Hi, I've been researching doing a short ride in China (between 2 and 4 weeks), and would love any advice from somebody who's done it before me.

For a ride this short, the red-tape involved in buying a bike is probably not worth the hassle. As such, I've been looking into doing a 'guided' ride. I've sent emails off to half a dozen company's, and the prices quoted seem astronomically expensive for a developing country. I have ridden with Offroad Vietnam before (on two separate occasions), and loved the experience. My last ride with them was for 2 weeks, covered around 2,000kms and cost $1,000USD (all expenses covered - including guide). The cheapest price I've been quoted for a ride in China is around $5,000USD!!! Can anyone recommend someone whose price is a little more agreeable? Is there are reason it's so expensive?

Of course, there's always the option of buying (or maybe renting) a local Chinese bike (I have ridden solo on my own bike in India before as well) - but all the research I've done thus far seems to indicate that the Chinese Government will make this sort of travel pretty difficult for a solo rider - particularly in the Tibetan region (which I'd love to see).

Any help, advice, etc would be greatly appreciated,

Jimmy

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Jimmy
http://blokesonspokes.com/