Everything You Need To Know About Electric Bikes

A picturesque stop on the way from Brunico to Dobbiaco | Rob Mills

Blog home / Everything You Need To Know About Electric Bikes

0

Everything You Need To Know About Electric Bikes

Learn of the benefits of using an e-bike on your next cycling tour

The popularity of electric bikes in Europe is growing rapidly alongside the availability and number of cycling trips we offer them on. We answer the most common questions we get asked about the e-bike phenomenon to help you decide if it's worth jumping on the e-bandwagon.

Electric bike used on Lycian Coast Cycle

So, what are e-bikes?

When someone hears the term e-bike, the first thing they might think of is a scooter or electric motorcycle, but they are actually in an entirely different ball game.

An e-bike, or electric bike, is a bicycle with an electric motor that adds a speed boost as you pedal, giving you a helping hand or push to get up hills and achieve longer distances.

E-bikes are designed to make cycling easier, meaning that people of all different fitness levels can cycle together and tackle routes that previously would have been too difficult, and cover longer distances.

Cyclist in Cortina d'Ampezzo | <i>Rob Mills</i>

Is it hard to learn to ride them?

The pedal and handle just like a regular bicycle, with a few bonus features. They are slightly heavier than regular bicycles, which can feel strange at first to regular cyclists. Cyclists have two modes of operation available:

Pedal only: in this mode, you cycle just like using a regular bike, however being a heavier bike it is a tad harder to cycle.

Pedal-assist: take advantage of combined human and electric power to give you that extra boost for obstacles like hills and headwind. Most e-bikes have 3 speeds - choose speed 1 for cruising or up to speed 3 when the hills become tough.

What are the benefits of using an electric bike?

One of the biggest advantages of e-bikes is that they enable cyclists of different levels to join a trip together. If you aren't comfortable with your cycling ability, upgrading to an e-bike is something you should consider. If you are new to the wonderful world of cycling and cycling holidays, which are no longer restricted to serious, lycra-clad cyclists, then e-bikes are a great option because they offer you a safety net.

Other advantages include:

Ease of operation: e-bikes are quick to master and make active holidays physically easier without taking away from the adventurous spirit of a cycling trip
Less impact: using an e-bike reduces the impact on your knees and joints
Fun to ride: for many, choosing an e-bike can mean a more relaxed journey where you can more easily take in your surroundings
New travel scope: e-bikes open many travellers up to the world of cycling holidays, or allow cyclists to choose trips that cover longer distances

The picturesque city of Passau, on the border of Germany & Austria | <i>Pat Rochon</i>

Electric Bike Review

If you're still not convinced, listen to what one of our travellers had to say about her first e-bike experience. You can also see more e-bike testimonials by clicking here.