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El Tour de Tucson

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102 Mile Platinum

102 mile mtb, 102 mile recumbent, 102 mile handcycle, 102 mile tandem, 63 mile mtb, 63 mile recumbent, 63 mile handcycle, 63 mile tandem, 32 mile mtb, 32 mile recumbent, 32 mile handcycle, 32 mile tandem, 32 mile e-bike, unknown participants, results question, please be sure to choose the correct division before searching your bib number, we are done reviewing camera footage. you have until december 3 to submit an inquiry about missing results. all results will be final at midnight december 3, 2023..

When submitting an inquiry, use this FORM and please include the following information:

  • What time you finished
  • The color of your jersey
  • Where you number was placed (on jersey and on bike)
  • Who you started next to
  • Who you finished next to

Tour Website

Additional Tour information can be found at https://eltourdetucson.org .

Description

This page is for results only. For more information, please visit: https://eltourdetucson.org  

If you have questions about your 2023 results, please submit this FORM .

All inquiries will be discontinued and results will be final on December 3. 

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Interactive Race Day Experience with RaceJoy

Live Phone Tracking, GPS Progress Alerts and Cheers!

We are providing you with RaceJoy as part of the official race experience for the El Tour de Tucson.

Download the RaceJoy mobile app in advance to ensure proper phone setup. Invite your friends and family to track you and send you cheers!

Some key RaceJoy features include:

GPS Progress Alerts

  • Receive continual progress updates as you complete your goal.

Live GPS Tracking

  • Remote spectators can track your progress live in a map view. You can also track others.

Send-a-Cheer

  • Receive supportive audio cheers from remote friends & family.

Virtual Results (virtual events only)

  • Enter your race-assigned bib number to automatically submit your finish data for real-time scored results.

Download RaceJoy

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Seek Travel Ride

Power to the Pedals – 8 Great e-bike Tours in France

If you are thinking about a trip to France this holiday season and looking for some cycling tours, then this page is for you. The focus of this article is electric bike tours that are currently available in France. We have researched the market and listed 8 different options across the country that you might like to consider. Choose from popular destinations like Bordeaux and its magnificent wines, the sparkling waters of the Mediterranean or the historic beaches of Normandy.

e-bike Tours in France – a popular activity

Electric bikes or e-bikes have increased in their popularity over the last few years. Many people are rediscovering their love of riding a bike with a little bit of extra assistance from the motor. If you’ve ever wanted to take a cycle tour but were concerned whether you had the fitness required to get over some hilly terrain, then an e-bike tour provides you with a perfect solution. So with this in mind, we have picked out 8 different e-bike tours in France you can look to explore on your next holiday.  The tours we have selected below vary in duration and are a mix of guided and self-guided options.

Lady getting ready to ride an e-bike

Full Day French Riviera

E-bike tour.

(Region: French Riviera. Duration 7hrs)

Explore the delights of the French Riviera on this guided e-bike tour.   Departing from the historical old port of Nice, you will enjoy marvelling at the superyachts in the harbour before using that e-bike motor to easily get you to the top of the surrounding peak of Mont Boron where you will cycle past Elton John’s house. The view from the summit looking back towards the seafront is absolutely stunning. Then get a taste of the life of the rich and famous with a visit to the opulent Villa Ephrussie de Rothschild and its 9 gardens. For some extra fun, the tour also includes a game of Pétanque – a favourite pastime in this area of France. Discover more about this tour here .

Feel like discovering more about a holiday in the French Riviera? Read our comprehensive destination guide .

Easy going e-bike Tour Loire Valley

(Region: Loire Valley. Duration 6 days)

If you want to take in the sights of grand Chateaus, sweeping rivers, fields of sunflowers and rolling vineyards then this e-bike tour in the Loire Valley is for you. Running over 6 days, this guided tour begins and ends in St-Pierre-des-Corps. The best of the Loire is on offer here including the experience of staying in luxury Chateaus each night as your accommodation. Each meal on the tour utilises the local produce which is grown in the region and of course, this includes the wine from the vineyards you cycle past. Discover more about this tour here .

   D-Day Landing Beaches e-bike Tour: Bayeux to Omaha Beach

(Region: Normandy. Duration: 6 hours)

This e-bike tour in Normandy is definitely one for those who have an interest in World War II history. As you ride through the countryside your tour guide will point out areas of significance in relation to the battles which broke out here during the war. The tour finishes at Omaha Beach – one of the landing beaches used in D-Day. You will also have free time to spend at the American Cemetery.  This is just one of a number of similar tours offered by the Tour Operator. You can discover more of their D-Day Landing Beaches tours here .

Bordeaux to Sarlat Wine and e-bike Tour

(Region: Bordeaux & Dordogne. Duration: 6 or 9 days)

If you are a lover of French wine and food then this self-guided e-bike tour is for you. Starting in the beautiful city of Bordeaux and ending in the charming village of Sarlat in the Dordogne region, this is a real gastronomy tour. You will have a multitude of wineries to stop in at along the way as you travel through the beautiful towns of Saint Emillion, Bergerac and Les Eyzies. But while the wine in this region is world-renowned, so is the local produce and food with some of the best cuisines France has to offer. The tour is offered with an option of 6 or 9 days depending on how long you want to explore the area.  For more information click here .

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e-bike: The Grand Tour of Provence

(Region: Provence, Duration: 7 days)

If you are feeling inspired by the book A Year in Provence then the Grand Tour of Provence is the e-bike tour in France you are after. This 7-day self-guided e-Bike tour visits all the famous sights that the Provence region is famous for. From historic hilltop forts, olive groves, lavender fields, as well as those famous perched villages. You will discover that an e-bike is a perfect way to explore everything that is on offer on this trip. If you feel like getting a taste for some Tour de France history you also have the option to cycle the infamous Mont Ventoux instead of taking a rest day. Discover more about this tour here.

Tour de France Cols on an e-Bike

(Region: French Alps. Duration: 6 Days)

Want to ride the iconic climbs of the Tour de France but worried you aren’t fit enough? Then why not ride them on this e-bike tour through the southern French Alps. You will be able to enjoy the 21 hairpin bends of Alpe d’Huez as well as take in the moonscape of the ‘Casse Deserte’ of the Col d’Izoard – one of the highest mountain passes in Europe. There is even a ‘time trial challenge’ stage where you can pit yourself and your e-bike up against the time set by Chris Froome. This e-bike tour also includes all the benefits which come from a guided tour with vehicle support. Discover more about this e-bike tour in France here.

Want to discover what is on offer in the French Alps? Read our practical guide on planning a holiday in the French Alps here .

Northern Corsica on an e-bike: GT 20 from Bastia to Calvi

(Region: Corsica. Duration: 7 days)

This e-bike tour takes in the sights of Northern Corsica, a French Island located south of the French Riviera, on the Mediterranean Sea.  The self-guided tour begins in Bastia where you can take in the rich history and marvel at the buildings in the old port and citadel.  The tour follows the route of the Grande Traverse 20 and each day has two options with different ride distances depending on whether you’d prefer a longer or shorter day in the saddle.  The island of Corsica is a real gem and contains very diverse scenery.  There are many high mountain peaks, a desert as well as beautiful little fishing villages and of course countless beaches to explore.  The finishing city of Calvi is a sight to behold and you will certainly want to spend time exploring the 12th Century Citadel. Click here to learn more about this e-bike tour.

Three Lakes Tour – Geneva to Annecy

(Region: French Alps. Duration: 6 days)

This self-guided e-bike tour sees you take in the sights of three beautiful lakes, all of which are framed by the mountain peaks of the French Alps and Jura. This tour actually begins in Geneva in Switzerland which is very close to the French border. From there you will enjoy this pleasant route which has been planned to utilise the river paths which trace the Rhone and Isere rivers. You will explore the shores of Lake Geneva before riding through to France and reaching Lac du Bourget – France’s deepest glacial lake. Whilst there makes sure to enjoy the thermal spa waters of Aix les Bains which have been utilised since Roman times.

The final lake to take in on this tour is Lake Annecy. The city of Annecy itself enjoys a stunning backdrop with the turquoise waters of the beautiful lake framed by huge Alpine peaks looming all around. The old city or ‘Vielle Ville’ is known as the Venice of the Alps owing to the stunning canals which flow through it. The assistance of the e-bike on this tour means you can experience the joys of riding through the French Alps without the struggle of pedalling up mountains. Discover more about this tour here .

Annecy is a fantastic holiday destination with so many activities, sites and attractions to explore Read more in our comprehensive Annecy destination guide .

What to consider when hiring an e-bike?

If you’d like the experience of riding an e-bike but don’t want to partake in an official tour then there are still great options to choose from. You will find the availability of e-bike hire in France is increasing and they are available for rental right throughout the country. The type of e-bike you hire will vary depending on the terrain and distances you plan to ride. There are three different types of e-bikes you will generally find available – e-mountain bikes, e-hybrid/city bikes and e-road bikes. For most people the e-hybrid/city bike will be the best option, allowing you to ride in a comfortable upright position on a mix of road surfaces. Many of the popular city bike hire schemes now also have an e-bike option.

3 tips to help you prepare for an e-bike tour

Making sure you choose the right e-bike tour to suit your riding style is a really important consideration to make. Below are three things to do before you go which will help make sure participating in an e-bike tour is an enjoyable experience for you.

* Consider the type of terrain you are comfortable riding on. An e-bike will definitely help you get to the top of climbs with ease, but you don’t want to get to the summit of a road only to find you are not confident riding down the other side. If you feel that descending long mountain roads may be a bit scary for you, then be sure to choose an e-bike tour that keeps you on flatter terrain.

* Ride your bike before you go on holiday. This is especially important if it has been a while since you last turned the pedals. Spending some time riding a bike beforehand will help you ride with confidence when you are on your tour.

* Work out how long you are comfortable riding a bike for each day. The e-bike motor will help take some of the efforts out of the actual riding, but you still want to be sure you are ok with spending a few hours on a bike seat. This will also help you decide on the e-bike tour length. If you want to ride a multi-day tour, then you definitely want to know you are comfortable with the idea of riding day after day. Keep in mind in France e-bike motors are limited to travelling at a speed of 25km/hr. (15.5mi). This will help you work out how long it may take to travel the distances between your start and end point each day.

How long does an e-bike motor last?

If you are taking a self-guided e-bike tour something to find out beforehand is the capacity of the motor. In most cases e-bikes will allow for a few different modes, each giving a different amount of ‘boost’ in terms of power. The more powerful the boost, the higher the drain on the battery. Each motor is different and other factors such as the weight of the rider, the bike, any luggage you are taking as well as the type of terrain you are riding (hilly/flat) will all have an impact on battery life and how long the e-bike motor will last.

So there is no one magic number that will apply to everyone in relation to the mileage you can expect to cover on an e-bike battery charge. This is definitely something to ask your tour operator but for most people, provided you use the motor wisely you will comfortably complete the distances set out in the tour. There is also a range calculator available here from Bosch which is one of the most common battery types used on e-bikes. If you put in your details it will give you an estimate of the distance you can travel on one charge.

Feeling inspired to ride a bike in France on your next holiday? Then have a look at our Practical Resources section which has everything you need to know to assist you with trip planning.

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El Tour de Tucson

It's happening! E-bikes at El Tour de Tucson

Through the years, we have received requests to allow e-bikes to participate in El Tour. Our event has always been all-inclusive and encourage riders of all ages and abilities to participate. After careful consideration, El Tour will allow E-bike cyclists the opportunity to ride and help raise funds for charity.

E-Bikes are allowed on the 32 mile route with the following conditions:

  • Class 1 and Class 2 E-bikes only . These E-bikes have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph.
  • E-bikes will only be allowed in the 32 mile event.
  • E-Bikes will have their own category that starts at the back of the pack of  the 32 mile event
  • Riders on E-bikes will be timed.
  • E-bikes excluded from all road bikes awards in “main” event distances.

Under Arizona legislation, ARS 28-819 : “ An operator of an electric bicycle is granted all the rights and privileges and is subject to all of the duties of a person riding a bicycle “.

This is a new experience for all of us so here are some suggested best practices:

  • The event is not the best time to discover what your bike (or your body) is capable of. We recommend training with your equipment before taking part in El Tour. Get a tune-up at your favorite bike shop before the event.
  • Battery management: Choose assist modes wisely. Understand and test the range and battery capability before the event.
  • Bike Patrol is equipped to help with flats and simple repairs on regular bikes. E-bike issues could present problems that are beyond the scope of what can be repaired during the event. Identify a friend that could help transport you and your bike if necessary.
  • Our ride support (SAG vehicles) may not be able to accommodate your e-bike should you need to be transported to the finish line. Be prepared to have someone on call that can transport your e-bike if necessary.

E-Bike Rentals

2024 el tour countdown, what people are saying.

TOUR DE TUCSON is checked off my bucket list!!!! What a great experience and I placed in the top 800!!! It’s not about winning it, it’s about finishing it!

Tucson is an incredible city and beautiful location for a large cycling event. El Tour brings together cyclists from all over the world and promotes cycling, personal fitness, and community engagement.

El Tour de Tucson 2019! I think this is becoming an annual family tradition. So much fun!

Amazing -We were able to raise community awareness, serve our charity and have our multi-generational family get addicted to a new sport- cycling!!

El Tour is a fantastic experience and celebration of Tucson’s cycling community.

Loved the ride. This is the 18th time I’ve done the ride and hope it comes back next year bigger and better.

@GabbyGiffords and I had a great time riding in El Tour de Tucson. I can’t think of a better representation of Tucson than thousands of people coming together outdoors to help raise money for the causes they care about.

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Fun from the first pedal stroke, our e-bikes give you a boost on big climbs, keep up with the fast group, and venture further on your bike tour - so don't worry you can take the long way..

With Trek e-bikes, riders of all abilities can discover the world together on two wheels, riding longer, farther, and faster than ever before. Upgrading to an electric bike is also available at no additional cost. Whether you're cruising the California coast or exploring the vineyards of Tuscany, join us for an electric bike vacation in some of the world's most beautiful destinations.

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Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date? Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

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Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Road : 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Road : 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Road : 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - reserve:.

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

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Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

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Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

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El Tour de Tucson

This bucket-list-worthy ride is a tucson tradition, el tour de tucson: ride for wellness or challenge, returns november 2025.

El Tour de Tucson continues to monitor and adhere to all authoritative mandates issued by the CDC and local health officials. To stay informed of changes related to this event, check out the  El Tour de Tucson website  or  register for their newsletter .

El Tour Logo

Tucson's must-ride cycling event

El Tour de Tucson is a premier fundraising ride in the United States and the longest-running event of its kind in Arizona has been a Tucson tradition since 1983. Participants range from novices to professionals who enjoy the ride and festivities out of a passion for cycling, as a benchmark for a wellness program, as a symbol of surviving a major illness or other life challenge or to honor another person. All while helping nonprofit, and charitable agencies raise funds for their organizations.

Three Routes Under 100 Miles

The main event distances are 100, 57, and 28 miles. Fun Ride distances are 10, 5, and 1 mile. Main event routes feature scenic landscapes and the crisp, cool air of a Tucson morning. Mountain ranges and saguaro cacti will surround you. Course profiles range from flat to rolling or moderately hilly. The 28-mile route is mostly flat, which is great for families and ideal for first-time participants and beginning bicyclists. In 2021, the 28-mile route will be open to Class 1 pedal-assist e-bikes (no throttles) for the first time.

Action Shot of El Tour Bikers

The Start/Finish

The finish line for all events and the start line for the 100-mile, 57-mile and Fun Rides is on South Sixth Avenue between Armory Park and the Children’s Museum Tucson, near downtown Tucson’s renowned dining and entertainment district. The 28-mile route starts at Marana Heritage River Park and ends at Armory Park-Children’s Museum Tucson.

Centro Garage with Rainbow & Streetcar

Parking & Lodging

If you drive here for El Tour de Tucson, you’ll find plenty of parking garages downtown near the start/finish line around Armory Park and the Children’s Museum Tucson. The area is easily accessible to the Tucson Sun Link Streetcar, a four-mile line that connects lodging, dining and entertainment districts in the downtown and university areas.

Staying for the weekend? Explore things to do in the  Downtown Tucson District . Check out  lodging options  and  official event host hotels  in metro Tucson. 

Featured Cycling Events

Mt lemmon hill climb.

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5th Annual Texas Canyon Mountain Bike Race

  • May 18, 2024
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Tour de France bikes 2023: who’s riding what?

All the bikes and tech on display at the 2023 Tour De France

Jean Catuffe/Getty Images

Paul Norman

The 2023 Tour de France covers 3,404km (2,115 miles) over its 21 stages. That’s 54km more than last year’s Tour.

However, the bigger news is that time trial kilometres are down from two time trials totalling 53km last year (including the Prologue) to just one at 22.4km this year. It finishes at 974m in altitude and has a 2.5km Cat 2 climb to the finish, with an average 9.4 per cent gradient.

For several years, there's been an individual time trial on the penultimate stage, but this year, it’s on the Tuesday of the final week.

Given how a time trial can upset the final result, as in the 2023 Giro d’Italia, or cement it, as in last year’s Tour, it’s a surprising move.

That means the teams’ road bikes are increasingly to the fore. As usual, there’s some very flashy tech on show and we can expect more to be announced in the run-up to the Grand Départ and probably to be unearthed by the sharp-eyed as the race proceeds.

Read on for a complete list of the bikes in this year’s Tour de France, along with the kit they’re fitted with, and our pick of some of the new bikes and tech to keep an eye out for at the 2023 Tour de France .

Also check out our guide to prize money in this year's race, our explainer on leaders jerseys , a comprehensive Tour de France jargon buster and our round-up of how to watch the Tour , wherever you are in the world.

Tour de France 2023 bike brands

drivetrain on Simon Clarke's Factor O2 VAM.

The 2023 Tour de France peloton is made up of 22 teams of eight, 176 riders in total. The 18 WorldTour squads receive an automatic invitation to compete, while four second-tier Pro Continental teams get a wildcard invitation. Between them, 19 bike brands are represented.

That’s two up on last year’s Tour, although the majority of brands are the same as in last year’s race. Even Ridley and Factor, who saw their teams demoted to the UCI’s second division, are back this year thanks to wildcard invitations for Lotto-Dstny and Israel-Premier Tech respectively.

New bike brands this year are Bianchi, Look and Dare, while out this year is De Rosa. Specialized continues to sponsor three teams, as in 2022, but Canyon is down from three to two.

Bianchi Oltre RC

Bianchi was absent last year, but is back with Arkéa-Samsic. It had its first race win back in 1899 and its bikes were ridden by Fausto Coppi, Felice Gimondi and Marco Pantani as well as a who’s who of other top-drawer racers, so it’s a prestigious return for the brand. On the other hand, De Rosa is an equally famous name from cycling’s past that has departed the Tour.

Bike brands represented at the 2023 Tour de France:

  • Bianchi : Team Arkéa-Samsic
  • BMC : AG2R Citroën Team
  • Cannondale : EF Education-EasyPost
  • Canyon : Alpecin-Deceuninck, Movistar Team
  • Cervélo : Jumbo-Visma
  • Colnago : UAE Team Emirates
  • Cube : Intermarché-Circus-Wanty
  • Dare : Uno-X Pro Cycling
  • Factor : Israel-Premier Tech
  • Giant : Team Jayco-AlUla
  • Lapierre : Groupama-FDJ
  • Look : Cofidis
  • Merida : Bahrain Victorious
  • Pinarello : Ineos Grenadiers
  • Ridley : Lotto-Dstny
  • Scott : Team DSM-Firmenich
  • Specialized : Bora-Hansgrohe, Soudal-QuickStep, TotalEnergies
  • Trek : Lidl-Trek
  • Wilier Triestina : Astana-Qazaqstan

Read on for more details of each team’s bikes, wheels and other kit.

What’s new in Tour de France tech?

New bike launches.

Colnago V4Rs Dura-Ace Di2

Since last year’s Tour, the Colnago Prototipo ridden to second place by Tadej Pogačar has finally become the Colnago V4Rs and been released for us to review – and anyone with deep enough pockets to buy.

Look Blade 795 RS.

Rather like the Colnago, the new Look 795 Blade RS ridden by Team Cofidis has been in plain sight for months, but was only officially launched earlier in June.

Its profile is similar to many other pro bikes with front-end integration, aero tubes and dropped seatstays, but is a departure from Look’s previous pro-level race bikes.

As per the usual playbook, Look says the new bike is stiffer and more aero.

Race tech gallery from the 2023 Paris-Roubaix, 09.04.23, Compiégne, France - Alpecin-Deceuninck - Mathieu van Der Poel

There are more subtle changes to the Canyon Aeroad . Canyon has yet to announce details, but there are slight changes to the tube profiles and the seatpost clamp has moved from the rear of the seat tube to the top of the top tube.

EF Education Easypost's Cannondale SuperSix Evo Lab71 at Paris-Roubaix 2023

The changes to the Cannondale SuperSix EVO are equally small but significant, with the fourth generation of the bike lighter and more aero – and in LAB71 format significantly more expensive.

Other new bikes bubbling under include an update to the Factor O2 VAM , BMC's new aero road bike and a new Ridley bike , also aero.

One thing all these bikes have in common is there's not a cable or brake hose in sight. In part, that's down to all the groupsets ridden now having wireless connections between the shifters and the derailleurs.

It's also due to the brake hoses running exclusively internally. Since they're invariably hydraulic, there's no loss of braking efficiency, however sharp the bends and no matter how convoluted the routing becomes.

Tubeless wheels and tyres have mostly taken over

Continental GP5000 S TR tyre on a Zipp 353 NSW wheel

Almost all teams are now running tubeless tyres in place of the pros’ favourite tubulars. There are good reasons for this beyond the lack of potentially carcinogenic and addictive solvents in the tub cement (more of an issue for the team mechanics than the riders).

Matej Mohorič of Bahrain Victorious has claimed tubeless tech can lower rolling resistance by up to 15 watts per tyre. Paired with the latest aero wheel designs, that’s a huge margin.

You’re also less likely to need a wheel swap at a crucial point in the race, with sealant helping to cope with punctures, although unlike tubs you can’t ride a flat tyre to the finish or while waiting for the team car to give you a wheel swap.

28mm tyres are also increasingly taking over from 25mm, even on the smooth tarmac generally enjoyed on the Tour. Riders often sub in time trial tyres for road tyres, due to their lighter weight, although they in general offer less puncture protection than the best road bike tyres .

WilierCVNDSH-0031_1024x768

One team that has remained on tubs is Astana-Qazaqstan, although it’s in the process of swapping from Corima wheels that don’t offer a tubeless rim, to HED which does.

Component choices

SRAM Red AXS power meter crankset on a Movistar Team Canyon Aeroad CFR at the 2023 Giro d'Italia

As in previous years, Shimano dominates the teams’ drivetrain choices, with just three teams on SRAM (Jumbo-Visma, Movistar, Lidl-Trek) and one (AG2R-Citroën) on Campagnolo – one down on 2022 with the defection of UAE Team Emirates to Shimano at the beginning of 2023.

There's more on Campagnolo Super Record below, but an unlaunched update to SRAM Red AXS has been spotted. With SRAM focusing on the launch of its updated Force AXS groupset earlier in 2023, it seems likely that a new version of Red AXS will be announced sooner rather than later.

We've seen an increasing acceptance of single chainrings in races earlier in the season, such as Paris-Roubaix , and that may extend to flatter stages in the Tour, when the small chainring is little used.

Expect 2x setups to take over in the mountains again though, yet even there Primož Roglič showed that a single ring with a wide-range cassette was a winning option.

There’s more variation in wheels than drivetrains, with the aforementioned Corima and HED, as well as Reserve, Vision, DT Swiss, Roval, Newmen, Black Inc, ENVE, Bontrager, Zipp and Cadex all represented.

Campagnolo goes wireless

Super Record Wireless

Campagnolo is providing its Super Record groupset to just one team this year, AG2R Citroën. However, it has dispensed with wires, with the recent launch of the new Super Record Wireless groupset.

As with SRAM Red AXS , the consumer version of Super Record Wireless uses smaller chainrings paired to cassettes starting with a 10-tooth sprocket and rising to just 29 teeth as the largest sprocket option. However, the pros are likely to stick to closer ratios for all but the toughest stages.

There are a couple of interesting things to watch out for here: first, are all the riders using the latest Wireless groupset?

When Shimano Dura-Ace went 12-speed last year, there were still teams using the older 11-speed Dura-Ace long after the official launch, due in large part to the new groupset’s scarcity.

Will Campagnolo have got its manufacturing and distribution ducks in a row better than Shimano?

Wout van Aert's Cervelo Soloist at Paris-Roubaix 2023

Second, with SRAM Red AXS, there are a series of chainring options designed specifically for the pros, which are larger than the chainrings on the complete cranksets available for consumer purchase.

That’s partly because pros like to push larger gears at their elevated riding speeds (winner Jonas Vingegaard averaged over 42kph throughout the entire Tour last year).

It’s also because the chainline and the degree of curvature of the chain as it passes over the jockey wheels and cassette make small, but significant, differences in drivetrain friction. Therefore, riding in a larger sprocket nearer the middle of the cassette is an easy marginal gain. It’s also the reason why OSPW systems are used by the pros.

Will we see AG2R Citroën riders using larger chainrings, perhaps borrowed from the previous generation of Super Record, with Campagnolo Super Record Wireless at the Tour?

Tour de France 2023 bikes

All 18 WorldTour teams ride the Tour de France and every one of them gets the pick of the best bikes from their sponsors’ ranges. That includes all teams using 12-speed wireless/semi-wireless electronic groupsets on their road bikes and a choice of top-spec carbon wheels.

The invited Pro Continental teams (Israel-Premier Tech, Lotto-Dstny, TotalEnergies, Uno X) too are on top-spec bikes and equipment – there’s no second best here.

Read on for a breakdown of who’s riding what.

AG2R Citroën Team (ACT)

AG2R Citroen Team's BMC Teammachine at Paris-Roubaix 2023

  • Framesets: BMC Teammachine SLR01/Timemachine Road/Timemachine (TT)
  • Drivetrain: Campagnolo Super Record Wireless
  • Wheels: Campagnolo Bora WTO/WTO Ultra
  • Finishing kit: BMC, Power2Max, Look, Pirelli, Fizik, Elite, Wahoo

Alpecin-Deceuninck (ADC)

GettyImages-1258579071

  • Bikes: Canyon Ultimate CFR/Aeroad CFR/ Speedmax CFR Disc (TT)
  • Groupset: Shimano Dura-Ace
  • Wheels: Shimano
  • Finishing kit: Canyon, Shimano, Vittoria, Selle Italia, Elite, Wahoo

Astana-Qazaqstan (AST)

Wilier Filante Astana bike

  • Bikes: Wilier Triestina Filante SLR/0 SLR/Turbine (TT)
  • Groupset: Shimano Dura-Ace/SLF Motion jockey wheels and bottom bracket
  • Wheels: Corima/HED
  • Finishing kit: Wilier, Look, Vittoria, Prologo, Tacx, Garmin

Bahrain Victorious (TBV)

Bahrain Victorious Merida Scultura

  • Bikes: Merida Scultura Disc Team/Reacto Disc Team/Time Warp (TT)
  • Wheels: Vision Metron
  • Finishing kit: FSA/Vision, Continental, Prologo, Elite

Bora-Hansgrohe (BOH)

GettyImages-1258427851

  • Bikes: Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7/Shiv (TT)
  • Wheels: Roval
  • Finishing kit: Roval, Specialized, Wahoo

Cofidis (COF)

Look 795 Blade RS

  • Bikes: Look 795 Blade RS/796 Monoblade RS (TT)
  • Wheels: Corima
  • Finishing kit: Look, SRM, Michelin, Selle Italia, Elite, Wahoo

EF Education-EasyPost (EFE)

Zoe Bäckstedt’s LAB71 SuperSix EVO

  • Bikes: Cannondale SuperSix EVO/SystemSix/SuperSlice (TT)
  • Finishing kit: FSA/Vision, Wahoo Speedplay, Vittoria, Prologo, FSA, Tacx, Wahoo

Groupama-FDJ (GFC)

Groupama-FDJ paint job for the Tour de France

  • Bikes: Lapierre Xelius SL 10.0/Aircode DRS/Aérostorm DRS (TT)
  • Wheels: Shimano Dura-Ace / PRO
  • Finishing kit: PRO, Continental, Prologo, Elite, Garmin

Ineos Grenadiers (IGD)

Pinarello Dogma F

  • Bikes: Pinarello Dogma F/Bolide (TT)
  • Wheels: Shimano Dura-Ace/Princeton Carbonworks
  • Finishing kit: MOST, Continental, Fizik, Elite, Garmin

Intermarché-Circus-Wanty (ICW)

Wanty Cube Litening

  • Bikes: Cube Litening C:68X Pro/Aerium (TT)
  • Wheels: Newmen Advanced SL
  • Finishing kit: Cube, Look, Continental, Prologo, Elite, CeramicSpeed, Bryton

Israel-Premier Tech (IPT)

Simon Clarke's Factor O2 VAM.

  • Bikes: Factor Ostro VAM / O2 VAM / Hanzo (TT)
  • Groupset: Shimano Dura-Ace/FSA chainset
  • Wheels: Black Inc
  • Finishing kit: Black Inc, Rotor, Maxxis, Selle Italia, CeramicSpeed, SwissStop, Elite, Hammerhead

Jumbo-Visma (TJV)

Strade-Bianche-fiets_2023-05-12-092833_povl

  • Bikes: Cervélo R5 Disc/S5/P5 (TT)
  • Groupset: SRAM Red eTap AXS
  • Wheels: Reserve 52/63
  • Finishing kit: Cervélo, Wahoo Speedplay, Vittoria, Fizik, Tacx, Garmin

Lidl-Trek (LTK)

Trek Madone team bike (Trek-Segafredo) with a 1x drivetrain at 2023 Paris-Roubaix

  • Bikes: Trek Émonda SLR/Madone SLR/Speed Concept (TT)
  • Wheels: Bontrager Aeolus
  • Finishing kit: Bontrager, Time, Pirelli, Wahoo

Lotto-Dstny (LTD)

Lotto Dstny Ridley bike 2023

  • Bikes: Ridley Noah Fast Disc/Helium SLX Disc/Dean Fast (TT)
  • Groupset: Shimano Dura-Ace/Cema bearings
  • Wheels: DT Swiss
  • Finishing kit: Deda, 4iiii, Vittoria, Selle Italia, Tacx, Garmin

Movistar Team (MOV)

Einer Rubio's Movistar Team Canyon Aeroad CFR at the 2023 Giro d'Italia

  • Bikes: Canyon Aeroad CFR/Speedmax CF SLX (TT)
  • Wheels: Zipp
  • Finishing kit: Canyon, Look, Continental, Fizik, Lizard Skins, Garmin

Soudal-QuickStep (SOQ)

Soudal-QuickStep S-Works Tarmac SL7

  • Bikes: Specialized S-Works Tarmac SL7/Roubaix/Shiv (TT)
  • Finishing kit: Roval, Specialized, CeramicSpeed, Tacx, Supercaz, Garmin

Team Arkéa-Samsic (ARK)

Arkéa-Samsic's Bianchi Oltre RC WorldTour team bike for 2023

  • Bikes: Bianchi Specialissima/Oltre RC/Aquila (TT)
  • Finishing kit: Bianchi, Continental, Selle Italia, Elite, Wahoo

Team DSM-Firmenich (DSM)

Team DSM Scott Foil RC

  • Bikes: Scott Foil RC/Plasma 5 (TT)
  • Wheels: Shimano Dura-Ace
  • Finishing kit: Syncros, Vittoria, Elite, Wahoo

Team Jayco-AlUla (JAY)

Team Jayco-AlUla rides Giant bikes with wheels from Giant's Cadex performance brand.

  • Bikes: Giant Propel Advanced Disc/TCR Advanced SL Disc/Trinity Advanced Pro (TT)
  • Wheels: Cadex 36, 42, 65
  • Finishing kit: Cadex, Giant

TotalEnergies (TEN)

TotalEnergies is one of three teams riding the Tarmac SL7 at this year's Tour.

  • Finishing kit: Roval, Specialized, Tacx, Garmin

UAE Team Emirates (UAD)

Will Tadej Pogacar have recovered from injury?

  • Bikes: Colnago V4Rs/K.one (TT)
  • Wheels: ENVE
  • Finishing kit: Colnago, Look, Continental, Prologo, Elite, Wahoo

Uno-X Pro Cycling (UXT)

Uno X ride bikes from Norwegian brand Dare.

  • Bikes : Dare VSRu/TSRf (TT)
  • Finishing kit: Dare, Schwalbe, Pro, CeramicSpeed, Elite, Garmin

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Undiscovered Mountains

Tour de France Cols on an E-Bike

  • Singles Adventure Holidays

tour de e bike

A full week cycling classic Tour de France cols at your own pace with the assistance of an e-bike. You'll be staying in our client's favourite B&B, famous for its delicious cuisine! 

Location: A selection of famous Cols in the Southern French Alps

What's Included?

Included in your price.

  • 7 nights half board (evening meal and breakfast) accommodation staying in the Grange des Ecrins
  • 6 days E-bike hire
  • 5 vehicle supported rides taking in famous Tour de France Cols
  • Return transfers from Gap train station
  • Welcome meeting at your accommodation 
  • Personalised App for your smartphone with all the trip information including weather, itinerary, routes... accessible all in one place
  • A tree planted on your behalf  to help with your  carbon offsetting

Extras to pay for

  • Lunches (picnic or restaurant depending on day)
  • Your journey to Gap (we can help you organise this)
  • Drinks and spending money
  • Tips for the guide

Departure Dates & Booking

Holiday description.

On this trip you can become the King or Queen of the Mountains and not just any old mountains, the French Alps. Yes you can achieve this grand Strava title without breaking a sweat - well maybe a little perspiration just for the look! The secret? An E-bike! Of course you can do this trip on a classic roadie but... you choose!

Duncan Craig from the Sunday Times tested out the trip. Here's what he thought about  riding the Tour de France cols on an e-bike ! You can also have a look at the little  video  he made for the Sunday Times website.

Cycling in France is a national pass-time and following in the wheels of the professional cycling heroes of the Tour de France is a bucket list activity for many fans. Most Tour de France tours and cycling holidays in France are aimed at experienced and competitive cyclists but this e-bike trip is perfect for moderate bikers and novice cyclists or retired experienced road cyclists who still want the buzz of climbing to the top of a big Alpine pass but don't quite have the legs for it any more!

Electric bikes have taken off in the Alps and it is now as common to see 'normal' people on e-bikes powering up the big climbs as the lycra clad pros! E-biking holidays and e-bike touring are the new biking holiday must dos in the Alps! Read our  blog article about why e-biking is so popular in the Alps .

This e-biking holiday takes in the famous 21 hairpin bends of Alpe d'Huez, explore the mythical moonscape of the Col d'Izoard, discover one of Chris Froome's favourite cols, the col du Noyer, and pitch yourself against his time trial route around the Serre-Ponçon lake. Will you be able to beat his time on an E-bike? There will also be the option of trying Mont-Colombis, the toughest road cycling climb in France!

Electric bikes are still a relatively new phenomenon and sometimes a little misunderstood. They are not motorbikes, you need to pedal, and it is entirely up to you how much extra oomph you give yourself from the battery. To do a big mountain col you will still need a reasonable level of fitness with an E-bike (be a regular dog walker or gym goer) - it is not cheating!

This trip will take you over some of the mythical Tour de France cols with the option of adding extra sections on if you wish. You have vehicle support with you at all times guiding the way and there to carry your snacks, spare clothing and tool kits and to pick you up if you have had enough. There's no excuse not to give it a go!

Last but not least and because we think that a proper holiday should always include great food, the accommodation we chose (the lovely Grange des Ecrins) for this tour is our clients' favourite since 2015. The owners Jean&Meg are wonderful people and their cuisine, an innovative mix of delicious local and world products, has quickly become renowned in the region. Not only can you become the King or Queen of the Mountains on your e-bike - you'll be treated as a King or Queen at the Grange des Ecrins too!

If you like the idea of e-biking the Alps but would prefer a fully tailor made itinerary, then have a look at our flexible  e-bike the Alps  holiday!

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Holiday map, accommodation, getting there.

We will collect you from Gap train station which has rail links from Grenoble, Valence and Aix-en-Provence TGVs and also a direct overnight sleeper service from Paris.

If you are flying here, the best airport to fly to is Marseilles and there is a regular shuttle directly from the airport to Gap.

Holiday Reviews

Ngai deckard - tour de france cols on an e-bike.

Google Review

Undiscovered Mountains certainly deliver! I had been looking for a biking tour that took in the French Alps for a while ...

Recharged Rides

Electric Bike Touring Guide: The Ultimate Long-Distance Adventure

Electric Bike Touring

If you’re familiar with electric-powered bicycles, you know that they are an awesome way to commute to work and school — however, have you ever wanted to try e-bike touring?

These days, there are still a lot of people who mistakenly believe that electric bikes aren’t suitable for long-distance rides, but nothing could be further from the truth. Thanks to technological advances, high-capacity batteries, and ultra-reliable electric motors, an e-bike is the perfect modern-day platform for long-range adventuring.

In this ultimate guide to electric bike touring, we’ll take an in-depth look at this adventurous world and provide helpful tips on how to plan the best long-distance tours, how to ensure that you’re prepared for anything and everything, top safety considerations, common challenges, and much more.

What is Electric Bike Touring?

Electric bicycle touring is the ultimate way to explore the outdoors and discover new places. It’s the perfect combination of sightseeing and adventure with long-distance travel capabilities made possible by an e-bike. Powered by an electric motor, e-bikes allow riders to cover greater distances in shorter periods of time while still being able to take in their surroundings.

The world of e-bike touring provides a unique opportunity for keen adventurers looking to push themselves outside their comfort zone and experience something truly special. With the freedom afforded by e-bikes, travelers can embark on longer excursions that may not be achievable through traditional methods with minimal effort required on their part. This gives riders more opportunities to explore off the beaten path, engaging in unique activities such as bird watching or visiting local landmarks along their journey.

What are the Benefits of Using an E-Bike for Long-Distance Tours?

E-Bike Tour

Using an e-bike for long-distance touring provides a wide range of benefits that range from health-related to environmental. In the following sections, we’ll go over some key advantages of e-bike touring and why this super fun activity is enjoying widespread adoption among serious outdoor enthusiasts…

Ease of Use

Electric bicycles have become increasingly popular for long-distance tours. These electric bikes offer a unique combination of convenience, performance, and affordability that cars or motorcycles can’t match.

One of the biggest benefits of using an e-bike for long-distance touring is ease of use. Unlike traditional bicycles, most electric models feature intuitive designs that are easy to ride and control even for novice cyclists. Riding an e-bike requires less physical effort due to its motorized assistance (pedal-assist, or PAS), which makes them ideal for traveling long distances with fewer stops in between. Furthermore, many modern models come with advanced safety features such as top-notch mechanical and hydraulic disc brakes and onboard lighting systems that allow riders to travel safely no matter what time it is.

Greater Range

Offering a greater range than a regular bike, e-bikes riders can go farther and faster without needing to rest as often. Thanks to their built-in lithium-ion battery and powerful electric motor, riders can travel up steep hills with ease and are able to enjoy a more comfortable riding experience compared to traditional pedal-powered bicycles.

Eco-Friendly

An environmentally friendly transport option, e-bikes are powered by a rechargeable battery instead of gasoline, making them a much more sustainable choice when compared to cars or motorcycles. Previous issues like emissions and noise pollution are no longer a concern with electric bikes. Additionally, they are capable of reaching higher speeds than regular bicycles without any extra effort from the rider, allowing them to cover larger distances in less time. This makes them ideal for longer trips where speed is important.

Health Benefits

The physical benefits of using a fully electric touring bike for long-distance riding are many. An electric bike still provides ample opportunity to enjoy a good cardio workout, but the overall stress placed on one’s body is far less than seen with traditional bikes. Riding an e-bike also burns calories more efficiently and can provide significant weight loss benefits. The additional power from the motor allows riders to maintain their speed during long rides and on steep uphill hill climbs, improving both endurance and stamina. Furthermore, some studies have indicated that riding an electric bike can reduce anxiety and improve overall mental health — both of which are big contributors to a healthier lifestyle.

Social Benefits

Going on an e-bike tour also has great social benefits, being an excellent way to get out of your comfort zone and meet new people. Long-distance electric bike trips provide riders with an opportunity to socialize along the way, and many tours involve traveling with a group of friends. If you’re interested in branching out and meeting like-minded outdoor enthusiasts who share your love for adventure, electric bike touring is a great way to do it.

Flexibility

When it comes to long-distance tours, electric bikes provide a ton of flexibility. With pedal assist, e-bikes can adapt to meet the needs and comfort of any rider who is looking to get from point A to point B. E-bikes not only allow riders to take advantage of traditional pedaling, but they also provide an extra boost on those longer rides. This makes them ideal for anyone who wants to explore further than their legs would normally take them.

Cost Efficient

Thanks to advancements in technology, electric touring bikes offer a convenient and affordable alternative to traditional motorized transport. Not only are they more cost-efficient than gas-powered vehicles, but they also require less effort from riders due to the assistance of an electric motor. The range of distance an e-bike can travel is also impressive – depending on the battery size, some models can even reach up to 100 miles on a single charge! This makes them ideal for touring long distances without having to worry about running out of power along the way, and an e-bike doesn’t require frequent (and expensive) stops for refueling.

One of the most enjoyable ways to get out and explore nature is through long-distance touring on an e-bike. For avid outdoor adventurers, e-bikes provide a unique way to cover more ground while still enjoying the benefits of being outside and exploring at their own pace. Gone are the days of struggling with strong headwinds and rolling hills — thanks to motorized assistance, electric bikes bring added enjoyment to cycling adventures and are quickly becoming the preference of avid outdoor explorers.

Best Electric Bikes for Long-Distance Touring

Ride1UP Prodigy XR

Ride1UP Prodigy

Price | Review

Charge XC

Planning a Long-Distance Electric Bike Tour

When planning an electric bicycle tour, there are a number of elements to consider. In this section, we’ll go over some of the key ways we plan out trips and include tips on routes, gear, safety, and more…

Route Planning and Mapping Tools

When it comes to planning for a long-distance electric bike tour, one of the most important considerations is the route. The chosen route will determine the length, difficulty, and overall character of your tour, and it can have a big impact on your safety, comfort, and enjoyment. That’s why it’s essential to invest time and effort into proper route planning and using the right tools and resources to help you do it effectively.

The first things to consider when mapping out your route are starting and ending points. Are you interested in a one-way journey or a round-trip adventure? Would you prefer to begin and end your tour at the same location, or will you be making arrangements to be transported back to the starting point? Additionally, map out specific cities, landmarks, and other points of interest that you’d like to check out along the way.

Next, read up on the type of terrain and general riding environment you’ll be dealing with. Will you primarily be cruising on paved roads, dirt paths, or a combination? Would you prefer flat terrain, or are you comfortable tackling hills (which of course is much easier with an electric bike)? All of these factors will play an important role in the route you select.

To help you plan your route, cyclists have access to a wide range of great mapping tools, including online maps, GPS devices, and smartphone apps. Some of the most popular options include Google Maps, Strava, and Komoot — all of which can help you visualize your route, measure distance and elevation, and pinpoint locations of interest along the way. These popular tools can also help you avoid roads or trails that may be too difficult, dangerous, or inaccessible, and they can provide valuable information about weather, traffic, and other conditions.

Of course, no matter how carefully you plan your route, there will always be some level of uncertainty and risk involved in long-distance electric bike touring. That’s why it’s important to be well-prepared for the unexpected and to have a solid backup plan in place, just in case you encounter unforeseen challenges or obstacles along the way. A good route plan can help you to easily navigate these challenges with confidence, resulting in a more enjoyable and rewarding experience.

Packing and Preparing for Your E-Bike Tour

Packing and preparing is a critical step in the planning process, and one that requires careful consideration and extreme attention to detail. After all, you’ll be carrying everything you need for the duration of your tour, so it’s important to pack wisely and efficiently.

To begin, it’s always a good idea to take an inventory of the gear and equipment you’ll need for your trip. Things like weather, terrain, and trip length will play a big part in gear selection. Below is a checklist of some essential items you’ll need to pack:

  • Your E-Bike: Check your electric touring bike over well before heading out and make sure all the components are in good working order. Also, consider packing a spare battery (or two), just in case you’re unable to make it to a recharging point before your battery runs out of juice.
  • Clothing: Pack a variety of clothing that’s well-suited to the weather and riding environment you’ll be dealing with. We recommend packing layers to stay warm and waterproof rain gear to keep you dry if things get wet.
  • Sleeping Gear: If you’ll be camping or staying in accommodations without bedding, don’t forget to pack a tent (we prefer ultralight models), sleeping bag, and other sleeping gear you consider necessary for a good night’s rest.
  • Cooking and Eating Supplies: Are you planning to cook your own meals on the tour? If so, you’ll need to pack a stove, pots, pans, and eating utensils. Additionally, include some non-perishable food and water.
  • Tools and Maintenance Supplies: Pack a basic bicycle tool kit, including a multi-tool, tire levers, and a compact tire pump.
  • First Aid and Emergency Supplies: A first aid kit and some basic emergency supplies are important to bring along. At a minimum, we recommend a flashlight, a safety whistle, and a personal locator beacon (PLB) in case of an unplanned emergency.

Once you’ve finalized your packing list, it’s important to think about how you’re going to carry it. E-bikes typically have limited space for luggage, so you’ll need to be strategic about how you pack. Some of the best options include a rear rack and panniers, a trailer, or a bikepacking setup . Whichever method you choose, be sure to distribute the weight evenly and securely to avoid affecting the handling and performance of your e-bike.

In addition to packing the right gear, it’s also important to prepare for your tour in other ways. This may include arranging transportation to and from your starting and ending points, making reservations for accommodations or campsites, and researching local amenities and services (more on this below). With some careful planning and preparation, you’ll be ready to tackle your long-distance electric bike tour with ease.

Choosing the Right Gear

Choosing the right gear for your adventure will also be a crucial factor in your success and enjoyment. The right gear can help you stay comfortable, safe, and well-equipped to face the challenges you’ll encounter on road. Conversely, the wrong gear can weigh you down, put you in harm’s way, or worse.

So, what should you look for when it comes to choosing the gear for your long-distance electric bike tour? Here are some pro tips to help you find the best gear possible:

  • Purpose: First and foremost, think about the purpose of each item you’re considering packing. What function does it serve, and how essential is it to your trip? Avoid the temptation to go overboard — be sure to pack only the items that are truly necessary, and leave unnecessary or redundant gear behind.
  • Weight and Size: Weight and size are also important factors to consider when packing for a long-distance electric bike tour, as you’ll be carrying everything along with you. Choose lightweight, compact gear whenever possible, and be mindful of how much space each item is going to take up.
  • Quality and Durability: E-bike touring really puts gear through its paces, so it’s important to choose items that are built to last. Look for gear that’s made from high-quality materials and is made by a brand that has a reputation for reliability.
  • Comfort: Since you’ll be spending long hours on the road, comfort is key. Go with top-shelf gear that’s super comfy and fits you well.
  • Versatility: Look for gear that can serve multiple purposes or that can be used in a variety of situations. In addition to saving space and weight, this will also provide more flexibility and make it easier for you to adapt to changes during your trip.
  • Climate and Conditions: Consider the climate and conditions you’ll be riding through, and choose gear that’s appropriate for those conditions. This may include rain gear, warm layers, protective gear, and other items that can help you stay comfortable and safe.

By carefully choosing the right gear for your long-distance e-bike tour, you’ll be better equipped to tackle any challenges you may face on the road and enjoy your tour to the fullest.

Trip Safety

Trip safety goes beyond just packing the right gear and mapping out your route. It also involves taking care of yourself and your electric touring bicycle throughout the tour, as well as being ready for any and all challenges you may encounter on the road. Here are a few of our top recommendations for staying safe during your trip:

  • Hydration: Staying hydrated is essential for maintaining your energy, endurance, and overall health during an electric bike tour. As we mentioned earlier, pack plenty of water, and be sure to drink regularly throughout the day. This is especially important during summer trips where you’re riding in hot or humid conditions. Electrolyte tablets and sports drinks are also helpful when it comes to replenishing lost fluids and nutrients.
  • Nutrition: Proper nutrition is also critical for maintaining your energy and stamina during long-distance adventures. We like to bring along a variety of non-perishable, high-energy foods, such as nuts, dried fruits, energy bars, and jerky. Remember to eat regular meals and snacks to keep your energy levels up.
  • Rest and Recovery: Thirdly, in order to give your mind and body an opportunity to recover and recharge, it’s important to take regular breaks and rest periods during your trip. When planning your route, incorporate occasional stops and allow for ample rest time.

Electric Bicycle Tour Riding Tips

Electric Bicycle Tour

If you want to enjoy many fun years of touring, the following best practices will serve you well when it comes to enjoying safe and memorable trips. From proper posture and riding technique to charging and maintaining your e-bike while on the road, these tips will help to ensure that your trips are healthy and fun.

Techniques for Relaxed Riding

While fun, riding an electric bike for long distances can also be physically and mentally demanding. To help you stay relaxed and comfortable during your trip, it’s important to adopt good riding techniques that promote efficiency and reduce the overall strain on your body. Here are some of our top tips for staying relaxed while riding:

  • Proper Posture: When riding long distances, good posture is essential for comfort and control. Keep your back straight and your arms relaxed, and position your feet on the pedals so that you can apply power efficiently.
  • Relax your Grip: It’s natural to maintain a tight grip on the handlebars when riding, especially when facing challenges or obstacles. However, a tight grip is a major contributor to fatigue and tension in the arms and shoulders. Instead, try to relax your grip and let your hands rest lightly on the handlebars.
  • Use your Core Muscles: When it comes to maintaining good posture and balance, your core muscles play a critical role. Engaging your core muscles while riding will help to support and stabilize your upper body.
  • Shift your Weight: Your weight distribution can also affect both riding technique and comfort. When facing steep inclines or other challenges, try shifting your weight forward and down over the pedals to help maintain traction and stability.
  • Take Regular Breaks: It’s important to take regular breaks during long trips. When planning your trip, factor in stops and allow for ample rest time.

Charging and Maintaining Your E-Bike While on the Road

Taking care of your e-bike while you’re out on the road is an essential part of any successful long-distance electric bike tour. Without a properly charged and well-maintained e-bike, you might find yourself stranded or unable to complete your trip.

When it comes to ensuring that your electric ride runs smoothly for the duration of your adventure, be sure to follow these tips:

  • Charge your Battery Regularly: E-bike battery range can vary greatly depending on a variety of factors, including terrain, weather, and rider weight. To guarantee that you have enough power to complete your tour, it’s important to charge your battery at every opportunity. If you’re planning to tour an area with limited access to electricity, consider packing a portable charger or spare batteries.
  • Check your Battery Level: In addition to recharging your battery, it’s also important to keep a close eye on your e-bike’s battery level. Doing so will help you to avoid unpleasant surprises where your battery dies unexpectedly.
  • Maintenance: Properly maintaining your ride while on the road is critical when it comes to performance and overall reliability. This is especially true on a long-distance tour, where your gear will be put through the wringer and thoroughly tested. Be sure to check over your bike regularly, and address any issues or problems as soon as they arise. It’s recommended that you frequently check tires, brakes, and wiring, stay on top of chain cleaning and lubricating, and tighten up any loose bolts or screws.
  • Pack a Bike Repair Toolkit: As we mentioned above, it’s a really good idea to bring along a basic e-bike repair toolkit. Having access to some basic tools will ensure that you’re able to fix common problems while on the road. A few basic essentials that we’d highly advise you to pack include a multi-tool, tire levers, and a pump.

Navigation and Communication

Whether you’re touring solo or with a group of riders, it’s vital to stay connected and well-informed. In this section, we’ll discuss some things you can do to improve your ability to communicate and navigate:

  • Use a GPS Device or Smartphone: A GPS device or smartphone can be a valuable tool when it comes to navigating long-distance rides. These handy devices provide real-time location tracking and route guidance and can help you stay on track.
  • Pack a Paper Map: While GPS devices and smartphones are convenient, they can also be unreliable or run out of power. A good plan B is to pack an old-school paper map, just in case you run into any problems with your electronic devices.
  • Use a Communication Device: Communication devices, such as a cell phone, satellite phone, or walkie-talkie, will help you to stay connected on your adventure, giving you a convenient way to communicate with others while on the road. These devices will also help you to stay in touch with friends and family, and in case of an emergency, help is only a call away.
  • Stay Visible: It’s important to maintain visibility and be easily identifiable to others while on your trip. Wear bright, reflective clothing, and use lights and signals as appropriate to communicate your intentions to drivers and other riders around you.

By following these tips and using the right navigation and communication tools, you can stay connected and informed while avoiding the unpleasant hassles of getting lost or stranded.

Dealing with Common Challenges and Emergencies

Regardless of how well you plan and prepare, there will inevitably be challenges and emergencies that arise while touring. From flat tires and mechanical issues to unexpected weather events and other unforeseen circumstances, it’s important to be prepared and have a plan in place to deal with these challenges and emergencies. Here are some tips for dealing with common challenges and emergencies while on the road:

  • Know How to Fix a Flat Tire: Flat tires are a common occurrence on e-bike tours, and because of this, it’s important to know how to fix them. Bring along a spare tube, patch kit, and the tools needed to change a tire.
  • Learn Basic E-Bike Maintenance: Familiarize yourself with basic mechanical skills so that you can fix common problems that pop up during your trips. There are many great resources available to help you with this, such as YouTube tutorials and online bike repair classes.
  • Pack for the Weather: Weather can be unpredictable, and you should always be prepared for a range of conditions. Pack appropriate clothing and gear for the weather, and be prepared to adjust your route or schedule if necessary.
  • Emergencies: In case of an emergency, have a solid plan in place to call for help and get to safety. Once again, be sure to pack a cell phone, a personal locator beacon, or a satellite phone, and always inform someone of your route, route changes, and expected arrival times.

Accommodations and Amenities

tour de e bike

When you’re in the process of planning an e-bike touring trip, another important topic that needs to be taken into account is amenities and accommodations. From camping to hotels and hostels, there are many different options available — each with its own pros and cons.

In this part of our comprehensive guide on e-bike touring, we’ll check out some of the various accommodations and amenities available for electric bike tours. Some of the topics covered include camping, hotels, hostels, Airbnb, and eating options. Lastly, we’ll also provide you with some little-known strategies for maximizing your comfort and convenience on the road. Whether you’re riding alone or with friends, this information will help you find the perfect accommodations for your needs.

When looking for campground accommodations, cyclists should research the location in advance to ensure that all needs can be met. There are two primary types of accommodations: traditional campgrounds and dispersed camping locations. Traditional campgrounds offer amenities such as bathrooms, fire pits, picnic tables, designated tent areas, running water, trash receptacles, and possibly even electricity or Wi-Fi access while dispersed campsites may only have a cleared area with no other amenities but can offer more privacy than traditional campgrounds.

Hotels, Hostels, and Airbnb Accommodations

Hotels, hostels, and Airbnbs all offer different amenities and accommodations for travelers, so it’s important to understand the differences before you choose where to stay.

Hotels typically offer a range of amenities from on-site restaurants and swimming pools to fitness centers and spas. Depending on the hotel, they may also have bike storage options or even provide complimentary bikes for guests. However, hotels tend to be more expensive than other accommodation options.

Hostels are usually much more budget-friendly than hotels but may not offer as many amenities in exchange for their lower prices. Many hostels will have basic facilities such as laundry rooms or communal kitchens that can help save money while traveling.

When selecting an Airbnb rental, look for properties that provide secure storage areas where you can lock up your electric touring bicycles while not in use. Additionally, be sure to check out reviews from previous guests to determine if the property offers other features that are important for cyclists such as bike repair tools or access to nearby cycling routes. Many Airbnbs also have washing machines so you can clean your cycling gear after a long day on the road.

Where to Eat

There are many things to consider when it comes to finding places to eat. You’ll want to look for restaurants that offer healthy, nutritional meals at reasonable prices. In addition, be sure that the restaurant can securely accommodate your electric bike while you’re eating so that it stays safe and secure until you’re ready to hit the road again. Make sure there’s adequate parking available too! Lastly, it’s always a bonus if you can find restaurants with reliable Wi-Fi access, giving you a convenient way to answer some emails or finish up some quick work on your laptop.

Special Considerations for E-Bike Touring

Electric bike touring requires unique considerations in order to complete a successful journey. From climate and terrain to solo adventures versus group tours, it’s important for riders to be prepared for any number of potential obstacles.

In the following sections, we’ll discuss several things that are sometimes overlooked when a tour is being organized.

Climate is an important consideration for anyone planning a long-distance electric bike tour. In addition to affecting the rider, climate can also have an impact on the range and performance of your electric bike. Taking the time to plan out your tour route is essential, as extreme temperatures both hot and cold can limit your range significantly and may require additional preparation. In cold climates, make sure you store your battery indoors overnight, and in warm climates watch out for heat-related battery problems like thermal runaway.

You should consider factors such as temperature, precipitation, wind speed, and sunshine hours when selecting the time of year and route for your journey. You may need to make allowances for extreme weather events like hot spells or storms that could affect your trip plans. Additionally, take into account terrain type and altitude when considering how much energy you’ll need from your electric bike battery to reach destinations along the way.

Another thing that’s essential to consider is the terrain you’ll be covering on your trip. Of course, with an electric bike, you can take on any hill or incline that might come your way. But terrain is more than just hills; other elements like off-road trails, gravel roads, and cobblestone paths should all be taken into consideration when mapping out your route.

E-bikes are designed with powerful motors to help cyclists tackle any type of terrain they encounter on their journey. Electric bicycles aren’t invincible, however — if riders push themselves too hard, they could cause damage or even injury to themselves or the bike. It’s important to plan ahead and research which parts of the ride may require extra caution due to potential obstacles such as mud or rocks.

Solo Adventures vs. Group Tours

Should you embark on a solo adventure or opt for a group tour? The decision between these two options can drastically shape the experience, making it essential to weigh the pros and cons of each before committing to a particular adventure.

Solo adventures offer travelers unparalleled freedom and flexibility; they can go wherever they want, when they want, and take in their surroundings at their own pace. Solo touring also allows for personal growth and self-discovery that may not be experienced in a group setting. On the other hand, individuals embarking on solo tours need to be prepared for more responsibility in terms of route planning and navigation, as well as having proper safety systems in place should something go wrong.

Cultural Differences and Language Barriers

When planning a longer-distance e-bike tour, cultural differences and language barriers must be taken into consideration. As with any international travel, it is important to research the customs and culture of the countries visited. This includes learning key phrases in the native language and understanding their cultural norms. For example, some countries may have different laws regarding when cyclists are allowed on roads or require special helmets for safety reasons. Additionally, travelers should be aware of how their actions might be perceived by locals — should they interact verbally or keep to themselves?

Furthermore, issues such as currency exchange rates, health and safety protocols, and even dietary restrictions must be planned for in advance. Being mindful of these details can help avoid potential problems while abroad that could hinder an otherwise enjoyable experience.

Final Thoughts

Our comprehensive guide on long-distance e-bike tours has come to a close, but it’s only the beginning of your journey. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or a beginner, electric bike touring is one of the most exciting and rewarding ways to explore the world.

With the right planning and preparation, you’ll be able to make the most out of your trip. Consider factors such as terrain, climate, travel time, and budget when selecting routes for your tour. Invest in quality gear that can withstand extreme conditions and wear comfortable yet practical clothing that will keep you safe during cycling expeditions.

Last but not least, find reliable companions who share similar interests and have adequate knowledge about navigation techniques and safety protocols — these people will be invaluable throughout your journey.

Happy riding!

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Best Electric Touring Bikes for Your Next Adventure

cycling with tents

Bicycle touring has been around for hundreds of years, with some of the earliest records dating back to the 1800s.

Long before cars and motorbikes were invented, people would use bicycles to tour long distances, sometimes across entire continents. Typically, this was done on slow, old steel-framed bikes and required a high degree of patience and fitness.

Nowadays, with recent improvements in electric bicycle (eBike) technology, a new wave of touring eBikes has emerged.

What Are Electric Touring Bicycles?

E-Touring bikes can take you to desired locations with way smaller effort. Like any other electric bike, a touring/trekking eBike features a rechargeable battery and an electric motor connected to the rear hub or crankset.

Best Touring Bikes in 2024 for Multi-Day Cycle Adventures

Best Touring Bikes in 2024 for Multi-Day Cycle Adventures

While many touring bike purists might balk at the idea of having electrical assistance, for some people it’s a necessity due to injury, old age, or poor fitness.

In most cases, the electric motor doesn’t fully propel the bicycle like on a motorbike but rather provides pedal assistance, making it easier to pedal and taking pressure off the knees.

In the case of touring, where heavy loads are usually involved, or long century rides , this little bit of assistance can make a huge difference.

They may not be the best choice for long cycling expeditions, such as riding the Cairo to Cape Town route , but they are handy for shorter adventures.

Best Electric Touring Bikes in 2024

#1 santa cruz skitch cc apex.

A class 3 e-bike for gravel riding and touring

Santa Cruz Skitch CC Apex

Price: $6,300

The Santa Cruz Skitch is a mid-drive electric bike that saddles the gap between gravel and touring.

The combination of 45 mm tires, stable geometry, and common touring features like fender and bottle mounts give this bike its versatile capability.

With speeds of up to 28 mph, it’s the perfect touring eBike for the more adventurous riders out there. If you are looking for the best electric bike for camping and long-distance touring, the rigid-frame Santa Cruz Skitch might be the answer to your needs.

The Skitch boasts a lightweight Fazua Ride 60 motor combined with a 430 Wh battery that provides a 60-mile average range. 

Schwalbe G-One 700c x 45 mm tires

Wide, treaded tires like these give the Skitch an off-road capability that exceeds most other touring eBikes. It is considerably more comfortable on rough surfaces and super efficient over long distances. Schwalbe tires are famous in off-road biking for their durable qualities and high performance. 

Carbon frame

The Current features a carbon frame with internal cable routing for a clean appearance and better protection. The fork is built from the same durable material and has thru-axles. The integrated 430 Wh battery conceals neatly into the downtube and contributes to the clean look.

SRAM Apex Eagle 12-speed

The wide-range SRAM Apex Eagle 12-speed is geared towards long-distance and loaded touring, providing easy pedaling on most gradients. As a gravel-focused gearset, it provides smooth, reliable shifting without locking up or dropping out. 

SRAM Apex hydraulic brakes

A popular choice amongst all manufacturers, the ever-reliable SRAM Apex hydraulic brakes won’t let you down, come rain or shine. With 160mm rotors, they stop with excellent power and reliability. 

Buy on MikesBikes.com

#2 Cannondale – Treadwell Neo 2 EQ

Best electric bike for short tours and commutes

cannondale treadwell neo 2 eq ebike

Price: $2,175

The Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 EQ is an electric bike with a frame perfectly suited to touring. With thick-treaded 47mm tires, this bike is clearly intended for mixed-terrain riding.

250W Hydrive MRC-250

The 250W Hydrive MRC-250 motor is situated at the rear hub, providing 40Nm of torque into the drivetrain while you pedal. As a Class 1 pedal-assist motor, it can take you up to 20 mph, making it ideal as a light touring bike.

250Wh lithium-ion battery

The modest 250Wh battery will provide up to 47 miles of pedal-assist power on a single charge. Pop the battery on charge and it will be full in five hours. This battery makes the Treadwell an excellent commuter or light electric touring bike.

Aluminum frame

Unlike most standard bicycle frames, touring bikes and electric bikes require a more robust design built from stronger materials. The Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 EQ is formed from SmartForm C3 Alloy with a tapered head tube and internal cable routing. 

Hydraulic disc brakes

Any experienced cycle tourist will tell you that decent brakes are a necessity not to be overlooked. When hurtling down a steep descent packed with all your life’s possessions, the last thing you need is your brakes failing you. Tektro’s HD-R280 hydraulic disc brakes are a tried and tested staple in the eBike industry, trusted by thousands of manufacturers for their consistent reliability. 

Buy on REI.com

#3 Gazelle – Ultimate C380 Plus

Women’s electric commuter bike for touring

Gazelle - Ultimate C380 Plus

Price: $4,749

The Gazelle Ultimate C380 Plus is an electric city bike with a difference – it uses a Gates belt drive system, which means no chains, no cogs, no grease, and extremely low maintenance. For bicycle touring, this is a great addition as it means far less hassle, fewer cleaning requirements, and less chance of breakdowns.

Bike weight: 54.6 lbs

Weighing in at a moderate 54.6lbs, the Gazelle Ultimate C380 is lighter than it looks. Despite a long-range battery and powerful motor, Gazelle manages to keep things light with an aluminum frame.

500 Wh, 13.4 Ah battery

The 500Wh battery balances a fine line between weight saving and capacity, providing power for up to 70 miles on Eco mode. If you need a bit more punch, it also has Tour, Sport, and Turbo mode.

Motor: Bosch Active Line Plus 3.0 (50Nm)

The Bosch Performance Line 3.0 mid-drive motor pushes out 65Nm of torque, slightly more than the standard found on most Class 1 eBikes. This gives the Gazelle a bit of edge over the competition, especially when climbing hills fully laden with luggage.

28″ wheels

Another unique feature of the Gazelle Ultimate C8 is the 28″ wheels, an uncommon size description in the cycle touring community. This size measures the same as 700c or 29″ wheels. They’re wrapped in Schwalbe’s eBike specific Energizer Plus puncture-resistant tires.

Buy from Mike's Bikes

#4 Blix Bikes Ultra

Best fat tire bike touring e-bike  

Blix Bikes Ultra

Price: $2,099 – $2,499

The Blix Bikes Ultra is no ordinary eBike – equipped with everything you need for city riding, off-roading, or bike touring. If you plan on touring on roads and off-road terrain, the Blix Ultra e-bike will get you there and then some.

The 750W hub motor delivers huge power and combines with a 1344 Wh dual battery setup that lasts up to 80 miles. Y ou can pull your luggage easily over rocky paths and gravel tracks on this bike if you retrofit front and rear racks or baskets that are available on the brand’s website.

Naturally, you’re going to need some serious stopping power on an ebike designed to tackle off-road terrain, which is why the Blix Ultra comes with hydraulic disc brakes. These brakes won’t let you down come rain or shine.

Blix has also included a reliable 8-speed drivetrain, fenders, and a front light to round out the build.

Buy from Blix Bikes

#5 Quietkat – Ranger

Off-road touring bike with an integrated rack and huge power

quietkat ranger

MSRP: $3,499

The Ranger e-bike by Quietkat is a highly versatile bike built for long-haul adventuring off-road and everything you need for commuting.

Each of the components has been carefully selected to ensure a high-quality ride experience on harsh terrain along with comfort and power over long distances.

Aluminum 6061 Frame

QuietKat frames are built using 6061 aluminum alloy. Due to rigorous testing, this frame perfectly balances strength and stiffness with high-end durability while keeping costs down.

750W or 1000W Geared Hub Motor

This motor delivers tons of power and torque to make hill climbing and pulling a full payload seem easy. This type of motor is the best you can get before upgrading to mid-drive motors.

614Wh Battery

The Ranger uses a medium-size battery to deliver max ranges of around 48 miles on one charge. This battery could be a little bigger to support longer days spent touring. 

7-Speed Drivetrain

This bike has a reliable SRAM drivetrain which allows you to maximize your battery and get the longest range possible by having enough gear options for uphill and downhill riding. It also has fast and accurate shifting.

Tektro Mechanical Brakes

Riders of the Ranger can have trust in the powerful 203mm rotor mechanical disc brakes by renowned manufacturer Tektro. This system provides smooth braking with a very fast response time, rapid heat dissipation, and automatic motor power-off function upon braking. This significantly reduces braking distance.

Buy from Quietkat.com

#6 Benno – RemiDemi 10D Sport

benno remidemi 10d sport ebike

Price: $4,099

The Benno RemiDemi 10D Sport is a cargo electric bike that would make a solid eTouring option for those who want to carry huge loads over diverse terrains. This is a quality bike throughout, from the Bosch Performance Sport motor to the Duro 4.25″ fat tires.

400lb Capacity and 65lb Weight 

Coming in at 65lbs, the Benno RemiDemi is by no means the lightest bike on the market but feels comfortable as a touring eBike. This sturdy build is necessary to support the huge payload capacity of 400lbs.

4130 Chromoly Steel Frame

The Chromoly steel frame uses a convenient step-thru design for easy mounting without sacrificing strength and rigidity. The shock-absorbent characteristics of the steel provide extra comfort and durability. 

Duro 4.25″ tires

The RemiDemi 10D Sport is capable on roads or off-road terrains with huge fat tires. These tires provide plenty of comfort, traction, and durability on any surface you encounter, including snow, sand, and mud. 

Max Speed 28mph

As a class 3 pedal-assist bike, the 250W Performance Sport motor is limited to a maximum speed of 28mph. This is supported by a 400Wh Bosch battery and a Shimano Sore/Acera 9-speed drivetrain. 

#7 Lectric XPremium

lectric xpremium e-bike

PRICE: $1,599

The Lectric XPremium isn’t officially an eTouring Bike, but it provides an affordable alternative with the capability to transform into a touring bike. It’s supported by an aluminum alloy frame and powered by a 500W mid-drive motor and dual battery capacity, it’s ideal for medium to long-distance tours.

Aluminum Frame and Suspension Fork

This electric bike has a strong aluminum alloy frame. To fit riders of all ages, the frame conveniently comes in four sizes fitting riders 5’2″ to 6’5″. An 80mm fork suspension also smooths out the road and trail.

Shimano 7-speed Drivetrain

For easier pedaling on steep ascents or when heavily loaded, the bike features a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain. It may not be Shimano’s top-quality setup but is more than sufficient for a medium-distance electric touring bike.

Hydraulic Disc Brakes

Hydraulic disc brakes are an excellent addition to such a well-priced bike. They provide solid stopping power in any weather conditions, which is a necessity on an electric touring bike.

Buy on Lectricebikes.com

#8 Tern – GSD S10

tern gsd s10 ebike

Price: $5,399

The Tern GSD S10 is an electric bike built for hauling large cargo loads on long-distance rides across varied terrain. Loaded with a long rear rack, fenders, and lights, it’s perfect for adventures.

 Aluminum alloy frame and 70mm suspension fork

The solid frame is built from aluminum alloy, the perfect combination of strength, responsiveness, and comfort without adding extra costs. You also get a 70mm travel fork for smoothing out bumps on the road and light trails.

Shimano Deore 10-speed

Gearing consists of Shimano’s Deore drivetrain with a 10-speed cassette. This setup offers a wide range of gears, but with help from the Bosch Cargo Line 85Nm motor, you’ll hardly need them.

Magura MT5 Hydraulic discs

To complete the groupset, you also get Magura MT5 hydraulic disc brakes. These brakes will ensure you won’t have any trouble stopping even in wet weather.

Bosch 85Nm motor

The Bosch Cargo Line 85Nm motor is one of the most powerful you’ll find in the 250W category. It’s well-known for being tough and durable. With 85Nm of torque, it performs adequately on steep ascents and will power you along at up to 20mph on flats.

Buy from REI.com     Buy from TernBicycles.com

What defines an electric touring bicycle?

Long-distance electric bike = E-Touring Bike? – Not true. Long-distance eBikes are generally bicycled with an estimated range of 60mi and over. Touring bikes on the other hand are characterized by the accessibility to add racks and panniers to the bike. Therefore, a long-range electric bicycle can also be an electric road bike .

Technically, there is no specific set of conditions required to call a bicycle a touring bike. Although some manufacturers make touring-specific bikes, any bike that somebody chooses to tour on is, by default, a touring bike. However, there are certain features that you will commonly find on most touring bikes that make them comfortable and strong enough for long-distance riding.

For extra strength, many touring cyclists choose a steel frame with lots of mount points and a comfortable upright seating position. These are usually similar to road bike frames although some bikepacking bikes use MTB style frames. For steep hill climbs and strong stopping power on descents, touring bikes usually have a wide gear range and powerful disc brakes. Handlebars can either be dropped or straight but the more hand positions the better.

Other common extras include pannier racks, mudguards, lights, dynamos, and thick puncture-resistant tires.

Are gravel eBikes the same as e-touring bikes?

Gravel bikes are closely related to touring bikes but lack the comfort factor that one would expect from a touring bike.

Gravel vs. Cyclocross vs. Touring Bikes — Differences Explained

Gravel vs. Cyclocross vs. Touring Bikes — Differences Explained

Are touring bikes good for commuting.

Many people use commuting bikes for touring and vice versa since they usually have many of the same qualities. If you already own a touring bike, it would make an ideal commuter since it’s strong, comfortable, and likely has the racks, mudguards, and lights. However, it wouldn’t make sense to buy a touring bike specifically for commuting as they are usually more expensive than regular commuter bikes.

EBike Classifications – Throttle vs Pedal-Assist

Electric bikes are classified into three classes

  • Class 1 eBike – Pedal-assisted electric bikes. Motor limited up to 750W, speed to 20mph.
  • Class 2 eBike – Electric bikes with a throttle. Motor power limited up to 750W, max assisted speed of 20mph.
  • Class 3 eBike – Pedal-assisted, and optional throttle options available. Motor power limited to 750W, speed limited to 28mph.
  • Class 4 eBike – An electric bike with pedals. Either the motor power is 750W or over, or the assisted speed exceeds 28mph.

Is it worth buying an eBike?

For many people with injured or weak knees, an eBike is the only option if they wish to keep cycling. In this sense, eBikes are certainly worth it for people who may not be able to continue cycling otherwise.

In recent years, eBikes have dropped in price drastically due to improvements in technology. Additionally, they now benefit from longer-life batteries, lighter frames, and stronger motors. For this reason, modern eBikes offer excellent value for money as they are long-lasting, durable, and affordable. 

Do electric bikes charge when you pedal?

No, despite a widespread belief that they do, electric bikes don’t actually charge while you pedal. The resistance required in the pedals to create enough charge would negate any additional benefit provided by the motor.

However, some electric bikes do have regenerative braking which uses continuous forward motion when braking to feed charge back into the battery. With this system, you could feed quite a lot of energy back into the battery if you were going down a long descent.

How long does the battery last on an electric bike?

The batteries on electric bikes vary greatly between models and the length they last depend on how hard and how frequently you pedal. Most batteries will take you between 40-60 miles (64-96 km) on a single charge – enough to last a whole day riding.

Batteries will need to be replaced after a few thousand cycles (recharges) depending on the type of battery. Lithium batteries are the best, with up to 1000 cycles, with nickel and lead batteries giving only half that or less.

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About the Author

tour de e bike

Mark Hartley

2 thoughts on “ best electric touring bikes for your next adventure ”.

Trust me when I say that if you want to do extended rides on an ebike… touring, bike camping, weekenders, carrying enough gear to be comfortable, consecutive century rides, etc., you want more than 2, 3, or even 400W motors. The second thing you want is a Rohloff Speedhub so you can actually use all the gears with that additional power and not shred the gears and chain. Mid-drives love a nice clean straight chain line. For anyone that is going to carry panniers the racks (plural – a front rack is more important than the rear) need to be able to easily handle 40+ lbs. and be durable over years of riding. It’s not difficult to ride a eTouring setup with 80 to 150 lbs. of gear on the frame and another 80 to 100 lbs. in a trailer… at least when you have a “proper” motor (750 to 1000W). All the things that go into making a superior eTouring bike combine to make the best possible all-around daily commuter, grocery-getter, ride to get your Covid shot, take the pet to the vet ebike.

When you own an ebike you will find that you not only ride further but more often, even daily after you see how much you enjoy it. With that increased usage comes necessary maintainance, by a quality mech and by you. There is also a learning curve on getting the most out of the batteries and why a single large (2000+Wh) battery is better than 2 or even 3 smaller packs. You can buy a POS ebike on Amazon for $1K dollars but if you want to ride an ebike and not just own an ebike it’s best to remember that you get what you pay for.

The caveat here is “Best… to order online”, if you want to actually bike tour on an ebike not one of these bikes comes close.

https://photos.app.goo.gl/ADgC6oyPM2gyrCq27

25 Jul 20 – Mowich Lake https://www.relive.cc/view/v8qkd2LGdKv https://photos.app.goo.gl/hRSTYZ8UjzdpuQ7n8

26 Jul 20 – Rain Forest trail https://www.relive.cc/view/vQvyDGe2W4q https://photos.app.goo.gl/WcoVAreB4TUdAiPF7 https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WwwdaVg4Y5M https://prnt.sc/tsxt5p

Everyone stay safe.

Got a wild hair up my… about trekking across the US on an ebike. Doing a lot of research. In your opinion, if not any of these bikes, what ebike would you suggest? What do you ride?

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Where The Road Forks

Electric Bike Touring: Everything You Need to Know

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: January 24, 2024

Categories Bicycle Touring and Bikepacking , Electric Bikes

Home » Bikes and Cycling » Electric Bikes » Electric Bike Touring: Everything You Need to Know

Thinking about taking a bike tour with your e-bike? This guide explains everything you need to know about electric bike touring. We’ll cover range, charging on the road, e-bike maintenance, cost, transporting an e-bike, batteries, e-bike reliability, and more. We’ll also talk about the different types of e-bikes available and list a few of the best electric bikes for touring. Hopefully, this guide makes your first e-bike tour a little easier.

A man touring on an electric bike with a rear rack and panniers

Table of Contents

  • What is an Electric Touring Bike
  • Pros and Cons of Touring With an Electric Bike
  • E-Bike Range
  • Charging Your E-Bike on the Road
  • E-Bike Reliability
  • E-Bike Maintenance
  • Transporting an Electric Bike
  • E-Bike Prices
  • The Legality of E-Bikes
  • E-Bike Classes
  • Pedal Assist Vs Throttle
  • Mid-Drive Vs Hub Motor
  • Torque Sensors Vs Cadence Sensors
  • E-Bike Motors
  • E-Bike Batteries
  • How to Choose an Electric Bike for Touring
  • Preparing an E-Bike for a Tour
  • The Best Electric Touring Bikes
  • E-Bike Conversion Kits
  • The Best Locations for E-Bike Touring

What is an Electric Touring Bike?

An electric bike, or e-bike, is a bicycle with an electric motor that assists the rider as they pedal. E-bikes can assist the rider up hills and against headwinds. The motor also allows you to maintain higher speeds. Most e-bikes are capable of cruising at 20 mph. Some models can go as fast as 28 mph.

This makes e-bikes ideal for cycle touring. With a touring e-bike, you can cover more ground each day without tiring out.

tour de e bike

A number of different electric bike designs exist. Most e-bikes offer a pedal assist feature that provides power only when the rider is pedaling. Some e-bikes have a throttle that can be used without pedaling. This allows you to ride without using any of your own energy.

Most electric bikes have a hub motor in the front or rear wheel. Some models have a mid-drive motor built into the frame. A range of motor sizes are available.

The battery typically mounts to the frame. For bike touring, you’ll want a large battery to give you more range. Most e-bikes come with removable batteries that can be easily charged at hotels, restaurants, campgrounds, rest stops, and other businesses as you travel.

Electric bikes often come equipped with additional features such as lights and fenders. You can also add on your favorite bike touring luggage such as panniers and racks, bikepacking bags, or a trailer.

Benefits of Electric Bike Touring

E-bikes make it easier to cycle up hills and into headwinds.

You can travel further and faster with less effort on an electric bike.

Riding an electric bike allows you to complete a longer bike tour in less time. If you usually ride 50 miles per day while touring, you may be able to cover 70 miles per day with an e-bike. This is nice if you only have a limited amount of time to tour.

You’ll have more energy for sightseeing when you arrive at your destination because riding an e-bike isn’t as tiring.

E-bikes allow those with certain disabilities or medical conditions to ride who otherwise wouldn’t be able to. For example, those with back or neck injuries, asthma, knee pain, etc. can ride an e-bike.

Two cyclists with different levels of fitness can cycle together. One can use more assist than the other to match speeds.

E-bikes are environmentally friendly. They don’t emit Co2 like gas-powered vehicles.

There is less regulation to deal with. You don’t need a license, permit, or any other documents to ride an e-bike

Drawbacks of Electric Bike Touring

Electric bikes are complex. They have a battery, electric motor, computer, sensors, wiring, handlebar controls, and more. These are fragile electronic components. There are more parts that can break while you’re on the road.

Electric bikes are heavy. Most weigh 20-30 kg. To compare, an average touring bike weighs 10-20 kg. You won’t want to ride your e-bike very far without using the motor.

You need to charge your touring e-bike. This can dictate your route. You can’t ride through remote areas where there is no electricity.

You might avoid interesting backroads and only stick to main roads because finding a place to charge is easier. You’ll stick to developed areas.

If your battery dies, you have to ride with the extra weight of the motor and battery.

It’s difficult to fly with an e-bike. Large lithium-ion batteries aren’t allowed on planes. Some train and bus companies also ban e-bike batteries.

It takes a long time to charge an electric bike battery. You can’t ride for 4-6 hours while the battery is charging.

E-bikes are significantly more expensive than regular bikes.

There are proprietary parts that can be difficult to find in some parts of the world.

The legal status of e-bikes varies. Your e-bike may be illegal in some countries depending on the design.

E-bikes can’t handle extremely cold weather. When temperatures drop below freezing, your battery will run out of power quickly.

E-bikes are difficult to carry up stairs or over fences because they are so heavy.

Electric bikes are sensitive to moisture. If some water makes its way into your motor or electrical system, it can ruin the bike.

E-bikes have a stigma in the bike touring community. Some bicycle tourists think it’s lazy or cheating to ride an electric bike.

For more general info, check out my guide to the pros and cons of electric bikes .

An electric bike off-road

E-bike Range

The range is the distance you can travel before you have to recharge the battery. The range you get out of your e-bike depends on a number of factors including the size of the battery, the size of the motor, how much pedal assist you use, your weight, the bike’s weight, the weight of your luggage, the wind, how hilly the road is, the road surface, the motor design, tire pressure, aerodynamics, and more. Your range could be anywhere from 10 miles to 200 miles.

On a flat road in calm conditions, an e-bike with a 250w motor can carry you along at around 15 mph (25km/h) if you’re using a medium level of assist. With a 400 Wh battery, you could maintain this speed for around 60 miles (100 km) before the battery runs out of power. This gives you a full day of riding on one charge. You can charge the bike overnight and set off with a full charge in the morning.

There are a number of ways to increase the range of your electric touring bike. You could achieve a longer range by lowering the level of assist and pedaling harder. Most e-bikes offer an eco mode that only provides a small amount of assistance. You could install a larger battery that stores more power. Alternatively, you could carry a second battery and swap the batteries out when one dies. Some e-bikes have a dual battery option. These models often offer over 100 miles of range. Another option is to carry less stuff to reduce the weight of your loaded touring bike. A lighter bike has a longer range.

You can also use the motor selectively to save power. For example, you can ride flat sections without assist and then turn the pedal assist on when climbing a hill or riding into a headwind. You can also coast downhills. If you use the battery only when you need it, you can get more than a full day of riding on a single charge.

Some direct-drive hub motor e-bikes also feature regenerative braking. This technology allows you to use the bike’s kinetic energy to charge your battery while braking or descending hills. This can improve your range by around 5 percent.

For more in-depth info, check out my guide to e-bike range.

An e-bike with panniers on a trail

Charging on the Road

To charge your e-bike’s battery, you will need to regularly find power outlets. This is one of the biggest annoyances of cycle touring on an electric bike. You’re always on the lookout for a place to plug in and charge.

Luckily, it’s pretty easy to find a place to charge your e-bike. Most electric bike tourists charge their battery at night at a hotel, motel, hostel, guesthouse, or campground. If you plug the bike in overnight, it will be fully charged by the morning.

You can also charge your electric bike during the day at bars, restaurants, supermarkets, churches, gas stations, public bathrooms, convenience stores, etc. Most businesses will let you plug your bike in for a few minutes if you ask nicely. While touring, you have to get in the habit of looking for outlets and asking if you can charge your bike.

On average, it takes around 3-5 hours to charge an e-bike battery completely. On most e-bikes, a full battery will take you 25-60 miles. If you plug in and charge during lunch, you might be able to get a half charge. This can take you another 20-30 miles down the road.

If you plan to travel through remote areas where there are long distances between towns and bike camping at night, you may have trouble keeping your bike charged. At this time, e-bikes aren’t ideal for this style of bike touring. When you tour with an e-bike, you need to stay close enough to civilization so you can find a place to plug in every day.

While touring with an e-bike, you may not be able to go bike camping as often because you won’t have any place to charge your bike. You can’t really wild camp, unless you have a really long range. Many campgrounds also don’t have power.

At some point, your battery will run out of power and you won’t have any place to charge your bike. In this case, you’ll just have to pedal under your own power. Alternatively, you can carry an extra battery as a backup.

When choosing an electric bike for touring, try to choose a model with a removable battery. This way, you can lock your touring bike up outside and take the battery inside with you to charge. This gives you many more options for charging. You also have the option to swap batteries out if you choose.

Can You Charge an Electric bike with a Solar Panel?

Yes. It is possible to charge an electric bike with a solar panel. At this time, you can’t get an unlimited range with solar charging. You will use up your battery faster than the solar panels can recharge it.

With a 100w solar panel, it is possible to produce 300-600Wh of energy in a day. That’s enough to charge an average e-bike battery completely full. Of course, the panels will have to sit in direct sunlight all day.

People do use solar to charge their e-bike. For example, this guy installed two 50w solar panels on his e-bike. These guys used solar power to ride their e-bikes across the United States.

If you wanted to charge your e-bike with solar alone, you would have to rig a trailer with several solar panels. This is possible but not really practical.

A black e-bike

Electric Bike Reliability

Modern e-bikes are incredibly reliable. The electrical system is sealed to keep rain, snow, sand, dust, mud, and other contaminants out. E-bikes can handle shocks and vibrations from the road. The motor and battery can handle temperatures ranging from 32°F to 113°F (0°C to 45°C).

People have successfully ridden e-bikes across continents. For example, this couple circumnavigated the United States on e-bikes. E-bikes can stand up to some serious use and abuse. They aren’t fragile.

Having said this, not all e-bikes are reliable enough for touring. If you plan to do any serious bike touring, you’ll need a higher-end e-bike. Entry-level models come with electrical systems that may not be sealed very well. Moisture can cause electrical issues. Shocks and vibrations can shake parts loose. Cheap batteries can discharge quickly in temperatures around 40℉ or 5℃. Low-end e-bikes aren’t reliable enough for bike touring.

Even if you ride the best electric bike on the market, you can experience some reliability issues. A wire could shake loose, some moisture could make its way into a poorly sealed part of the electical system, or your battery could run out of power in the middle of nowhere. It helps to have some basic electrical knowledge while touring on an e-bike so you can diagnose potential problems.

It’s important to note that electric bikes generally don’t handle moisture well. In most cases, the motor and electrical system is water resistant, not waterproof. You can ride an electric bike in light rain but you can’t ride it across a stream. If some water makes its way into your motor or control unit, the electrical system can fail. You should avoid riding your e-bike in heavy rains or through puddles. Always cover your touring bike at night so it doesn’t get rained on.

E-bike Maintenance

E-bikes require the same maintenance as any other bike. You’ll have to periodically clean and lube the chain, keep the tires aired up, grease the bearings, and check for loose bolts and broken spokes. Wearable parts including the tires, chain, brake pads, brake cables, cassette, and chainring will need to be replaced when they wear out. Every day before riding, you should give your touring bike a quick lookover and test the brakes.

Some parts can wear out faster on an electric bike than on a standard bike. This is because e-bikes travel at higher speeds and cover more distance each day. Mid-drive e-bikes also transmit power through the chain. This can put additional wear and tear on the drivetrain. You may need to replace the tires, chain, brake pads, and cassette more often than you’re used to when you ride an e-bike. On a mid-drive e-bike, a chain may only last 1000-2000 miles. You can buy e-bike-specific chains that are more durable.

The motor, battery, and electrical system don’t really require any maintenance. The electrical system is completely sealed. To help keep contaminants out of the motor, you should wash dirt and grime off of your e-bike. Once in a while, clean off the charging port and battery connections.

If your e-bike has a geared hub motor or a mid-drive motor, you may have to replace the internal planetary gears at some point. Over time, the plastic gears can wear down. When they wear out, the motor becomes noisy. In most cases, you can simply swap out the gears. You may have to take the bike to a shop to have this service done.

To maximize the life of your e-bike’s battery, you should only charge it with the charger that came with your e-bike. Don’t use a fast charger. Always keep the battery partially charged. Avoid storing your electric touring bike with a low or dead battery. The battery is one of the most expensive parts of your e-bike. You want to take care of it to get the most life out of it.

Transporting Your Electric Bike

Transporting an electric bike is more difficult than transporting a regular bike. The reason is that you can’t fly with an ebike. The maximum size of lithium-ion battery that is allowed on airplanes is 100Wh (watt-hours). An average touring electric bike has a 400Wh or larger battery.

Large lithium-ion batteries are not allowed on airplanes because they are flammable. If they are not properly packed or stored, they could burst into flames and create a fire. Battery fires are difficult to extinguish. This makes it difficult to transport an e-bike to the starting point of your tour.

It is still possible to transport an e-bike. One option is to fly with the bike and ship the battery to your destination separately. To do this, you will need to properly pack and label the battery. You’ll also have to use a shipping service that has experience shipping lithium batteries. There is also some paperwork involved in shipping dangerous goods. All major shipping companies, including UPS and FedEx, will accept lithium batteries if they’re packed and labeled properly. You may need to have the battery professionally packed by the shipping company. Electric bike batteries can be shipped by land, air, or sea as long as they are properly packed.

Another option is to travel to your starting point by bus or train. Most bus and train companies allow e-bikes as checked luggage. There are usually no restrictions on batteries. You may have to pay an oversized baggage fee or a bicycle fee. You should check with the bus or train company first. E-bikes are not permitted on some buses or trains.

Alternatively, you could take private transport. You could pack your e-bike in your car and drive to your starting point.

Of course, you could also simply start your tour from your home and make a round trip. This way, you don’t have to worry about transporting your bike. Only bike touring around your home is somewhat limiting.

If you need to transport your e-bike frequently, you may consider a folding model. Electric folding bikes pack down into a much more compact form. This allows you to take them on public transport busses and trains in many cities. It’s also easy to load a folding bike into the trunk of a car or taxi. Of course, you will still have to deal with the battery if you need to fly with your bike. For more info, check out my guide to the pros and cons of folding bikes.

A bike box

Electric Touring Bike Prices

Electric bikes are more expensive than regular bikes. For touring, you should look for an electric bike that is mid-range or high-end. Ebikes that are suitable for touring start at around $1500. If you want to buy a higher-end ebike with a premium Bosch performance line mid-drive motor, torque sensors pedal assist, and multiple batteries, you’re looking at spending $3000-$5000. High-end ebikes cost around $4000-$6000. Top-of-the-line ebikes can cost as much as $10,000. For most people, $3000-$4000 is a good budget for a touring ebike.

If you’re on a tight budget, one option is to convert your existing touring bike into an ebike. Installing a conversion kit on your bike is far cheaper than buying a new ebike. Entry-level ebike conversion kits start at around $300. High-end ebike conversion kits max out at around $2500.

Low-end conversion kits aren’t reliable or durable enough for bike touring. At a minimum, you’ll want to go with a mid-range kit in the $700-$1000 range. These kits come with quality components and batteries that are suitable for bike touring.

Ebike conversion kits include the motor, control unit, handlebar-mounted display, pedal assist sensors, and wiring. Some models include the battery and sometimes you have to buy the battery separately.

You will need to consider the cost of the battery when buying a conversion kit. A quality electric bike battery costs around $500-$800. Complete ebikes include the battery. Conversion kits often do not.

If you go with a conversion kit, you will need a decent bike to install the kit on. A quality touring bike costs around $1000-$2500. For more info, check out my guide to choosing a touring bike.

Many bicycle tourists travel with an extra battery. This can double your range. A second battery is expensive. Add another $500-$800 to your budget if you want to carry a second battery.

An electric touring bike with a pannier and handlebar bag

The Legality of Electric Bikes

Electric bikes are not legal everywhere. There is a complex legal landscape with different ebike laws. The laws vary from country to country and state to state. Some cities even have their own ebike laws.

The legality of ebikes can depend on a number of factors including the motor size, the maximum speed, and the type of controls the bike has.

When touring you must research the legislation where you plan to ride to ensure that your electric bike is compliant with local laws. If you don’t comply, you could be fined or your bike could be confiscated.

Before choosing an ebike for touring, you’ll want to think about where you’re going to ride it. Research the local laws regarding ebikes in the region you plan to tour.

In many countries, the maximum ebike motor size to 250W. This is common in Europe. In some places, the max motor size is 500W, 750W, or 1000W.

Oftentimes the maximum speed is limited as well. Usually, the maximum speed is 20 mph or 32 kph. In some jurisdictions, the maximum speed is 28 mph or 45 kph. The maximum ebike speed is just 15 mph or 25 kph in much of Europe.

In many countries, only pedal assist ebikes are allowed. Ebikes that have a throttle are not allowed. Some countries regulate ebikes by classes. I’ll outline the three ebike classes in the following section.

If you want to have the option to ride the bike pretty much anywhere in the world, look for a model with a 250w motor and a pedal assist system without a throttle. The bike should have a maximum speed of 15 mph or 25 kph. These are known as class 1 ebikes. They are legal almost everywhere. Most cities treat them the same as regular bicycles.

If you plan to tour in the United States, you can use an ebike with a maximum motor size of 750W and a top speed of 20 mph or 32 kph. The bike shouldn’t have a throttle. A bike with these specifications will be legal in most states.

If you ride an illegal electric bike, you’re to get caught. Police usually aren’t focused on ebikes. The problem is that you could be held liable if you’re involved in an accident because you were breaking the law. It’s best to always tour on a legal ebike.

Electric Bike Classes

Electric bikes are categorized into classes. The class indicates the type of power delivery system the ebike has (pedal-assist or throttle) and the maximum speed that the motor supplies power. There are three classes of ebikes:

Class 1 e-bikes-  These ebikes offer pedal assist only. They are limited to a maximum speed of 20 mph (32 kph). After you reach 20mph, the power trails off to zero. At that point, you can only pedal the ebike like a normal non-powered bike. When your speed drops below 20 mph, the pedal assist activates again. Class 1 ebikes can use torque sensors, cadence sensors, or both. For most riders, class 1 ebikes are the best choice for bike touring because they are legal in most jurisdictions.

Class 2 e-bikes-  These ebikes feature a throttle. Most models also offer pedal assist but they don’t have to. Class 2 ebikes are also limited to a max speed of 20 mph (32 kph). After you reach 20 mph, the power trails off to zero. You can also pedal without using the motor. When your speed drops 20 mph the threshold, the throttle starts working again. Class 2 ebikes can work well for bike touring but they are illegal in some countries.

Class 3 e-bikes- These powerful ebikes have a maximum speed of 28 mph (45 kph). They can have a throttle, pedal assist, or both. After you reach 28 mph, the power trails off to zero. You can also pedal without using power. When your speed drops below 28 mph, the throttle or pedal assist activates again. These ebikes are not ideal for touring because they are illegal or require licensing in many places.

A silhouette of an e-bike

Pedal Assist Vs Throttle Control E-bikes for Touring

Electric bikes can have either pedal assist, a throttle, or both. For bike touring, pedal assist is almost always the better option. In this section, I’ll outline both systems and lay out some pros and cons.

For more in-depth info, check out my guide to pedal assist vs throttle e-bikes.

Pedal Assist E-bikes

Pedal assist e-bikes only provide power when you pedal. You activate the pedal assist system by pedaling the bike normally. A torque or cadence sensor measures your pedaling input and signals the motor when to engage and disengage.

The motor engages automatically and assists you by making pedaling easier. The motor only provides part of the pedaling power. You must provide pedaling power as well. When you stop pedaling, the motor cuts off automatically.

There are usually 3-5 different pedal assist levels to choose from. Level one or ‘eco mode’ only supplies a small amount of assistance. The highest setting supplies maximum power. On the lowest level, you provide most of the pedaling power. On the highest setting, the motor provides most of the power.

Quality pedal assist ebikes feel natural to ride. There is no delay between when you start pedaling and when the motor kicks in. These systems are incredibly responsive.

Pedal assist is also easy to use. There are no additional controls that you have to worry about. You simply pedal normally. It’s intuitive. Perhaps most importantly, pedal assist systems are legal in most places.

There are two types of pedal assist systems: torque sensors and cadence sensors. For bike touring, torque sensors are better.

Torque sensor pedal assist systems measure how hard you’re pedaling. The computer varies the power delivery based on how hard you’re pedaling. These systems are efficient and responsive.

Lower-end pedal assist systems use cadence sensors. These sensors measure if you are pedaling. The power delivery on these systems can feel a bit less smooth. Sometimes there is a lag or surge of power when you start pedaling.

Throttle Controlled E-bikes

Throttle controlled ebikes operate like a motorcycle or scooter. There is a handlebar-mounted control that allows you to choose the amount of power you need. The control can be a twist grip, a thumb lever, or a simple button. A throttle allows you to ride the ebike without pedaling. Kind of like riding a moped or motorcycle. The bike can do all of the work for you. Most throttle controlled ebikes also offer pedal assist.

These throttle systems are responsive and cheap to implement. There are a number of drawbacks that make throttle systems not ideal for bike touring. Most importantly, throttle controlled ebikes aren’t legal in many jurisdictions. This limits where you can ride. They also offer less range. You’ll use more power when you’re not pedaling. In addition, they’re a bit less intuitive to use. There is an extra control for you to think about.

Mid Drive Vs Hub Motor E-bikes for Touring

Ebikes come with either a mid-drive motor or a hub motor. Both motor types are suitable for touring. Generally, mid-drive motors are better for bike touring. In this section, I’ll outline some benefits and drawbacks so mid drive vs hub motor ebikes.

For more in-depth info, check out my guide to mid-drive vs hub motor ebikes.

A mid-drive e-bike motor from Shimano

Mid Drive Motors

On a mid-drive ebike, the motor is located at the center of the bike between the cranks. The cranks attach directly to the mid-drive motor. The mid-drive motor is integrated into the bike’s frame. A mid-drive motor provides power through the bike’s drivetrain. The motor turns the cranks and powers the rear wheel through the chain.

The main advantage of a mid-drive ebike is that you can take advantage of the bike’s gears. You can use the mechanical advantage of the gears to keep the motor running at the optimal RPM for every situation. For example, you can shift down to climb steep hills. You can shift up to reach higher speeds on flat sections. Using the gears allows the motor to run more efficiently. Mid-drive motors bikes can achieve a longer range as a result. They can also climb more effectively.

Another advantage of mid-drive ebikes is that you can use regular wheels. This gives you the option to run an internal gear hub or dynamo hub if you choose. In addition, it’s easier to remove a wheel to repair a flat on a mid-drive ebike.

Weight is another advantage. Mid-drive ebikes are significantly lighter than hub motor models. The weight distribution is also much better. The weight of the mid-drive motor sits in the center of the bike close to the ground. The center of gravity is in the middle of the bike. As a result, the bike feels stable and balanced. The extra weight of the motor isn’t as noticeable. It rides naturally, like a non-powered bike. The bike is also more maneuverable.

Mid-motor ebike also do not require torque arms or extra strong forks or dropouts. The frame is specifically designed for the motor.

This all makes mid-drive electric bikes the best choice for bike touring. Most higher-end ebikes feature a mid-drive motor for these reasons.

There are a couple of disadvantages to consider. Mid-drive ebikes put more stress on the drivetrain because power is delivered through the drivetrain. You may have to replace your chain and cassette more frequently. Mid-drive ebikes are also expensive. They start at around $2000. Most mid drive ebikes only offer pedal assist. They don’t have a throttle.

A rear hub motor e-bike

Hub Motor E-bikes

Hub motor ebikes have an electric motor built into one of the hubs. The motor replaces a standard hub. The hub motor can be installed in the front or the rear wheel.

The hub motor directly powers the wheel it’s built into. It applies torque directly to the wheel. It operates completely separately from the bike’s drivetrain. This means a hub motor is not affected by gear changes, like a mid-drive motor.

Hub motors are the most common type of motors used on electric bikes. They are simple, powerful, affordable, and efficient. A hub motor can be installed on pretty much any bicycle.

There are a few drawbacks to hub motors. They usually offer less range than mid drives. You’ll need a bigger battery to achieve the same range. The motor also can’t take advantage of the gears. The handling also isn’t as good. The hub motor can create a gyroscopic effect that makes the bike hard to turn. The heavy spinning motor tries to right itself. Hub motors are also heavier.

There are two types of hub motors: geared and direct drive.

Geared hub motors

Geared hub motors use planetary gears to reduce the motor’s RPM. This allows the motor to be smaller and lighter. Using a smaller motor also increases efficiency.

Geared hub motors also feature a freewheel mechanism that reduces resistance by disengaging the motor when not in use. The wheel can spin freely when the motor is off. This allows you to pedal more efficiently while you’re not using the motor.

The main downside to geared hub motors, is they can be less reliable than their gearless counterparts. This is because they have more moving parts inside that can break and cause the motor to fail. Over time, the gears wear out and need to be replaced. The gearing can also make the motor a bit noisier.

Direct Drive Hub Motors

Direct drive hut motors have no moving parts other than the hub bearings. They are mechanically simple. Direct drive hub motors are also called gearless hub motors. Direct drive hub motors are popular due to their simplicity and reliable performance.

The main benefit of direct drive hub motors is that they are incredibly reliable because they have no moving parts. They can last for tens of thousands of miles if they’re taken care of. They are virtually maintenance-free. Additionally, direct drive hub motors are extremely quiet compared to other types of electric bike motors.

As an added benefit, direct drive hub motors also allow for regenerative braking. This system creates resistance in the motor and converts kinetic energy into electricity that charges your battery. The motor works like a generator while using regenerative braking. This can improve your range by around 5%.

There are a few drawbacks. Direct drive hub motors are significantly heavier than other types of electric bike motors. A direct drive motor can weigh as much as 20 lbs. The weight can make your bike feel unbalanced and unnatural to ride. Direct drive motors also don’t produce much torque due to the lack of gearing. They aren’t as good at climbing hills. They also accelerate slower. In addition, they are physically larger.

For more in-depth info, check out my guide to geared vs direct drive hub motors.

Front Hub Motors

If you’re considering converting your existing touring bike into an ebike, front hub motors are the perfect option. Their simple design makes them easy to install on your existing bike. You can simply swap out your front wheel. There are fewer compatibility issues. You don’t have to worry about messing with the gearing.

A front hub motor also allows you to use an internal gear hub. The Rohloff Speedhub and Shimano Alfine are popular options for bike touring. You could also use a Gates belt drive system if you choose. This greatly reduces maintenance. Front hub motors also make rear flats easier to repair. Rear flats are much more common than front flats.

There are some drawbacks. The weight of the motor on the front of the bike can affect the handling of the bike in a negative way. Front hub motors also offer poor traction. The front wheel can lose grip because there is little weight on the front wheel. The weight of the motor on the front can also make the ride feel harsh. The motor can also put additional stress on the fork and dropouts. Fork failure is more common.

Rear Hub Motors

Rear hub motors offer several benefits. First, rear hub motor ebikes offer better traction thanks to the weight of the motor on the rear wheel. Having the weight of the motor on the rear also has a smaller effect on handling. The ride also tends to feel smoother. In addition, you can also use a more powerful motor. Some rear hub motor ebikes have motors as large as 1500w. This makes rear hub motor ebikes perfect for tackling steep inclines with ease. Many riders also prefer the ride feel of a rear hub motor. It feels like you’re being pushed. This feels more natural.

There are some drawbacks to consider. Flats are harder to repair. Rear hub motors are also heavier. Compatibility can be an issue. You can only use derailleur gears or a Pinion gearbox with a rear hub motor.

For more info, check out my guide to front vs rear hub motors.

A mid-drive ebike

Torque Sensors Vs Cadence Sensors for Touring

Another decision you’ll have to make when choosing an ebike for touring is the type of pedal assist sensors that the bike uses. The sensors measure your pedaling and signal to the motor when to engage and disengage.

Generally, torque sensors are better than cadence sensors for bike touring. In this section, I’ll outline the differences and pros and cons of torque sensors and cadence sensor pedal assist.

For more in-depth info, check out my guide to torque sensors vs cadence sensors.

Torque Sensors

Torque sensors use a precision strain gauge to measure if you’re pedaling and how hard you are pedaling. The gauge measures the amount of force you are applying to the peddles. The ebike control unit uses this information to determine how much power the motor needs to supply.

Torque sensor based pedal assist amplifies your pedaling input. When you pedal harder, the motor supplies more power. When you pedal gently, the motor only provides a small amount of assistance.

Torque sensor pedal assist is better for bike touring. The main reason is that the ride quality is better. Torque sensor provide smooth and natural power delivery. It feels like you have bionic legs. The bike will feel responsive and accelerate smoothly and predictably. In addition, torque sensors offer better range than cadence sensors.

The main drawback of torque sensors is that they are expensive. They add around $150 to the cost of the bike.

Cadence Sensors

Cadence sensors use magnets to measure if you are pedaling. The most basic models work like a simple on/off switch. When you start pedaling, they signal the control unit and the motor turns on. When you stop pedaling, the motor turns off.

Some more advanced models measure your pedaling speed and adjust the motor’s power accordingly. They have a cadence threshold you must meet where the power reduces. For example, the motor may supply 100% power up to a cadence of 60. When you reach 60 rpm, the motor may cut back to 70% power.

Cadence sensors are the most common type of sensors on ebikes. They are cheap and easy to activate. Cadence sensors aren’t as smooth or responsive as torque sensors. They can feel laggy or make the bike surge. They also don’t offer as much range. Handling may not be quite as good.

E-bike Motors: Speed and Power

In much of the world, ebikes are restricted by both speed and motor size. For example, in the UK, Australia, and most of Europe, ebikes are limited to a 250w motor. In Canada, ebikes are limited to a 500w motor. In most of the United States, ebikes are limited to a 750-1000w motor depending on the state.

Throughout most of the world, the top speed of ebikes is limited to 20 mph or 32 kph. In most European countries, the max speed is just 15 mph (25 kph). In some place, including most of the United States, ebikes can have a maximum speed of 28 mph (45 kph).

The best motor size for ebike touring really depends on where you’re riding. For most, a 250w motor is sufficient. 250 watts is enough power to assist you up most hills and increase your speed substantially on flat sections. On steep hills with a full load of bike touring gear, 250w might not be enough for some riders. You may still have to walk the bike occasionally.

If you’re planning on bike touring exclusively in North America, you may consider going with a 500w motor. A 500 watt motor will give you twice the assistance of a 250w. This is plenty of power for climbing even the steepest of hills with fully loaded racks and panniers. If you plan to tour exclusively in the U.S, a 750w motor is also an option.

One important thing to keep in mind is that more powerful motors use more energy. You’ll need a bigger battery if you use a larger motor.

E-bike Batteries for Touring

An e-bike battery

For bike touring, you want as much battery capacity as possible. The more range you have the further you can ride before you need to look for an outlet to charge.

Ebike batteries come in many shapes and sizes. From 36 volt, 250 watt hours up to 72 volt, 2000 watt hours and beyond. Depending on the battery type and size, electric bikes can reach ranges between 10 to 100 miles or more.

When comparing different ebike batteries, the most important figure to consider is the watt hours (Wh). This tells you how much energy the battery stores. The more watt hours, the greater your range, assuming all else is equal.

Watt hours are calculated by multiplying the battery’s voltage by the amp hours (Amp hours x voltage = watt hour). For example, 48V x 10 Ah = 480 Wh.

Most ebike batteries are 24, 36, 48, or 52 volts. Amp hours are usually 10-20Ah. An ebike battery will have a capacity of 250-700Wh, on average. Larger and smaller batteries are also available. An average ebike battery has around 400-500Wh.

The larger the battery capacity, the further you can travel between charges. Larger batteries are much more expensive than smaller batteries. They are also heavier.

Most electric bike tourists need at least 50 miles (80km) of range. 75-100 miles (120-160km) is ideal. This amount of range will allow you to ride all day.

For bike touring, it’s a good idea to bring two batteries. When one dies, you can swap it out for the other. Two 400w-600w batteries will give you plenty of range for a full day of riding in most cases. Even if you’re using the highest pedal assist setting, 800-1000w of power should take you 60 miles or 100km. If you use a lower pedal assist setting, this amount of power should take you up to 100 miles or 160 km.

On most ebikes, the batteries are mounted on the downtube, on the seat tube, or under the rear rack. Some ebikes have space to mount two batteries.

The best location for a battery is in the center of the bike as low as possible. Having the heavy battery in the center helps to maintain the bike’s center of gravity. You won’t feel the weight as much. The bike’s handling won’t be affected as much by the weight of the battery.

An electric touring bike

How to Choose the Best Electric Bike for Touring?

When choosing an electric bike for touring, look at mid-range and higher-end options. Entry-level ebikes aren’t designed to put up with the stress of bike touring. Reliability may be an issue. The last thing you want to deal with during a bike tour is mechanical issues.

For most riders, the ideal electric touring bike will have a 250W mid-drive motor with torque sensor pedal assist and no throttle control. An ebike with a 250w motor and pedal assist can be ridden legally pretty much anywhere in the world. It will be treated like any other bicycle.

If you need more power, you could choose an ebike with a larger 500w or 750w motor. If you want the option to not pedal at times, you could also choose a bike with a throttle control. Keep in mind that an e-bike with a larger motor or a throttle may not be legal in some countries. If it’s legal where you plan to tour, you won’t have any issues.

If you’re on a tighter budget there are a couple of ways to save money. You can save some money by choosing an e-bike with a hub motor instead of a mid-drive. You could also opt for cheaper cadence sensors instead of torque sensors. This can save you a few hundred dollars.

Pretty much every type of bike is available in an electric version. If you want to bike tour off-road or go bikepacking, electric mountain bikes are available, an electric gravel bike, or an electric fat bike. If you want to have the option to travel by bus or train during your bike trip, you could choose to tour with an electric folding bike. For those who have trouble balancing, you could ride an electric recumbent bike or a trike. If you want to tour exclusively on road, you could ride an electric road bike. If you need to carry a particularly heavy load, you could opt for an electric cargo bike. For those who want to tour with a friend or loved one, you could ride an electric tandem bike. A couple of companies even offer purpose-built electric touring bikes these days.

When choosing an e-bike for touring, look for a model that is capable of hauling luggage. It should at least have mounting points for a rear rack. The bike should also have a large enough weight capacity to handle you and your gear. Most touring bikes are designed to hold up to 300 pounds. For an average bike tour, that’s plenty of capacity.

How to Prepare Your E-bike for a Bike Tour

Most electric bikes aren’t built for touring. Before you set out on your bike tour, you may have to make a few modifications and upgrades to the bike.

First, you’ll have to add some racks to carry your gear. Most e-bikes can handle racks and panniers. Many e-bikes have a built-in rear rack. If you don’t want to use a rear rack, you can also use bikepacking bags or a trailer. I’ll talk more about luggage in the following section.

You may need to install new rims and spokes to make the wheels strong enough to handle the extra weight of your gear. You might also choose to swap out the tires. Maybe you want wider tires for more traction on rough surfaces. Most touring bikes come with tires that are at least 35mm wide. Maybe you want puncture-resistant tires. When choosing tires, make sure they are rated to handle e-bike speeds. Some tires come with an ‘e-bike compatible’ marking.

You might also need to buy a larger battery or a second battery. E-bikes usually come with a single battery. Sometimes there is an option to add a second battery. Some models have mounting points for two batteries. You can usually mount a second battery to a bottle cage mount.

In addition, you might also want to add some bike touring accessories such as bottle cages, lights, fenders, a cycling computer, a phone mount, and some accessory bags. Touring bikes require these parts. If you installed an electric conversion kit on your bike, you may want to install a torque arm for added safety.

For your comfort, you might also want to replace the saddle, pedals, and handlebar grips to meet your preference. For example, maybe you like a leather saddle, ergonomic grips, and clipless pedals. These parts can improve comfort while riding long distances. Most electric bicycles don’t come with these parts.

Luggage for E-bike touring

An electric bike with panniers

Most e-bike tourists use racks and panniers for carrying luggage. Pretty much every e-bike has eyelets for mounting a rear rack. Many e-bikes feature a rear rack that is built into the frame. Some models also have mounting points for a front rack. Panniers provide plenty of space for storing gear.

You can also utilize bikepacking bags for storing more gear. You might mount a front bag to the handlebars, a frame bag inside of the triangle, and an accessory bag on the top tube. These provide plenty of additional storage.

For more info on luggage, check out my guide to bikepacking bags vs panniers.

Another luggage option that is popular among electric bike tourists is a cargo trailer. You can mount a trailer to any bike, regardless of the design. Trailers can handle a large amount of weight. Some models have a capacity of up to 100 pounds. A trailer is a great place to carry your heavy spare batteries.

For more info, check out my guide to bike cargo trailers.

While packing, you’ll need to be careful not to overload the bike or the performance will suffer. For more info, check out my guide to electric bike weight limits.

The Best Electric Touring Bikes for Long Distance Touring

These days, there are hundreds of electric bikes on the market. There aren’t very many that are designed for long-distance touring. A few of the best electric touring bikes include:

Trek Allant 7s+

Cannondale Tesoro Neo X3

Ride1Up Prodigy XR

Bulls Lacuba EVO E8

Bulls E-Stream EVO 3 27.5 Plus

Cube Kathmandu

Rad Rover 6 Plus

Riese & Müller Superdelite

Riese & Müller Delite GT Nuvinci

Riese & Müller Charger Touring

Conversion Kits for Electric Touring Bikes

A number of companies offer kits for converting your regular bike into an e-bike. Most kits include a hub motor, pedal assist sensors, a control unit, a display unit, and all of the necessary wiring. Sometimes a battery is included and sometimes it’s sold separately.

Usually, the hub motor is already built into a wheel. You simply swap out your existing wheel for the new one with the motor built in. You can also build your own wheel with your own rim and spokes. Mid-drive conversion kits are also available. In this case, you remove the existing bottom bracket and replace it with the mid-drive motor.

These kits can cost anywhere from a few hundred dollars to a couple of thousand dollars. Entry-level e-bike conversion kits aren’t really suitable for touring. You’ll want something a bit higher quality to put up with the stress of touring. If you plan to convert an existing touring bike to an e-bike expect to spend around $700-$1000 for a quality conversion kit and battery.

The Best Locations for E-bike Touring

Bicycle tourists riding down a bike path

Electric bikes have revolutionized the traditional cycling experience. They allow riders to traverse the outdoors with higher speeds and longer range. E-bikes can be used for long distance touring and day tours.

When it comes to planning a successful electric bike tour, the trick is selecting a route that offers great scenery and an optimal ebiking experience. That means regular charging points. Routes should also have access to hotels. Bike camping sometimes isn’t possible due to the need to charge.

Europe offers wonderful landscapes and well-developed urban areas which make it perfect for e-bike tours. The continent is home to some of the world’s most developed bike networks, making getting around easy and efficient. The distances between towns are small, making it easy to find a place to charge your bike.

On some of the more popular European cycling routes, electric bikes are becoming more common than standard bikes. Many hotels and restaurants offer e-bike charging. There are even charging points on the side of some bike paths. If you’re just getting started with e-bike touring, Europe is hard to beat.

A couple of the best cycling routes for e-biking in Europe include the Rhine Route (Eurovelo 15) and the Danube Cycle Path. There are cycling routes all over the continent. It’s probably the best region to bike tour. The cycling infrastructure is incredible.

The United States also provides fantastic bike touring routes. Popular routes include the Pacific Coast and TransAmerica Trail. These routes are possible with an e-bike but you will need a decent amount of range. It can take a bit more planning to make a long distance bike tour work.

These days, organized e-bike touring is becoming a popular activity for non-cyclists. The tour company sets the route for you and supplies you with a bike and gear. Some bike tours are guided and others are self-guided. You can book e-bike tours all over the world. Some great destinations for an e-bike tour include France, Switzerland, Japan, New Zealand, and the United States.

Really, the possibilities for electric bike excursions are limitless. From coast to coast or crisscrossing across continents, virtually any corner of the world can be explored by electric bicycle. People have ridden e-bikes all over the world including Africa, Central Asia, Southeast Asia, and South America. All you need to tour on an e-bike is access to a power outlet around once per day for a few hours.

Locations to Avoid While E-bike Touring

There are some places that aren’t suitable for e-bike touring. If you’re planning on bike touring through remote regions where you won’t be in civilization for days at a time, an e-bike probably isn’t the best bike choice for the tour. You’re better off going with a non-powered bike in this case. For e-bike touring to make work, you need to be able to charge at least every 50-100 miles. You probably won’t want to cross the Gobi Desert with an e-bike. You won’t have anywhere to charge it.

It’s important to note that you won’t be stranded if you end up running out of power in the middle of nowhere. You can still cycle normally without any assistance from the motor. Once you reach the next town, you can charge your batteries again.

Many electric bikes do have a bit more resistance when you’re not using the motor. This is relatively easy to overcome. Particularly on e-bikes with geared motors. You will have to carry the extra weight of the motor and battery.

Electric bikes also aren’t ideal for touring in extremely wet conditions. E-bikes are designed to handle light to medium rain. It’s not a good idea to ride an e-bike in extremely heavy rain. You also shouldn’t leave an e-bike out in the rain. In addition, you can’t do water crossings with an e-bike. The components are sealed but moisture can still get in. If the motor, control unit, display, or battery gets wet, the electrical system can short out. This can ruin your e-bike. For this reason, electric bicycles are better suited for bike tours in dry regions.

It is also best to avoid routes that require you to fly. You can’t fly with your e-bike. You’ll have to ship the battery separately. This makes it a hassle to transport your e-bike.

tour de e bike

Are E-bikes Worth It for Touring?

When it comes to bike touring, electric bikes are absolutely worth it. E-bikes provide an added boost of power when your legs get tired or you need a bit more muscle for those tougher hills and headwinds. You’ll arrive at your destination with plenty of energy for sightseeing.

E-bikes also allow riders to cover distances that would be much more difficult on their standard bikes. With an electric bike, you can cover 50 miles in just a few hours of riding. If you’re worried about range, an electric touring bike with two batteries can go 60 miles or more on a full charge.

In most of the world, finding a place to charge your batteries is relatively easy. All you need is a standard power outlet. You can charge in hotels, restaurants, and coffee shops. So whether you want the extra boost of energy from electric assistance or more range from the rechargeable battery, electric bikes are definitely worth it for bike touring.

Final Thoughts About E-bike Touring

With the help of an e-bike, you can see more in less time during your travels. E-bikes make it easy to climb steep hills and ride into strong headwinds. Not to mention, electric bicycles are eco-friendly and a lot of fun.

Of course, electric bikes aren’t suitable for every bike tour. They need to be charged daily. It is also difficult to fly with an e-bike due to the large lithium-ion battery. E-bikes are sensitive to water. E-bikes are also expensive.

Whether you’re planning a cross-country electric bike tour or just a weekend getaway, a touring electric bike is worth considering. Hopefully, this guide helps you decide whether or not e-bike touring is right for you.

Have you toured with an electric bike? Share your tips and experience in the comments!

More from Where The Road Forks

  • Types of Electric Bikes: E-Bike Buyer’s Guide
  • 17 Types of Bike Handlebars
  • Disc Brakes Vs Rim Brakes
  • Do I Need a Cycling Mirror?
  • 32 Vs 36 Spoke Wheels
  • Tube Vs Tubeless Tires: Pros and Cons
  • How to Buy a Used Bike

Zachary Friedman

Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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The 10 Best Electric Bikes, Tested by Our Editors

We’ve ridden dozens of electric bikes in every category—commuter, cargo, cruiser, folding, mountain, and city. Here are the ones worth considering in a range of styles and prices.

a person riding an aventon electric bike

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. How we test gear.

To make these reviews as helpful as possible, we focus on lower and mid-price options from brands you can purchase directly online—though we did include some recommendations for e-bikes available through bike shops and more expensive models that our bike testers loved.

Brands like Aventon , Ride1Up , and Lectric offer affordable models you can buy online that perform well in our ride testing. If you want to purchase an electric bike in person or test ride before you buy, established players like Specialized and Trek offer many types of e-bikes and have hundreds of dealers nationwide. Additionally, REI has many locations across the U.S. offering its Co-op e-bikes and models from other popular brands.

Check out Bicycling ’s 2023 Bike Awards for 12 exceptional, high-performing e-bikes rigorously vetted by our editorial team.

The Best E-Bikes

  • Best Overall : Aventon Level.2
  • Best Utility: Co-op Cycles Generation e1.1
  • Best Fat Tire : Aventon Aventure.2
  • Best Fat Tire Commuter : Rad Power RadRover 6 Plus
  • Best E-MTB: Aventon Ramblas eMTB

How We Test E-Bikes

Our full electric bike reviews, things to consider when buying an e-bike, how to buy a used e-bike.

Our experienced bike test team evaluates each model included here on its overall quality, safety features, handling, motor, and battery life. We also assess whether the components and features added to the overall quality of the ride. Bicycling editors tested these bikes on our local roads, commuting to and from work, using them to stock up on groceries and beer, and running their batteries down to see how long they last on one charge. Deputy editor Tara Seplavy , the author of this article, also worked in bicycle product development for two decades and led product management for major bike brands. Plus, she commutes to Bicycling HQ daily on an e-bike.

While we rode most of the e-bikes in this story, sometimes we can’t get our hands on a great electric bike. In those cases, we rely on the expertise of our test team, interviews with product managers, and rigorous research to compare the bikes’ value and performance against similar models we’ve tested.

Aventon Level.2 Electric Bike

Level.2 Electric Bike

Although we dug the original Level , its update is outstanding in practically every way. A much smoother ride than its predecessor, it sports a new torque sensor that evenly distributes power, resulting in a more natural ride feel that’s easier to control and manage. Its update also adds visibility, not just with integrated lights, but also a full color, easy-to-read display. The Level.2 isn’t just one our favorite e-bikes—at its price, comfort level, and premium features, we think it just might be the best.

Our only gripe is with its Zoom Aria suspension fork, which can’t handle bigger bumps, though the lockout feature works well. Still, if you need an e-bike for doing just about anything, from commuting to work to zipping around pavement on the weekend, the Aventon Level.2 is our top nomination.

Co-op Cycles Generation e1.1 Electric Bike

Generation e1.1 Electric Bike

The Co-op Cycles Generation e1.1 is a reliable workhorse for around-town use, from short grocery trips to quick coffee runs. It has a rack, integrated lights, Schwalbe Super-Moto-X tires with puncture protection, hydraulic disc brakes for improved stopping power, and a suspension fork to smooth out bumpy rides. Oh, and it’s affordable, too.

Through testing, Bicycling contributor Aithne Faey found the Generation e1.1 lacked city-appropriate gearing, but REI’s product team has since resolved this issue after hearing feedback. As for the bike itself: “The aluminum frame may not be light, but it feels stiff and reliable. The Shimano Altus drivetrain is tried-and-true and shifts smoothly, and the Tektro hydraulic brakes inspire safety and confidence with their short stopping distance. The Gen e1.1 even includes a suspension fork from SR Suntour. The only parts of the bike manufactured solely for REI are the frame, wheels, seatpost, and saddle.”

Because Co-op Cycles is an REI in-house brand, its stores offer one year of free adjustments or two years for REI Co-op members (with free flat repair!), including derailleur and brake adjustments, lateral wheel truing, hub and headset bearing adjustments, tire inflation, chain lubrication, and e-bike firmware updates. Its in-store service also makes it great for anyone intimidated by at-home e-bike assembly, too—just buy it online, deliver it to your nearest REI store, and have them do it for you.

The Co-op Cycles Generation e1.2 Electric Bike is also available for more power.

Read Full Review

Another utility e-bike we like: Electra Ponto Go!

Aventon Aventure.2 Electric Bike

Aventure.2 Electric Bike

Aventon has been on a roll, with new models and continuous revisions to existing platforms. The brand’s update to its Aventure fat-tire e-bike is no exception. At first glance, there are few significant visual differences between the original Aventure and this second-generation model. However, once outside, the small changes feel huge.

Compared to the original Aventure, this second gen rides much more smoothly. The new torque sensor allows more control over the acceleration of Aventure’s 750W rear hub motor; previous lighter-weight testers found the previous model to have too much torque, but the latest Aventure remedied this fault. Additional updates include a new head unit interface, integrated turn signals, a front light, a rear rack, and fenders for keeping clean.

The Aventure.2 is an excellent fat-tire e-bike for commutes, especially on snowy days and gravel pathways. Off-roading, it excels on doubletrack trails, but with this burly bike’s weight and components, it has limited functionality on singletrack and more aggressive mountain trails.

More of the Best Fat-Tire E-Bikes

More fat-tire e-bikes we like: Denago Hunting 1 , Velotric Nomad 1

Rad Power Bikes RadRover 6 Plus Electric Bike

RadRover 6 Plus Electric Bike

Brawny, big, and bold, the RadRover 6 Plus is powerful at its best and sluggish at its worst. With its 750W rear hub, 4-inch-wide tires, and RST spring suspension fork (with 60mm of travel), it’s cushy and stable enough to eat potholes as much as dirt, rocks, and snow. Compared to its predecessor, an updated display and solid hydraulic disc brakes make the RadRover 6 Plus a substantially comfortable and casual ride.

But with its extreme weight of 74 pounds (without a rack!), we wouldn’t dare to roll this thing upstairs. If you need a do-it-all bike to help get you to and from work or the grocery store and frequently battle the elements while doing it, or if you have a lot of land you’d like to tear up, the RadRover 6 is your beast. But anyone living in a small space might have trouble handling this steed.

Aventon Ramblas eMTB

Ramblas eMTB

The recently launched Aventon Ramblas is a category-defining hardtail e-MTB that impressed us during trail testing. Its trail-forward components—1x12 SRAM Eagle drivetrain that can handle most climbs, powerful 4-piston SRAM brakes, a solidly stiff 35mm RockShox fork, a comfy dropper seatpost, cushy 2.4-inch wide tires—are unmatched by any other hardtail e-MTB, especially given its price.

"The Ramblas has no true competitors for comparatively priced, trail-ready e-MTBs," says Seplavy in her rave review. "Every so often a bike comes along that entirely shifts the bicycle market—the Ramblas might do that for mountain biking. And once more bike brands see and ride the Ramblas, I expect several will soon follow Aventon’s lead with sharp-priced, trail-capable hardtail e-MTBs."

More electric mountain bikes we like: Trek Fuel EXe 5 , Santa Cruz Heckler 29 Carbon S , Specialized Turbo Tero 3.0

Ride1Up Portola Electric Bike

Portola Electric Bike

Ride1Up’s new Portola folding bike packs a lot of punch for how small it is. Folding down to a compact 19 x 29.5 x 33-inch footprint, this bike features a 750W rear hub motor with 65Nm torque, hydraulic disc brakes, a Shimano 8-speed drivetrain, and an integrated rear rack with 130-pound carrying capacity.

For less than $1,000, this is a great deal for bimodal commuters, RVers, vanlifers, or folks living in a small apartment. The standard 10.4Ah battery has a claimed range of 20-40 miles. Or bump the range up to 45 miles with an optional 13.4Ah battery for an additional $100.

More folding e-bikes we like: Denago Folding 1 , Brompton Electric P-Line , GoCycle G4

Specialized Globe Haul ST Electric Bike

Globe Haul ST Electric Bike

If you need to haul it all, go with our 2023 Bike of the Year : Specialized’s Globe Haul ST. With a carrying capacity of a whopping 419 pounds, it’s good for a range of riding tasks, from grabbing groceries at your local farmer’s market to dropping Fido off at doggy daycare. Specialized designed this bike with the average commuter in mind, motivating riders to swap those short- and medium-distance car trips with a bicycle instead. The result is a well-designed short-tail cargo bike with wide 20 x 3.5-inch tires that can eat bumps while keeping you stable and low to the ground. It’s also a blast to ride.

Our test editor Dan Chabanov says it feels much more like a traditional bike than a souped-up e-cargo, which is to say, it’s actually fun. “If you haven’t ridden an e-cargo bike, you might take this for granted,” he says. “But the reality is that even some of the more compact e-cargo bike options out there often don’t ride like a typical bike, or worse, they simply ride poorly. As a cyclist, one of the Haul ST’s most enamoring traits is how much it rides like a ‘normal’ bike. Well, that and the ability to carry a week’s worth of groceries on it.”

More electric cargo bikes we like: Aventon Abound , Tern HSD P-10 , Lectric Xpedition

Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 Electric Bike

Treadwell Neo 2 Electric Bike

We’re fans of the unpowered Treadwell for its clean looks and upright rider position. It’s not quite a hybrid but also not a foot-forward-style cruiser. The line is comprised of unique, practical bikes for city commuting or riding around town.

The Treadwell Neo 2 improves on this by offering electric assistance without a big weight penalty. This makes for a lighter and zippier riding bike at a lower price. A Class 1 rear hub motor moves the Treadwell along smoothly at up to 20 mph with pedal-assisted power. The 7-speed drivetrain and a wide-range cassette help you get up longer hills, and the Maxxis 650b tires roll fast on pavement.

More commuter e-bikes we like: Aventon Soltera , Co-op CTY e1.1 , Trek Dual Sport+ 2

Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 Step-Through Electric Bike

Turbo Vado 4.0 Step-Through Electric Bike

Specialized’s Turbo Vado 4.0 is smart and comfortable, with solid brakes, a terrific fork, a sleek design, and a clean iPhone companion app. We’ve ridden a lot of e-bikes over the years, and the Specialized Turbo models consistently test amongst the best in all categories. The brand puts a ton of development time into its Turbo series e-bikes by refining the motor tune and carefully selecting parts. This work pays off with best-in-class ride quality. If you have hesitated to try an e-bike because you think it won’t feel like your favorite non-assist bike, try a Specialized Turbo. You’ll quickly become a convert.

Specialized offers the bike at several price levels between $3,250 and $5,500. You can purchase Turbo Vados with traditional or step-through frame styles, derailleur or internal hub drivetrain configurations, and several color offerings.

More premium e-bikes we like: Ride1Up Prodigy V2 CVT , Gazelle Ultimate C8

Ride1Up Cafe Cruiser Electric Bike

Cafe Cruiser Electric Bike

Sometimes, you just want a classic cruiser to take out on the weekends. And if that casualness is your desired style, the Ride1Up’s Cafe Cruiser is your best bet. Strapped with a built-in rack, front and rear lights, a 750W motor, hydraulic disc brakes, a decent suspension fork, and 3-inch-wide tires, this upright bike is stable enough for newer e-riders and, with an added passenger kit , the little one, too.

Our testing found that the bike had plenty of oomph to climb short hills despite its weight and laidback geometry. But, like several wide-tire bikes, it has some handling issues. It’s capable of speeds up to 28 mph (and 20 mph using the throttle), which is more than enough power to get you where you need to be.

Other cruiser e-bikes we like: Electric Bike Co. Model R , Electra Kakua Cruiser Go! , Sixthreezero Around The Block

A Few E-Bike Terms to Know

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Measured in Newton meters (or Nm), torque is a rotational measurement of force—and the number to pay attention to when you want an idea of an e-bike motor’s output. More torque means more power off the line and more boost to your pedaling. The heavier the bike, the more torque it needs. Lighter road bikes typically have 30 to 40 Nm of torque, and trail and cargo models (generally) have at least 80 Nm. Most commuter bikes fall somewhere in between.

The size of an e-bike’s battery is measured in watt-hours (or Wh). This measurement represents the energy stored in the battery and how many watts it can deliver each hour. The higher the number, the longer the range, but the faster you go, the less range you get. So, if a 504Wh battery paired with a 500W motor gives you one hour of ride time at the highest assist, riding at about half that power will double your range.

Locking Battery

a removable battery helps for charging off the bike

Many e-bike brands seamlessly integrate batteries to make the bike look sleeker (and more like a traditional non-assist bike). Most batteries lock to the bike and come with a key that lets you unlock and remove it, which serves multiple purposes: You can remove the battery and charge it off the bike, a locked battery deters (and hopefully prevents) a thief from stealing it. And an e-bike with the battery removed is safer for hauling on a bike rack and lighter for carrying up steps.

Wider Tires

front tire of coop cycles generation ebike

Since e-bikes can maintain higher speeds for longer than standard bikes, you want extra control when riding. Wider tires provide better traction and the freedom to leave the pavement with little penalty, and a suspension fork will help tame some of the rougher roads you might explore. Good disc brakes are a must, too, for slowing a heavy bike at high speed. This is not a place to skimp.

Integrated Lights

integrated lights on handlebar

Some e-bikes have an integrated lighting system that turns on when you power up the bike. While this is a great feature, it’s not a deal-breaker if your bike doesn’t come equipped this way. It’s just as easy to attach your own since so many great bike lights available.

Warranty and Service

a person working on an ebike

E-bikes need regular maintenance and repair to stay in good working condition. Because they’re heavier and go faster than non-assist bicycles, e-bikes often require more regular service on parts like brakes, tires, and drivetrain components. We recommend having a good relationship with a local bike shop experienced in e-bike repair to keep your equipment running smoothly.

E-bikes use electronics for their motors, batteries, and displays. These parts are often proprietary to bike brands or even specific e-bike models, making replacement more difficult than parts on non-electric bicycles. Make sure to use the correct electronic replacement parts to avoid damaging your e-bike (or it catching fire). Established brands usually (but not always) have a good supply of these parts for replacement, even for years after a bike goes out of production. Bosch and Shimano are two e-bike motor manufacturers with some of the most compatibility between bikes and stock parts for previous generations of systems.

Look for e-bikes from brands that offer at least a one-year warranty on electronic components (many brands’ warranties are longer) and make items like replacement batteries for your bike. These parts are usually not cheap (sometimes up to half the cost of a new bike), but it’s the difference between having an e-bike that can be repaired or becomes a bicycle-shaped paperweight if something goes wrong.

Certification

ul certification sticker

Following a dramatic increase in fires caused by the lithium-ion batteries used in electric bikes, there is a push from local officials, regulatory agencies , and advocacy groups across the U.S. for improved safety certification of e-bikes, batteries, and motor units. On September 16, 2023, a New York City law went into effect requiring that any e-bike sold in the city “has been certified by an accredited testing laboratory for compliance with Underwriters Laboratories (UL) standard 2849”. And in November 2023, Amazon announced it ceased sales of illegal batteries to New Yorkers.

However, just because something is marketed as UL 2849 compliant, tested to UL 2849, or even “certified to UL 2849” does not mean it is UL Safety Certified. Ibrahim Jilani, UL’s Global Director of Consumer Technology, notes: “Certification is always earned by a manufacturer and not a given when they undergo a product submittal. The UL Mark, or any authorized certification mark, can only be issued upon successful demonstration of meeting the requirements of the safety standard.” You can find UL’s updated list of products Certified to UL 2849 here .

We contacted many e-bike brands on this topic. Most companies informed us they are working toward the certification process. So, expect the list of certified e-bikes to grow in the coming months. If owning a UL 2849-certified bike is important to you, ask the brand from which you plan to purchase it for proof of certification. You can cross-reference OSHA ’s Nationally Recognized Testing Laboratories if you want to dive deeper into the topic.

Conversion Kits

Several manufacturers offer kits to add pedal assistance to a non-electric bike. We purchased a few popular conversion kits, fitted them to bikes, and rode them. We do not currently recommend these kits for use. While converting an old bike to an electric assist sounds good in theory, it rarely makes practical sense. Plus, it can lead to rider injury or failure of the bike.

Manufacturers do not design non-electric bikes to accommodate the extra weight and forces incurred when adding an e-bike motor, battery, and control equipment. This puts more stress on the bicycle frame and other components and can lead to breakage or failure of the bike.

conversion kit ebike

Selecting most conversion kits requires knowing fitment details about your bike and might require specialized tools for installation. Many do not have a straightforward installation process, and it can be a challenging project for novice mechanics. If you want a shop to install a conversion kit, check with the shop before purchasing it. Since most non-electric bikes are not engineered to accommodate electric conversions, many shops will not install these kits.

Many economical e-bikes do not cost much more than the total price of a conversion kit plus the installation price. We recommend buying a purpose-built e-bike for the best and safest experience.

The Three Classes of E-Bikes

After determining which style of bike is right for you, the next consideration is which class of e-bike best fits your needs. In the U.S., there are three e-bike classifications. These are defined by the type of assist and how fast the motor will propel you. Most electric bikes are defined as class 1 or 3. Class 1 bikes have a motor (max 750W) that assists while pedaling up to 20 mph. Class 3 (sometimes known as “speed pedelec”) can have up to a 750W (aka 1-horsepower) motor but can assist you up to 28 mph. Both are allowed in most states and cities without needing a license.

gocycle folding bike ridden by aithne feay in brooklyn

Class 2 models have become more popular with riders, especially at lower prices. These models have a throttle that can propel a bike up to 20 mph without needing continuous pedaling.

Some bikes blur the lines. Aventon’s popular Pace 500 , for example, is technically a Class 3 e-bike in that it reaches speeds up to 28 mph, but it also has a throttle that tops out at 20 mph (the maximum legal speed for a throttle).

Good quality e-bikes can cost a lot of money; purchasing a pre-owned bike is one way to save some cash and get a better model. If you want to shop for a used e-bike in person, some bicycle stores offer refurbished units. Shopping in person allows you to check the integrity and condition of the bike before you buy it. When purchasing from a shop, make sure that the retailer is experienced with e-bike service and that the bike includes the proper charger and battery.

If purchasing a used e-bike directly from another owner on a third-party site, it’s wise to have the bike inspected by an experienced e-bike shop or mechanic before handing over your money. E-bikes experience higher wear-and-tear than non-assist bicycles, and many e-bikes use proprietary parts or require special tools to service or update software.

With the boom in e-bike sales, a few websites have recently sprung up selling reconditioned and certified e-bikes. Often, these e-bikes have low mileage or were sales floor samples at shops—some are even brand new or are new old stock of a previous model year. While it costs more than purchasing from an individual seller, buying a used bike from these sites usually means you have some sort of warranty on your e-bike and ensures that it was inspected properly.

Two sites offering high-quality, certified pre-owned e-bikes include Upway and TPC.

preview for How to Safely Charge an E-Bike

As Deputy Editor, Tara Seplavy leads Bicycling’s product test team; after having previously led product development and sourcing for multiple bike brands, run World Championship winning mountain bike teams, wrenched at renowned bicycle shops in Brooklyn, raced everything from criteriums to downhill, and ridden bikes on six different continents (landing herself in hospital emergency rooms in four countries and counting). Based in Easton, Pennsylvania, Tara spends tons of time on the road and trail testing products. A familiar face at cyclocross races, crits, and bike parks in the Mid Atlantic and New England, on weekends she can often be found racing for the New York City-based CRCA/KruisCX team. When not riding a bike, or talking about them, Tara listens to a lot of ska, punk, and emo music, and consumes too much social media.  

Headshot of Kevin Cortez

Kevin Cortez is an editor for Runner's World, Bicycling, and Popular Mechanics covering reviews. A culture and product journalist for over ten years, he’s an expert in men’s style, technology, gaming, coffee, e-bikes, hiking, gear, and all things outdoors. He most recently worked as the Style Editor for Reviewed, a top product recommendation site owned by USA TODAY. He also helped with the launch of WSJ's Buy Side commerce vertical, and has covered the music and podcast industries for Mass Appeal, Genius, Vulture, Leafly, Input, and The A.V. Club. Equally passionate about leisure as he is his penmanship, Kevin dedicates his spare time to graphic novels, birding, making cold brew, and taking long, meandering walks.

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Bill Strickland is the Rider-in-Chief of Bicycling . His equal passions for cycling and writing have led to the books Ten Points: A Memoir ; Tour de Lance: The Extraordinary Story of Cycling’s Most Controversial Champion ; Mountain Biking: The Ultimate Guide to the Ultimate Ride ; and The Quotable Cyclist . His Bicycling story, “100 Pedal Strokes” won a National Magazine Award for Interactive Feature in 2008. In 2009, he assigned and edited the story “Broken,” which won the National Magazine Award for Public Interest. “The Escape,” the December, 2011, edition of his Bicycling magazine column The Pursuit, was named a Notable story by  The Best American Sports Writing . Various editions of his books have been translated into Dutch, German, Hebrew, and Japanese. He uses commas by rhythm and sound, which is a terrible way to do it but makes him happy.

.css-1t6om3g:before{width:1.75rem;height:1.75rem;margin:0 0.625rem -0.125rem 0;content:'';display:inline-block;-webkit-background-size:1.25rem;background-size:1.25rem;background-color:#F8D811;color:#000;background-repeat:no-repeat;-webkit-background-position:center;background-position:center;}.loaded .css-1t6om3g:before{background-image:url(/_assets/design-tokens/bicycling/static/images/chevron-design-element.c42d609.svg);} Bike Reviews

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E-Bike Trips

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Unlock Adventure by E-Bike

Experience the Thrill of the Tour de France

Experience the Thrill of the Tour de France

There’s no experience like the greatest race on earth. As the Premier Official Tour Operator to the Tour de France, we offer unrivalled access. You can’t get closer to the race without joining a pro team. With VIP access to stage Starts and Finishes, unique rides over the Finish Line and photo ops on the podium, you’ll feel like part of the pro peloton.

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Enjoy Premium Road E-Bikes

We've partnered up with 3T, to offer you the award-winning Exploro Boost e-bike. 3T is a premium bike brand owned by Gerard Vroomen, the co-founder of Cervélo, so you can expect good things from their bikes. The 3T Exploro Boost has won many awards and is currently rated as one of the top road/gravel E-Bikes on the market. 

The e-Bike Specialists

The E-Bike Specialists

Our sister brand, Voló, provide the technical knowhow for our E-Bike trips. Dedicated to the world of e-bikes through the very best products, service and experience, Voló are obvious partner to power our e-bike trips. Voló was created as a partnership of Thomson Bike Tours and Green Aer, Ireland’s Premium Electric Bike specialists. Built on years of experience, expertise and passion, Voló offers a best-in-class service and dedication to the highest standards.

The Best Support Platform

The Best Support Platform

Our support teams are the envy of the mountain, we simply offer the best support — guaranteed. We know what makes a ride great and what can ruin a day. We combine our passion for cycling with our experience in creating trips to deliver an experience that can’t be beaten. Our world class support enables cyclists to focus on the ride and conquer their ambitions. With a 1:3 staff to guest ratio we can promise our guests all the attention they need to triumph in their own accomplishments.

Discover Your Adventure

You don’t have to be an advanced cyclist to enjoy the Tour de France. Our E-Bike Trips provide peerless access and the greatest support — the ultimate way to experience the biggest races. Why not join us at the 2024 Tour de France, choose your E-Bike trip below.

June 26 2024

2024 TDF by E-BIKE – Grand Depart in Italy

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A once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness the Grand Depart of the Tour de France in Italy. Witness the Team Presentation and LIVE race-viewing of Stage 1 in Florence and Stage 2 in Bologna.

July 15 2024

2024 TDF by E-BIKE – Provence, Alps & NICE

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A unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Finish of the Tour de France in NICE. Experience the Grand Finale LIVE in Nice, conquer Mont Ventoux, witness the penultimate stage LIVE on the last climb, and stay in luxury 5-star hotels throughout.

Kelley Virgilio, USA — 2022

Every aspect of the trip - the staff, hotels, rides, and Tour viewing - was incredible and I cannot wait for my next Thomson bike tour!

Anne Galko, USA — 2022

This whole trip was an absolute dream realized for me. I can't properly convey how fantastic each and every Thompson Tours staff member was. I felt so well-supported and was offered experiences of a lifetime. It was epic in every way and I now understand the motto "let's go again"!!!

Whitney Blake, USA — 2022

Wow! What an incredible trip. The staff of Thomson are simply the best. Each one became like family by the end of the trip. I am looking forward to more Thomson trips with them in the future.

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Epic Road Rides

What is e-bike touring (and why do an e-bike tour)? 

E-bike tours are on the rise – which is no surprise really given e-bike sales have gone crazy in the last few years.

E-bike touring lets everyone, whatever their fitness levels, enjoy exploring the world by bike. It’s this ability to level the playing field that is seeing more and more cyclists take e-bike tours.

John Vincent and his wife are from Canada and describe themselves as e-bike touring seniors.  In the last few years they’ve been on e-bike adventures all over Europe.

In this article, John explores what e-bike touring is, why people e-bike tour and who e-bike tours are for.

What is e-bike touring?

There’s no great mystery here: e-bike touring is just going on a bike tour riding an electric bike. There’s nothing more to it than that!

E-bike touring gives cyclists the advantage of using a bike with a motor that provides electrically assisted pedalling. This lets cyclists ride with less effort than would be required on a traditional bike, while still experiencing the same joys of discovering a country by bike.

In this article, we refer to e-bike tours and e-bike touring interchangeably. We do not distinguish between e-bike tours that are organised and supported by a third party business and those that are self-organised. The motivation behind the trip is the same!

Why go on an electric bike tour?

The answer to the question “why e-bike tour” is the same as the answer to “why bike tour”. So we start by looking at the reasons that people go on cycling tours.

The truth is that the reasons people bike tour are as varied as the cyclists themselves – but here are some of the most important to us.

Cyclists on an ebike tour by a lake in Slovenia

We enjoy cycling for its own sake.

It’s worth pointing out that often e-bike tourers don’t ride e-bikes to the exclusion of all else. They might ride e-bikes in one location and conventional bikes in another. This is the case with us. We ride conventional bikes at home in Canada and e-bikes in Europe.

Cycling enhances both our physical and mental health.

We find touring by car too fast to appreciate the surroundings we pass through. We find we don’t meet many local people and that it’s inconvenient to park the car in cities.

Touring on foot with a backpack we find too slow and cumbersome.

On a bike we can cycle through a city as easily as through the countryside, carrying our belongings on our bikes, stopping wherever and whenever we wish.  For cycling enthusiasts such as ourselves, touring on an e-bike provides just the right pace to absorb and savour the areas we tour, while experiencing the joys of cycling itself.

One thing we’re often asked is how fast it’s possible to go on an e-bike. The answer is that in the UK, Europe and Australia the top assisted speed on an e-bike is 15.5mph (which is 25 km/h)on public roads. In the USA it’s faster – e-bikes can go up to 20 or 28 mph (which is 32 to 45 kp/h), depending on the class of e-bike.

Those who bike tour tend to be at least slightly adventurous. Whether it is a tour around Provence or a tour around the world, cyclists like us want to see it!

Flexible budgets

Bike touring can be as economical as we want. Some cyclists economise by camping out and cooking all their own meals. Others stay in hotels or guest houses, eating most of their meals out.

Our personal preference is the hotel and guest house route, but the beauty of bike touring is the ability to flex the accommodation to your budget.

Group of ebike cyclists in Garmisch, Germany

Less strain

An e-bike’s motor means that your heart, as well as your muscles and joints will suffer less strain. This means we find we need less time for recovery and that we are more ready for the next day’s ride.

Explore new places on an e-bike tour

An e-bike lets you cover distances and terrain you might not otherwise be able to manage.

For most cyclists, bike touring around 80 kilometres per day is common. For many, carrying loaded panniers would be too exhausting without an e-bike. What value is there in arriving at the end of a cycling day too exhausted to enjoy touring about the destination? Isn’t the objective to tour on a bicycle versus just to cycle on a tour?

Climbs of 1,000 metres a day are common in some of the best cycle touring areas, like the Alps, Tuscany and others. If there is one thing e-bikes excel at over conventional bikes, it is hill climbing. E-bikes let you tackle this kind of terrain. There’s no need to stick to flat lowland cycle routes if you have an e-bike. E-bikes extend the range of areas one can bike tour, even the most hilly.

Drawbacks of e-bike touring

It’s true, there are some downsides to touring on an e-bike over touring on a conventional bicycle.

E-bike batteries have to be charged regularly, usually every day. However, e-bikes are becoming so prolific, that virtually everywhere one might stay, be it a campground or guesthouse, has a means for charging e-bikes.

E-bikes are also heavier than other touring bikes.  However, if one wisely minimises total weight, then there is no such thing as an e-bike too heavy, only a battery too small.

On an ebike tour in Italy

Who tours on e-bikes?

E-biking is for everyone that wants to give it a go.

There’s a perception that touring on e-bikes is just for seniors, but that’s not true.

While e-bikes are particularly popular amongst those that are less able or willing to ride an unassisted bike, head to Europe in summer and you’ll find people at all ages and stages of life on e-bikes. Yes, there are lots of seniors on e-bike tours but there are also lots of younger cyclists touring on e-bikes – for example the less fit cyclist in a couple or group and those recovering from injuries.

Is e-bike touring cheating?

For those competing in the Tour de France, e-biking is cheating.

For those who enjoy tackling Tour de France climbs, it might be cheating.

Otherwise, it’s not cheating if you are not competing against others (or yourself).

Those that prefer e-bike tours/e-bike touring do so because they understand and embrace their limitations, whether they’re due to age, fitness or experience.

Two cyclists on an ebike tour in Salzkammergut, Austria

Final thoughts

E-bike holidays are not for everyone; touring on an e-bike may not appeal to those who are more capable or competitive.

However, for many, e-bikes are the great equaliser, levelling the playing field and allowing them to ride distances and in places they couldn’t otherwise with ease.

Want to read the rest of our e-bike touring series? Find out about hiring vs buying an e-bike , choosing an e-bike and shipping your e-bike . Head here to find them all!

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John Vincent is a retired tech entrepreneur. He continues to mentor young entrepreneurs and is a guest lecturer at universities on entrepreneurship. His wife, Darlene Horne, is a retired teacher.

They are both avid cyclists. They live in British Columbia, Canada, which allows them to cycle on their conventional road bikes year around when at home.  They cycle tour on e-bikes during the spring and autumn months in Europe. Their view is that while many cyclists go on vacation to cycle, they prefer to cycle on vacation.

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Best touring bikes 2024: tourers for adventures on two wheels

Although there are many bikes capable of cycle trips, the best touring bikes remain the optimal tool for longer journeys

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best touring bike

Our pick of the best touring bikes

What to look for in a touring bike.

Michelle Arthurs-Brennan

The allure of the open road is one of cycling’s enduring themes. Touring by bicycle allows for this on a grand scale, travelling for several days, often in far-flung places with all your kit strapped to the bike. Of course, micro-adventures closer to home can be just as much fun and still keep the spirit of adventure alive.

Whether you’re planning an expedition abroad or fancy exploring more local roads in far greater detail, a touring bike is the ideal tool for the job. Designed for cycling long distances in comfort, the bikes should be both stable and reliable in their handling, as well as providing all the mounts you need for pannier racks and bags and mudguards . Self-sufficiency is one of the tenets of cycling touring, so the bikes are usually designed with ease of maintenance in mind, too.

The good news for touring cyclists is that the range of bikes available to cater for their needs has grown substantially in the last few years.

In this guide, we've rounded up the more traditional options. If you're thinking of going off-road, perhaps investigate gravel orientated options in our buying guide here , and if you plan to go quick and travel light, see endurance road bikes here .

There's more on what to look for in a touring bike below - but first, here are our top picks of the best touring bikes.

Genesis Tour de Fer 30 touring bike

Specifications, reasons to buy, reasons to avoid.

This is a bike that's been created exclusively to provide a comfortable and practical ride for a touring cyclist. The Reynolds 725 Heat-Treated Chromoly frame promises a springy ride and an incredibly strong base.

The 160mm rotor mechanical disc brakes are a more modern introduction with a nod to practicality, especially in the wet. Although we’ve found mechanical TRP Spyre brake calipers aren’t quite as powerful or as easy to modulate as a hydraulic brakeset, they are easy to adjust and highly reliable – perfect for a long-distance tour.

A 10-speed Shimano Tiagra drivetrain is about right for a bike at this price point, but in our experience, a 50/39/30 crankset provides gears that are just a bit too big for cycle touring – particularly over hilly terrain. 

But you can always swap this out for a smaller ringed option down the line. We find that with a cassette of 11-34t, going for a granny ring of 26t is generally a good bet.

We’ve always found Schwalbe’s Marathon tyres to be highly puncture resistant and with a good wear rate. In 35c, these are capable of traversing broken roads and tamer gravel, but if you’re planning on spending a large amount of time off road you would want something a bit plumper.

Handily, this bike come with many of the accessories we think are a must. Firstly, mudguards, but also dynamo powered front and rear lights, bottle cages and the Tubus pannier racks front and rear.

Surly Disc Trucker

A spin-off of Surly's much-revered Long Haul Trucker, the Disc Trucker keeps many of the much-loved versatility and can-do attitude, but this time with the addition of mechanical disc brakes and thru-axles – unlike the Genesis Tour de Fer 30 which has disc brakes and QR axles.

Opinion is a little split on thru-axles for touring – if you have any catastrophic issues with your hubs in more remote countries, you're unlikely to be able to find a replacement locally. That said, those kind of hub issues are quite rare and if it does happen you can always get a replacement sent out. For the improved alignment between the rotor and the caliper, we think the benefits outweigh the negatives.

A multitude of braze-on mount means the Disc Trucker is capable of running front and rear bags, full-coverage fenders, two water bottles, a spare spoke and even a pump peg. However, in not coming with these accessories, you will have to factor these into the cost, making the value for money a little less than the Genesis Tour de Fer 30 or the Kona Sutra.

With both 26" and 700c wheel build options available, the Disc Trucker can be as adventurous as you choose. The 26" (in sizes 42-58cm) is capable of taking up to 2.1" tires, while the 700c version (in sizes 56-64cm) has room for up to 42mm tires — both with fenders.

Although touring bikes generally do have a more relaxed position than a typical road bike, designed as they are for comfortably covering long distances, the Disc Trucker does have a particularly high front end. This isn't necessarily a problem, but if you are coming from a road cycling background, you may find just such an elevated position a little uncomfortable 

Made from a CroMoly Steel, the Disc Trucker comes equipped with a Shimano Alivio/Sora drivetrain, with the 48/36/26 triple Alivio crankset and 11-34 9-speed Shimano cassette provides a gearing range we find to be a great balance between top-end speed and low-end winching – particularly if you’re planning on maxing out the rider and kit weight limit of 161kg (355lb).

Kona Sutra All Road touring bike

The gloss black Sutra is made from Kona 's Cromoly steel frame and is kitted out with smooth-rolling Schwalbe Marathon Mondial 700x40c tires on WTB STi23 rims, which are now tubeless-compatible.

The current model has replaced the previous Shimano Deore 3x10 drivetrain with 2x10 chainset from Shimano's GRX gravel range. It's a move that's unlikely to please the touring purists. The 46/30t chainrings are matched with a 11-36t cassette, which sees the bike's gearing range reduced. It should still see you up the steep climbs, just perhaps not in as much comfort as before.

Gone too are the bar-end shifters, replaced with Shimano 10-speed Tiagra road shifters. Again it's quite the change, moving the Sutra from a traditional tourer into a far more modern interpretation. It reduces some of the bike's previous mechanical simplicity, which is appealing if your tours are long and overseas. That said the move to STI levers will appeal if you're used to riding a regular bike.

Another nod to modernity are the TRP disc brakes, which are blend of mechanical and hydraulic, and the frame's thru-axles.

With a Brooks B17 leather saddle, mudguards and a front pannier rack finishing off this tourer, this good-looking bike oozes style.

The leather Brooks saddle does require a bit more care than what you might be used to – it need to be kept covered from heavy rain and needs a semi regular application of cream to keep the leather supple. But by functioning essentially as a hammock, it is exceptionally comfortable and only gets better over time as it moulds to your shape – it wears in, rather than out..

Ridgeback Voyage

Classic styling never goes out of date - and the vintage-looking Voyage has got it by the bucket load, though a redesign means that modern tech has not been overlooked.

The Ridgeback Voyage uses Reynolds 520 tubing for the frame, with a CroMoly steel fork. A rack and full mudguards (fenders) come as standard. 

The Shimano 48/36/26t triple chainset paired with an 11-34 cassette offers a good range of gearing although with relatively large jumps between the gears due to having just nine gears at the rear. 

We don’t find this to be too much of an issue when taking it steady on a cycle tour but would prefer something a little tighter if multiple very high mileage days are planned.

Shifting and braking is taken care of by Shimano's reliable Sora levers and Tektro cantilever rim brakes. The latter certainly help make the Voyage a maintenance-friendly machine - easy to maintain and find replaces for, even in remote locations - although disc brakes may be a preferred choice for all-weather tourers.

Alex rims with a high spoke count are pretty dependable, even if not the flashiest and fitted with 32c Continental Contact tyres, they can handle a little off road, but are best suited to the tarmac.  

Trek 520 disc touring bike

Constructed from Trek's CroMoly steel, the frame has been designed around disc brakes and fitted with a rack and fenders mounts.

The Bontrager Affinity rims are tubeless-ready, which might be worth setting up if you want a bit of a faster ride when commuting. But for long-term touring it’s generally best to stick with inner tubes so as to avoid the added complication of sealant drying out. Bontrager’s 38c H1 hard-case Ultimate tyres offer good puncture resistance themselves.

The drivetrain is a mixture of Shimano parts with Sora shifters. The crankset is a triple, with 48/36/26 tooth chainrings, and the cassette is an 11-36 so you'll have ample gears when the road goes up. TRP Spyre C 2.0 mechanical disc mechanical discs look after stopping.

However, with only nine sprockets on the cassette, the jumps between the gears are a little large, as with the Ridgeback Voyage. But if this does cause you an issue, and if you find yourself not using all of the gears, you could fit a tighter range cassette for smaller jumps.

Like the Genesis Tour de Fer 30, the wheel axles are QR, which can make getting the rotor and caliper aligned properly a little more difficult than with a thru-axle system

The overall weight comes in at 14.26 kg / 31.4 lbs in a size 57, which is lighter than some of the more traditional options.

Cube Travel Pro Trapeze touring bike

Cube offers its Travel Pro tourer in both a traditional crossbar and step-through frame design, with the latter making mounting and dismounting this robust, aluminum bike easy and convenient.

The convenience theme is carried through much of the bike. It's equipped with a Shimano Nexus internal hub gear system and a Gates CDN Belt Drive system which offers super low maintenance compared with a more traditional chain and derailleur system.

With this eight-speed hub, the jumps between the gears is a little larger and the overall range a little lower than you can get with a derailleur system, and it's not quite as efficient. But that said, if you're planning on taking it steady on your cycle tour, those points are pretty immaterial compared to the benefit of much lower maintenance.  

There's plenty of clearance for extra-wide tires and the wheels are currently wrapped in Schwalbe's Marathon Almotion 29x2.15in rubber.

Finishing off this functional tourer are full-length fenders, an adjustable CUBE stand Pro kickstand, a Knog Oi bell, lights (front and rear), and a semi-integrated carrier for pannier bags; these features will have you covered for any adventure.

Salsa Marrakesh

The Marrakesh is designed to take you touring wherever you wish — including a trip around the world if necessary. The frame is built from 4130 CroMoly tubing and has a serious array of mounts. There's room for up to five bottle cages thanks to extra fork mounts plus it comes fitted with front and rear racks. There's even a mount to carry a spare spoke.

Elsewhere there are bar-end shifters and a 3x9-speed Shimano Alivio groupset. The gearing range is designed to get you up the steep stuff even when fully loaded thanks to 48/36/36 triple chainring paired with an 11-36t cassette. The shifters also make roadside maintenance a little easier.

Its world-touring credentials are further aided by its generous tire clearance - 700 x 40mm even with mudguards (fenders), and comes stock with Maxxis Roamer 42mm tires. This means you should eat up the miles in comfort even when the road gets rough.

It's difficult to lay out specific criteria when it comes to choosing a touring bike because the beauty of touring is that it can be whatever you want it to be – there is no single best touring bike for everyone, what is best for you depends on the type of tours you want to go on. However, there are key elements to consider when selecting your two-wheeled riding buddy, which will enable you to get the best touring bike for you.

Touring bike frame

If you're planning a longer trip, and intend the bike to be used primarily for such adventures, then the resilience and comfort of steel is a sensible choice. As such, most of the best touring bikes will feature this metal. The amount you're willing to invest will dictate the weight, strength and character of the steel you end up with.

When looking at steel touring bikes, expect to see the word 'Chromoly' a lot. This is a form of low alloy steel that is used when strength is particularly important. It takes its name from two of the primary alloying (mixing of metals) elements used: “chromium” and “molybdenum”.

If you're planning on using the bike for touring and other duties: club runs, commutes, shorter rides where speed might be more in your interest, consider aluminum or carbon .

Bikes suitable for touring will have a relaxed geometry: a shorter top tube and taller stack to put the rider in a more relaxed position. The wheelbase will be longer, to create a feeling of stability. You'll also notice that the chainstays are longer - this means panniers can be mounted without a chance of clipping your heels and it allows for better distribution when panniers are full.

Touring bike wheels

Elsewhere in the cycling world, we talk about low weight and aerodynamics when it comes to bicycle wheels. And sure, if you're aiming to break a world record on your cycle tour then those are probably still very important areas to consider.

However, if you mainly want to get to somewhere rather far away, and you'd like to arrive there with a wheel that's still true and contains the same number of spokes you left with, then a strong wheel is what you desire. Look for a higher spoke count that you might opt for on a speedy road bike.

The best touring bikes will generally have at least 36 spokes per wheel, tandem touring bike can even go as high as 48. 

Touring bike tyres

It's incredible how much difference a set of tyres can make to a bike. The frame can be designed with comfort top of the agenda, but put on some narrow rubber shoes and pump them up to the wrong tyre pressure and you'll be bumping about all over the road.

Most touring cyclists will want to go for wider tyres - 28mm+, when compared with their road racing cousins. The further off the beaten track you want to go, the wider they should be. If you plan on tackling some light trails, look for 32mm+.

Touring bike brakes

Traditionally, touring bikes had rim brakes and these will certainly do the job for most road-based tours. However, disc brakes do provide far superior stopping power, especially in the wet, and they are now more common than rim brake on the best touring bikes

Since disc brakes don't rely upon the rim to bring the bike to a halt, they also reduce the risk of the rims becoming worn through debris building up on the pads.

Add in that many touring cyclists are carrying luggage, therefore adding to the overall load, powerful brakes that work in all weathers do seem like a sensible addition. However, not everyone likes the appearance of disc brakes on a traditional steel machine and the pads are a tiny bit harder to replace and set up, which is worth considering if you're maintaining your bike on the road.

Luggage and Lights on a touring bike

A purpose-built touring bike will come with pannier racks fitted, as well as fenders and perhaps even built-in lights. These all add to the overall weight, but if the intended purpose requires them, it's no bother.

If you plan to use the bike for other purposes, like group rides, then you may want to look for a bike that comes with eyelets for guards and racks, so that you can remove and fit them as and when.

There's a lot of clever luggage solutions around these days, such as frame bags and oversized saddlebags , that allow you to do away with panniers if you'd rather distribute weight differently.

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Michelle Arthurs-Brennan the Editor of Cycling Weekly website. An NCTJ qualified traditional journalist by trade, Michelle began her career working for local newspapers. She's worked within the cycling industry since 2012, and joined the Cycling Weekly team in 2017, having previously been Editor at Total Women's Cycling. Prior to welcoming her daughter in 2022, Michelle raced on the road, track, and in time trials, and still rides as much as she can - albeit a fair proportion indoors, for now.

Lotte Kopecky comments on her second place result after her last-minute call up to Trofeo Alfredo Binda

By Emma Magnus Published 17 March 24

Lidl-Trek's Elisa Balsamo wins 50th edition of Trofeo Alfredo Binda

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E-MTB Buying Guide

Electric touring bike

With an e-touring bike, you can be flexible: whether it's a weekend ride, a commute, a road trip or a gravel road - compromises are a thing of the past.

What is an electric touring bike?

A hybrid e-bike combines the comfort and manoeuvrability of a conventional bicycle with the power of an electric motor. Electric touring bikes for women and men feel equally at home on paved roads, dirt tracks and forest paths.

Compared to other all-rounders such as gravel bikes and gravel e-bikes , a hybrid touring bike has straight handlebars. The wide, all-terrain tyres are a common feature of these versatile bikes. They provide you with sufficient grip and traction on unpaved surfaces. At the same time, the tyres roll quickly and smoothly on tarmac. Whichever path you choose - with a touring e-bike you will be on your way quickly and safely.

Some Canyon touring e-bikes are equipped with a suspension fork so that you don't have to worry about small roots or potholes. On a touring bike you usually sit in an upright position. This is a feature that hybrid bikes share with city bikes and city e-bikes . The upright seating position is easy on your back and provides a practical all-around view. This means you can enjoy longer rides and keep an eye on everything in traffic and off-road.

The electric version of a touring bike combines practical everyday features and geometry with the additional power of an e-drive. This means that even more routes are open to you. Steep gradients and headwinds no longer hold you back.

Purpose of an electric touring bike

The great advantage of touring bikes with a motor is their almost unlimited range of use. Are you looking for a bike that will get you safely through the urban jungle? That's easy for a touring e-bike. The all-rounder is your reliable companion - whether in snow, rain or wind. Do you like to exercise on your bike after work? Are rides through the countryside part of your weekend? An electric touring bike for men and women is just as suitable for that. Enjoy relaxed rides through nature on an electric touring bike or complete your weekly workout.

An e-bike hybrid is also an environmentally conscious alternative to the car. You get more exercise in your everyday life and can leave the car behind. With a touring pedelec, you can easily do your shopping and take your children to nursery. And of course, your health will benefit even with motor support.

There are of course limits. Touring e-bikes are not suitable for hard, fast off-road descents. You can find the right mountain bike or E-MTB for this purpose online at Canyon.

Touring e-bikes from Canyon

The e-touring bikes from Canyon are packed with unique features. You benefit from the best riding experience and maximum agility. Get to know our electric touring bike the Pathlite:ON.

Our Pathlite:ON

With the Pathlite:ON from Canyon, there are no wrong turns. Shortcuts become your adventures. The electric bike is your perfect companion on old and new paths. Do you value versatility and comfort when riding? Then the Pathlite:ON from Canyon is your e-bike.

  • Suspension fork

The electric all-rounder is equipped with a fork with 100 millimetres of suspension travel. This increases the bike's contact with the ground and guarantees comfort while riding regardless of whether the terrain is easy or rough. In combination with the dropper seat post on the Pathlite:ON SUV models, you’ll have fun even when riding through steep corners and rough terrain.

Wide MTB tyres keep you safely on track on gravel paths. Uphill and downhill, the tyres provide the necessary grip. The components from proven manufacturers guarantee durability.

  • E-drivetrain

The 500 Wh battery supplies the powerful electric motor with as much energy as you need for your rides.

You can choose the frame shape of your new e-bike: Do you prefer a low, comfortable entry? Then the Pathlite:ON SUV step-through without a top tube is the right bike for you. The diamond frame of the lightweight Pathlite:ON is a classic.

The hydraulic disc brakes of the Pathlite:ON bring you safely to a halt.

  • Additional features

The sturdy aluminium mudguards ensure a pleasant ride in wind and foul weather. You arrive at your destination with clean trousers - a relief when you get to the office! The integrated lights offer you a clear view in darkness and fog and make you visible to other road users.

The Pathlite:ON SUV – Speed and comfort combined

Our Pathlite:ON SUV is the e-bike for every age and fitness level. With the 750 Wh battery, you are also well-prepared for your next cycling holiday. The battery is integrated into the down tube and is easy to charge. You can either remove the battery and connect it to the charger or use the bike's integrated charging socket. With the Pathlite:ON SUV step-through frame, you can easily hop on and off your bike.

Do you want to carry a lot of luggage on your next ride or cycle tour? No problem. The integrated pannier rack can carry a weight of up to 25 kilograms. The bicycle panniers are easy to attach and fasten thanks to the clever suspension system. In addition, the e-bike is compatible with the Crooze bicycle trailer. This is perfect for towing kids or for extra luggage space. The integrated lights complete the setup of the Pathlite:ON SUV perfectly. This touring e-bike combines multifunctionality with a safe riding experience - whether off-road or in the city.

Please also note: The motor support of your electric touring bike must provide sufficient power for your intended use. You must also be able to charge the battery easily so that the bike is always ready for everyday use. High-quality components ensure that you can enjoy your bike for a long time.

Buy electric touring bikes online at Canyon

Buying your new e-touring bike online from Canyon offers you many advantages. At Canyon, you benefit from a product portfolio for every budget. Our focus on direct sales reduces the costs for an intermediary and thus enables the highest quality at affordable prices.

Whether on the phone, by e-mail or in a chat: Canyon support will be happy to help you. Get in touch at any time. Flexible payment options as well as generous guarantee and return policies secure your purchase. Have your dream bike delivered to your doorstep, 95% assembled.

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  • The Plunge E-Bike Tour

Embark on an extraordinary E-Bike tour that will take you on a thrilling ride from Downtown La Jolla to the majestic Mt. Soledad, all while enjoying the comfort and excitement of our new fleet of E-Bikes. Brace yourself for an epic adventure that showcases the dramatic views our city has to offer. Encounter the playful sea lions, adding a delightful touch of nature's charm to your adventure. Marvel at the dramatic ocean views that stretch as far as the eye can see, reminding you of the immense power and beauty of the sea. Mother Nature will unveil her wonders, ensuring every moment of the tour is filled with awe and wonder. This amazing tour is 2 hours, $169.00 per guest with a 2 guest minimum.

Approx. 2 Hours

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Tour Description

Take the most awesome e-bike tour in La Jolla. The tour starts at our tour office in La Jolla Village (also known as Downtown La Jolla) where we will begin our fun ride up to the top of Mt. Soledad. Once there, we will survey the panorama of San Diego and the coastline from Mexico up to Carlsbad. Mt. Soledad is the highest coastal mountain top in San Diego and the summit features a large cross and a legendary war memorial which we will tell you all about. Its really cool up there literally and figuratively too. The best look out for sure on a clear and sunny day. Next, we begin a relaxing and fun descent down the mountain and through La Jolla, along the coastline. In La Jolla, we will be winding through gorgeous multimillion dollar homes right on the water’s edge all the way to the local beach known as Wind 'n Sea. This beach is actually a top spot for locals to chill on the beach and surfers to ride the waves. We will stop here for a quick moment to relax and to watch the surfers at this world class break. From here, we head along the coastline to the Children’s Pool where about 100 seals lay out on the sand and sleep. At this stop we take a brief break here to chill out and enjoy mother nature. To finish off this bike tour, we cruise to The La Jolla Cove and Ecological Preserve to check out one of the most amazing spots in La Jolla. The Plunge E-Bike tour is appropriate for beginners, moderates, and Tour de France riders too! This tour features dramatic and stunning ocean views throughout and it does get your blood flowing too. This package includes our e-bikes and helmets with complimentary bottled water and and small snacks. This is truly an awesome experience and any group size can be accommodated. Kids ages 12 and up are OK as long as they can ride a bike. Please call us anytime at 619-239-2111 if you have any questions or concerns.

IMG 1215

Tour Details

$ 169.00 per guest

TOUR LOCATION:

La Jolla, La Jolla Village, Bird Rock, Windansea, & More.

Daily & Hourly, Upon Request.

This experience takes place in most weather conditions and unfortunately no we do not control the weather yet. We are working on that.

MEETING LOCATION:

This tour begins at office in La Jolla located at: 7734 Herschel Ave. La Jolla, CA 92037

Please contact us for any additional information at 1-619-848-0348 .

TOUR DURATION:

Semi-Private Tour with Optional Private Upgrade Available during Booking.

# OF GUESTS:

Any group size can be accommodated.

WHAT TO WEAR:

Comfortable biking clothing, depends on climate. We always appreciate a hoodie when we need it and so would you.

WHAT TO BRING:

Bring yourself ready for an awesome time!

CANCELLATION POLICY:

No cancellations or refunds within 7 days of your tour date.

The Plunge E-Bike Tour Includes:

  • A history explanation of La Jolla and it's founding
  • La Jolla Village
  • Mt. Soledad National Veterans Memorial
  • La Jolla Scenic Way
  • The Pacific Ocean
  • Bird Rock Coffee Rosters
  • Windansea Beach
  • Legends Gallery
  • Children's Pool
  • The Museum Of Contemporary Art
  • La Valencia Hotel
  • La Jolla Cove
  • George's at The Cove
  • The Cave Shop
  • And much much more...

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Best electric touring bikes 2023 – e-bikes for longer rides and multi-day trips.

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Go the distance with the best electric touring bikes

Whether you want to ride a multi-day epic off-road adventure, or complete something like LEJOG, an electric touring bike may well fit the bill. To be classed as a touring bike, we look for reasonable battery range, a comfortable geometry, and adaptability. This means mounting points for racks and/or frame bags, the ability to fit mudguards, and in some cases, a kick stand.

There are tourers for both on and off-road, with off-road e-bikes tending to have front suspension as a minimum, wide, chunky tyres and a mid-drive motor. For on-road tourers, lighter frames with wide gears and comfortable geometries rule.

Some electric touring bikes even have the option to mount two batteries, which can be very helpful for multi-day rides - although this will significantly add to the cost. You can however get a decent e-touring bike for a couple of grand, so don’t feel you need to break the bank to go on an adventure.

If you’re not sure an electric touring bike is for you, have a read of our guide to the best electric bikes for more of an overall taste of what’s out there.  

B est electric touring bikes

  • Riese & Muller Superdelite Mountain Rohloff - best full-suspension e-tourer  | Buy for £7,004 from Electric Bike Sales
  • Dallingridge Malvern - best under £1,500  | Buy for £1,149 from E-Bikes Direct
  • Riese & Muller UBN 5 Touring - best lightweight e-tourer  | Buy for £4,909 from Riese & Muller
  • Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 - best under £3,500  | Buy for £3,250 from Specialized Concept Store
  • Canyon Pathlite:ON 9 LTD SUV - best e-SUV tourer  | Buy for £5,249 from Canyon
  • Neomouv Adonis 2 - best mid-drive under £2,500  | Buy for £2,349 from Generation Electric
  • Moustache Samedi 27 Xroad 3 Open - best step-through e-tourer  | Buy for £3,550 from Fully Charged
  • Kalkhoff Entice 5B Move - best mid-range tourer  | Buy for £4,099 from The Cycle Co.
  • Merida e.BIG Tour 400 EQ - best Shimano powered e-tourer  | Buy for £2,500 from Surge Bikes
  • BMC 257 AMP AL TWO - best looking e-tourer  | Buy for £3,789 from Leisure Wheels  

1. Riese & Muller Superdelite Mountain Rohloff - £9,339 (best full-suspension e-tourer)

Riese & Muller Superdelite Mountain riding 4.JPG

One for those with very deep pockets, the Riese & Muller Superdelite Moutain Rohloff is nevertheless pretty much ideal for off-road adventures. Given the Superdelite name because it runs dual batteries (giving it a total of 1,125Wh capacity), there’s plenty of mileage to be had on this machine.

It weighs 28.7kg so it’s not the lightest of bikes, but it does have the option of a rear rack for carrying extra loads. However, at over £9k this is obviously a big investment. But, if you’re serious about adventuring off-road, this is one of if not the best you’ll get from a very reputable brand.

For more detail, read our review of the Riese & Muller Superdelite Mountain Rohloff .  

2. Dallingridge Malvern - £1,349 (best under £1,500)

Dallingridge Malvern.JPG

A great value option for those who don’t want to splash too much cash, the Dallingridge Malvern is the firm’s take on a trekking e-bike. It was described as a “good all round e-bike that won’t break the bank” by our reviewer, thanks to the mid-level componentry and adaptable frame.

The frame design suits riders who prefer a slightly sportier riding position, but is only available in one size (18”), albeit with some adjustment for a range of rider heights. It comes equipped with a rear pannier rack and mudguards so you can carry plenty of bags, the only obvious omission is hardwired lights – although many riders have favoured removable lights anyway.

For more detail, read our review of the Dallingridge Malvern .  

3. Riese and Muller UBN 5 Touring - £4,909 (best lightweight e-tourer)

Riese and Muller UBN Five Touring.jpg

A powerful and lightweight e-bike, at first glance it looks more like a commuter than anything you’d want to ride for mile after mile. However, its sub-20kg weight and Fazua Ride 60 motor system mean it’s adaptable enough for both. It’s not quite as powerful as heavier mid-drives from Bosch and Shimano, but if you don’t want to carry too much luggage, it will work nicely.

Ordering directly from Riese & Muller gives you options a plenty to spec it with your choice of handlebars, gearing and racks, depending what you need for your riding. It’s not cheap, but it's certainly a decent option if the overall weight of the bike is important to you.

For more detail, read our review of the Riese & Muller UBN 5 Touring .  

4. Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 - £3,250 (best under £3,500)

2023 Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0.jpg

If you’re after a comfortable yet powerful option for touring, then the Turbo Vado 4.0 is a workhorse that’s still fun to ride. It uses a Specialized 2.0 mid-drive motor, which produces up to 70Nm of torque. Our reviewer managed 70 miles in turbo mode, albeit with some pedalling of his own when on the flats.

He described it as a bike that, “could easily be used for local bikepacking adventures just as well as the commute or jobs around town.” It’s able to carry up to 27kg on the rear rack, and the front suspension provides comfort if you take it off-road. We wouldn’t recommend proper trail riding, but the canal towpath and that sort of level is more than doable.

For more detail, read our review of the Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 .  

5. Canyon Pathlite:ON 9 LTD SUV - £5,249 (best e-SUV tourer)

2023 Canyon Pathlite On - 1.jpeg

SUV style e-bikes are becoming more popular, taking inspiration from their four-wheeled counterparts. The idea is that this type of bike, although hefty, is the only bike you’ll need. An SUV style e-bike can carry loads, weave through traffic, and also head off-road. The Canyon Pathlite:ON 9 LTD SUV is one of the best examples we’ve seen.

It features a powerful Bosch mid-drive motor, ABS and electronic shifting. This is the most expensive in the Pathlite:ON range, so if you’re not that bothered about having the best of the best, there are also cheaper options available which will prove just as capable for the most part.

For more detail, read our review of the Canyon Pathlite:ON 9 LTD SUV .  

6. Neomouv Adonis 2 - £2,349 (best mid-drive under £2,500)

Neomouv Adonis 2.JPG

With a decent spec and a proprietary mid-drive motor for under £2,500, the Neomouv Adonis 2 is strikingly good value. You can choose between a 522Wh battery, which our reviewer managed around 40 hilly miles on, or a larger 630Wh option for the price we’ve listed above.

It’s a newer motor - as in, not as well-known a brand - but we found it to perform brilliantly. The bike also comes with a 27kg rated rear rack - and in touring every kilogram counts, so the more carrying capacity the better.

For more detail, read our review of the Neomouv Adonis 2 .  

7. Moustache Samedi 27 Xroad 3 Open - £3,699 (best step-through tourer)

Moustache Samedi X-Road 27 - full bike.jpg

With a 625Wh battery and Bosch Performance Line mid-drive motor, there’s not a lot stopping this bike from being a full touring machine. The low step-through frame design means it’s highly accessible for a wider variety of riders, while balancing urban practicality with more rugged capabilities.

It’s suitable for on or off-road excursions, although we wouldn’t recommend any serious trail riding – it's more for leisurely towpaths or fire roads. For extra comfort, Moustache has equipped the Samedi 27 Xroad 3 Open with a suspension seatpost and 80mm of travel in the forks. We last reviewed it in 2021, but although it’s had updates since then, it’s kept its distinct shape.

For more detail, read our review of the Moustache Samedi 27 Xroad 3 Open .  

8. Kalkhoff Entice 5B Move - £4,099 (best mid-range tourer)

Kalkhoff Entice 5B Move-36.jpg

The Kalkhoff Entice is one of the more off-road oriented electric touring bikes in this list. Its built around the Bosch Performance Line mid-drive motor with a 625Wh Powertube battery for plenty of mileage on or off-road.

This is quite an adaptable touring e-bike, with plenty of thoughtful features like the integrated battery design and sleek cable integration on the handlebars. There’s even a choice of frame designs - diamond or step-through - alongside an array of frame sizes. In terms of touring capabilities, wide tyres and suspension forks make off-road adventuring more enticing.

For more detail, read our review of the Kalkhoff Entice 5B Move .  

9. Merida e.BIG Tour 400 EQ - £3,500 (best Shimano powered e-tourer)

Merida eBIG Tour 400-1.jpg

We last reviewed the e.BIG Tour 400 EQ back in 2019, but the price hasn’t moved much since then. What has, however, is the spec. It now comes with a Shimano EP8 motor with 85Nm of torque compared to the E7000 and 60Nm previously on offer, plus a 630Wh battery compared to the old 500Wh one.

Our reviewer, Dave, found the charge port to be a little niggly, but otherwise felt that, “it doesn’t have any major foibles and it’s equally at home cruising through the city or tackling some reasonably tough terrain.”

For more detail, read our review of the Merida e.BIG Tour 400 EQ .  

10. BMC 257 AMP AL TWO - £4,750 (best looking e-tourer)

BMC 257 AMP AL TWO review (37).JPG

A really nice example of an e-bike that’s ideal for both urban and touring applications is the BMC 257 AMP AL TWO.

Beyond looking sleek and aesthetically pleasing, its a thoughtfully put together e-bike that masks much of its utility. The rear rack is part of the mudguard and rated to carry 20kg. It’s powered by a Bosch mid-drive which you can barely tell is there from far enough away, and the range is rather good – our reviewer believes there is potential for 100 miles from one charge.

For more detail, read our review of the BMC 257 AMP AL TWO .  

How to choose the best electric touring bike  

Which electric bike is best for touring.

The best electric bike for touring depends on your needs and budget. If you want to ride off-road, then look for something with a mid-drive motor and wide tyres as well as some suspension for comfort. The more torque the better if you’re planning on riding steep stuff, but if you’re happy riding along country lanes and on the road, then you may prioritise other things like mudguards and lights.

You can get quite a bit of e-bike for your money these days, so there’s nothing to say that you can’t get a suitable touring companion for under £3,000. However, as with most things, the more you spend the better the quality of the bike.  

What kind of motors are on electric touring bikes?

As you’ll see from our list above, mid-drive motors are more common than hub-driven ones on electric touring bikes. The more luggage and weight you’re carrying, the better it is to have a motor in the centre of the bike, directly linked to the pedals. That’s not to say that hub-drive motors don’t have their place, if you pack light and stay away from steep hills then you should be fine.  

How much luggage can electric touring bikes carry?

This depends on a couple of things. Firstly, the weight rating of the pannier rack (if the bike has one). The usual limit you’ll see is about 25kg, and you can balance that between two pannier bags and a potential rack bag.

The other alternative is a through-frame bag. Many tourers come with mounting points on various parts of the frame like the forks so you can mount luggage using bolts, but there is always the option of ‘bikepacking bags’ which are often attached using velcro or other non-permanent fasteners.  

What battery range can I get on an electric touring bike?

This depends on the battery capacity, the type of riding you’re doing and the weight you’re carrying. The easier the terrain, and the less power assistance you use, the longer your battery will last. Similarly, if you carry a heavy load and ride up a lot of hills, you’ll see your battery range disappear much more quickly. For touring, we would recommend a bike that can hold dual batteries ideally, or to at least carry a spare so you can swap them out without needing to recharge mid-ride.  

Explore the complete archive of electric bike reviews on ebiketips.

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Rebecca Bland's picture

Rebecca Bland

Rebecca has been writing about e-bikes for four years, after a typically ill-timed career change pre-pandemic. She's been riding bikes since she can remember, and fell back in love with them after realising it was faster, cheaper, and more fun than getting the bus to work. Nowadays she enjoys all kinds of bikes, from road to eMTB and is training her border collie pup to become a trail dog. 

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13-14 AUGUST

The best e-bike race worldwide.

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Verbier

E-Tour du Mont Blanc 2023

Watch the highlights of the 2023 edition of the E-Tour du Mont Blanc!

E-Bike World Tour

Join us for a 2-day bike race in the Swiss Alps, specifically in the beautiful Val de Bagnes, where you will discover the most stunning trails of the region. This race is open to both amateurs and professionals.

E-Tour du Mont Blanc

The E-Bike World Tour offers all riders who accept the challenge of multi-day e-bike races. Whether it's high alpine scenery or lush forests, riders can look forward to riding different terrains from stage to stage. And to spice things up a bit, there’s a bit of hike-a-bike here and there.

In 2022 we visited Flachau - Austria, Tignes & Val d’Isère high up in the French Alps and returned to Verbier for the E-Tour du Mont-Blanc. Each race was split into long-timed stages over 2-3 days with tech zones where battery exchanges are available. This creates a unique format in e- mountain biking. A 3-day race will likely cover around 200km of single trails, in a mix of lush forests and high alpine scenery.

In 2023, only one race will be held in Verbier: the E-Tour du Mont-Blanc .

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New e-bike safety campaign in New York City aims to educate riders amid increase in fatal crashes

N ew York City's Transportation Department launched a new safety campaign on Tuesday to address a growing danger on city streets: e-bikes.

It comes as e-bike crashes are down so far this year, but officials say they make up more than 75% of all deadly bike crashes.

According to city officials, nearly 6% of adults living in the city say they ride an e-bike or e-scooter at least once a week.

In 2023, the DOT installed doublewide protected bike lanes on 10th Avenue and 52nd Street, designed to accommodate the growth not just in regular bicycles but also e-bikes. The department also installed a record 31.9 miles of protected bike lanes in the city last year.

The "Get Smart Before You Start" campaign wants to make sure bikers are riding safely. The new multiplatform marketing initiative will be shared on TV, radio, print, social media, in subway ads and on LinkNYC kiosks.

The campaign also calls for stronger enforcement, including making sure e-bikes are legally registered and that their riders are wearing the proper protective equipment and obeying the rules of the road.

In addition to handing out safety pamphlets, the DOT's Safety Education and Outreach Unit will engage in community outreach, educating newer riders on what to expect when they operate an e-bike.

Officials say the ultimate goal of the campaign is to inform riders how to safely accelerate, brake and operate bikes at the right speed.

"With bicycle ridership reaching historic levels, we must use every tool available to give new and experienced cyclists the resources they need to bike safely, whether its building new protected bike lanes or educating New Yorkers so they gain these crucial skills on-the-ground," said NYC DOT Commissioner Ydanis Rodriguez.

Last year, the city saw an increase in e-bike-related fatal crashes , roughly three times as many as those on a traditional bike.

Some of those e-bikes can go way faster than the city's 20 mph speed limit, making them very dangerous. Citi Bikes with pedal assist, for example, cannot go faster than 18 mph.

During Tuesday's press conference, NYPD Chief of Transportation Philip P. Rivera said that some e-bikes can reach a top speed of 25 mph, which is equivalent to the average speed of a professional bike rider in the Tour de France.

An e-bike rider died Monday in Harlem, and according to city data last year, there was an increase in fatal e-bike crashes: 23 total compared to seven on traditional bicycles.

In most of those cases, the crashes didn't even involve another vehicle, they were just solo collisions.

"It's not about trying to take people's livelihoods away, it's about trying to bring safety to the streets," Rivera said.

ALSO READ | Squatter standoff captured on camera in Queens: 7 On Your Side Investigates

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10 of the Best Ebikes for Touring

After long hours in the saddle, we’ve selected ten of our favorite touring ebikes. We’ll go through the details of these in a moment, including the Pros, the Cons, and the typical price you can expect to pay for each. Before that, we’ll look at the key features that you should consider when choosing an electric bike for touring.

tour de e bike

There’s no denying that cycle touring is quite hard work. Pedaling yourself and your bike along (even on the flat) for 10 miles, 20 miles, or more is a challenge. Once you’ve loaded up your bike with all the essentials for touring (including your toothbrush and clean underwear) you might even have difficulty going once around the block. Luckily, there’s an easy answer to this and it comes in the form of electric bikes (AKA ebikes). These are bikes that have an electric motor fitted to give you assistance as you pedal and they’re exploding in popularity.

How to choose an ebike for touring

At its most basic, an ebike is a pushbike with a battery and an electric motor fitted. Start hunting around, though, and you’ll soon discover there’s a wide array of brands, models and specs available. So, how do you choose the right one for your budget, tastes and needs? Well, there are a few key factors to consider and we’ll take a look at them now.

Comfort First up, you’ll want a bike that is comfortable to ride as you’re likely to be on it for long periods of time. Road bikes are built for speed and great for touring and will get you to your destination fastest. But, if you’re not used to cycling on one, then choose a bike that has a more upright riding position – our goal here is to see the sights, not set a PB time. Similarly, bikes that have wider tires and a more padded saddle are useful as these will help soak up the lumps and bumps of the road or trail surface and be more enjoyable to ride.

Battery range In recent years battery technology has come on in leaps and bounds, with some ebikes now able to take you up to 230 miles on a single charge. Choose an ebike that has a lithium-ion battery from a well-known manufacturer (such as Panasonic or Samsung).

Cargo-carrying capacity The best place to store your gear when you’re bike touring is on the bike. Loading up a heavy backpack will get uncomfortable and sweaty very quickly. It will also make you top-heavy and more likely to topple over. Look for ebikes that either have pannier racks pre-fitted or have the fixings so that you can add your own.

It’s also worth considering a step-through or low-step bike if you plan on carrying lots of cargo with you on your tour. This can make it easier to get on and off a fully-laden bike without tilting it dangerously over to one side.

Best ebikes for touring

Let’s take a look at our ten favorite electric bikes for touring. These cover a wide range of different styles and price ranges. Some have loads of added extras and some are a simpler design.

tour de e bike

Pros: Bosch battery and motor combo, fitted rear rack and fenders, sloping downtube, front suspension Cons: What’s not to like about this Haibike! Rating: 9/10 Typical price: $2600 / Purchase at Backcountry.com

tour de e bike

Pros: Integrated rear rack, low-step through frame, budget price Cons: No suspension, small wheels Rating: 7/10 Typical price: $1299 / Purchase at Radpowerbikes.com

tour de e bike

Pros: Great Shimano electronics paired with a light and strong aluminum frame Cons: Limited space to install water bottle cage Rating: 8/10 Typical price: $2399 / Purchase at Rei.com

tour de e bike

Pros: Folds for easy transport, pre-fitted fenders and rear rack, suits wide range of rider heights Cons: No suspension, small wheels Rating: 7/10 Typical price: $2799 / Purchase at Rei.com

tour de e bike

Pros: Bosch motor, 28mph top speed, light aluminum frame Cons: no integrated rear cargo rack Rating: 8/10 Typical price: $4100 / Purchase at Backcountry.com

tour de e bike

Pros: excellent bike package for trail touring and bikepacking Cons: non-locking front fork Rating: 8/10 Typical price: $4100 / Purchase at Rei.com

tour de e bike

Pros: Massive cargo-carrying capacity, ideal for wide range of rider heights (4’8” to 6’4”) Cons: at 71 lbs, it’s a heavy bike Rating: 7/10 Typical price: $4999 / Purchase at Rei.com

Wilier Cento1HY Ultegra E-Bike

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(Photo: wilier.com)

Amongst die-hard bike tourers, there’s an obsession with trying to cut out weight before a tour commences. Eating salads and sawing toothbrushes in half are all common practice. But it doesn’t have to be that way. Wilier does away with the need for all of that scary green stuff and suspect dental hygiene by giving us the Cento1HY. An ebike that is one of the lightest around (at only 26 lbs) and has oodles of power available (a 250W motor delivering speeds up to 20mph).

Pros: super-light ebike Cons: limited cargo-carrying potential Rating: 8/10 Typical price: $6000 / Purchase at CompetitiveCyclist.com

tour de e bike

Pros: 26 lbs bike weight, hidden power, Shimano drivetrain Cons: limited cargo capacity Rating: 9/10 Typical price: $7200 / Purchase at CompetitiveCyclist.com

tour de e bike

Pros: Shimano GRX Di2 electronic shifting, go-anywhere touring bike Cons: $$$ Rating: 9.5/10 Typical price: $9999 / Purchase at CompetitiveCyclist.com

—————————————————–

Ben Jones is a lover not a fighter, a cyclist not a DIY-er, and the founder of BicycleVolt a handy resource for cyclists from Tour-de-France wannabees to those just starting out on their bicycling journey.

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PROS – Tour de Catalogne 2024 : le parcours, le profil des étapes et les engagés

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Matos des Pros : les vélos, les maillots et les effectifs des équipes World Tour 2024

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Guillaume Judas

  - 53 ans - Journaliste professionnel depuis 1992 - Coach / Accompagnement de la performance - Ancien coureur Elite - Pratiques sportives actuelles : route & allroad (un peu). - Strava : Guillaume Judas

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  2. 8 Awesome e-Bike tours in France to ride

    Easy going e-bike Tour Loire Valley. (Region: Loire Valley. Duration 6 days) If you want to take in the sights of grand Chateaus, sweeping rivers, fields of sunflowers and rolling vineyards then this e-bike tour in the Loire Valley is for you. Running over 6 days, this guided tour begins and ends in St-Pierre-des-Corps.

  3. El Tour Route

    E-bikes at El Tour de Tucson again in 2023. Through the years we have received requests to allow e-bikes to participate in El Tour. In 2021 and 2022, over 100 e-bikes rode with zero issues. Our event has always been all-inclusive and encourages riders of all ages and abilities to participate. After careful consideration El Tour will allow e ...

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    E-bikes at El Tour de Tucson. Through the years, we have received requests to allow e-bikes to participate in El Tour. Our event has always been all-inclusive and encourage riders of all ages and abilities to participate. After careful consideration, El Tour will allow E-bike cyclists the opportunity to ride and help raise funds for charity.

  6. E-Bike Tours

    Whether you're cruising the California coast or exploring the vineyards of Tuscany, join us for an electric bike vacation in some of the world's most beautiful destinations. Fun from the first pedal stroke, our e-bikes give you a boost on big climbs, keep up with the fast group, and venture further on your bike tour - So don't worry you can ...

  7. El Tour de Tucson

    El Tour de Tucson is a premier fundraising ride in the United States and the longest-running event of its kind in Arizona has been a Tucson tradition since 1983. Participants range from novices to professionals who enjoy the ride and festivities out of a passion for cycling, as a benchmark for a wellness program, as a symbol of surviving a ...

  8. 2024 TDF by E-BIKE

    The Final Week of the 2024 Tour de France with the Premier Official Tour Operator. A unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Finish of the Tour de France in NICE. Experience the Grand Finale LIVE in Nice, conquer Mont Ventoux, witness the penultimate stage LIVE on the last climb, and stay in luxury 5-star hotels throughout ...

  9. Tour de France bikes 2023: who's riding what?

    A complete list of the bikes raced by each team in the 2022 Tour de France, along with the groupsets, wheels and finishing kit they're fitted with.

  10. Tour de France Cols on an E-Bike

    A full week cycling classic Tour de France cols at your own pace with the assistance of an e-bike. You'll be staying in our client's favourite B&B, famous for its delicious cuisine! Location: A selection of famous Cols in the Southern French Alps. Holiday Price. Adult: 1428€ to 1791€.

  11. Electric Bike Touring Guide: The Ultimate Long-Distance Adventure

    Electric bicycle touring is the ultimate way to explore the outdoors and discover new places. It's the perfect combination of sightseeing and adventure with long-distance travel capabilities made possible by an e-bike. Powered by an electric motor, e-bikes allow riders to cover greater distances in shorter periods of time while still being ...

  12. 8 Best Electric Touring Bikes for Long-Distance Riding in 2024

    Best fat tire bike touring e-bike. Price: $2,099 - $2,499. The Blix Bikes Ultra is no ordinary eBike - equipped with everything you need for city riding, off-roading, or bike touring. If you plan on touring on roads and off-road terrain, the Blix Ultra e-bike will get you there and then some.

  13. Electric Bike Touring: Everything You Need to Know

    An electric bike, or e-bike, is a bicycle with an electric motor that assists the rider as they pedal. E-bikes can assist the rider up hills and against headwinds. The motor also allows you to maintain higher speeds. Most e-bikes are capable of cruising at 20 mph. Some models can go as fast as 28 mph.

  14. The 10 Best E-Bikes in 2024

    The Aventure.2 is an excellent fat-tire e-bike for commutes, especially on snowy days and gravel pathways. Off-roading, it excels on doubletrack trails, but with this burly bike's weight and ...

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    2024 TDF by E-BIKE - Provence, Alps & NICE. USD $9,695 8 Days. Departures. A unique, once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the Finish of the Tour de France in NICE. Experience the Grand Finale LIVE in Nice, conquer Mont Ventoux, witness the penultimate stage LIVE on the last climb, and stay in luxury 5-star hotels throughout.

  16. What is e-bike touring (and why do an e-bike tour)?

    E-bike tours are on the rise - which is no surprise really given e-bike sales have gone crazy in the last few years. ... For those competing in the Tour de France, e-biking is cheating. For those who enjoy tackling Tour de France climbs, it might be cheating. Otherwise, it's not cheating if you are not competing against others (or yourself

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    Bay E-Bikes also offers a wildlife and history tour around Fort De Soto Park, located just southwest of the city, during which you'll get to explore these gorgeous offshore keys and learn about ...

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    With both 26" and 700c wheel build options available, the Disc Trucker can be as adventurous as you choose. The 26" (in sizes 42-58cm) is capable of taking up to 2.1" tires, while the 700c version ...

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    A hybrid e-bike combines the comfort and manoeuvrability of a conventional bicycle with the power of an electric motor. Electric touring bikes for women and men feel equally at home on paved roads, dirt tracks and forest paths. Compared to other all-rounders such as gravel bikes and gravel e-bikes, a hybrid touring bike has straight handlebars ...

  20. Discover the Majestic Mt. Soledad on The Plunge E-Bike Tour

    The Plunge E-Bike tour is appropriate for beginners, moderates, and Tour de France riders too! This tour features dramatic and stunning ocean views throughout and it does get your blood flowing too. This package includes our e-bikes and helmets with complimentary bottled water and and small snacks.

  21. Best electric touring bikes 2023

    SUV style e-bikes are becoming more popular, taking inspiration from their four-wheeled counterparts. The idea is that this type of bike, although hefty, is the only bike you'll need. ... We last reviewed the e.BIG Tour 400 EQ back in 2019, but the price hasn't moved much since then. What has, however, is the spec. It now comes with a ...

  22. 13-14

    This creates a unique format in e- mountain biking. A 3-day race will likely cover around 200km of single trails, in a mix of lush forests and high alpine scenery. In 2023, only one race will be held in Verbier: the E-Tour du Mont-Blanc. E-Bike world Tour A series of international e-bike events for everyone, we have activities of all kind: E ...

  23. Official website of Tour de France 2024

    Guillaume MARTIN. COFIDIS. + 00h 26' 30''. > Withdrawals. Tour de France 2024 - Official site of the famed race from the Tour de France. Includes route, riders, teams, and coverage of past Tours.

  24. New e-bike safety campaign in New York City aims to educate riders amid

    New York City's Transportation Department launched a new safety campaign on Tuesday to address a growing danger on city streets: e-bikes. It comes as e-bike crashes are down so far this year, but ...

  25. 10 of the Best Ebikes for Touring

    Pros: excellent bike package for trail touring and bikepacking. Cons: non-locking front fork. Rating: 8/10. Typical price: $4100 / Purchase at Rei.com. Tern GSD S00 Electric Bike The Tern GSD is an ebike that's perfect for those tours where you have no interest in either traveling light or traveling solo.

  26. PROS

    Le Tour de Catalogne débute ce lundi 18 mars, pour une semaine de course. Au programme, 7 étapes, 1174 km et 3 arrivées au sommet, pour succéder à Primoz Roglic, vainqueur l'an dernier. Au départ, les favoris sont nombreux, à commencer par Tadej Pogacar, mais aussi Egan Bernal, Geraint Thomas, Simon Yates, Alexandr Vlasov, Lenny