Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions...
Can men come along?
Just because we're called Wheel Women doesn't mean men aren't welcome. We love it when guests bring their partner, whether male or female, and we warmly welcome couples of all kinds. After all, adventures are even better when shared.
That said, we also understand the appeal of an all-women environment. If that's your preference, let us know and we'll do our best to accommodate it.
What about fitness?
If this is your first multi-day cycling adventure, a little preparation will go a long way. Building your fitness, getting comfortable spending time in the saddle and gradually increasing your riding over consecutive days will help you get the most from your tour.
We're happy to provide a simple training plan to get you started. As always, please consult your health professional before undertaking any new physical activity.
I have special dietary needs
We do our best to accommodate special dietary requirements and will communicate them to our accommodation and food providers. Vegetarian and vegan diets can usually be catered for, although options may sometimes be limited in regional Japan.
For guests with coeliac disease, severe allergies or other medical dietary needs, we ask that you exercise caution. While every effort is made to accommodate your requirements, we cannot guarantee or take responsibility for every meal served, particularly in smaller local establishments.
Can I bring the kids?
We love it when our riders decide to bring their sons or daughters. However we do set an age and fitness limit. Younger riders must be able to meet the rider requirements of 20-25kmphr and be able to ride for several hours continuously. Riders must be 16 years of age or over.
Do I need insurance?
All riders are required to hold their own travel insurance, including cover for bicycle riding, as a condition of participation. Before departure, we'll ask for your policy details and keep them on file, just in case they're ever needed.
While we hope you'll never need to use it, cycling does involve inherent risks and participants are required to acknowledge these by signing our waiver forms before the tour. We operate a simple "no sign, no ride" policy.
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What should I bring?
That's a great question! We always recommend bringing your own helmet, as you know its history and can be confident it's in good condition. You're also welcome to bring your own pedals, cycling shoes, computer mount and cycling computer to make your ride feel familiar and comfortable.
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If needed, we can arrange helmet hire, but your own helmet is always our preference. As for hair dryers, shampoo and toiletries—there's no need to pack the kitchen sink! Our accommodation providers supply high-quality amenities, and you'll be pleasantly surprised by just how well looked after you'll be.
Getting to the start location
If Japan feels a little overwhelming, don't worry—we've got you covered. With decades of experience travelling throughout Japan, we're happy to help with everything from getting to the tour start point to booking tickets and navigating the best travel apps. It's all part of the Wheel Women experience.
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Can I bring my own bike?
You're welcome to bring your own bike, however we ask that you discuss this with us before booking. While travelling with your own bike can be rewarding, Japan isn't always the easiest place to navigate with a large bike box.
Please note that riders are responsible for arranging storage of their bike box during the tour, as we are unable to transport or store it between locations. Your bicycle must also be fully insured, recently serviced and in safe, roadworthy condition before departure.
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Is there a support car?
We don't travel with a dedicated support vehicle unless one has been specifically arranged. However, support is never far away and is just a phone call away should you experience a mechanical issue, injury, or simply run out of steam during the day.
Because our tours are designed for small groups and support vehicles are rarely needed, any vehicle assistance is arranged on a user-pays basis. Most riders find they never need it, but many appreciate the peace of mind that comes from knowing help is available if required. Our aim is to provide the perfect balance between independence, adventure and support throughout your journey.
Testimonial
Robert
"The insight into the temples, shrines lookouts and other small sites is invaluable and a key component of interest and cultural engagement that adds so much to the experience which is really valuable and great. Tina you did an excellent job and I cannot wait for the book launch.
Cancellation Policy & Terms
When we organise tours it takes time and energy, not least to say we book early to secure accommodation and services. Please ensure you have travel insurance as soon as you book your tour.
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• Cancellation must be received in writing to info@wheelwomen.com.au, please note that it must contain a delivered/read receipts.
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• Once we start booking a tour we incur costs immediately, please understand that we do our best to compensate on any cancellation but our policy is as follows:
• 120+ days before tour departure: forfeit $500 and 25% of complete tour price
• 91-120 days before departure: forfeit $500 and 50% of complete tour price
• 61-90 days before departure: forfeit $500 and 75% of complete tour price
• 31-60 days before departure: forfeit $500 and 85% of complete tour price
• 0-30 days before departure: forfeit 100% of complete tour price
• After tour begins: no refunds possible after commencement of tour
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If we need to cancel...
We reserve the right to cancel any tour prior to departure. Should this occur, you will receive a full refund of all monies paid, less any refunds not issued by accommodations/services. No further compensation will be payable for expenses, damages, loss of time, inconvenience, or any other associated costs.
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Minimum Group Size
Tours are priced based on minimum group numbers. If the required minimum of 8 participants is not reached, we will notify you as soon as possible and offer the following options:
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A full refund of all monies paid.
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Transfer to another available departure date at no additional cost.
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Proceeding with the tour by payment of a surcharge, if available, to cover cost increases.
Route & Itinerary Changes
We reserve the right to amend routes or itineraries where necessary due to factors beyond our control, including weather conditions, group riding ability, government regulations, road closures, or other unforeseen circumstances. Wherever possible, any changes will be advised prior to departure.
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Room Upgrades/Changes
We do our best to cater to everyone's choices regarding room choices: singles versus twin share. Upgrades are not guaranteed and any increase in room costs over and above the standard tour allocations must be met by the rider requesting the upgrade. Prior to tour commencing upgrade rooms will be charged accordingly. After tour commences upgraded rooms must be paid for by the rider at the venue.
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Itinerary, Dates & Pricing
Wheel Women Pty Ltd reserves the right to amend tour dates, itineraries, and pricing where necessary. While we aim to keep all published information current, changes may occur without notice.
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Non-participation
If a riders chooses to not ride with the group on the allocated courses on any day they are deemed an independent rider. Wheel Women Pty Ltd takes no responsibility for riders who choose to ride independently or opt for other activities instead of the planned itinerary.