FAQs
Contacting us
If you want to share any questions, remarks or ideas with us, please don’t hesitate to contact us at uwe@lilli-tours.com.
Please also share any special requests with us, we are keen to make it right for you.
Motorcycles
What motorcycle do you recommend?
More then 90% of the rented bikes are BMWs, so we will explain their line up. Generally the smaller models like the 800/900 GS or the F900 XR often mean more fun on our tours. They’re easier to ride through the endless twisties, more manageable in parking lots, and they have more than enough power. Even two-up, smaller are often the preferred choice. If you are sure and confident, then of course the 1300 GS or the RT will spoil with enormous power and torque.
Am I guaranteed to get my first motorcycle choice?
We will do our best. Motorcycles are reserved on a first-come, first-served basis, depending upon availability and are not guaranteed. Most of the time, however, we can deliver the first choice.
Can I bring a GPS unit?
Yes, but you need to make sure you have purchased the correct maps for Europe and preinstalled them on your unit. You can connect it directly to the battery, or purchase a Powerlet adapter for BMW. Keep in mind that this is a guided tour, so you don’t need a GPS unit.
Can I get a lowered seat?
Yes, please request one on your registration application. If you need to change motorcycles, please let us know ASAP.
Can I get a backrest for a passenger?
Yes, please request one on your registration application. All 1250cc motorcycles have a top case which gives the passenger comfort.
What’s the deductible on my included motorcycle insurance?
The deductible for the motorcycle insurance varies for each tour and bike. It is between 700 and 3000 Euros. Usually it can be lowered by paying an extra daily insurance fee. In case of minor damage to your motorcycle, an appraisal of the repair cost is made, based on the dealer’s cost, and paid from your deductible. In case the cost of any damage to the motorcycle is higher than the deductible, or if the bike is stolen, the deductible is forfeited entirely. The insurance company will cover the remainder of the cost.
Gear
Can I wear a half-helmet?
For safety reasons, you should wear a full-face helmet.
Should I bring heated gear?
It depends on the trip. For the Croatia tour it is recommended. On most other tours it is rather seldom needed, only when there are unusual weather patterns. Don’t forget your rain gear! This is more important. Generally the best advice is to be prepared for hot and cool, so a versatile layer based equipment is the best choice.
Power Outlets
BMWs use powerlet outlets. These are the smaller ones, not the larger cigarette plugs. You may bring your own powerlet to heated gear and/or powerlet to USB/USB-C plugs and cables.
Can I wear jeans while riding?
For safety purposes, you should wear full riding gear with armor. Proper riding gear (leather, GORE-TEX, Cordura) is essential to cope with the temperature changes due to altitude and weather conditions and to help protect you in case of an accident. Jeans (without Kevlar and armor) and chaps are not considered suitable riding gear.
Travel
Should I purchase trip insurance?
It is highly recommended that you get trip cancellation insurance. Also, check with your health insurance provider about your coverage while traveling overseas. For additional information on trip cancellation insurance, visit www.insuremytrip.com. Please note this needs to be done a certain amount of time after registration.
I want to arrive early. Where do I stay?
It’s a good idea to arrive early in order to overcome the effects of jet lag and to acclimate yourself to the area. Lost luggage also has a better chance to arrive in time of the trip departure. Please let us know your arrival plans in advance, so that we can make arrangements accordingly.
What is the daily distance?
We will ride between 200 and 250 km (130-170 miles) per day. Don’t be deceived. 180 miles on curvy alpine roads occupies a whole day. There always will be stops for coffee, lunch and viewpoints along the way. So arrival time at hotels would be between 4 and 5 in the afternoon depending on speed and weather conditions.
Is there a support vehicle used and how much luggage can I bring?
At a minimum of 4 motorcycles we provide an extra support van plus a guide on the motorcycle. Guests can bring one large suitcases per person or 2 medium sized ones.
Where do you recommend I exchange currency?
You get the best exchange rate when withdrawing money from the ATM. Contact your bank or credit card company to see if they charge any additional fees. Make sure you have a PIN for your credit card and that they know ahead of time about your overseas travel.
Do I need a converter plug for each country in Europe?
No. A standard European converter plug will be fine.
Can I ride on my own, away from the group?
It’s not recommended, but if you feel comfortable doing so, yes. Keep in mind the different languages, road signs, rules, etc.
Can my non-riding partner ride in the support van?
We can comfortably accommodate a couple of passengers in the support van, if they are not so tired or it is raining.
What advice can you give me about cell phones?
Most hotels on the tour offer Internet access free of charge. Keep in mind that purchased Internet access for hot spots in Europe only work in large cities and in areas that we will not be covering on our tour. Ask your cell phone provider about their international calling plan and data package options available for trips and traveling abroad. Many cell phone companies, as well as SPOT, now sell global phones, which are useful if you plan to regularly travel outside of the U.S. or Canada. Other options would be to purchase a prepaid cell phone or SIM card for international calling, or to use Skype, WhatsApp or FaceTime, which are the most cost-efficient options.
Rest days
Each tour has one or two rest days where you can decide to ride, rest or do some other activities that are offered.
How many riders will be in the group?
To provide our best personal service to each guest, the maximum group size is 10 motorcycles.
Payment, Reservation, Cancellation
Payment
payment is processed via our payment provider Stripe
we will ask $1000 reservation fee up front
we will ask for the remaining amount approximately 3 months in advance (one day after the last day you can book)
Reservation
reservations typically are open until 91 days ( ≃ 3 months) before the tour
reservations are made on a first come, first serve basis. That means that whoever finishes their Booking first, will get the spot in the tour
Cancellation Policy
the reservation fee is non-refundable
if you cancel your reservation more than 2 months in advance, you will receive a refund of all deposits paid except for the reservation fee
if you cancel your reservation less than 2 months in advance, you will receive a refund of 50% of deposits paid to that date, minus the reservation fee
if you cancel your reservation less than 1 month in advance, we will have to keep 100% of your made deposits
For more information, please refer to our terms and services.