Individual travellers will typically spend less than half the cost of an organized tour and will be using the same hotels and restaurants. Thus cycling in China generally requires a group tour. In many cities it is possible to rent bicycles. This is an excellent way to get around. The bike will be a heavy one-speed model.
Mechanical problems can develop but there always seems to be a bike repair stand on the next corner.
Bicycles and buses handle most of the Chinese people's transportation needs. The typical Chinese street has four lanes, with two lanes reserved for bicycles. Possibility of heavy but short rainstorms. Train connections in other directions are more reasonable. One inexpensive hotel and a youth hostel in Yangshuo.