Travel adventure company Backroads has announced the launch of Unplugged Bike Tours, a new series of trips focusing on non-electric-assist cycling experiences. The company will offer 83 tours on traditional bikes across destinations in the United States, Italy, France, Spain, Canada and Japan.
These new tours are designed for travelers who prefer to cycle under their own power and alongside like-minded individuals. The Unplugged trips will maintain Backroads' standard quality, support and Trip Leader services, with the primary difference being the absence of electric-assist bicycles.
"When I started Backroads in 1979, we were running trips across the American west out of my garage," said Tom Hale, founder, president and CEO of Backroads. "Back then, it was all about the camaraderie on the road and tackling a big climb together, then riding into lunch to celebrate. We created our new Unplugged Bike Tours for cyclists who are nostalgic for those simpler days, before bicycles were motorized."
Clients on Unplugged tours will use Backroads' custom titanium bikes. To maintain the intended experience, e-bikes will be allowed only for a limited number of guests who need to keep pace with an acoustic cycling companion.
As part of the launch, Backroads is offering guests the opportunity to join Tom Hale on a California Wine Country trip in May, with limited space available. Other members of the company's executive team will participate in select Unplugged trips throughout the year in various locations, including Italy and Spain.
The new tours will highlight popular cycling destinations around the world, such as Camino de Santiago in Spain; Provence, France; Tuscany, Italy; California's wine country; the route from Banff to Jasper National Park in Canada; and Japan.
Editor’s Note: This article was generated by AI, based on a press release distributed by Backroads. It was reviewed and fact-checked by a TravelAge West editor.
