You are considering a cycling vacation, but you do not feel sufficiently trained. Immediately you think: no problem, I can choose an e-bike! You’re right, but first it’s better to be clear what an e-bike is, how it works, what kind of maintenance it requires during the trip, and what cautions to have during the vacation to make the most of the support of this bike without any problems or false expectations. One step at a time we will try to dissolve all doubts!

Let’s start with the basics: electric bike VS pedal-assisted

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

Traveling with an electric bike: Frequently Asked Questions

Why prefer an e-bike to 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 a bike ride, helping you to cover more miles than a regular bike. Among the main advantages is certainly to reduce fatigue and tackle every 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 the fear of not being able to complete the daily mileage and removing the doubt of not withstanding the summer heat.

How to choose a pedal-assist bike?

The variables are many. As with muscle bikes, it depends on the use we want to make of it. In general, there are various types and models of electric bikes, similar to muscle bikes: electric mountain bikes for overcoming gradients and rocky roads, city bikes for city use, or cargo bikes for taking children to school or grocery shopping without using a car. For our bikes designed for travel, we prefer the mid-movement solution because it is more efficient and functional, with optimal weight distribution. Thanks to the display on the handlebar we can usually choose 3 or 4 levels of pedaling assistance (we chose the Bosch system that offers eco, tour, sport, turbo programs): depending on the route, you can choose the most suitable one. Also on the display, in addition to the miles traveled and speed, the range(range in English) is also shown, which changes according to the assistance set. Just a note: on our trips once you make the choice between e-bike and regular bike, you cannot change: it will be your faithful companion for all days of pedaling.

Can it also be used in off mode?

Certainly, when you run out of charge you ride like a simple muscle bike, but with a difference in bike weight that 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 select on our trips include the possibility of recharging!

How long does the battery last?

You have to consider many variables: battery capacity, type of route, rider weight, and the level of motor assistance you decide to use (be careful not to always use the maximum level). Our bikes have a 500-watt battery and allow you to ride from about 40-50 km in the most demanding conditions (maximum assistance level, major climbs), up to 90-100 km using the minimum assistance level in flat situations.

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

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

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 in relation to the type of road you are traveling: if you keep the maximum assistance, you risk ending the day having to recharge again;
• don’t worry about keeping the lights on, you will consume more electricity, but for a good reason, as you will gain visibility and safety;
• lock your bike securely when you stop for a break or visit. Use a good lock to secure the bike frame to a post or railing. Never lock your bike by putting the lock only on the wheels-they are easily disassembled! And remember that these bikes are the most sought-after by thieves;
• recharge the battery at the end of the day, taking care to connect the battery to the charger first, and then the charger to the electrical outlet;
• always carry the battery charger with you. In case of need you can ask a bar if it will allow you to charge it;
• handle the battery and battery charger with care: any falls could damage it, at which point the pedaling will no longer be assisted 🙂

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