>
Home > Articles and tour tips > Thinking of renting an E-bike? Here are some things to consider:
03-02-2025
E-bikes (Electric bikes) are a wonderful way to get around without exerting too much effort - you’re able to reach relatively high speeds (20-28 mph or 16mph, depending on the bike) with minimal effort as the pedals are connected to a battery powered electric motor. For good reason, many of our clients choose to take advantage of the E-Bikes that we offer for their trip, however there are a few things that should be taken into account if you’re considering embarking on your next cycling adventure on an E-bike.
While the batteries are very long-lasting and you can generally ride for about 40-50 miles on one charge, recharging can take anywhere from 2.5 and 5 hours, so it is advised that you keep on top of your mileage. However this shouldn’t worry you on your trip too much, as you can charge the battery from 0 to 80% in roughly an hour. So if you notice you’re running out of charge you can consider stopping at a nearby Café and taking a lunch break while your bike battery charges. You might have to negotiate a small token of appreciation with the Café, after all, E-bike batteries take up a significant amount of power. You should also pay attention to the way you charge your batteries, if you are plugging in multiple batteries in a single power strip, the batteries are bound to charge a lot slower than if you allocated each battery their own socket.
With regards to the motor battery, there are two things to note: firstly, for those of you worried about noise pollution from the motor - fear not! E-bikes are basically as quiet as regular bikes, so you won’t disturb the peace and quiet on your tour. Secondly, using electric bikes doesn’t mean you won’t get a good workout - you will still be using your legs to pedal - but the motor assistance definitely makes cycling less physically tiring. It is possible to cycle on an E-bike with a flat battery, you’ll never be stranded - but with no motor assistance at all, it is important to note that this will be strenuous. E-bikes could be described as being heavy to lift, but heavenly to ride.
One of the reasons for choosing an E-bike is the fact that they allow people of different fitness levels to ride alongside each other! If you’re concerned about members of your group struggling to keep up, consider renting an E-bike! The motor assistance also reduces pressure and strain on the hip and knee joints, which can be ideal for people who are a bit less agile, so no one gets left behind.
In Italy, France, Spain and Switzerland, you must be at least 14 to ride an E-bike. Furthermore, according to Italian law, E-bike riders between 14 and 18 years old must wear a helmet (Obviously we recommend that everyone wear a helmet, regardless of the type of bike that they are riding).
Another fantastic aspect of riding E-bikes is that they are suitable for rocky or uneven terrain, which makes a huge difference for those who may feel uneasy at the prospect of hilly bike ride. The motor makes it substantially easier to climb hills and mountains. For the same reason, E-bikes are a good option for tours in the warmer regions as you’ll be able to avoid getting too sweaty with the effort of riding! However, especially when the sun is out and it is getting hotter, it is critical that you avoid leaving your e-bikes out in the sun for too long. When the batteries overheat the e-bike runs the risk of shutting down, potentially leaving you stranded in the middle of nowhere.
Transporting an E-bike is a little more complicated than riding one. They are much heavier than regular bikes, which makes them difficult to maneuver up and down stairs, and take with you on public transport. They must not be left unattended as they are particularly valuable and therefore attractive to potential thieves. It is doubly important to lock them up securely when you are not riding them, even if you’ll only be gone for a few minutes. E-bikes are pretty sturdy so they are suitable for all sorts of weather so you don’t need to worry about water damage in the rain, as the electrical components are well protected from rain with adequate sealing.
It is more difficult and a bit more expensive to repair an E-bike than a regular bike, as electric bikes are made up of more specialized, complex parts. This is reflected in the pricing. Of course, we will help you if there are any issues, regardless of whether you’re on a regular or an electric bike, but with E-bikes, it is advisable to be extra vigilant and make sure that everything is running smoothly throughout the tour.
When it comes to the actual riding experience, E-bikes offer a combination of traditional cycling and modern technology. The pedal-assist feature allows you to choose how much help you want from the motor, giving you the flexibility to tailor your ride to your preferences and energy levels.
Regarding accessibility, E-bikes can allow you to take on tours and see sights that would normally be too challenging. E-bikes allow for a greater degree of accessibility in our tours. If you find a tour you think you would really enjoy but would think of as too difficult, you might want to reconsider with the possibility of arranging an E-bike.
E-bikes are a fantastic eco-friendly alternative to cars for short to medium-distance trips. They produce zero emissions in use and consume far less energy than a car or even an electric scooter. This makes them an excellent choice for environmentally conscious travelers who want to reduce their carbon footprint while exploring new destinations.
Safety is always a priority when cycling, and E-bikes are no exception. While they handle similarly to regular bikes, the added weight and potential for higher speeds mean riders should take extra care, especially when cornering or braking. It's also important to be aware of local traffic laws regarding E-bikes, as regulations can vary between countries and even cities. Lastly, it should be mentioned just how fun E-bikes are. Cruising up a hill that would have been a struggle on a regular bike, or covering long distances without feeling exhausted just feels amazing. E-bikes can reignite a passion for cycling in those who may have found it too physically demanding in the past, opening up new possibilities for exploration and adventure.
In conclusion, while E-bikes require some additional considerations compared to traditional bicycles, the benefits they offer in terms of accessibility, range, and enjoyment make them an excellent choice for many cyclists. Whether you're a seasoned rider looking to extend your range or a newcomer wanting to ease into cycling, E-bikes provide an exciting and practical way to experience the world on two wheels.
A Cycling Trip To Portugal: Choosing The Perfect Region
Travel tips for the Basque Country
Alsace (6)
Andalusia (7)
Annecy (3)
Apulia (4)
Avignon (2)
Brittany (3)
Catalonia (6)
Corsica (3)
Cycling tips (20)
Dolomites (3)
Emilia-Romagna (2)
Events (7)
France (35)
French Alps (12)
General (70)
Getting there (17)
Girona (1)
Ile-de-France (2)
Italy (17)
La Rioja (3)
Languedoc (4)
Loire Valley (5)
Madrid (2)
Normandy (7)
Our Bikes (5)
Piedmont (4)
Portugal (3)
Provence (11)
Pyrenees (3)
Sicily (2)
Spain (16)
Switzerland (8)
Travel tips (25)
Tuscany (3)
Uncategorized (0)
Veneto (6)