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FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some FAQ’s (If you have any that aren't listed here then please feel free to contact us with them!)

Will the group rides be too fast or slow for me?

We try to place people in a group of similar ability to make sure our guests enjoy their rides and aren’t feeling pushed enough or finding it too difficult. We always have two guides and the group can be split. We even offer full vehicle uplift so if you just want the downhill then we can drive you up.

How many are there in a group?

Rivierabike normally has a group of 6-8 people with a minimum of 2 guides. This is an easily manageable size and is better for your enjoyment, and if the group needs to be split then this is easily possible. Rivierabike can accommodate much larger groups, however we will have additional vehicles, guides and drivers.

Will the riding be too extreme for me?

When comparing mountainous regions like the Alpe Maritime to your local trails in the UK it is always going to sound extreme. The mountains are way bigger, longer climbs, longer and more technical descents and therefore everybody who rides with us are pushing their limits. However don’t let this put you off as you quickly adjust and with some coaching and practising you will be going down blacks by the 3rd day. If you can comfortably ride one of the Welsh or Scottish MTB centres (i.e Coed y Brenin or Glentress) then you will have no problems tackling the trails here.

Should I bring my own bike or hire one?

Most of our guests have a 5 - 6inch bike and therefore generally bring their own. If you have a lightweight XC machine or hardtail then maybe you will want to hire a bike.

Rivierabike has a number of Lapierre full suspension hire bikes available for hire. These are very well specced 2010 models. Click here for further details.

Can I come on my own?

Indeed you can, many people do and make very good friends by the time you open your first beer.

Will I damage my bike?

Your bike will undergo a week of hard use and will probably come back with a battle scar or two, however modern mountain bikes are designed to take much abuse. We carry some spares with us and our workshops also has a few. There is also plenty of bike shops in the area which should have the main spares that you need. Just make sure that you carry a spare rear mech hanger with you as this is the easiest part to damage and the hardest to find a replacement particularly if you have a rare or exotic bike.

I don’t want to go on the guided rides can I ride on my own?

You will understand the necessity for guiding when you are here, with a labyrinth of trails and crossroads around the mountainside. Unlike cycling along road routes, where journeys can be plotted from a reliable map, off road mountain biking is different discipline in that there are very little marked routes to follow, and few publications covering this area. Our knowledge of routes has been accumulated over many years, and we pride ourselves in being able to show you a wide range of challenging scenic rides far away from the beaten tourist tracks that you would otherwise fail to encounter without guided assistance. We know the best lunch stops, the best overnight stops when required, and besides that, it's fun to ride with people with the same interests who have local knowledge and can take the hassle out of organising trips. All you need to do is turn up, ride and have fun.

Do I need to bring a lot of money?

This all depends on how much beer your body can take and how much you can resist the boutiques and Casinos of San Remo; not to mention the clubs and bars. €100 a week is usually more than enough. If you need to draw any cash then there are plenty of atm’s nearby.

Is going out expensive?

Compared to the UK eating and drinking out in Italy is very cheap, however on the riviera itself it is more expensive than mountain towns and villages but still comparatively cheap to the UK. A birra media of Peroni in the local bar (about 400ml) costs about Euro €3 and an evening in a pizza restaurant with drink and desserts costs about €15 Euro.

Do I need to speak some Italian?

If you are visiting a foreign country it is always advised and courteous to learn a little of that country’s customs and language. The area we ride in is relatively tourist free and as a result very few speak English, in fact the region is famous for its different dialects and even Italians struggle to understand what the local Ligurians speak. However your guides will assist in any communication difficulties so get the phrase book out and learn a few lines and practice them out on the local ragazi’s.

What do we do about lunch?

Normally we visit a restaurant or village bar which serves local dishes, these are often very cheap. Lunches (inc drink) cost between €5 - 10 Euro ranging from a panino to a 3 course lunch. On some remote rides we will take packed lunches which we can provide for a small fee.

Other than my MTB gear what else shall I bring?

Most like to go for day out on the beach so a very big beach towel and your swimming cossie along with a trashy novel and your suncream should cover you. If you plan to go to the casinos and clubs then maybe some smart casual summer clothes is recommended. If trying out other activities than suitable attire will be needed, i.e. walking boots if going out for a long walk.

The riding and weather is great, can I stay longer?

Of course you can as long as you want. If you want to extend your stay whilst a guest with Rivierabike then we can easily accommodate you.