Electric bike vs. Traditional bike

Xavier Rodríguez Prieto

Which to choose for the way of Saint James?

Completing the way of Saint James by bike is a unique experience that combines adventure, spirituality, and physical challenge. However, one of the most important decisions you need to make is whether to rent an electric bike or a traditional bike. Both options have their advantages, and the choice will depend on your needs, personal preferences, physical fitness, and age. In this article, we will explore the benefits of each type of bike to help you make an informed decision.

Rent an Electric Bike for the way of Saint James: Advantages

Rent An Electric Bike For The Camino. Mmr Koen 00
  1. Reduced Physical Effort: One of the main advantages of an electric bike is that it significantly reduces physical effort. This is especially useful on hilly terrain or long stages. The electric assistance allows you to enjoy the landscape without getting too tired.
  2. Enjoy the Journey: With an electric bike, you can focus more on enjoying the scenery and the overall experience. The electric assistance allows you to maintain a steady pace without worrying too much about physical effort, leaving you with more energy to appreciate the details of the path and the spectacular views.
  3. Less Wear and Tear: By reducing physical effort, you also reduce wear and tear on your joints and muscles. This is especially beneficial for those with physical issues or who are not in the best physical shape.
  4. Variety of Electric Bikes: At Tournride, we offer a wide range of electric bikes to meet all your needs. From 500Wh batteries with Yamaha motorization in models like the MTB Yamaha Crosscore RC or the Wabash Gravel, to the well-known Bosch system with 625Wh in the MMR Koen, and up to 720Wh with Shimano motor in the BH AtomE Jet Pro. These options allow you to choose the bike that best suits your travel style and specific needs.

Advantages of Renting a Traditional Bike for the way of Saint James

Mmr Zen | Bike Rental For The Camino De Santiago | Tournride
  1. Authentic Experience: A traditional bike offers a more authentic and challenging experience. Pedaling without electric assistance allows you to feel every pedal stroke and connect more deeply with the path.
  2. Less Technological Dependence: With a traditional bike, you don’t have to worry about the battery or the motor. This gives you more freedom and fewer concerns during your journey.
  3. Lower Cost: Traditional bikes are usually more economical than electric bikes. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about the cost of recharging the battery or maintaining the motor.
  4. Wide Range of Options: At Tournride, we offer a wide range of traditional bikes to meet all your needs. From classic models to the most modern and advanced, we have options for all tastes and cycling styles. We highlight our new addition, the MMR Zen 00, a high-end bike that combines performance, durability, and innovative design.

Conclusion: The Choice is Yours

The choice between an electric bike and a traditional bike depends on your needs, personal preferences, physical fitness, and age. If you feel you are not fit enough, an electric bike may be the best option. However, it is important to remember that choosing an electric bike should not make you plan longer stages, but rather serve to reduce effort and enjoy the journey more.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a more authentic and challenging experience, a traditional bike may be the best option. Regardless of the option you choose, the most important thing is that you enjoy your journey and feel comfortable and safe throughout the trip.

At Tournride, we offer a wide range of electric and traditional bikes so you can choose the one that best suits your needs. If you have any questions or need more information, do not hesitate to contact us. We are here to help you plan your adventure on the way of Saint James!

Frequently Asked Questions

How much range does an electric bike have?

The range of an electric bike depends on several factors:

  • Battery: Battery capacity is key. Batteries with higher capacity (measured in watt-hours, Wh) offer more range.
  • Terrain: Routes with many hills consume more battery than flat routes.
  • Weight: The weight of the cyclist, the bike, and additional cargo (panniers, etc.) affects energy consumption.
  • Assistance level: The higher the motor’s assistance level, the higher the battery consumption.
  • Gear usage: Using gears efficiently, as on a conventional bicycle, optimizes motor performance and range.

Under ideal conditions, an electric bike can offer a range of 30 to 100 kilometers or even more.

How is an electric bike battery charged?

All of our rental electric bikes have a charger that connects to the battery and a standard household outlet. All of our bike batteries are removable. Charging time varies depending on the battery capacity, starting point, and charger type, but it generally ranges from 3 to 6 hours.

Is a license required to ride an electric bike?

In the European Union, electric bikes are considered pedal-assisted vehicles and do not require a driver’s license if they meet certain power and maximum speed requirements.