| We first met Richard and Mandy from Tours Direct when they came in looking at our Riese and Muller electric bikes. The purpose of their visit was to learn more about the types of electric bicycles they were putting their customers when they were sending kiwis to France for e-biking holidays. Well, that seems like a lifetime ago now! Of course that business of theirs is dormant now. Like many things in this Covid crisis, there are plenty of silver linings. Richard and Mandy have a pair of Riese and Muller electric bikes on order for themselves and are now focusing their experience and attention on domestic e-bike touring opportunities. For any of their customers going back 21 years, this is exciting news. And it’s also a great opportunity for anybody who is looking for a fully escorted e-biking experience in New Zealand. Each tour is organised with full technical support and transport. All logistical issues, accommodation and treats have been taken care of. Unlike most tours, they have an option to BYO electric bicycle if you already own yours. You can see all their e-bike tours here. If you end up booking a tour for yourself, use “Electric Bike Team” in the voucher field for a $50 discount |
Hawkes Bay 
Hawkes Bay West Coast Wilderness Trail 
Otago Rail Trail Otago Rail Trail Nelson Bays
Enjoying Extraordinarily Energising Everyday E-biking
by Helen Tait (E-Bike tour leader)
I know that many people think that E-biking is just something for oldies – just before the walking frame or the mobility scooter. Well, yes I know that because I was one of those people. The whole idea of electrical assistance seemed like cheating, but I finally faced up to the fact that the reason that I didn’t visit the library, or town or the local shops on my (non E) bike were not the ones I said to myself. “Might rain,” “too much to carry,” “have to arrive looking neat and tidy at the other end,” etc., but really it was to avoid riding back home up the steep hill.
So, off I went about 18 months ago to a bike show – just looking. What surprised me was that the majority trying out the E-bikes at the show were not the pre walking frame/mobility scooter crowd, but young fit looking mountain-bikers, who want an easier way to get to the top of the hills that they want to hurtle down.
The just looking turned into buying and since then to using regularly and enjoying.
Some observations after 18 months of use and enjoyment:
· It’s not cheating. It’s still good exercise. You still have to do the pedalling, and, if that is too easy – with a tail wind or a downward slope, you can always turn the power assist off for more exercise.
· The bike is not too much heavier than a standard bike, and can be ridden like one when the power assist is off. It can be lifted easily on to a standard car bike carrier, with the battery removed if necessary, to make it even easier.
· The bike still has gears operated with the right hand, and the 3 levels of power assistance are operated with the left hand like the ratios on a standard bike, so handling feels familiar.
· It’s amazing how those other reasons for not biking don’t seem to matter any more.
· It’s a great feeling riding uphill past the lycra clad “real” cyclists who used to wave when they passed me.
· There seems to be more time and leisure for looking around at the scenery.
· Daisy the dog loves the cycle outings (but shuts her eyes when we get over 40kmph downhill).
· I’m making a good saving on fuel and parking costs – lovely to ride right to the door of wherever I am going – so much less stressful than circling the blocks searching for carparking.
Over many years I have enjoyed including bike tours in my overseas travel – until now always on a standard bike. I am really excited about the idea of enjoying the relaxation and pleasure of surveying the scenery and sharing the trip with other relaxed “born again” E-bikers. Trust me, everyone who tries it is hooked!
