Frequently Asked Questions
We get asked loads of
questions here at Ride Oisans. If we have not answered your
question here then send us a question.
What type of bike do I need ?
A good quality hardtail or full suspension bike, with
disc brakes is recommended. We ride Commencal's and
any member of the Commencal owners club bringing theirs
along can claim some goodies.
I don't like flying are
there alternatives ways to get to you?
You can catch a
train and we can pick you up from Grenoble Train
Station. If you are coming from the UK you can use the
Bike Express coach service and again we can pick you up
in Grenoble. You can of course also drive your car or van as
there is ample parking near our house.
What is the best Airport to fly
to ?
We recommend flying to Grenoble or Lyon airport for more
information click here.
We can also pick you up from Geneva but please confirm with
us that this is OK before booking the holiday.
What spares do I need to bring ?
Our garage is pretty well equipped with tools that you will
need but you should bring the basic supply of inner tubes,
patches, a pump, and a multi-tool. You should also
bring spares and tools specific to your bike such as a rear mech hanger.
What else do I need to bring to ride?
You need to have insurance, and we will ask for a copy
before you go out to ride! You also need a helmet because we
won't let you ride without one, we recommend a cross country
helmet for singletrack and a full face helmet if you plan to
ride the purpose built downhill and freeride trails.
We also recommend body armour for your arms and legs and
gloves.
What is the weather going to be like ?
This part of the alps is famous for having 300 day of
sunshine and can get very hot in the summer but
the weather at the top of the mountain is changeable.
It can be hot in the valley and wet at the summit. We
recommend you bring a waterproof coat and more than one
change of kit. Bourg d'Oisans has a laundrette.
What is the French for fettle ?
Bidouiller. Apparently!
Do we cater for special
diets / vegetarians ?
Yes, we do but you need to let us know when booking.
This also applies if you have any allergies.
Level of fitness ?
All the trails we ride involve an element of climbing so
a good general level of fitness and technical ability is
required.
Women riders ?
Yes, of course. We also plan to have a women only
week starting in 2009. Please note that accommodation is
based on shared rooms and where possible we sleep guests of
the same sex together, but we cannot guarantee a women or
men only room.
How to get to Ride Oisans ?
Our nearest airports are Lyon (1hr 30 mins) and Grenoble
(1 hr). We provide a pick up service from these airports for
an additional cost. There is also a train station in
Grenoble and also a regular bus service to Bourg d'Oisans.
If you are coming by car please refer to the attached link -
directions
I am on holiday in the region can I come out for the day
?
No, due to the view of the French authorities we cannot
take payment for guiding on this basis. We can however
provide you with route maps, a GPS, and hire bikes and will
be happy to point you in the right direction. Please
contact us for more information.
Is it true that Helen gives the best after ride
massage in the area ?
Of course!
Is the area any good for road riding ?
The area is famous for the Tour de France and the
Marmotte and there are some great climbs and descents. See
Tour d'Oisans for more
information.
Is the area any good for skiing and snowboarding ?
Yes see
Board Oisans for more information.
Can I rent the property out for a family visit ?
Yes see
Sleep Oisans for more information.
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