1

Luang Prabang-Hanoi would be a good ride. Going on your own would give you so much more flexibility than a tour. Many cyclists have done this, and you can follow their travelogues for route details. www.crazyguyonabike.com is a good place to begin research; many Lao travelogues here. Your route will depend on which border crossing that you choose. Could be near Dien Bien Phu in Vietnam's mountainous northwest, Na Meo closer to Hanoi, or the one east of Phonsavan to north-central Vietnam.

2

Thanks Bill,
I've had a look at the crazyguy site, but wasn't really planning to travel independently. at this point !! was hoping to turn up and hire a bike. Taking one with me .... and being my own mechanic... i can change a tyre but that's it.
I'd prefer to go with someone who knows the back roads/ get to do homestays/ learn to cook- can I get that experience on my own ?
or is it a pretty well trodden route, with quite a few people cycling? (I've spent time in Asia, but first time in Laos, so no idea really)
also wonder how you'd manage things like the last leg into Hanoi, where tour groups seem to opt for a vehicle transfer.
thanks for your input-appreciated
mh

3

Laos seems to be the most popular country in Asia for cyclists, and you'll likely meet a bunch. Cycling the main routes is straightforward with enough places to stay and eat. If you go on your own it's worth investing in maps (GT Rider for Laos), a guidebook, and time researching Internet travelogues. I found cycling in and out of Hanoi to be OK; one just has to be extra careful with traffic. Or you can go look for a suitable tour.

4

I think that bike tours often come with their own bikes. But if you do go the independent route do then make sure you bring a bike from outside of Laos. When I was there the options were rather shite.

5

Agree with Bill that LP to Hanoi is doable on your own in two weeks but all the roads are pretty hilly. There are tour companies that do this route - see links below - but you pay for the luxury of a guide and support vehicle. Definitely very few bike shops on this route. Note that Hanoi can be quite chilly during the winter so you'll need a fleece or jacket. Traffic is not that bad in Hanoi - just go with the flow and stay alert. Enjoy the trip.

http://www.spiceroads.com/
http://www.symbiosis-travel.com
http://www.worldexpeditions.com

6

Check out whether Exodus do a similar tour as well.

I've cycled with them in Kerala, India, and also a Bangkok - Saigon trip. Both were fabulously organised and loads of fun. The best aspect was the insider knowledge on good routes down back roads.