Testimonials

Have you had a great experience on a Tour or Micro-Tour...can I get you to take 1 minute to add your testimonial? No names or emails are collected, just comments and initials. (Form Here).

** Joe’s trips are meticulously planned with safety in mind and are always a good time. They are perfect for both first time riders looking to tour in a group as well as more experienced riders. (CH)

** I have been on 3 tours with Joe. Each one has been excellent! He leads great rides with no pressure to be fast. Always had a fun time with the groups. A++ (DH)

** I’ve joined 718 on many micro-tours ranging from 30-60 miles and multiple full tours covering 300+ miles over 5-6 days of riding. Every trip has been an absolute joy. Micro-tours are awesome for beginners and are a great way to get your legs moving, meet new people, and spend a night camping. The full tours have been full of incredible nature views, great memories, and are a rewarding challenge. Joe/718 is incredibly supportive and no matter what bike you have or what gear you have, 718 will help you accomplish your bike touring goals. (MKS)

** I joined a micro tour and it was my longest ride in many years. Joe picked a great team of sweeps who ensured I made it the whole way to camp fully supported. It was hard work but extremely rewarding and our time at the campground was a blast! (JS)

** The best part is you are welcome to show up as you are. Whether it is your first ride or five hundredth, whether or not you know how to fix your flat or what a derailleur even does, you all end up in the same place. This opportunity to unplug and connect is a treasure. (DB)

** My husband and I spent our 25th wedding anniversary riding from Pittsburgh to DC with 718Outdoors. What a journey! Rode hard, saw beautiful places, ate at cool lunch spots each day, and made new friends. Swam in the Potomac River twice at sunset!! If you want to celebrate an important life milestone or don’t have time to hike the AP or PCT trails, do this. (EE)

** We were newbie bike-tourers, bike-campers and tandem-bike riders prior to our Erie Canal adventure with 718! The information Joe provided prior to the start date helped us feel confident that we were prepared. The stops for groceries and dining along the way provided variety and gave us a view of local life in many of the small towns along the canal. The some of views along the trail were breathtaking. Joe encouraged us to “stop to smell the roses” along the way. The size of the group allowed for ease of friendships and small community connection to develop. We had a mechanical issue the first day and were supported by Joe and other riders to get the bike rolling again. Throughout the trip our group came together to provide tips, tricks, and share general knowledge to solve the various mechanical issues that popped up. We can’t wait to do another trip with 718! It was well worth the ride.(ET)

** I am so happy that I heard about the 718 Micro-Tours and decided to go. It was such a wonderful experience. Joe was extremely knowledgeable and friendly. He made the entire experience really fun and not intimidating, even though I was a total beginner to bikepacking. Every person on the trip was also super kind and nice to talk to, there was a really great atmosphere of sharing and mutual respect. I can't wait to do another tour with 718 in the future!! (KPW)

** Joining 718 Outdoors for a week-long bike tour through the Finger Lakes was an unforgettable experience. We explored stunning waterfalls and gorges, and swam in the region’s lakes - a particular treat at the end of a long day’s ride. The tour was organized, felt safe, and most importantly, fun! What truly sets 718 Outdoors apart is the amazing community they bring together. It's a welcoming group of people who share a love for biking and the outdoors, which creates a supportive and friendly riding and camping experience. Highly recommend! (SC)

** About the tours: The micro tours have been such a fun introduction to bike camping and I've been learning so much going to these events. Even though they aren't formatted like a workshop or tutorial the community is really helpful in terms of brainstorming what I can bring on my next camp day or when I'm bike packing. The blueprints are all laid out, a proper itinerary, good attitude, map to guide the way through for planners, and of course being all self-supported for the trip everyone is prepared for anything on the road. I've o my been doing the Croton Micro-tours due to my in-office scheduling but when I get open week's I'm ready to take on the bigger tours like the finger-lakes and more! (AH)

** About Joe: Joe has been welcoming of everyone since day one and I think that really creates that proper community we all strive for. He's open but that doesn't mean skimp on the itinerary nor does it mean to be a harsh leader that's stringent on rules that you have to keep to a certain line nor pace. Joe makes it so that the tours are about getting to the destination and there's hiccups on the road but is always willing to slow the pace down or getting to a more accessible place for the rider to do their repairs. Love you Joe! (also AH)

** Having now done a Micro-Tour and a full Tour with Joe at 718outdoors I can say the communication and planning was truly incredible. It made my first bike camping trips really smooth and stress free. I felt delightfully remote, while still having a good understanding that we weren't really that far from services (food/bike shops/etc) should they have been needed. The GPS routes were clear and easy to load on my Garmin, and the field notes style passport was so fun to have for the week long trip! (AG)

** Joe is super experienced when it comes to bike packing. He helped me plan an Empire State Trail tour and I joined the GAP/CO tour which was nothing short of phenomenal. Joe has a unique ability to make newbies and pros feel comfortable and engaged. I will be riding with him again! (AM)

** Joe’s tours are a must if you have ever wanted to try bikepacking or exploring your interest in cycling in a new way. I had been wanting to try bikepacking for years and finally made it happen with one of Joe’s micro-tours. The group had a variety of experience, gear, fitness, and background, which made for a very comfortable and welcoming atmosphere. (CD)

** I’ve been on two microtours with Joe and both were fantastic! He takes care of everything that could make bikepacking stressful - planning the route, booking the campsite, getting firewood, helping if you need to fix a flat, etc. The groups are always friendly and welcoming and include a mix of experienced and new bikepackers. It’s a fun time! (MD)

** Joe is a fantastic trip leader and so supportive of riders regardless of level. He really goes above and beyond even before the ride begins, and the feeling of community that comes from these rides can't be beat. I've done three rides and look forward to doing more (EB)

** The 718 Micro Tour 9 was fantastic. The entire time I knew I could count on Joe for support if I needed anything. Joe does a great job of creating a setting that is excellent for both experienced bike packers, and those just starting out. I will recommend 718 tours to anyone expressing interest in touring and will certainly be back for another one myself! (SP)

** Great! (KPG)

** Cycle trips are an amazing way to break out of the day-to-day. I told my friend it felt like I took a week vacation in two days. (BR)

** Whether you are new to bike touring, or have done it 100 times, I think you’ll have a great time on one of Joe’s tours! As a more experienced tourer, I thought one of the micro tours might feel ‘too beginner,’ but au contraire. Joe keeps things moving on a tight schedule, but implements great sweep organization to ensure no one is dropped. Can’t wait to do another one! (MS)

** Joe's tours are the best for all levels: from first-timers to seasoned bikepackers. He thinks of everything. The routes are well-thought-out, and meticulously mapped to maximize the joy of the ride itself. The campsites are always beautiful and the perfect place to stop after a day's ride. Joe shares all his knowledge and experience, including comprehensive advice on what to pack, how to pack it, and the bike to pack it on. Beyond all of that, Joe himself is a great guy. He's just fun to ride with and will spin a great yarn over the campfire at night. That alone is worth the trip. (PE)

** As a fellow Bike Shop owner and Bike Tour industry person, I can honestly say, Joe is legit. His attention to detail is unparalleled and his trips are super fun. I've been on a few tours with him and look forward to many more. If you're thinking of riding with Joe or using his planning service you can't go wrong. Five Stars all the way ! (PK)

** Joe’s such a OG in the NYC bikepacking community. Unpretentious, welcoming of everyone without judgement, and just an incredible guy who does a stellar job sharing his passion with everyone. His Type A traits definitely shine as a planner — that sh*t takes a lot of work! We’re so lucky to have him. Highly recommend getting out to tour with him & other likeminded bikepackers. (Thanks for all that you do, Joe!) (KL)

** Joe’s Micro Tour was my first introduction to bikepacking, and I’m totally hooked! The trip was safe, inclusive, the perfect amount of challenging, and a blast. I can’t wait to sign up for one next year. (EG)

** I have some issues: PTSD, addiction and a sneaky autoimmune disease that flares up sometimes. I have been on about 4 micro-tours with Joe and 718 and the experiences have been incredible. The overnight tours are designed to be inclusive for most folks. Joe is a great communicator and safety is always a priority. I do not always feel comfortable around new groups of people but everyone on the 718 tours have been welcoming and supportive. There is something about folks who love bikes and the outdoors that makes those campfires magical experiences. Highly recommend. (DRG)

** Had a fantastic ride on the Erie Canal Trip. Very scenic. Pass thru some of the finest scenery in the United States. People we met and rode with were great. Would do it again. (KGS)

** These tours are stellar! Planned out with all details in mind, adventurous, and attract a kind spirited folk. Joe makes it happen (OD)

** All of the details around bike camping can get overwhelming, especially when you're starting out. I've been on numerous tours with Joe and consulted him for independent rides, and he demystifies all of the various parts of preparing for a bike trip so you can get to the good part (riding your bike) while staying safe. I might not be bike camping, and definitely wouldn't be having as much fun doing it, without Joe's wisdom and approach. (ER)

** Joe does a great job making this trips fun, engaging, and accessible. I met a lot of great people, discovered a few new campsites I loved, and really enjoyed my time. Highly recommend! (JK)

** I cannot express how much fun both of Joe’s tours and micro tours are. Not only do you get to meet new people each trip, but you are able to enjoy new areas (culture, food, nature, etc). I’ve become more confident riding, camping, packing, dealing with mechanical issues, and socializing. I’ve learned a lot about others as well as myself. My first micro tour was to Floyd Bennet Field in Brooklyn and I was afraid of not keeping up with the group doing about 30 miles. A few years have gone by and I have completed the GAP/C&O tour which is 342 miles over 6 days. Taking a week off to spend my vacation doing this tour was beyond worth it. The memories and adventure alone left me speechless at times when friends or family asked “how was your trip?” I’ve stood there, chuckling and shaking my head… to reply “it was amazing.” (AR)

** Joe is a perfect guide. He had everything planned out to a T, but still managed to keep it super chill and not overly "boy scout-y" or "field trip-y". It really felt like an adventure, with a cool guide. The ride's have an excellent pace, and were the perfect introduction to what will surely become a lifelong hobby of mine. (JCB)

** Joe's tours are consistently fun and rewarding. I'm, at best, a recreational cyclist, but the tours are thoughtfully planned and paced so that a range of riders can enjoy themselves. The campsites are always beautiful and the stops charming. The people drawn to the tours are an eclectic mix, yet the energy is always harmonious. I'm always looking forward to my next trip with 718. (IM)

** Had a great time on two micro-tours with Joe. He is very knowledgeable and a cool guy to just talk to. The group vibes are excellent and not intimidating. Highly recommended for anyone interested in dipping a toe into bikepacking. (JC)

** I can’t give enough praise for Joe and his trips. Not only are the tours a blast, I always feel safe and welcome by him and the other participants. I have been to the same destinations half a dozen times and no two trips have been the same thanks to the people these adventures seem to attract. I can’t imagine a more wholesome community and couldn’t possibly recommend these tours enough. I am grateful for 718 Adventure Cycling and everything Joe does to bring us all together. (MR)

** I’ve been on multiple micro tours and one century with 718 and they helped propel me into the bike rider I am today and a life where I can’t imagine not being able to get outside on my bike. My first micro tour I did on my folding bike as that was all I had and 718 helped me figure out how to attach what I needed to what I had. No special equipment needed, which it meant it was for everyone. Over the years Joe helped me set up my first “life sized” bike and I still ride it every week. 718 gave me something to my life that can’t be measured. (XCF)

** One of the best ways to get started into bike camping - supportive environment with great people and well planned routes. You will remember yours for a long time! (WF)

** I love the micro tour idea. Whether you’re looking for a low risk way to try out bike packing, or just want to make a quick reconnection with the great outdoors, I’ve found the 718 community to be a great one to go with. People with lots of different levels of experience, backgrounds, and interests participate and have fun together. (MH)

** More than a bike shop…a portal to adventure and self-discovery (AD)

** As an experienced cyclist who has logged thousands of miles over the years, I don't always love riding in big groups. Joe (a.k.a. Mr. 718 Outdoors)'s trips are the exception. I've joined dozens of 718 micro-tours and two full 718 tours and every one has been filled with interesting people who seem to instantly form a supportive community of fellow travelers. I can only conclude that the source of this magic is Joe, who is calm, knowledgeable, compassionate, and funny. I so value my times on the bike, away from the city, and it is wonderful to have company for these adventures, now and then. (HH)

** I have done two week-long tours with 718 Outdoors - the Erie Canal and the GAP/C&O. Well-planned from start to finish. The atmosphere is collegial and not-competitive! Very (very) special (WEF)

** Very nice first experience! It gives you the nature vibe and appeal to bike more and more! Joe is so gentle and is available for all questions, fears, or needs. (AP)

** The micro tour was an absolute blast! Couldn’t recommend a trip with Joe at 718 more (SK)

** I was lucky to find a place in a 2-day tour to Croton Park this year . This was my first time bike camping and the longest bike ride I have ever done. I was a bit nervous but Joe really helps you through the process and tries to prepare you in advance to your ride. I attended his meetings before, and he helped me choosing things I needed. I now owe a light, easy-to-use tent thanks to him! The trip was really excellent too. He has done this so many times that he is prepared for problems that could arise. There were also experienced riders with us who really made sure that the new ones felt comfortable. I never felt left alone, even though I didn't know anyone before this ride and I went by myself. I think the community he has built around these trips is part of his success. In a nutshell, I had a wonderful weekend; and I am looking forward for his next trips for 2025! (FIN)

** Been on two of Joes longer tours, one in 2019 and one this past year (2024) and it’s always been an incredible time. The hills can be grueling but you always have someone there suffering along with you and the downhills always make it worth it. The nights spent at camp around a fire are some of the most genuine interactions you may have. Mostly strangers who share a love for the outdoors and riding bikes in somewhat unknown areas, stepping out of their comfort zones and tackling whatever is thrown their way. I can’t recommend one of these tours enough, Joe is a wealth of information and everyone that comes along always has something to share as well. Wishing him the best in these new endeavors (LC)