
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Below you’ll find answers to frequently asked questions (FAQ) about our bike tours.
Still have questions after reviewing? Feel free to contact us!
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Q: What do I bring to the tour?
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A: Just yourself, comfortable clothing + a positive attitude (whether genuine or in-genuine). We’ll provide your helmet, bike (note: a regular bicycle, not an e-bike) and a small water bottle.
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Q: Do I have to be a well-seasoned biker or cyclist to take part in the tour?
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A: No, not at all! Our tours are easy, and even more amateur cyclists have often reported finding them easy to complete. However, the answer really depends on your own experience with biking. If you are unsure, please feel free to contact Original NYC to discuss further. We’re happy to be flexible!
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Q: How difficult is the biking? Does the tour's route involve any hills or elevation?
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A: Most say it's not difficult at all! The route involves almost no elevation (mostly flat or downhill).
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Q: Is the tour safe?
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A: Yes! Our staff does it’s best to ensure each guest can enjoy our tours in the safest way possible. Our tour routes generally involve biking ~90% of the time in bike lines separated from cars.
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Q: Does the tour start and end at the same place?
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A: Yes! Unless otherwise specified, our tours start and end here. The final portion of the tour route involves biking the same route in reverse, or if guests prefer instead, riding the NYC ferry (together with your bike) where you'll see some stunning NYC views to return to the tour's end point. This final portion is typically decided on by guests and their guide during the tour.
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Q: What happens if there’s an emergency in the middle of the tour and I have to suddenly leave?
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A: While we require each guest to stay until the end of the tour until its finished, Original NYC’s staff are all trained to handle anything that may come up. If a guest must leave for an urgent matter or emergency, we’ll take care of the equipment issued to you (e.g., bike and helmet) and help you get to where you need to go (e.g., waiting with you for an Uber/Taxi or taking you to the closest subway stop).
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Q: Are there bathrooms along the tour route?
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A: Yes, there are multiple bathrooms along the tour route.
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Q: Can I take my own bike or helmet?
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A: Original NYC issues each guest all the equipment needed to fully enjoy the tour. However, we understand the comforts that come with the equipment we know, which is why guests may bring their own equipment – however, we just ask that you inform Original NYC at least 72 hours in advance of the tour.
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Q: Will there be opportunities to take photos during the tour?
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A: Yes, absolutely! Each tour route is designed with NYC’s stunning views in mind. Plenty of time and opportunity will be provided so that guests can take photos and share on social media.
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Q: Will there be food/drinks on the tour?
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A: Yes, each tour makes a stop where you can purchase a snack (excluded in tour price). In addition, each guest is given a water bottle (included in cost) at the beginning of each tour.
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Q: What is your cancellation policy?
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A: We completely understand that plans change. Unless your booking says otherwise, we offer 48 hours free cancellation from the date of booking (if booked within 48 hours of the tour’s date). Original NYC will contact each guest a few days prior to the scheduled tour to confirm attendance.*
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Q: What happens in case of inclement weather?
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A: Original NYC will track the weather forecast for each tour date. If it looks like the weather may negatively affect guests’ experience on the tour, Original NYC will contact each guest prior to the date of the tour and given the option to either re-book or receive a refund.*
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Q: How can I contact Original NYC if an emergency happens on the day of the tour?
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A: Our team is available via various mediums, including email, WhatsApp, phone, etc. - please visit our Contact Us page for the various ways you can get in touch! Also, we recommend that guests provide Original NYC their contact info (such as phone number or email) so we can reach out about your tour if needed.
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Q: Can I bring children/minors (those under the age of 18 years)?
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A: Yes, of course! Our tours are family friendly. We just ask that each minor is accompanied by an adult at least 18 years of age or their parent/legal guardian.
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Q: Can I join or leave early from a tour after it starts?
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A: Unfortunately, no. There are a great deal of logistics involved in making sure you have the most fun and flawless experience with Original NYC. Once you appear for the tour, each guest must stay until the very end (unless an emergency comes up – see the applicable question/answer on this page).
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Q: Does Original NYC offer private tours?
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A: Yes! We offer customizable & private tours for all occasions (e.g., private parties, company events, etc.) Please click here to book your private tour.
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Q: Is Original NYC licensed & insured?
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A: Yes, Original NYC is insured. And, yes - each of our tour guides has been vetted, and are licensed by the government of the City of New York.
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Q: What language are the tours conducted in?
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A: Although our guides are multilingual, all tours are currently conducted in the English language.
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Q: Who must complete the tour waiver form?
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A: Each adult (18+ years) tour participant must complete the tour waiver form (available via www.originalnyc.io/waiver) before the date of their tour. You may copy and paste the tour waiver form link and share with other participants in your party for their completion. Note: a legal guardian/parent must instead complete the waiver form on behalf of any participant under the age of 18.
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Q: Where can I post reviews online or on social media after my tour?
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A: We greatly appreciate guests who share their kind words about Original NYC with others! Please visit our Reviews page for all the info & links you need to quickly & easily post reviews.
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Q: How can I give feedback directly to Original NYC about my tour?
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A: Please complete our Feedback Survey to share about your experience directly with Original NYC. We're very open & grateful to you for sharing your thoughts!
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Q: What if I still have more questions after reading these FAQ's?
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A: Please feel free to contact Original NYC, and we'd be happy to help!​
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*Third party booking providers may impose additional or differing terms or restrictions which we are not responsible for. Please contact them directly for additional information.