Any Switzerland and Vicinity Ride report?

[razz2234]

Looking to go to Zurich and rent bikes next summer. There are a few, lets say not very experienced riders, so I'm looking for ride reports that won't be too dangerous...like riding through the Alps. Any suggestions for simple rides like to Munich or somewhere in the neighborhood.
Also, anybody have any advise on rentals for the area?
Appreciate any advise....
Thanks

[darrylri]

The first thing you should do is buy a copy of John Hermann's "Motorcycle Adventures in the Alps".  Then buy the Michelin map for the Alps.  Use Hermann's book to guide you in marking off roads to try.

If you have riders that are not good in the tight stuff, there are lower pass roads that are not as demanding.

Many BMW dealers in Europe rent bikes.  But it isn't cheap -- I've been seeing prices in the $150/day range, and that's with a 200 or 300km limit (additional kms cost about €0.50, which can add up fast).  

The best prices I know of are from Stefan Knopf (www.knopftours.com), but he's in Heidelberg.  Heidelberg is a one hour train or bus ride from Frankfurt airport, and it's about a 3 hour ride from there to Zurich.  

And if you don't want to play in the Alps, why are you going into Switzerland?  It's the most expensive country in Europe.  Stay in Germany or France to get better value.  You can have a great time riding in the Black Forest or the Eifel (area west of Cologne) in Germany or Provence in France, for example.  

[larstorders]

razz. Switzerland is a great country to visit. Laws differ to the rest of Europe, sometimes more sensible sometimes not.
Don't know about cost of bike rental, but Switzerland is not significantly more expensive than other European countries in my recent experiences. Accomodation can be excellent.  If you are  paying for hotel rooms, you should expect to get twice the quality, for half the price you would pay throughout the UK. Swiss and German are generally similar quality and great value. French hotels, not always, but often, suck at any price. Italian hotels are usually expensive.
Anywhere south of Munich you will find alpine roads to suit you. Almost all hotels welcome bikes too.

I highly reccomend this site with forum and excelent links http://www.alpineroads.com/
Enjoy