Discover Trentino on a E-Bike

The application of this technology to more complex bikes, such as mountain bikes, has the potential to bring cycling, literately, even further: suddenly roads are open to everyone, more adventurous experiences – usually deemed the territory of the fittest – are now in everyone’s reach, and can be enjoyed together as a family, couple or group of friends.

The ups are multiple and the most evident is that we can make more use out of an e-bike than an ordinary pushbike. The mountains, for example, become a more accessible destination, to enjoy while exercising without strenuous effort.  

While this activity is certainty easy to undertake, it is important to not underestimate the risks associated with riding an e-mtb and to not overreach our capabilities: e-mtb require a fundamental knowledge of their controls and a basic level of fitness.  

We advise new riders to take a gradual approach, perhaps to start with an introductory lesson or a guided tour to learn more about these machines, how to use them, the techniques and the terrain, a factor not to be underestimated.

To introduce you to this sport and ease you into the mood for an active holiday we have put together, in collaboration with SIEB- the first Italian e-bike school, a list of ten guidelines: find here the golden rules to follow before jumping on a e-mtb.  

10 guidelines by Scuola Italiana eBike to make the most of battery-powered bikes

• Safety above all: choose the right sized bike suitable for your height and weight. Learn how it works and make sure it is always in good working order.

• Check brakes, tyres and battery pack. Always wear a helmet, correctly fasten, gloves – if possible - for better handle grip and appropriate shoes. Adjust the height of the saddle accordingly to maximise the balance. Remember: correct posture is synonymous with safety.

• Carry supplies, such as water, sun cream, rain jacket and a change of clothes. Check the weather forecast before any excursion, especially for longer itineraries: in the mountains, the weather can turn rapidly.

• Choose itineraries suitable for your level of fitness and preparation: learn about the route and the terrain to familiarise yourself with the gradients and challenging parts.

• Also on e-mtb you need to pedal, don’t expect to ride with no effort involved: the motor assists as long as the battery is charged, therefore it’s highly recommended to check the battery status. Pedalling on an electric bike without the aid of the battery is seriously tough!

• With an e-mtb you can easily climb very steep tracks that would otherwise be beyond your reach. Bear in mind that an uphill is a downhill on the way back and that requires a different set of skills. Be prepared.

• Be mindful of your actual abilities. With e-mtb you can certainly attempt different tracks and terrains but, especially on downhills, uneven ground and steep gradients, the bike handling depends more on your ability to control rather than the help of a motor.

• The way you ride affects the battery life. Simply put: the less you use it, the longer it lasts. Downhill or on flat you can almost reduce the usage of the battery power to zero, and if you keep a good pedalling flow (using the correct gear like on a normal pushbike) you can save some extra energy.

• Don’t forget that you are sharing the path with other bikers and possibly trekkers: be careful and respectful.

• Have fun!