Frequently asked questions

A professional motorcycle tour price should clearly show what is included and what is not included. This helps riders compare tours honestly and avoid misunderstandings before booking.

For MotoGS WorldTours guided tours, the total payable tour cost usually consists of the tour package price plus the motorcycle rental price. On the individual tour pages, these amounts are shown separately because the motorcycle rental depends on the selected motorcycle model, the tour duration and the relevant tour setup.

The exact inclusions depend on the specific tour, but the main organised services normally include:

• accommodation
• breakfast
• guide service
• motorcycle rental according to the selected model, tour duration and the price shown on the relevant tour page
• ferries where they are part of the planned route
• listed activities where included in the tour programme
• Welcome Dinner
• Farewell Dinner
• airport pickup or Meet & Greet where specified, usually Split for Balkan and European tours or Auckland for New Zealand

Flights to Split, Auckland or any other arrival airport are not included. Fuel, lunch and regular dinners during the tour are normally not included unless specifically stated in the tour description.

The final inclusions, exclusions, tour package price and motorcycle rental price are always stated on the relevant tour page and in the booking documents.

Current tour details and schedules can be checked here:

• New Zealand Adventure Tour
• Balkan-Italy Adventure Tour
• Balkan-Carpathians-Albanian Alps Tour 1
• Balkan-Carpathians-Albanian Alps Tour 2
• Balkan-Romania Adventure Tour
• Croatia-Italy-France Adventure Tour
• Croatia-Sicily-Amalfi Coast Tour

A motorcycle tour is different from a typical package tour because the riding itself is the centre of the experience. A standard package tour is usually built around fixed services, passive travel and comfort at one destination. A motorcycle tour is built around daily riding stages, changing roads, changing weather, different overnight stops, luggage on the motorcycle and the shared experience within the group.

Many motorcycle tours use a support vehicle for luggage, passengers or technical assistance. That can be comfortable, but it also changes the character of the journey. The tour can start to feel more like following a travel convoy than taking part in a real motorcycle trip.

MotoGS WorldTours takes a more motorcycle-focused approach. On our regular guided tours, riders carry their own luggage on the motorcycle and stay involved in the daily rhythm of the tour: preparing the bike, riding the route, arriving together and becoming part of the group experience.

That does not mean comfort, organisation or safety are ignored. Accommodation, motorcycles, route planning, documents, ferries, activities and practical tour details are prepared in advance. The difference is that the tour remains a genuine motorcycle journey, not a bus-style package trip on two wheels.

More details about luggage are explained under motorcycle luggage system. Current dates and routes are listed in our motorcycle tour calendar.

When booking a guided motorcycle tour, riders should know exactly who the organiser is, where the business is based, what services are included and what legal framework applies. This is especially important for international riders who pay deposits, travel long distances and rely on the organiser for motorcycles, accommodation, routes and support.

MotoGS WorldTours is a German-based motorcycle tour operator specialising in guided small-group motorcycle tours in the Balkans, Europe and New Zealand. The company focuses on carefully planned riding experiences for riders who want real routes, small groups, direct communication and a clear booking process.

Being based in Germany also matters for payment protection. Where German package travel rules apply, customer payments are protected through the required customer money protection documentation. This gives riders a more transparent framework than booking an unclear or anonymous tour arrangement without proper documentation.

MotoGS WorldTours combines German organisation, international motorcycle travel experience, English-led tours, small groups and region-specific route planning. MotoGS WorldTours is also a Travel & Hospitality Award Winner 2023.

More details are explained under customer money protection and booking process.

A good motorcycle tour route is not created by simply choosing the fastest road between two hotels. Motorcycle route planning requires riding experience, realistic timing, road-surface awareness, fuel planning, weather judgement, border knowledge and a clear understanding of what makes a road enjoyable on a motorcycle.

MotoGS WorldTours routes are built around riding quality. We prefer scenic mountain roads, coastal roads, remote paved backroads, small connecting roads and less obvious routes away from standard tourist traffic. Especially in the Balkans, many rewarding roads are not routes most visitors would easily find on their own.

Our tours are not designed to rush from attraction to attraction. The riding itself is a central part of the experience. At the same time, carefully selected stops, local food, unusual overnight places, ferries, scenic viewpoints and special activities can be part of what makes the tour memorable.

Accommodation is also part of the tour character. Where possible, we prefer places with something local, characteristic or special rather than anonymous standard hotels without atmosphere.

Route planning must still stay realistic. We consider fuel stops, ferries, border crossings, weather risks, road conditions, hotel access, daily riding time and the riding level required for the group. This is why route planning is one of the most important parts of every MotoGS WorldTours tour.

MotoGS WorldTours is an on-road motorcycle tour operator. Our tours are designed for paved public roads, scenic mountain passes, coastal roads, rural roads, narrow backroads and demanding but legal road conditions.

We are not an off-road, enduro or hard adventure training provider. That does not mean our tours are limited to boring main roads. Many of our best routes use smaller paved roads, remote sections, twisty mountain roads and less-travelled connections that create a real adventure feeling without turning the tour into an off-road event.

Riders should be comfortable with curves, narrow roads, changing road quality, mountain sections and longer riding days where the route requires it. In rare cases, a riding day can be longer than usual because of logistics, ferries, border crossings, weather windows or connections between regions. This does not mean every day is extremely long, but riders should be prepared for active touring.

A MotoGS WorldTours tour is not only about riding kilometres. Depending on the tour, the programme may include ferries, overnight ferries, cultural stops, local experiences, rafting, scenic boat journeys or other special activities.

The focus remains clear: paved-road motorcycle touring, scenery, riding flow, shared experiences and safe group progress on public roads. More details are explained under riding experience requirements.

Riding alone gives you maximum independence. A guided motorcycle tour offers advantages that are difficult to create on your own: tested routes, realistic daily planning, accommodation coordination, border experience, ferry timing, group support, route briefings and help when something unexpected happens.

On long-distance motorcycle tours, small details matter. A road that looks perfect on a map may be slow, damaged, closed, boring or unsuitable for the day’s schedule. A guided tour reduces this uncertainty because the route has been planned with motorcycle touring in mind, not only with navigation software.

With MotoGS WorldTours, the guide manages the rhythm of the day, route decisions, breaks, fuel stops, ferry timing, border timing where relevant and the overall group flow. The rider can focus more on the road and less on solving daily logistics.

A good guided tour is also supported by disciplined group riding. Depending on the road and traffic situation, staggered riding, safe distances and clear riding behaviour help the group move safely and smoothly. The experienced last rider, sometimes called a back-door rider or buddy, is especially important because this rider helps keep the group together and can notice if someone has a problem.

A guided tour also creates something a solo ride cannot offer in the same way: shared experience. Riders from different countries often start as strangers and finish the tour as friends. This team spirit is one reason many riders choose a guided motorcycle tour instead of riding alone.

MotoGS WorldTours is different because we focus on small groups, personal preparation, carefully planned routes and a direct relationship with riders. We do not operate anonymous mass-tourism motorcycle groups or bus-style tours where a support van becomes the centre of the experience.

Our tours are built around real riding days, personal luggage on the motorcycle, international riders, English as the usual tour language and a strong team atmosphere. Riders are not simply moved through a programme. They ride the route, manage their motorcycle, share the day with the group and become part of the tour.

For Balkan and European tours, we normally use our own BMW GS motorcycles from the MotoGS fleet. For New Zealand, motorcycles are provided through selected local partners. In both cases, the motorcycle must fit the tour: long-distance riding, luggage, comfort, reliability and changing road conditions.

MotoGS WorldTours is best suited for riders looking for a genuine small-group motorcycle tour, not a standard travel product with motorcycles added as decoration.

MotoGS WorldTours keeps motorcycle tour groups deliberately small. In general, we ride with a maximum of 6 riders plus the guide. In rare cases, and only by prior agreement, we may accept 7 riders. We do not operate large motorcycle convoys.

Small groups are important because many of the roads we ride are not ideal for large groups. Narrow mountain roads, remote paved backroads, ferry connections, border crossings, tight villages, scenic stops and long riding days all require a group size that stays manageable, flexible and safe.

This is not about making the guide’s job easier. It is about the quality and safety of the tour. A smaller group communicates better, moves more smoothly, creates fewer delays and allows the guide to stay closer to the riders.

Passengers are welcome where the tour and motorcycle setup allow it. They are part of the group experience, not an afterthought.

MotoGS WorldTours is built for riders who prefer a personal small-group motorcycle tour instead of anonymous mass tourism on two wheels.

Yes. MotoGS WorldTours welcomes international riders and passengers from all parts of the world. Our participants come from Europe, North America, South America, Asia, Australia, New Zealand and other regions.

Although MotoGS WorldTours is based in Germany, our tours are international. The usual tour language is English, so riders and passengers from different countries can communicate easily and share the same experience. German is also possible, and Spanish support may be available where practical.

For us, nationality is not the deciding factor. What matters is riding experience, attitude, respect for the group and the willingness to be part of a team. A motorcycle tour works best when riders support each other during the day and enjoy the time together after the riding stage.

Many riders arrive as strangers and leave as friends. That international team spirit is one of the strongest parts of a MotoGS WorldTours tour.

For detailed rider requirements, see riding experience requirements.

You do not need to be a professional rider, but you do need solid motorcycle experience. A MotoGS WorldTours tour is not a beginner course. You should be able to control your motorcycle confidently, ride safely through corners, brake properly, handle slow-speed situations and stay focused during longer riding days.

As a general rule, riders should have at least 3 years of motorcycle riding experience and be used to riding on public roads. Depending on the tour, daily stages can include mountain roads, tight bends, changing weather, narrow sections, ferry schedules, border crossings and several hours of riding.

The focus is not speed. The focus is safe, smooth and predictable riding. You should be able to ride your own pace while respecting the group structure, the guide’s instructions and the safety of the riders around you.

This requirement is not a personal judgement. It is about safety — your own safety, your passenger’s safety where applicable, and the safety of the group.

Suitability can be discussed before booking during the personal preparation process. More details about distance and riding time are explained under daily riding stages.

No. MotoGS WorldTours tours are not suitable for complete beginners. Our tours are designed for riders who already have real motorcycle experience and can handle multi-day riding safely and confidently.

A long-distance motorcycle tour is more demanding than a short weekend ride. Riders need to manage daily stages, changing roads, luggage, weather, traffic, fatigue and group riding. On some tours, the total distance may reach several thousand kilometres.

This does not mean that you need to be an expert, a racing rider or a hero on two wheels. Many experienced leisure riders are a very good fit. But complete beginners, very insecure riders or riders without enough recent riding practice should first build more experience before joining one of our tours.

This is not meant to exclude riders unfairly. It is responsible tour planning. A guided motorcycle tour should be enjoyable, but it must also remain safe for the rider, passenger, guide and group.

More details are explained under riding experience requirements and daily riding stages.

Group riding works best when every rider understands their responsibility. The guide leads the group, sets the rhythm of the day and manages navigation, stops and route decisions. Riders follow the agreed structure, keep safe distances and avoid unnecessary pressure or competition.

Depending on the road and traffic situation, staggered riding can improve visibility and safety. On curves, mountain sections, narrow roads, wet surfaces or poor road conditions, riders need enough space to choose their own safe line.

The last rider in the group is especially important. This rider acts as an experienced buddy or back-door rider at the rear of the group, helps keep the group together and can notice if someone has a problem. This position should never be handled by a beginner or an insecure rider.

Good group riding is not about proving who is fastest. It is about reaching the destination together, enjoying the route with everything it has to offer and riding as a team.

On a MotoGS WorldTours tour, the group should function like a small riding unit: focused on the road, respectful of each other and ready to help when needed.

Daily riding stages depend on the tour, country, route and weather. As a general rule, our daily stages are usually around 200 to 320 kilometres. In exceptional cases, a stage can be longer, sometimes around 450 to 500 kilometres, but this is not the normal daily pattern.

Longer days usually happen for logistical reasons, such as ferry schedules, border crossings, weather windows or the need to connect two important route sections. On a full tour, such long days normally happen only once or twice, and where the route allows it, they are followed by a rest day or a less demanding day.

In terms of time, riders should expect around 4 to 6 hours of actual riding on a typical riding day. Including breaks, fuel stops, photo stops, lunch and route-related delays, a full tour day can often last around 6 to 9 hours.

MotoGS WorldTours tours are built for riders who enjoy real time on the motorcycle. The selected roads, landscapes, viewpoints, local stops and riding rhythm are part of the experience — not simply a way to reach the next hotel.

Specific distances and schedules are shown in the relevant tour description and in the motorcycle tour calendar.

Yes. MotoGS WorldTours tours include rest days, with one regular exception: the Romania tour.

Rest days are important because our tours are active riding experiences. They give riders time to relax, explore a location, enjoy the destination, take care of personal things, use laundry services where available or simply recover before the next riding stage.

Longer tours such as New Zealand include rest and exploration days as part of the overall rhythm. Balkan and European tours also include rest days as part of the planned tour structure.

The Romania tour is the exception because it is a compact 12-day tour with an intensive riding programme. To make the route work within that timeframe, it does not include a classic rest day.

A rest day does not always mean doing nothing. Depending on the tour and location, it may also offer time for sightseeing, local experiences, optional short rides or simply enjoying the destination without packing the motorcycle in the morning.

Details are always shown in the specific tour description and in the motorcycle tour calendar.

MotoGS WorldTours mainly offers guided motorcycle tours. This is our core product because the guide, route management, group experience and team atmosphere are central parts of the tour concept.

A guided motorcycle tour gives riders structure and support. The route, daily rhythm, accommodation, motorcycle setup, timing, briefings and practical logistics are organised in advance. The guide leads the tour, manages decisions during the day and helps the group move smoothly from one stage to the next.

On request, MotoGS WorldTours may provide a tour as a self-guided option. In that case, the service is limited to GPX route data and route information. It does not include hotel bookings, full tour organisation, guide service or group support.

A self-guided option is only suitable for riders who are confident, independent and comfortable managing their own riding day, accommodation, timing, navigation and decisions on the road.

For most international riders, a guided motorcycle tour is the better choice because it offers more structure, support, shared experience and less daily logistics work.

No. Our regular guided motorcycle tours do not use a support vehicle. This is a deliberate part of the MotoGS WorldTours concept.

Many guided motorcycle tours use a support van for luggage, spare seats or technical assistance. We take a different approach. MotoGS WorldTours is built around real motorcycle touring: riders carry their own luggage on the motorcycle, prepare their bike each day and remain actively involved in the journey.

This works because the motorcycles are prepared for multi-day touring with a practical luggage system. For Balkan and European tours, the luggage capacity is designed to be realistic even when a rider travels with a passenger, provided both pack sensibly.

Not using a support vehicle keeps the group smaller, more authentic and more focused on the riding experience. It also supports the team spirit that is central to our tours, because the group travels together as riders rather than as a convoy with a luggage van.

More details are explained under motorcycle luggage system.

For Balkan and European tours, the motorcycle is normally provided by MotoGS WorldTours. We usually use our own BMW GS motorcycles from the MotoGS fleet.

This is practical for international riders because they do not need to ship their own motorcycle to Europe, arrange local paperwork or manage long-distance logistics before the tour starts. The motorcycle, luggage setup and basic tour preparation can be coordinated directly with the tour organisation.

For tours outside Europe, such as New Zealand, motorcycles are provided through selected local partners. In those cases, the exact model depends on local availability, but the motorcycle must be suitable for the route, luggage, comfort and riding conditions.

Motorcycle options, upgrades, seat height and availability are normally clarified before booking. This helps ensure that the selected motorcycle fits the rider, the passenger where applicable and the type of tour.

For Balkan and European tours, where MotoGS WorldTours uses its own motorcycles, we aim to provide the motorcycle model confirmed during booking. This is why motorcycle selection is clarified early in the booking process.

For these tours, we use BMW GS models only. In our experience, they are among the most suitable motorcycles for this type of long-distance touring: comfortable, stable, luggage-friendly and well supported in Europe if technical help is ever needed. Other riders may have different preferences, but for our routes and operating experience, BMW GS motorcycles are the right fit.

Seat height and rider comfort are also important. Depending on the motorcycle and availability, different BMW GS models or seat-height options may be discussed before the tour. The selected motorcycle should fit the rider, the route and the expected daily riding stages.

For tours outside Europe, such as New Zealand, motorcycles are provided through selected local partners. In those cases, we cannot always provide a specific individual motorcycle or exact model with the same certainty, because availability depends on the local provider.

For that reason, we may ask for an alternative model or a comparable option. If a change becomes necessary, we will communicate it as clearly and early as possible. Motorcycle choice is therefore discussed as part of the booking process.

A multi-day motorcycle tour requires practical luggage planning. Riders need enough space for personal clothing, riding gear, rain equipment, documents and daily essentials, but they also need to avoid overpacking.

For Balkan and European tours, MotoGS WorldTours uses well-equipped BMW GS motorcycles from the MotoGS fleet. The luggage setup includes lockable side panniers, a lockable top case, a tank bag, waterproof inner bags and additional luggage bags.

Additional bags are part of the touring setup for Balkan and European tours. Depending on the motorcycle and passenger situation, these may include crash-bar bags, tank-guard bags, side-case bags or waterproof bags secured on the passenger seat if no passenger is riding.

This luggage concept can also work for a rider with a passenger, provided both pack sensibly. The key is not to bring everything you might use at home, but to pack efficiently and focus on what is really needed. Many hotels also offer laundry options, which makes it unnecessary to carry clothing for every single day.

A practical motorcycle luggage system is one of the reasons why our tours can operate without a support vehicle while still remaining comfortable and realistic for riders and passengers.

For Balkan and European tours, MotoGS WorldTours prepares its BMW GS motorcycles for multi-day touring, luggage, comfort and safety. The exact equipment can vary slightly by model, but the touring setup follows the same practical purpose: carry luggage, support safe riding, improve daily handling and keep the motorcycle suitable for longer tour stages.

Typical equipment includes:

• lockable side panniers
• lockable top case
• tank bag
• waterproof inner bags
• BMW ConnectedRide Cradle as a smartphone holder
• charging option for your smartphone, including inductive charging
• high-visibility vest
• first aid kit
• security lock with alarm function
• additional luggage bags, such as crash-bar bags, bags on side cases or waterproof bags secured on the passenger seat where suitable

On a guided MotoGS WorldTours tour, riders are not expected to navigate the tour themselves. Route guidance is handled by the tour guide and supported by the experienced back-door rider or buddy at the rear of the group. Your job as a rider is to ride safely, stay focused, enjoy the road, the landscape and the experience, and follow the agreed group structure.

The BMW ConnectedRide Cradle and BMW Motorrad Connected app can still be useful. If requested, route information can be provided so riders may also have the route available on their own phone. This can be helpful for orientation, personal confidence or exceptional situations, but it does not replace the guide’s role on a guided tour.

For guided tours, the guide also carries essential tools and technical equipment. Riders do not need to bring their own workshop tools for the tour.

More details about smartphone use and the BMW system are explained in our BMW ConnectedRide Cradle and Connected app guide.

BMW Motorrad offers an integrated emergency call system for selected motorcycles, known as BMW Intelligent Emergency Call, eCall or SOS emergency call. This system can support riders after an accident or in a serious emergency by connecting the motorcycle with a BMW call centre and transmitting location data where the service is available.

On MotoGS WorldTours Balkan and European tours, all BMW GS motorcycles we use are equipped with BMW Intelligent Emergency Call, regardless of model. This includes models such as the BMW F750GS, BMW F800GS, BMW F850GS, BMW F900GS Adventure, BMW R1250GS and BMW R1300GS.

A major advantage is that the system is integrated into the motorcycle and does not depend on the rider’s smartphone. Depending on the situation and the impact detected by the motorcycle, the emergency call can be triggered automatically. It can also be activated manually from the motorcycle.

If an automatic emergency call is triggered, the BMW call centre can establish a voice connection with the motorcycle through the built-in hands-free system. If the rider is able to respond and everything is under control, the situation can be clarified directly. If the rider does not respond, emergency assistance can be initiated according to the available information and local emergency procedures.

This can be especially valuable on remote roads, mountain sections or less-travelled routes, where fast orientation and location transmission can make a real difference. It is one of the reasons why we consider BMW Intelligent Emergency Call an important safety feature for guided motorcycle touring.

However, no technical system should be misunderstood as a safety guarantee. Mobile coverage, country availability, technical conditions and local emergency response can vary. Riders should still prepare their own phone for international travel before departure.

For international riders, especially from outside Europe, an eSIM can be a practical option for mobile data during the tour. An eSIM is a digital SIM profile built into a compatible smartphone or device; it is not a physical SIM card. It can usually be installed before departure and activated after arrival in the relevant country or region. MotoGS WorldTours can provide practical preparation information about eSIM options before the tour starts.

BMW Intelligent Emergency Call is an additional safety feature included with all BMW GS motorcycles used by MotoGS WorldTours on Balkan and European tours. It does not replace responsible riding, proper protective gear, travel insurance, personal mobile-phone preparation or the guide’s safety instructions.

Planning a motorcycle tour isn't just about exciting routes and breathtaking locations, but also about safety and reliability. This is precisely where a German operator offers you decisive advantages:

• Legal security: As a German operator, we are obligated to issue you with a security certificate. This is issued by an insurance company and protects your payments in the event that a provider unexpectedly gets into trouble.
• Full transparency: You book with a company that operates according to clear German legal and quality standards. This gives you maximum transparency and trust - from booking to the final leg.
• Fair terms: Our goal is to offer you honest value for money. We combine high-quality services, well-thought-out organization, and the security you desire for your adventure.
• Reliable partner: You'll always have a multilingual contact person (English, German, and Spanish) available to answer any questions or concerns - direct, straightforward, and approachable.

In short: By choosing a German tour operator, you're not just choosing a motorcycle tour, but also choosing all-round safety, quality, and a good feeling - right from the start.

Each of our motorcycle tours generally only takes place once a year. You can always find the exact dates on our website under Tour Calendar.

• Balkan tours: various options at different times
• New Zealand tour (North & South Island): annually from late November to mid-December

Motorcycle insurance is an important part of any guided motorcycle tour where the motorcycle is provided by the organiser or a local partner. Riders should understand what is covered, what is excluded and what financial responsibility remains in case of damage.

For MotoGS WorldTours tours in the Balkans and Europe using our own fleet, the motorcycles are insured for road use under the relevant rental and tour conditions. This normally includes liability coverage and protection for damage to the rental motorcycle, subject to the applicable excess, exclusions and contractual rules.

For our European and Balkan fleet, the rider’s maximum excess is usually EUR 2,000. This amount is reserved as a security deposit and represents the rider’s financial responsibility for motorcycle damage, unless exclusions or serious contract violations apply.

Motorcycle insurance does not replace personal travel insurance, private accident insurance, international health insurance or rescue and evacuation support. Riders should review their own protection before the tour, especially for medical emergencies, trip cancellation, trip interruption, luggage and personal accident risk.

Related topics are explained under:

• motorcycle damage and excess
• HanseMerkur excess insurance
• Global Rescue travel protection

If a motorcycle provided for a tour is damaged, stolen or involved in an accident, the situation is documented and handled according to the rental, insurance and tour conditions. The rider is financially responsible up to the agreed maximum excess, unless exclusions, invalid documents, unlawful behaviour or serious contract violations apply.

For MotoGS WorldTours motorcycles used on European and Balkan tours, the usual maximum excess is EUR 2,000. This amount is normally reserved on the rider’s credit card as a security deposit. If the motorcycle is damaged, the repair cost is assessed using damage documentation, a professional workshop assessment, a repair estimate or the final repair invoice.

If the repair cost is lower than the agreed excess, only the actual damage amount is charged or deducted. If the repair cost is higher, the rider’s liability for damage to the motorcycle is normally limited to the agreed excess. The same excess principle can apply in the event of theft, subject to the applicable insurance conditions and exclusions.

The motorcycles provided by MotoGS WorldTours for European and Balkan tours are insured for road use under the applicable rental and tour conditions. This usually includes third-party liability coverage of EUR 100 million as a flat cover, with up to EUR 15 million per injured person. Environmental damage caused by the rider may also be covered up to EUR 5 million, depending on the applicable policy conditions.

If third parties are involved, such as another vehicle, property or injured persons, covered third-party claims are handled by the motorcycle insurance according to the applicable policy. This is important because an accident can involve more than damage to the rental motorcycle itself.

Passengers are covered under the applicable motorcycle liability insurance conditions, usually up to EUR 15 million for personal injury. The rider, however, is not personally covered by the motorcycle insurance as if it were private accident insurance. Riders should therefore arrange their own travel health insurance, private accident insurance or other personal protection before the tour.

For tours outside Europe, such as New Zealand, motorcycles are provided through selected local partners. The same basic process applies: damage or theft is documented, repair costs are assessed, and the rider is liable up to the agreed excess under the local rental and insurance conditions. However, coverage amounts, liability limits and insurance details may differ from the MotoGS WorldTours European/Balkan fleet and are governed by the local partner’s applicable terms.

Optional excess protection, such as HanseMerkur excess insurance, can help reduce the rider’s financial risk for the agreed excess. This can be relevant both for motorcycles provided by MotoGS WorldTours in Europe and the Balkans and for motorcycles provided through local partners, such as in New Zealand, subject to the insurer’s policy terms.

MotoGS WorldTours can provide practical information and help riders understand where excess protection may be relevant, but we are not an insurance agency and do not decide whether a third-party insurer reimburses a claim. The final terms, exclusions and reimbursement decision always depend on the insurance provider and the policy conditions.

You have to decide that for yourself.

On a self-guided tour prepared by us, you decide your own pace and your breaks – with the security of knowing you're traveling on a tried-and-tested, well-planned route. At the same time, you benefit from our recommendations and our experience. You can take the self-guided motorcycle tour alone or with your partner as a passenger. Of course, your partner can also ride a motorcycle. A group consisting of your friends is also possible.

On a guided group tour, you'll meet companions from all over the world and usually make international friends. You can rely on your guide's experience, as they always know what to do if something goes wrong.

No! A valid driver's license from your home country is generally sufficient.

Is my non-EU driver's license valid in the EU?
Yes, usually.
Your national driver's license is accepted as long as it shows the appropriate category (A).

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP)?
Recommended, but not always mandatory and usually not required within the EU.
However, it is highly recommended for non-EU citizens, as police or border officials may not clearly recognize your license as a motorcycle license. You should NOT expect a police officer to be able or willing to identify categories "S" or, for example, "M" as motorcycle licenses.

The IDP serves as a translation of your national driver's license into several languages.

Where can I get an International Driving Permit?
From the driver's license or traffic authority in your home country and is usually available immediately or within a few days.
Validity: 1–3 years, depending on the country.

What happens if I drive without a valid driver's license?

• High fines.
• No insurance coverage in the event of an accident.
• Guaranteed criminal consequences.

Tip: Always carry your national driver's license and - if you are not an EU citizen - an International Driving Permit (IDP). This will save you trouble at checkpoints or border crossings.

Our Balkan tours start in Croatia, at our Meet & Greet location in Seget Donji (Trogir) - just 10 minutes from Split Airport. Our entire motorcycle fleet is also based there. Split has a strong frequented international airport and excellent ferry connections to Italy. This makes Trogir near Split the ideal starting point for tours in the Balkans, the Alps, or even France.

The region around Split, located directly on the beautiful Adriatic Sea, also offers excellent opportunities for an additional vacation before or after the tour – whether for relaxing, exploring, or enjoying yourself.

Our New Zealand tours generally start and end in Auckland, the country's largest metropolis with optimal flight connections from all over the world.

How much luggage actually fits on my motorcycle?
Every motorcycle is equipped with a

• large top case,
• two spacious side cases (panniers) – all lockable, of course – and
• a practical tank bag.

Additionally, there are

• bags for the tank crash bars,
• additional bags on the side cases.

This gives you more than enough storage space for your travel essentials.

What if I've packed too much?
No problem: Anything that doesn't fit in the motorcycle luggage or turns out to be unnecessary later can be left in your travel case. We'll keep it safe and dry in our office during your tour.

Do I need to bring tools?
No. Your guide will bring all the tools and technical equipment. On self-guided tours, we will, of course, provide you with the essentials.

What personal equipment should I definitely pack?
Your own motorcycle protective clothing is essential, as it is optimally tailored to your needs and offers the highest level of safety. This includes:

• Helmet
• Motorcycle jacket and pants
• Motorcycle gloves
• Motorcycle boots

Is there a packing list with tips?
Yes, you can find a detailed packing list for motorcycle tours with seasonal recommendations on our blog.

Don't worry - you can't avoid this, but with the right organization, it's quite easy.

If you pack your motorcycle panniers carefully and thoughtfully, you can sort your belongings into small pouches or bags - for example, by type or use. This way, you only have to take out the bags you need instead of searching for everything individually.

The best part: All motorcycle panniers and additional bags have waterproof inner pockets with practical carrying straps. You can simply remove these from the panniers and take them straight to your hotel room - it really couldn't be more convenient.

And for your safety: The motorcycles are always parked in secure parking lots or underground garages at hotels and accommodations.

If there is a breakdown during a guided motorcycle tour, the guide decides how to handle the situation based on safety, location, repair options, weather, timing and the group schedule.

For minor problems that can be solved quickly and safely, the group may wait and continue together. MotoGS WorldTours normally carries essential tools for smaller repairs on guided tours. In many cases, small issues can be handled by the guide and the group as a team.

Typical small spare parts, such as brake levers or clutch levers, may also be carried because they can sometimes break after a minor tip-over. This practical preparation can help avoid unnecessary delays and is part of the hands-on team spirit of the tour.

More serious breakdowns may require roadside assistance, towing, workshop support or a replacement solution where possible. On a self-guided GPX-based arrangement, the rider or group is initially responsible for contacting assistance, but MotoGS WorldTours supports the process by phone or WhatsApp where possible.

In all cases, safety comes first. No rider should take unnecessary risks just to continue a stage.

A motorcycle tour is a valuable and active travel experience, so riders should think about personal insurance before booking. The insurance for the rental motorcycle protects the motorcycle and covered third-party liability risks, but it does not replace personal travel protection for the rider.

This applies to guided motorcycle tours and also to self-guided or GPX-based arrangements. The exact route, country or continent may change, but the basic insurance questions remain the same: medical treatment, cancellation risk, accident risk, luggage and emergency assistance should be checked before departure.

Riders should especially check whether they have suitable cover for:

• travel cancellation before the tour starts
• trip interruption if the tour has to be stopped early
• international health insurance for medical treatment abroad
• private accident insurance for the rider
• luggage and personal belongings
• motorcycle riding as a leisure or touring activity, without a relevant exclusion in the policy
• all countries visited during the tour, including transit countries where applicable
• 24/7 emergency assistance and clear emergency contact details

Credit cards sometimes include travel insurance, but the terms are often limited. Riders should check carefully whether the policy covers the full tour price, passengers, motorcycle riding, all countries visited and 24/7 emergency assistance. Some credit card policies only apply if the tour was paid with that card.

For MotoGS WorldTours guided tours, customer money protection is not an optional insurance chosen by the rider. Where required under German package travel rules, the relevant customer money protection documentation is provided automatically by MotoGS WorldTours as part of the booking process before payment is requested.

Separate from this mandatory customer money protection, riders may also consider additional optional protection, such as:

• Global Rescue travel protection for medical support, rescue coordination and evacuation-related assistance where suitable
• HanseMerkur excess insurance to help reduce the rider’s financial risk for the agreed motorcycle excess

MotoGS WorldTours is not an insurance agency. We can provide practical information about these options and explain where they may be relevant, but riders remain free to choose their own insurance provider. The exact cover, exclusions and reimbursement decisions always depend on the selected insurance policy and provider.

Registration for our tours is only possible online using the registration form under "Book a Motorcycle Tour" and "Book a Tour now" on our website. The form is available in four different languages.

After you register, we will schedule a personal Zoom meeting with you to discuss any questions and suggestions.
During this meeting, we will clarify, among other things:

• The individual tour features
• Accommodation options in a single room (SR) or double room (DR)
• The selection of a rental motorcycle
• And much more

This ensures that we are on the same page.

To make your reservation binding for both parties, a deposit is required.

After your online registration and the personal Zoom meeting, and after we have mutually agreed on what to expect from each other, you will receive an invoice from us along with the insolvency insurance certificate (insolvency insurance), which is required by law in Germany. 
The deposit amount must then be transferred to the bank account provided on the invoice.

The amount of the deposit varies depending on the tour and the desired motorcycle:

Balkan Tours:

• Rider in a double room: EUR 1,150
• Rider in a single room: EUR 1,350
• Passenger/Pillion: EUR 650
• Rental Motorcycle: 30% of the motorcycle rental

New Zealand Tour:

• Rider in a double room (including motorcycle): EUR 3,900
• Rider in a single room (including motorcycle): EUR 4,350
• Passenger/Pillion: EUR 2,300
• Upgrade Motorcycle: EUR 450

Once the reservation fee has been received, your registration is binding according to applicable law, and your rider's spot (including any passenger) is secured. You will then receive your binding booking confirmation.
The remaining amount must be paid no later than 120 days before the start of the tour.

The deposits are used in advance for expenses such as overnight stays, ferries, and other necessary services.

We strongly recommend that you take out international travel health insurance with travel cancellation coverage. 

Since our participants come from many different countries, an in-person meeting beforehand is hardly possible.

Instead, we hold a personal Zoom meeting with each participant - and their passenger, if applicable. We clarify all important points in advance so everyone is well prepared.

As soon as the rider spots are allocated, we open a WhatsApp group for each tour. There, you can get to know each other before the tour, share experiences, and receive further details about the itinerary - for example, information about personal pickup from the airport or other organizational matters.

NO – you don't have to belong to a club!

Our tours are open to all motorcycle enthusiasts – no matter how big, small, young, old, colorful, or crazy you are.
On a bike, we're all equal!

What you should bring:

• Age: At least 25 years
• Riding experience: 3 years or more
• Team spirit: Desire to experience unforgettable adventures together
• Endurance: For longer distances and lots of fun on two wheels

In principle, everyone has to decide for themselves; we don't oblige anyone to eat.

Fact:

• Breakfast: Every hotel stay includes a hearty breakfast, which is included in the price of the accommodation.
• Lunch: We always take a break around lunchtime, ideally near a restaurant, so everyone can enjoy a leisurely lunch.
• Dinner: We usually eat dinner together at our destination hotel. Whether at the hotel or at a special location - e.g., a special restaurant in a historic old town - depends on the day's destination.

Don't worry: No one has ever starved on our tours!

Yes. Regardless of the rules in the different countries, we - and the police - expect you to wear a helmet. Helmets are mandatory in all countries we visit on our tours.

Which helmets are permitted?
Helmets must comply with certain standards:

• ECE 22.06: Current standard, recommended for all new helmets.
• ECE 22.05: Older standard, currently still permitted, but will expire in the medium term.

What do you need to consider when touring through France?
In France, special stickers are required on helmets. If you are participating in a tour organized by us, we will inform you in advance and provide the necessary stickers.

Are there other equipment standards?
Yes. For example, motorcycle gloves in Italy must comply with the EN 13594 standard. The corresponding sticker must be sewn into the glove.

What are the consequences for violating the rules?
In countries like Italy, France, and Switzerland, enforcement is very strict. Violations of regulations, requirements, or speed limits can:

• Result in very high fines
• Potentially even lead to confiscation of the motorcycle

Why is this information important?
Every motorcyclist should be aware of the relevant regulations in order to be able to easily adapt to the applicable rules and avoid unexpected problems or high fines.

No. When planning the tour, we generally avoid routes requiring tolls or vignettes (e.g., highways or tunnels).

What should be considered for guided motorcycle tours?
Any required environmental stickers (e.g., the French Crit'Air) or permits for entry into environmental zones (e.g., ZTL - Zona a Traffico Limitato in Italy) are the responsibility of the motorcycle owner.
Since you are renting a motorcycle on a guided tour, we, as the organizer, will ensure that all necessary documents are available.

What applies to self-guided motorcycle tours?
Here, you are responsible for environmental stickers or regional driving bans.
However, we will support you with all the information and help with the application process.

Important: Since the French Crit'Air sticker, for example, is issued on the motorcycle's license plate, the rental motorcycle must be selected at least four weeks before the start of the tour.

It depends on personal preference:
Some people prefer to pay with a credit card, others prefer cash.
We recommend a few hundred USD or EUR, preferably in bills up to a maximum of 50.

Should I worry about running out of cash while traveling?
No. ATMs are widely available in all countries where cash can be easily withdrawn.

Our tip:
A combination of a credit card and some cash in small bills is the safest solution.

For typical daily distances, you'll usually need to fill up once a day, but in exceptional cases, up to 1.5 times.
A tank of gas costs between €20 and €35, depending on the country you're traveling to.

What does this mean for the daily average?

• On average, gas costs are around €28 per day.
• As a rule of thumb, we recommend budgeting between €30 and €35 ​​per day to be on the safe side.