How to Get the Most Out of Your E-Bike on the Camino de Santiago
Tournride Team
Riding the Camino on an electric bike is the most comfortable way to enjoy the scenery without suffering on the climbs. But if you’ve never ridden an e-bike, there are a couple of things worth knowing before you set off.
At Tournride we hand the bike over ready to ride and, with every delivery, a quick guide specific to your model. Here’s the essential in five keys.
1. Switch on and choose your assistance level
An e-bike doesn’t do the work for you: you pedal and the motor helps. The more assistance you use, the more battery you spend. The usual approach is a medium level on the flat and more assistance only on the climbs, so you reach the end of the stage with energy to spare.
2. Use «walk» mode on sections you push
When you have to push the bike —a very steep stretch, an area of loose ground— the walk-assist mode moves it for you at walking pace. No more dragging 25 kg uphill.
3. Charge the battery to 100% every night
Even if you have charge left, plug it in when you reach your accommodation. Starting each stage with a full battery is the best guarantee against running short. Always keep the charger and the battery key with you.
4. The gears are still there
Electric assistance doesn’t replace the gears: combine gears and assistance level just like on a normal bike. A low gear plus assistance on the climbs; a high gear on the flat and descents.
5. Brake with room to spare
An e-bike weighs more than a conventional bike. Brake early, share the effort between both brakes, and keep your speed in check on long descents, especially with panniers.
Your bike, your model
Our electric fleet runs top-brand motors depending on the model, and every customer receives the specific guide for the bike they’ll ride. So there’s nothing to memorise: when your e-bike arrives, you’ll know exactly how to handle it.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need previous experience to ride an e-bike on the Camino?
No. If you can ride a bike, you can ride an e-bike. You’ll get the hang of the assistance in a few minutes, and we deliver the bike with your model’s guide to answer any questions.
How long does the battery last?
It depends on the assistance level you use, the elevation of the stage and the weight you carry. Riding at a medium level and charging to 100% every night, you’ll comfortably reach the end of each day.
Do I have to carry the charger with me?
Yes. Always keep the charger and the battery key with you so you can charge it each night at your accommodation.
What if the battery runs out?
You can keep pedalling like on a normal bike; you’ll just notice it weighs a little more. That’s why we recommend always starting the stage with a full battery.
Still have questions before your route? Write to us or call +34 981 936 616: we help you before and during the Camino.
Before you book
It’s worth getting to know our Tournride Full Assistance —on-route support that guarantees you can always finish your stage— and our terms of service before you book.
