You are considering a bike vacation, but you do not feel sufficiently trained. You immediately think: no problem, I can choose an e-bike! You’re right, but first of all it’s better to know what an e-bike is, how it works, what kind of maintenance it needs during the trip and what precautions to take during the vacation in order to make the most of the support of this bike without any problems or false expectations. Step by step we will try to remove all doubts!

The basics: electric bikes vs. pedal-assist bikes

Let’s start by saying that the electric bike is the one that works without pedaling and falls into the category of electric scooters. While the one you will most often find on a bike vacation, in a rental or bike share is the pedal-assisted bike. More commonly known as an e-bike, it is a bicycle with an electric motor attached to the rear or front hub of the wheels, or to the pedals (bottom bracket). And it only works when you pedal.

Why choose an e-bike over a regular bike?

An e-bike allows you, even if you are not a regular cyclist, to ride many miles in a day and enjoy the experience of riding a bike, helping you to cover more miles than a regular bike. One of the main advantages is certainly the reduction of fatigue and the ability to tackle any climb, but also to face the hottest days without worries thanks to the facilitated pedaling that gives a cool feeling. Thus, with the electric bike you can choose any proposed cycling vacation, without fear of not being able to complete the daily mileage and eliminating the doubt of not being able to withstand the summer heat.

How to choose a pedal-assist bike?

The variables are many. As with muscle bikes, it depends on how we want to use it. In general, there are different types and models of electric bikes, similar to muscle bikes: electric mountain bikes for climbing hills and rocky roads, city bikes for use in the city, or cargo bikes for taking the kids to school or grocery shopping without using the car. For our bikes designed for travel, we prefer the mid-motion solution because it is more efficient and functional, with optimal weight distribution. Thanks to the display on the handlebars, we can usually select 3 or 4 levels of assistance (we have chosen the Bosch system with Eco, Tour, Sport and Turbo programs): depending on the route, you can choose the most suitable one. The display also shows the distance covered and the speed, as well as the range, which changes according to the assistance setting. Just a note: on our trips, once you have chosen between the e-bike and the regular bike, you cannot go back: it will be your faithful companion for all the days of pedaling.

Can it be used in off mode?

Of course, when you run out of charge, you ride like a simple muscle bike, but with a difference in the weight of the bike, which is usually around 23/25 kg. In fact, the weight of an electric bike is greater than that of a classic bike, considering that the combined weight of the motor and the battery is quite heavy. Once you arrive at your destination, you can charge it like a cell phone. All the hotels we choose for our trips include the possibility of charging!

How long does the battery last?

There are many variables to consider: battery capacity, type of route, rider’s weight, and the level of motor assistance you choose to use (be careful not to always use the maximum level). Our bikes are equipped with a 500 watt battery, which allows you to ride from about 40-50 km in the most demanding conditions (maximum assistance level, big climbs), up to 90-100 km with the minimum assistance level in flat situations.

E-bike for children: when and how to choose it

We must remember that the electric bike is a rather powerful vehicle that can easily reach 25 km/h. As such, it is not recommended for use by younger children, although legally it is a full-fledged bicycle with the same restrictions as a traditional bicycle.

Can bike accessories be added to e-bikes?

Regarding the possibility of adding baby accessories, there is no single answer. It depends on the type of bike, in the case of our bikes you can install the rear child seat.

How to manage the pedal-assisted bike on the road

Well, you have decided to take a cycling vacation using an e-bike. Always keep these tips in mind:

• always use the correct assistance levels for the type of road you are driving on: if you keep the maximum assistance level, you risk ending the day by having to recharge again;
• don’t worry about leaving the lights on, you will use more electricity, but for a good reason, you will gain visibility and safety;
• securely lock your bike when you stop for a break or a visit. Use a good lock to secure the frame to a post or railing. Never lock your bike by putting the lock only on the wheels – they are easy to take apart! And remember that these bikes are the most sought after by thieves;
• recharge the battery at the end of the day, making sure to connect the battery to the charger first, then the charger to the socket;
• always carry the charger with you. If necessary, ask a bar if you can charge it;
• handle the battery and the charger with care: any fall could damage them, and then the pedaling will no longer be assisted 🙂

So, are you ready to go? All Girolibero bike tours include electric bike rental, all you have to do is choosing you destination!