasses, sunscreen, repair kit.

Preparation Tips: Train beforehand, check the weather forecast, pack appropriate clothing, plan your route, book accommodations in advance.

Bike Maintenance on the Road Troubleshooting and Repair Basics

Knowing basic bike maintenance is crucial for any long-distance cycling tour. Being able to fix a flat tire, adjust your brakes, and lubricate your chain can save you a lot of trouble on the road. Consider taking a bike maintenance class before your tour to learn the basics.

Common Bike Problems: Flat tire, broken chain, loose brakes, shifting problems.

Essential Tools: Multi-tool, tire levers, pump, chain tool, spare tube.

West Coast Cycling Resources and Community Groups

Connect with other cyclists and find valuable resources for planning your West Coast bike tour. There are many cycling clubs, online forums, and websites that offer information on routes, events, and gear. Joining a cycling community can help you find riding buddies and get tips from experienced cyclists.

Cycling Clubs: Check local cycling clubs in your area.

Online Forums: Road Bike Review, Bike Forums.

Websites: Adventure Cycling Association, Rails-to-Trails Conservancy.