I did a cycling trip in the North West of Vietnam after the news that Vietnam terrace rice field is in the list of the most spectacular one in the world.
7 days of cycling along the rice field and the fascinating ranges of mountains create the most impressive trip in my life.
I had a local guide and a support van going with me. They were very nice and professional.
I did that with approximately 45$/day with a local operator named Indochina Travelland: www.indochinatravelland.com located somewhere in the middle of busy Hanoi City.
It is really worth it.

Hei Tony,

Can you maybe share the exact route (towns, kilometers, etc.) of your trip. We will be in that region next year during our cycling trip from Indonesia to India. We're not interested in an organized tour, but are glad for tips and tricks....

Thanks.
a.

Hey A,
I did a 5 day motorcycle tour along the Ho Chi Ming Trail when I was there in 9/07. Beautiful modern road through the spine of Vietnam. MUCH cooler (temp) than along the crazy busy coastal road. My tour was from Nha Trang-Hoi An. It is mountainous inland, but beautiful. Very few tourists in the area, but plenty of small citys/villages/hill tribes for your needs. By bike is probably a fantastic way to move northward. Be REAL careful in traffic in the big cities of Vietnam. crazycrazycrazycrazy
Hope all else is good for you and E. Peace. H

We're good. Currently chillin' on Samosir Island, in Lake Toba, Northern Sumatra. One of those places that is hard to leave.
Thanks for the tips.
a.