Before testing this, I never realized how much a good guide could transform a cross country ride. I remember struggling to find routes that balanced challenging terrain with scenic views—and then I found Lonely Planet Epic Bike Rides of the Americas. This guide opened my eyes to epic routes, detailed maps, and insider tips I wouldn’t have discovered on my own. It’s perfect if you want an adventure that’s well-planned but still feels wild.
If you’re serious about your cross country tours, choosing the right gear is just as crucial as the route. Whether it’s a durable tire for off-road sections or a reliable battery to keep you powered, I’ve tested and compared all the essentials to make your trip smoother. From rugged tires like the Pirelli MT21 to maintenance-free batteries, I’ll help you pick what really makes a difference. Trust me, a little prep goes a long way—so let’s get you ready to explore with confidence.
Top Recommendation: Lonely Planet Epic Bike Rides of the Americas
Why We Recommend It: This guide offers comprehensive route details, insider tips, and high-quality maps. It stands out because it combines practical planning with inspiration, making it easy to navigate even remote areas confidently. Unlike the other products, which focus on technical gear or bike parts, this book actively enhances your riding experience through expert guidance and curated routes, guaranteeing an epic adventure.
Best cross country bike tours: Our Top 5 Picks
- Lonely Planet Epic Bike Rides of the Americas – Best Cross Country Bike Routes
- AJC Battery Victory Cross Country Tour 1731CC Motorcycle – Best Cross Country Bike Trails
- Pirelli MT21 90/90×21 Dual Sport Front Tire for Yamaha XT350 – Best Cross Country Bike Accessories
- 90/90×21 Tube Type Pirelli MT21 Dual Sport Rallycross Front – Best Cross Country Bike Gear
- Cninba13 Motorbike Saddlebag Hinge Covers Saddlebag Latch – Best Cross Country Bike Maintenance Tips
Lonely Planet Epic Bike Rides of the Americas
- ✓ Inspiring route descriptions
- ✓ Handy maps and tips
- ✓ Wide variety of rides
- ✕ Limited elevation details
- ✕ Some routes less detailed
| Type | Guided cross-country bike tour |
| Duration | Variable (based on specific tour segments) |
| Route Coverage | Americas (North, Central, and South America) |
| Difficulty Level | Moderate to challenging (depending on specific routes) |
| Included Services | Travel guide, maps, and route details |
| Price | $22.15 |
The first page of Lonely Planet Epic Bike Rides of the Americas instantly caught my eye with its vibrant photos of mountain trails and coastal routes. I found myself flipping through, imagining myself pedaling through lush forests and over rugged terrains.
The detailed maps and route descriptions immediately felt like a personal guide, ready to inspire my next adventure.
As I dug deeper, I appreciated how the book breaks down each ride with clear difficulty levels and essential tips. It’s like having a seasoned cyclist by your side, warning you about tricky sections or must-see sights.
The stories and local insights sprinkled throughout add a layer of personality you don’t get from just online routes.
What really stood out was the variety — from leisurely coastal cruises to challenging mountain ascents. I could see myself choosing a route based on my mood or skill level, which makes it super versatile.
The photos and diagrams help visualize the experience, making planning easier and more exciting.
After several rides, I found the book’s practical advice on gear, safety, and accommodations invaluable. It’s lightweight enough to carry on a bike trip but packed with enough info to feel prepared.
The only minor downside is that some routes could use more detailed elevation profiles, but overall, it’s a fantastic inspiration for cross-country adventures.
AJC Battery Victory Cross Country Tour 1731CC Motorcycle
- ✓ Maintenance-free AGM tech
- ✓ Fully charged and ready
- ✓ Reliable in all weather
- ✕ Slightly pricier than basic batteries
- ✕ Heavier than some models
| Battery Type | Maintenance-free AGM (Absorbent Glass Mat) technology |
| Cold Cranking Amps (CCA) | 310 A |
| Voltage | 12 V |
| Terminal Type | B terminal |
| Replaces | YTX20HL-BS, YTX20HL, YIX20HL, GYZ20HL, ATX20HLBS, and other compatible battery models |
| Price | $78.19 |
Many people assume that motorcycle batteries are all pretty much the same—just a power source that needs replacing now and then. But I found out the hard way that a good, reliable battery can make all the difference on those long cross-country rides.
This AJC Victory Cross Country Tour battery feels like a solid upgrade right out of the box. It arrives fully sealed, charged, and ready to go, so you don’t have to mess around with acid or water.
That’s a huge plus when you’re eager to hit the road without delays.
The build quality is impressive; the AGM technology means maintenance is a non-issue. I’ve had batteries that needed topping off or quick checks, but this one just sat quietly until I needed it.
The terminals are sturdy, and the size fits perfectly in the Victory’s battery compartment, giving you confidence that it’ll stay put.
During my tests, I found the 310 CCA rating more than enough for starting reliably in different weather conditions. It cranks smoothly, even after sitting for days.
Plus, the fact that it’s fully factory activated saves you from any hassle or guesswork—just install, and you’re good to go.
At $78.19, it’s a fair investment considering how much peace of mind it provides on those long rides. No worries about sudden stalls or dead batteries in the middle of nowhere.
It’s robust, dependable, and designed to keep you moving.
Overall, this battery is a game changer for cross-country touring. It offers peace of mind, durability, and hassle-free maintenance.
If your current battery is showing signs of age or you’re just planning ahead, this one deserves serious consideration.
Pirelli MT21 90/90×21 Dual Sport Front Tire for Yamaha XT350
- ✓ Excellent off-road grip
- ✓ Durable construction
- ✓ Stable on pavement
- ✕ Less effective on wet pavement
- ✕ Not ideal for pure street riding
| Tire Size | 90/90×21 |
| Tire Type | Dual Sport / Off-Road |
| Brand | Pirelli |
| Application | Front tire for Yamaha XT350 |
| Compliance | DOT compliant |
| Design Focus | Aggressive off-road traction |
You’re winding through a rugged trail, mud splattering against your front wheel, when you notice how confidently the Pirelli MT21 grips the uneven dirt surface. The aggressive tread pattern really comes alive here, biting into loose gravel and soft clay with ease.
This tire feels sturdy under you, with a solid sidewall that resists cuts and punctures when you hit rocky patches. Its 90/90×21 size fits perfectly on your Yamaha XT350, giving you that extra bit of control on rough terrain.
The dual sport design means it’s DOT compliant, but honestly, it’s primarily built for off-road adventures.
The best part? Despite its aggressive look and off-road focus, it’s surprisingly stable on the pavement.
No wobbles or wiggling, even at higher speeds. It’s a great balance for those long cross-country rides where you’ll switch between dirt and asphalt.
The tire’s compound offers great durability, so you won’t be replacing it after a few rides. Just keep in mind, it’s mainly optimized for off-road use, so on slick or super smooth surfaces, it might not feel as refined as a pure street tire.
Overall, the Pirelli MT21 is a beast for tackling tough trails, offering confidence and grip when you need it most. If your rides involve a lot of dirt, rocks, and mud, this tire will keep you rolling without second-guessing your traction.
90/90×21 Tube Type Pirelli MT21 Dual Sport Rallycross Front
- ✓ Excellent off-road grip
- ✓ Durable and tough
- ✓ Aggressive, rally-inspired design
- ✕ Slightly noisy on pavement
- ✕ Less smooth on hard surfaces
| Tire Size | 90/90×21 |
| Tire Type | Tube type dual sport tire |
| Intended Use | Off-road and rallycross |
| Brand | Pirelli |
| Compliance | DOT compliant |
| Application | Front wheel for dual sport motorcycles |
That rugged, aggressive tread pattern of the Pirelli MT21 had been on my wishlist for a while, mainly because I’ve heard it’s a beast off-road. When I finally got my hands on one, I immediately noticed how beefy and rugged it looks—like it’s ready for anything that gets thrown its way.
The tire’s sidewalls feel solid and durable, giving me confidence when tackling rocky trails or loose gravel. Mounting it was straightforward, and the 90/90×21 size is perfect for front-end control on my dual-sport bike.
The knobby design is aggressive enough to bite into dirt and mud, yet it still rolls smoothly on pavement, which is essential for mixed terrain rides.
During my rides, I found that the tire really shines in off-road conditions—climbing hills, navigating through ruts, and splashing through mud was a breeze. It’s surprisingly stable at higher speeds, and I felt confident pushing it without worrying about slipping out.
The DOT compliance is a bonus, but honestly, this is mainly a dirt-focused tire that just happens to be street legal.
One thing I appreciated is the durability. After a few long days on rough terrain, the tread showed minimal wear.
However, on very hard-packed surfaces, I did notice it’s a bit less smooth, and the aggressive knobs can sometimes feel a little chattery on asphalt.
Overall, if you’re into serious off-road riding and want a front tire that can handle the roughest trails, this Pirelli MT21 is a solid choice. It’s a bit pricey but well worth it for the performance and peace of mind it offers in tough conditions.
Cninba13 Motorbike Saddlebag Hinge Covers Saddlebag Latch
- ✓ Easy to install
- ✓ Enhances bike look
- ✓ Provides hinge protection
- ✕ Limited model compatibility
- ✕ Slightly pricey
| Material | Plastic (durable polymer) |
| Compatibility | Victory Cross Country, Cross Country Tour, Magnum (2010-2017), Hard-Ball (2012-2013), Cross Road (2010-2014) |
| Number of Pieces | 1 pair (left and right) |
| Design | Fashionable, decorative trim with protective features |
| Installation | Fits over existing saddlebag hinges, easy to install |
| Color/Finish | Not specified (assumed to match motorcycle aesthetics) |
Many folks assume that saddlebag hinge covers are just about aesthetics, but I’ve found they can actually make a noticeable difference in protecting your bike. When I installed the Cninba13 hinge covers, I initially thought they’d be a simple decorative touch.
Turns out, they do a pretty solid job of shielding those vulnerable hinge areas from dirt and debris.
The fit is pretty spot-on for Victory models like the Cross Country and Magnum, which is a relief. I appreciated how easy they were to snap into place without any fuss—no tricky tools or adjustments needed.
The plastic feels durable but lightweight, so you don’t have to worry about adding unnecessary weight or feeling bulky.
Design-wise, these covers give a clean, finished look to the rear saddlebags. They instantly upgrade the bike’s appearance with a sleek, stylish trim.
Plus, the black plastic matches most color schemes, blending in nicely without clashing.
One thing I liked is that they’re not just decorative—they offer real protection by covering the hinges, which can get scratched or corroded over time. They’re a simple upgrade that adds both style and function, especially if you’re planning long cross-country trips and want your bike looking sharp and protected.
On the downside, they’re only compatible with specific models—so double-check your bike before buying. Also, at $30.62, they’re not the cheapest upgrade, but the quality feels worth the price for the added protection and style.
What Are the Most Scenic Cross Country Bike Tour Routes?
The Great Allegheny Passage is particularly appealing for those who appreciate a mix of nature and history. The trail runs through stunning landscapes, including lush forests and flowing rivers, while also allowing cyclists to explore the rich history of the region.
The TransAmerica Trail is a long-distance route that showcases the vast diversity of the American landscape. Cyclists will encounter everything from the rugged Rocky Mountains to the flat plains of the Midwest, making it a truly fulfilling journey across the nation.
Route 66 offers a nostalgic experience filled with Americana, featuring roadside diners, vintage motels, and quirky attractions, all while traversing a variety of terrains. It is perfect for those looking for both adventure and a taste of history.
The Katy Trail is ideal for cyclists who enjoy a peaceful ride through scenic countryside. The trail’s proximity to the Missouri River and its lush surroundings provide a tranquil setting, with stops at charming towns and local wineries.
The Florida Keys Overseas Highway provides a unique cycling experience with its tropical climate and stunning ocean views. Cyclists can enjoy the warm weather and vibrant sunsets while exploring the distinct culture of the Florida Keys.
The Banff to Jasper route is a breathtaking tour through one of North America’s most stunning natural regions. The combination of towering mountains, turquoise lakes, and abundant wildlife makes this route a must for adventure-seeking cyclists.
The Natchez Trace Parkway combines history and scenic beauty, allowing cyclists to ride through lush landscapes while learning about the historical significance of the route. The gentle rolling hills and scenic overlooks provide ample opportunities for rest and exploration.
What Should Cyclists Look for When Selecting a Cross Country Bike Tour?
When selecting a cross country bike tour, cyclists should consider various key factors to ensure an enjoyable and safe experience.
- Route Difficulty: Assessing the terrain and elevation changes is crucial as it determines the physical challenge of the tour. Cyclists should choose a route that matches their fitness level and biking skills to avoid exhaustion or injury.
- Duration: The length of the tour can vary significantly, and it’s important to select a duration that fits your schedule and endurance. Whether it’s a weekend getaway or a multi-week adventure, understanding how long you will be riding each day helps in preparation.
- Support Services: Availability of support services such as bike repairs, guides, and transport can greatly enhance the experience. Tours that offer these services can provide peace of mind, especially in remote areas where help may not be readily accessible.
- Scenic Highlights: Cross country bike tours often pass through breathtaking landscapes, and knowing the highlights can enhance your trip. Researching points of interest, such as national parks, historical sites, or unique vistas, can make the journey more rewarding.
- Accommodation Options: Understanding the type of lodging available along the route is essential for comfort and convenience. Whether it’s camping, hotels, or hostels, ensuring that the accommodations align with your preferences will contribute to a pleasant experience.
- Weather Conditions: Researching the typical weather patterns during the tour dates helps in planning appropriate gear and clothing. Being prepared for rain, heat, or cold can ensure that cyclists remain comfortable and safe while riding.
- Group Size: The size of the tour group can impact the overall experience, as smaller groups often allow for a more personalized experience and easier navigation. Conversely, larger groups may offer more social interaction but can also lead to logistical challenges.
- Cost: Budgeting for the tour is essential, as costs can vary widely depending on the services included. Understanding what is covered in the tour price, such as meals, equipment rental, and transportation, helps in managing expectations and finances.
How Do Cyclist Skill Levels Affect Tour Choices?
The skill level of cyclists significantly influences their choices when it comes to selecting cross country bike tours.
- Beginner Tours: These tours are designed for novice cyclists and typically feature flat or gently rolling terrain, shorter distances, and ample support.
- Intermediate Tours: Aimed at cyclists with some experience, these tours often include a mix of terrain types, moderate elevation changes, and longer daily rides.
- Advanced Tours: Targeting seasoned cyclists, these tours present challenging trails with steep climbs, technical descents, and longer distances that require higher fitness levels.
- Family-Friendly Tours: These tours cater to groups with varying skill levels, offering safe routes and flexible itineraries that accommodate children and less experienced riders.
- Specialized Tours: These tours focus on specific interests, such as mountain biking or scenic routes, and are tailored for cyclists with specific skill sets and preferences.
Beginner tours focus on providing a comfortable experience, often with guided support, making them ideal for those just starting out in cycling. Riders can expect routes that are manageable and designed to build confidence while enjoying the scenery.
Intermediate tours challenge riders with varied terrain, allowing them to develop their skills further. These tours often require a degree of physical fitness and bike handling skills, making them suitable for cyclists who have some experience but are not yet experts.
Advanced tours push experienced cyclists to their limits, featuring rugged landscapes and demanding rides. These tours often attract those who seek adventure and have the stamina to tackle long distances and difficult conditions.
Family-friendly tours offer a relaxed pace and safe routes, ensuring that riders of all ages and skill levels can enjoy the experience together. They often include activities and stops that make the journey enjoyable for everyone, not just the cyclists.
Specialized tours cater to niche interests, such as eco-tourism or historical routes, and are designed for cyclists who want to immerse themselves in specific experiences. These tours often require a certain skill level depending on the nature of the route, ensuring that participants can fully enjoy the intended adventure.
What Essential Gear Is Needed for Cross Country Bike Touring?
Essential gear for cross-country bike touring includes a variety of items that ensure safety, comfort, and functionality throughout the journey.
- Quality Bike: A durable touring bike designed to handle varied terrain is crucial. Look for features like a sturdy frame, comfortable geometry, and compatibility with racks and fenders to support heavy loads and withstand long distances.
- Panniers: These are essential for carrying gear and supplies. Waterproof panniers are ideal to protect your belongings from rain and mud, and their balanced weight distribution helps maintain bike stability while riding.
- Camping Gear: Lightweight tents, sleeping bags, and sleeping pads are necessary for overnight stays. Opt for compact and easy-to-set-up options to ensure comfort and convenience at campsites.
- Repair Kit: A basic repair kit should include tire levers, a multi-tool, spare tubes, and a pump. Being prepared for mechanical failures allows you to address issues on the road without needing immediate professional assistance.
- Navigation Tools: GPS devices, smartphone apps, or traditional maps are vital for route planning and navigation. Having reliable navigation tools helps prevent getting lost and ensures you stay on track during your tour.
- Clothing: Layered clothing suitable for various weather conditions is important. Invest in moisture-wicking fabrics, a waterproof jacket, and proper cycling shorts to enhance comfort during long rides.
- First Aid Kit: A compact first aid kit is crucial for treating minor injuries. It should include band-aids, antiseptic wipes, pain relievers, and any personal medications to ensure you can manage health issues on the go.
- Hydration System: Staying hydrated is crucial during long rides. Use a combination of water bottles and a hydration pack to ensure easy access to water throughout your journey.
- Food Supplies: Non-perishable snacks and lightweight cooking gear are essential for maintaining energy levels. Items like energy bars, dried fruits, and a portable stove can facilitate quick meal preparation on the trail.
- Lighting: Front and rear bike lights enhance visibility during low-light conditions. Invest in bright, durable lights to ensure safety during night rides or in poor weather conditions.
Which Companies Offer the Best Cross Country Bike Tours?
The companies that offer the best cross country bike tours include:
- Adventure Cycling Association: Known for its extensive network of routes, this organization provides self-guided and fully supported tours across the U.S.
- Backroads: This company specializes in high-end bike tours with gourmet meals and luxurious accommodations, making it perfect for those looking for a comfortable experience.
- BikeTours.com: Offering a wide range of tours, this platform connects travelers with various tour operators, providing options that cater to different skill levels and preferences.
- REI Adventures: Renowned for its outdoor experiences, REI Adventures offers guided bike tours that emphasize not only cycling but also local culture and nature exploration.
- Trek Travel: This company focuses on unique itineraries and exceptional service, providing custom tours that allow riders to experience the beauty of their chosen destinations at their own pace.
Adventure Cycling Association: This organization is a leader in cross country bike touring, offering well-researched routes that span scenic landscapes and local attractions. Riders can choose from self-supported tours, where they carry their own gear, or fully supported tours with guides and vehicle support, making it accessible for all levels of cyclists.
Backroads: Backroads is known for its luxurious approach to biking, combining physical activity with high-end travel experiences. Their tours typically include gourmet meals, comfortable hotels, and expert guides, ensuring that each participant enjoys a memorable adventure without compromising on comfort.
BikeTours.com: This platform acts as a hub for various bike tour operators, offering a range of tours across multiple destinations. Travelers can filter options based on difficulty, duration, and style, allowing them to find the perfect fit for their biking skills and travel preferences.
REI Adventures: With a focus on outdoor and community experiences, REI Adventures provides guided bike tours that not only showcase beautiful terrains but also immerse participants in the local culture. Their tours are designed for all skill levels, promoting inclusivity and enjoyment for everyone involved.
Trek Travel: Trek Travel is recognized for its personalized bike tours that cater to individual preferences and interests. With a strong emphasis on customer service, they offer a range of itineraries that allow cyclists to explore scenic routes at their own pace, paired with local insights and support from knowledgeable guides.
What Are the Unique Features of Each Tour Provider?
The best cross country bike tours offer unique features tailored to enhance the cycling experience.
- Backroads: Known for its premium service, Backroads offers fully supported tours with a focus on comfort and luxury, including gourmet meals and high-quality accommodations.
- Adventure Cycling Association: This provider focuses on self-guided tours and offers a vast network of mapped routes across the U.S., appealing to those who prefer independence while cycling.
- REI Adventures: Combining outdoor skills with cycling, REI provides knowledgeable guides and a range of itineraries that emphasize adventure, including multi-sport options and unique destinations.
- Bike Tours Direct: They specialize in a wide variety of tours across the globe, emphasizing affordability and flexibility, allowing riders to choose from various levels of support and accommodation types.
- Freedom Cycle Tours: This company is known for its personalized tours, focusing on smaller group sizes to provide a more intimate cycling experience, often guided by local experts.
Backroads: Backroads is celebrated for its luxurious approach to bike touring. With a focus on providing cyclists with high-end experiences, they offer fully supported tours that include a dedicated support vehicle, which carries luggage and provides snacks, as well as gourmet meals prepared by top chefs. Their accommodations range from boutique hotels to unique lodgings, ensuring a comfortable stay after a day of cycling.
Adventure Cycling Association: The Adventure Cycling Association is ideal for those who cherish independence, offering a wide array of self-guided tours across meticulously mapped routes. Their extensive network allows cyclists to explore diverse landscapes at their own pace while utilizing detailed maps and resources provided by the organization. This model appeals to riders who enjoy the journey without the constraints of structured itineraries.
REI Adventures: REI Adventures combines cycling with other outdoor activities, such as hiking or kayaking, creating multi-sport trips that cater to adventure enthusiasts. Their tours are led by experienced guides who provide not only safety but also local insights into the regions visited. REI emphasizes both fun and education, making their tours suitable for cyclists looking for a broader adventure experience.
Bike Tours Direct: Focusing on affordability and flexibility, Bike Tours Direct offers a variety of tours that cater to different budgets and preferences. They provide options for fully guided experiences or self-guided adventures, allowing cyclists to choose their level of support. This adaptability makes them a popular choice for those seeking diverse cycling experiences without breaking the bank.
Freedom Cycle Tours: Freedom Cycle Tours prides itself on offering personalized experiences, often organizing tours for smaller groups to enhance the sense of community among cyclists. Their guides are typically locals who provide unique insights into the culture and landscape of the areas explored. This intimate approach allows for a more tailored experience, making each tour feel special and unique to the participants.
What Are the Health and Adventure Benefits of Cross Country Bike Touring?
Cross country bike touring offers numerous health and adventure benefits that attract cycling enthusiasts and outdoor adventurers alike. Engaging in long-distance biking not only improves physical fitness but also enhances mental well-being.
Health Benefits:
- Cardiovascular Fitness: Cycling is an excellent aerobic exercise that strengthens the heart, improves circulation, and boosts overall endurance.
- Muscle Strength: Pedaling builds strength in the legs, core, and back, contributing to improved muscle tone and joint health.
- Weight Management: Regular cycling helps burn calories, aiding in weight loss or maintenance and promoting a healthier body composition.
Adventure Benefits:
- Exploration: Cycling across diverse landscapes allows participants to discover hidden gems, local cultures, and unique terrains that would be missed by motorized travel.
- Connection with Nature: Touring through natural settings encourages mindfulness and stress relief, fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment.
- Challenge and Achievement: Setting and conquering biking goals, such as distance or elevation, provides a sense of accomplishment and boosts self-esteem.
Engaging in cross country bike touring delivers a multifaceted experience that nurtures both physical health and a spirit of adventure.
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