“Riding both Japan trips with RAID cycling this year was a blast! Japan is an amazing country to explore by bike with beautiful and very quiet roads in stunning scenery. Rice paddies, pine forest, waterfalls and beautiful temples and shrines are mixed with coastal rides through small fishing villages. On every ride there is time to quickly explore hidden gems. Accommodation is a mixture of nice hotels and Japanese ryokans, adding to the experience. RAID’s staff is amazing, providing for freshly cooked meals on the road, daily servicing and cleaning of bikes and road captains that are not only passionate about Japan but also very knowledgeable. And they are fun to be around too! ”

“I discovered many years ago that traveling with a bike is the best way to visit a country. One can move fast enough to really see what a place has to offer, but not so quickly as to miss the detail, sights, smells, and sounds. I have taken about twenty cycling trips over the years but the RAID Japan Alps trip is the only one I have repeated. I did the trip seven years ago and had always intended to do it again. It did not disappoint. For the serious, but non-competitive cyclist, Brad Sauber has succeeded in crafting routes and a company culture within RAID that completely satisfies. Each day was sufficiently challenging but the van was always close by to provide support and carry needed clothes and food. In a country of nearly 125 million people, we rarely encountered any traffic. And the accommodations each night were varied and comfortable. We were in Japan while a typhon struck the islands south of us. Although we got plenty wet, the team of Brad, Yoichi, Jumbo, and Yuki was always ready to modify the day’s schedule if the need had arisen. Fortunately, we were able to complete the entire route as planned. I have nothing but good things to say about my experience in Japan. If you are considering a bicycle adventure, RAID Cycling should be on the short list.”

“The trip far exceeded my expectations. I had never been to Japan and RAID cycling’s program looked to be an exciting way to see the country. We went off the beaten path and experienced some roads and destinations that I would never have been able to get to on my own. The staff was top notch, the cycling amazing, we saw lots of monkeys, got to stay at some amazing traditional ryokans, and I even got to swim in the sea of Japan. I’ve done a lot of traveling, and this trip is one of the best that I have ever been on. I’ll return to RAID cycling for another adventure, that’s for sure! ”

“Cycling Japan Alps with RAID was an experience that combined breathtaking scenery, rich culture, and a welcoming atmosphere. The staff was nothing short of exceptional - friendly, helpful and very professional. I felt spoiled with their attention to not only taking care of me but also my bike. The landscapes in Japan are incredibly diverse. From lush rice fields and tranquil coastal views to majestic mountains and vibrant cityscapes, each day brought new sights to behold. The cycling routes were well-planned, allowing us to explore the areas with the focus of off the beaten path roads. The traffic was surprisingly light, and drivers were courteous, making for a relaxed cycling experience. The accommodations were another pleasant surprise. I loved staying in the traditional ryokans and taking advantage of the very relaxing onsens. The meals were a feast for the senses, showcasing the best of Japanese cuisine. Moreover, the people of Japan were incredibly friendly and helpful. Despite the language barrier, I found that a smile and a few simple gestures went a long way. RAID Cycling went above and beyond to provide a truly unforgettable time.”

“I have often found, on a trip, that it is not the perfectly scripted moment that endures in the memory, but that juncture where something has gone awry. Something that might require a touch of fortitude, of inventiveness—of halting conversation with locals—to resolve. Something that momentarily takes us out of our comfort zone. “Only through shadows can we see the beauty of a lighted room,” writes Junichiro Tanizaki in his classic In Praise of Shadows. Something of that spirit exists in RAID Cycling, the outfitter with which I have booked an eight-day expedition, by bike, from Tokyo to Kyoto. ”

“This RAID Alaska cycling adventure was incredibly rewarding to me. The RAID team was beyond thorough, hospitable and accommodating. The routes and experiences provided a true ‘Alaska experience’ by avoiding the traditional tourist check points. I cannot recommend RAID Cycling high enough...I’ll certainly be traveling with them again!”

“Lifetime experience! Alaska is just over the top!! So happy to joined. It’s the most wonderful time in year to go on bike trip with with mine bro’s:-))) Special Thanks to Brad to made it happened and so glade to met Nate and Keyth absolute great Mate’s! 🙏😎 hope to seen All of you soon. ”

“The Alaska Gravel Expedition was a masterful composition of:
- spectacularly beautiful rides along curated routes that embody and highlight AK’s rich natural environment
- gracious accommodations with delicious food
- attentive ride-time and post-ride support with thoughtful nutrition and mechanical services.

Brad and Nate are the consummate cycling travel pros. They are well engaged in the logistical details and at the same time discuss bigger picture perspectives about where we stayed and why it was distinctive. They often checked in to see how things were going and if something was off, concerns were adeptly addressed. Bikes were cleaned and maintained every evening.

I found they set expectations really well and followed through on all their commitments. This was especially important and positive since I had not been to Alaska or one of Raid’s tours.

Overall, I highly, highly recommend Raid Cycling. In addition to Raid’s top notch service, I found my fellow guests to be seasoned cyclists who share common pursuits and are well traveled, interesting people. ”

“I am still buzzing about our AK adventure. What an energizing and memorable set of experiences. The trip will stick with me for a long while. ”

“Brad your a Legend, it was a Mega trip I will be smiling for months and can’t thank you and Nate enough. ”

“Thank you very much Brad for organising something so complex as a gravel raid in Alaska. This got truely epic when we were riding roads with views as far as the eye could see, beautiful silence and hardly a living soul in sight. As we were blessed with awesome weather, I can only try to imagine what this land looks like in the heart of winter. I am grateful that I could ride it with a small band of riders as nice and fun as you guys!”

“Raid’s Alaska Trip not only presents the finest 850km of gravel cycling on offer anywhere but gave a true sense of the cultural authenticity of the region and its people in one of the most sparse, remote and harsh regions in the world. Breathtaking scenery with memories created that will reside with me for ever.

I could add words of gratitude to Brad’s vision of bring this experience to the normal bloke from the UK but he’d get too emotional. Brad thank you fir helping to create memories that will live with us for the rest of our days”

“I rode this with my wife in a group of 7 riders … nice length days of 80-90km, 900-1400vm. Great scenic roads, fantastic on-road support, exemplary accommodation, exquisite Japanese food … Brad, Hiro, Yoichi, and Jumbo a great guiding crew. Absolutely recommend its mixture of cycling and culture.”

“Thanks for taking care of our guests this weekend. I’ve said it once but I’ll say it again: you three were the Summit MVPs. It’s rare to find a team that so efficiently identifies + solves riders’ challenges on the road. Thanks for showing up and bringing your A-game this weekend. Can’t wait to see each of you again!”

“I have been exhausted this week, which means I had the time of my life last week.”

“I think I told both of you at some stage that my bike motivation these days is not measured in watts, rather in adventuring to new places. The week totally delivered on adventure, I loved how no one knew what was around the next corner, at the next guest house or in the next conversation. Kept us all on our toes all week, just as the best times always do! ”

“NW Arkansas Raid Recce … a multiday gravel odessey through the Ozarks, remote roads, remote small towns, friendly folk, and gorgeous Fall colors. Combined with a friendly ride guide, and the exceptional ride itinerary curated and managed by Brad Sauber of RAID Cycling, with an ecclectic mixture of accomodation thrown in to the mixture. Wow, this heady mixture combines to make a tough supported absolutely amazing multiday gravel ride in this beautiful and remote part of Arkansas. Chapeau Brad!!”

“Brad - Thank you for bringing your experience and expertise to create a wonderful, authentic and very special private trip to Corsica. From beginning to end, it did not disappoint, while we missed having you on the tour, your presence and charisma was with us, in every route, view and undiscovered special place that only you can curate time and again the most special of experiences.”

“A big thank you for the past trip! Some amazing riding in Southern California and I now understand why you are so passionate about this ride … lots of climbing and especially when we got to Highway 39, the landscapes blew me away. And this time of the year is so good for riding with the fall colours, the cool air, and the beautiful sunsets. And some serious dawn till dusk riding too … luckily dusk came early! Circumstances made our group quite small and intimate, but I loved riding with Sean and Dave, and you as our support. Take care and until our next ride!”

“Dear Brad- just wanted to say that your Japan trip has been the absolute highlight of my year and perhaps, life to date. It was such a pleasure to be a part of your creation and experience the country in this way.”

“Thanks again for organizing this awesome trip. I had a fantastic time. Cycling through the inspiring NM landscapes was a truly remarkable experience and a great adventure. The roads, climbs and descents were superb and the insights into Native American, European American and Mexican heritage profound. Thanks Keyth and Brad for an unforgettable trip.”

“I thoroughly enjoyed the SoCal trip. The days were often long and the climbs challenging, but the scenery and comradeship of like-minded riders made it worthwhile. Throughout the trip, we were exceptionally well-looked after by Keyth and Jared. Not only did they provide support, cook a mean meal, but were also prepared to endure some long pulls into some pretty strong headwinds. The entire trip ran extremely smoothly and I would definitely recommend it to anyone considering it - you will emerge a better rider for it.”

“Among so many, one indelible memory stands out.  We were deep into the trip’s final ride when we pulled into the picturesque village of Miyama, which nestles just on the other side of our final climbs to Kyoto.  We stopped for lunch at such a simple, yet elegant thatched hut restaurant that oozed authentic Japan.  The moment provided the opportunity to reflect in that perfect combination of incredible riding and adventure of new places.  As we feasted on the house-made Soba noodles, it reminded me of the opening line in Rapha’s description of the Japan Randonnée that drew me to this trip, “And that certain magic that makes a place special?  Japan has it in spades.” ”

“Such an amazing experience it is hard to isolate any one item.  From the amazing back road climbs to the cultural experience that only Japan can provide.  Brad’s vision for this trip and flawless execution is precisely what a rider like myself seeking an otherworldly adventure is after.  And I would be remiss to not mention the crew who are the kindest, most hardworking crew around.  Their infectious positive energy and smiles will always stick with me.”

“Brad was working some time-travel magic on us… one morning, riding through rice fields in feudal Japan… then another afternoon, grinding up overgrown roads and hiking over rock-slides in a landscape that felt abandoned by humans for a hundred years.

This was a real adventure and I’ll never forget the combination of people, challenge, landscapes, food - or the exquisite details that could be as simple as a bunch of grapes or getting off the bike to dive in the ocean when I was right on the red line. ”

““The Japan Randonne is a phenomenal road trip, cycling adventure and cultural experience. It is not a normal cycling trip, it is a piece of art!” ”

“Just wanted to let you know that Utah and PDX-SF were two of the best rides I have ever done, and hopefully not the last with you”

“Our Colorado trip was one of the greatest / most fun things I’ve ever done in my life — and I get around...I fly over 125k miles a year, all around the world. But the physical and mental challenges on that trip, plus how great you guys were, and such a pleasure to be with, made it really special five days. ”

“I have been on a number of bike tours in USA. I felt that like the other rides I have been on with Brad the bike riding was tremendous with fabulous scenery and great support but for me what set the New Mexico apart was the extra emphasis on the Local culture and food experience unique to America. And there is always a tremendous camaraderie among the group with riders encouraging each other through out the journey. ”

“I’ve had the opportunity to participate in a few high-end travel tours and can state hands-down that this is the best travel experience I’ve had. The hard work, professionalism and dedication to your guests is evident. ”

“You and your team were, as I am sure you have heard many times, fantastic on all fronts. But you guys delivered the right kind of experience for people who love to ride. It was gritty yet comfortable. When the guides rode with us it wasn’t to coddle, it was to push. When we stopped for support the drivers would get the job done and then tell us to get going. All in all, it was one of the most rewarding experiences I have ever had. ”

“So, you could say the odds were against me having one of the most rewarding and inspirational experiences of my life - yet that is exactly what the trip proved to be. I would like to express my particular gratitude to Brad for being so positive and supportive and for literally dragging me up the most difficult climbs. ”

“If you want to spend your week riding deserted roads, with stunning vistas, a great and varied route, and in almost guaranteed sunshine then New Mexico could be the trip for you. If you also like your days filled with historical references, cultural interjections, terrific food and wine experiences and getting connected with a truly special part of the world, then New Mexico IS the trip for you.”

“I thought the flexible approach to each day was particularly notable and I never felt under any pressure to ride. And thank you for giving Nick and I the opportunity to ride on the Tour rest day - that was a perfect solution for us and again all down to your flexible, accommodating approach. The attention to detail continued to be immaculate. One is left feeling so well looked after - pampered even - and with the appetite for more. ”

“After my Rapha Randonnee in Colombia I thought I had seen it all. But I didn’t...Japans environment, its people and their culture were eye opening. The variety of the landscape and climate changes on one day are almost unlimited but even when it’s raining it feels natural. Banzai!!!! ”

“Last week I went on the greatest cycling trip of my life-so far. But this trip was more than riding a bike.  It was a personal, very personal trip.  My 21-year old son died in May in a tragic car crash.  The very next week the e-invite for this trip appeared and as I talked with my wife and daughter about how much comfort I get from riding, this trip would serve as part of my recovery-part of my therapy plan if you will, to help me get in touch with my new reality.  Brad and Ben are not just great guides and people, they are true gems as human beings.  They each have experienced loss and understand the weight of personal grief, and understand how to be there for someone in an understated way.  I realize some of this may sound like a cliché, but as I was three months into this adventure these guys were there for me, and I will forever remember them as truly great human beings.  As the trip progressed I observed them treating all of the guests equally underscoring their true nature.”

“This was my first Randonnée and I could not imagine it to be any better. The routes outlined by Brad were guiding us through Japan’s most stunning nature and even enabled us to take some dives in the beautiful rivers. The Japanese staff was extremely helpful with anything that happened during any of the rides and the organization of the trip, from start to end, was surreal.

— Dennis, Japan Alps 2018”