Soksabike

Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently
Asked
Question

Cycling through rice fields

Tours:

Is a bike tour the best way to see the countryside around Battambang?

We think a bike tour is by far the best way to see Battambang because it allows you to get closer to the sights, enjoy exercise, and get to know your guide. After 15 years, Soksabike is now Battambang's longest-serving and most experienced bike tour company.

Which is the best tour for me?

If you want to taste a lot of food and drink while learning about the production process then the Local Livelihood Tour is the one for you. For those who wish to understand the melting pot of cultures and religions that exist in modern Cambodia check out Walk & Bike Tour. For a unique full day out, then the Ride in the Countryside is what you are looking for.

I'm not much of a cyclist. Will I be able to keep up?

We go at a leisurely pace, with plenty of time for photographs, water and rest stops. if you can ride a bike, you won’t get left behind.

Do you take breaks?

The breaks are a great part of the experience and all tours make many stops. The Walk & Bike Tour includes a stop at a Muslim cafe and a family home for lunch. The Local Livelihood stops at a family home to have fruit and coconut water, and the full-day tour includes lunch. The Ride in the Countryside goes to a Cambodian sweet shop and family home for lunch. All tours have at least a drinks/toilet break.

How safe are the tours?

We are proud of our safety record. Our guides are trained in first aid and carry medical kits with them. The tours do go on the road, and Cambodia does have a high rate of road accidents so we advise people to be cautious. At the start of the tour, your guide will give you a safety briefing, and your guide will always be on hand to help and make you feel as comfortable as possible.

Do tour prices include bicycle hire for the tour?

The tour price includes everything you will need on the tour including; tuk tuk pickup, water, coffee, food, bike, helmet, and guide.

What are the tour guides like?

We are the only bike tour in Battambang to have a large team of tour guides who receive intensive training in English, Cambodian history, culture, Buddhism, leadership and customer service. Check out our Team Page to read about some of them.

Where do tours start and finish?

We start and finish at the Soksabike office, go to our directions page.

When should I arrive?

Please arrive at least 15 minutes before your tour is due to start.

What is the difficulty level of your tours?

Our tours are designed to be enjoyable for a wide range of fitness levels. We generally cycle at a leisurely pace with frequent stops for photos, refreshments, and to learn about the local culture. Our guides will ensure that no one is left behind. For specific details on the terrain and cycling distance of each tour, please refer to the individual tour descriptions on our website.

What should I bring on a bike tour?

We recommend bringing comfortable clothing and shoes suitable for cycling, sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, and a reusable water bottle (we provide refills). You may also want to bring insect repellent and a small backpack for personal items. Don't forget your camera to capture the beautiful scenery!

What happens if it rains during a tour?

We will do our best to continue the tour if it's just a light shower. We recommend bringing a light rain jacket if you are concerned. If the rain becomes heavy or poses a safety risk, we may need to pause the tour at a suitable location until it passes or, in some cases, adjust the itinerary. Your guide will make the best decision based on the conditions to ensure everyone's safety and enjoyment.

What is the duration of your tours?

The duration of our tours varies depending on the specific itinerary. Our Local Livelihood Tour typically lasts around 4-5 hours, the Walk & Bike Tour is also around 4-5 hours, and our Ride in the Countryside is a full-day experience. Please check the details of each tour on our website for more precise timings.

Can we arrange a private tour for our group?

Yes, we can often arrange private tours for groups. This can be a great option if you have specific interests or prefer a more personalized experience. Please contact us with details about your group size and desired itinerary, and we'll be happy to discuss the possibilities.

What is the maximum group size for your regular tours?

Our regular tours typically have a maximum group size of 16, ensuring a more intimate and engaging experience for everyone.

Are your tours offered in other languages besides English?

Our standard tours are conducted in English by our well-trained guides. If you have a request for a tour in another language, please let us know when you inquire about booking, and we will do our best to accommodate your needs, depending on guide availability.

How much cycling is involved in your tours?

The amount of cycling varies depending on the tour you choose. Our Local Livelihood Tour and Walk & Bike Tour involve moderate cycling distances, while the Ride in the Countryside is a full-day tour with more extensive cycling. You can find the approximate cycling distance mentioned in the description of each tour on our website.

Do you cater to specific dietary requirements or allergies?

Yes, we can usually cater to vegetarian, vegan, and some other dietary requirements or allergies. Please inform us of any specific needs you have when you book your tour, and we will do our best to accommodate them with the food and drinks provided during the tour.

Will there be opportunities to interact with locals during the tours?

Absolutely! A key part of the Soksabike experience is the opportunity to interact with the local community. Our tours often include visits to family homes and local businesses, allowing you to learn firsthand about Cambodian life and culture.

Safety:

How safe are the tours?

We are proud of our safety record. Our guides are trained in first aid and carry medical kits with them. The tours do go on the road, and Cambodia does have a high rate of road accidents so we advise people to be cautious. At the start of the tour, your guide will give you a safety briefing, and your guide will always be on hand to help and make you feel as comfortable as possible.

Do I have to wear a helmet?

No. We provide helmets free of charge and strongly recommend that you wear one, but you can fill out a waiver if you do not want to.

What safety measures do you have in place?

Your safety is our top priority. All our tour guides are trained in first aid and carry comprehensive medical kits. Before each tour, your guide will conduct a safety briefing covering essential information about road safety and group riding. While cycling on roads, we advise everyone to be cautious and aware of their surroundings. Our guides are always there to offer assistance and ensure you feel comfortable throughout the tour.

What happens in case of a medical emergency during a tour?

In the event of a medical emergency, our trained guides will provide immediate first aid. They are equipped with medical kits and are knowledgeable in basic emergency procedures. Depending on the severity of the situation, they will also contact local medical services for further assistance and ensure the affected individual receives the necessary care.

General:

Can I leave bags/jackets behind while I take the tour?

Yes, but If you leave items with us, all care but no responsibility will be taken for them.

Where are you located?

Our office, where all tours start and finish, is located on Street 1.5, near the central market Psar Nath. You can also find detailed directions on our Contact Page.

What are your operating hours?

Our general operating hours are from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. However, tour times may vary, so please check the specific tour schedules on our website.

How can I contact you if my question isn't answered here?

If you have any further questions that haven't been addressed in our FAQ, please don't hesitate to contact us by sending an email to info@soksabike.com or by calling us at +855(0)12 54 20 19. You can also visit our Contact Us Page for more contact options.

Practicalities:

What currency is accepted for bookings and rentals?

We primarily accept US Dollars and Cambodian Riel. For online bookings, we typically process payments in US Dollars. Please check our booking page or inquire for more details.

Is Wi-Fi available at your office?

Yes, we offer complimentary Wi-Fi at our office for our customers.

Are there toilet facilities available during the tours?

Yes, all our tours include stops at locations with toilet facilities. Your guide will also point these out along the way.

Can I pay with a credit card?

Yes, we accept major credit cards for online bookings and at our office.

Bike Rentals:

What sort of bicycles do you have for the tours?

We have high-quality imported mountain bikes (Giant, Trek, GT, etc). You can read more about them here.

Can I bring my own bike on the tour?

If you like, but make sure it's roadworthy, our guide is only trained to fix our bikes.

What if I have a problem with my bike on the tour?

Don't worry, our guides are trained to fix mechanical problems. We'll have you back on the road in no time.

What types of bikes do you offer for rent?

For both our tours and independent rentals, we use high-quality, imported mountain bikes from reputable brands like Giant, Trek, and GT. These bikes are well-maintained to ensure a comfortable and safe ride on the local terrain.

What equipment is included with a bike rental (e.g., helmet, lock)?

When you rent a bike from us, we include a helmet and a bike lock free of charge. We strongly recommend wearing a helmet for your safety.

What are your rental rates?

Our bike rental rates vary depending on the duration of the rental. Please contact us directly for our rental rates.

What are your rental hours?

Our bike rental service is typically available from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm daily. Please confirm our exact hours when you make your booking or contact us.

What happens if the bike gets damaged during my rental?

We understand that minor wear and tear can happen. However, if the bike is significantly damaged due to misuse or negligence, you may be responsible for the cost of repairs or replacement. We will discuss this in more detail when you pick up your rental bike.

Is there a security deposit for bike rentals?

Yes, we require a security deposit such as a passport, a driving license, ID cards or some sorts of related to IDs or amount of cash based on bike type for bike rentals, which is fully refundable upon the safe return of the bike.

Can I rent a bike for multiple days?

Yes, we offer bike rentals for multiple days. Please inquire about our multi-day rental rates when you contact us or visit our rental page.

Do you provide maps or suggested cycling routes for independent rentals?

Yes, we can provide you with maps and suggestions for interesting cycling routes around Battambang based on your preferences and fitness level.

Can you deliver or pick up rental bikes from my hotel?

Depending on your location and the duration of the rental, we may be able to arrange bike delivery and pick-up for an additional fee. Please inquire about this service when you make your booking.

Booking:

Do I need to reserve?

It's the best way to guarantee a place on the tour you want we don't want you to be disappointed! In saying that, we often have walk in customers and can put them on a tour if they come to the office the day before the tour.

What's the best way to book?

Definitely online- You can select your day and see our full range of products. If you can't book online for any reason feel free to send us an email or phone us. Find our details here.

Children:

Are the tours suitable for children?

We have a range of bikes for children of all ages. Adults are responsible for children and their safety at all times.

What age does my child have to be to get the child rate?

We have an infant rate for anyone under ten and a child rate for anyone under 15 years old.

Responsible Tourism:

What is your policy on interacting with local children?

We are deeply committed to the safety and well-being of the communities we visit, especially children. We ask all our guests to review and follow our Child Safe Travel guidelines to ensure positive, respectful, and safe interactions during our tours.

How does Soksabike contribute to responsible tourism?

At Soksabike, responsible tourism is at the heart of everything we do. We strive to minimize our environmental impact, respect local cultures, and directly benefit the communities we visit. Your participation in our tours helps fund vocational training for young Cambodians and provides income opportunities for local families. We are committed to transparency and are happy to share more details about our social impact.

Can I visit the vocational training center that Soksabike supports?

While our tours don't typically include a visit to the vocational training center to avoid disrupting the students, we are happy to provide you with more information about the projects we support and may be able to arrange a visit upon special request and depending on the center's schedule. Please contact us for more details.