Cycling the Camino on an e-bike

Cycling the Camino on an e-bike

Did you know that the Camino de Santiago was traditionally travelled on foot or on horseback? Today many people also cycle this ancient trail and thanks to the joys of modern technology, you can even cycle the Camino on an e-bike!

So if you are travelling with us and cycling into Santiago, you can rent an e-bike for your Camino de Santiago adventure. Here are some frequently asked questions about e-bikes to help you plan your trip:

What is an e-bike?

An e-bike is essentially a bicycle with a motor. E-bikes use rechargeable batteries for power and assist the cyclist’s pedal power. This makes cycling much easier, especially on uphill climbs.

Can I get my Compostela on an e-bike?

Yes, you can get your Compostela with an e-bike. To do this, you need to cover 200km to get your Compostela on an e-bike, just as you do with a regular bicycle.

What routes are the e-bikes available on?

You can rent an e-bike on any route that finishes in Santiago, whether it’s the last 100km or a longer section of one of our routes.

What is the minimum number of days that I can cycle the Camino on an e-bike?

The minimum number of days that an e-bike can be hired for is seven. The bike must be returned to the shop in Santiago de Compostela at the end of the journey. Please note that you cannot finish an e-bike tour anywhere other than Santiago as the bikes must be returned to the shop there.

When I receive the e-bike do I need to put it together?

The e-bike will be delivered to your first accommodation almost completely prepared. You will need to attach the pedals and make adjustments to the saddle and handlebars to suit your needs. Simple instructions and the necessary tools are included for both tasks.

Should I have experience in the use of e-bikes?

You don’t need prior experience as e-bikes are very similar to regular bicycles, but we do recommend that you have some basic knowledge of bikes. You just need to be able to pedal in order to make full use of the bike. Once you read the instructions and take care of the bike, you’ll enjoy cycling with ease!

Are they difficult to use?

No, e-bikes are very simple and intuitive to use. You will become familiar with the machine very quickly, but you should start slowly and take your time. Slow and steady wins the race but you’ll be flying after an hour or so.

The e-bike has various levels of assistance from low to high and you will be able to control the level you require depending on the difficulty of the terrain. In addition, the e-bike also has the usual gears, so you can change to a lower or higher gear depending on the terrain.

Do they come with instructions on how to use/charge them, etc.?

Yes, a basic manual comes with the bike. You should familiarise yourself with it before you begin cycling.

Should they be charged every night?

This really depends on how much power was used during the previous day, but it is recommended to charge nightly. A full charge takes about 6 hours. It is very important to check that it is charging correctly to avoid a surprise the following morning. However, even if you run out of battery, you will still be able to pedal as with a normal bike to finish your day. Both the battery and the monitor on the handlebar will display the amount of battery left.

Can I cover more distance than a normal bike by cycling the Camino an e-bike?

That depends on the power usage throughout the day. The bike has four power settings and the less power you use, the longer the battery will last. If you use your e-bike in Eco mode or with less power you could cycle up to 70-90km on one charge.

However, if you use full power all the way, you could run out of battery after cycling 40km. It is advisable to always carry the charger with you so if you do run out of battery, you can stop along the way and charge it. As the bikes weigh 25kg, cycling without any battery could be challenging.

Overall, the e-bikes are designed to make cycling a little easier, not to cover more distance. You will cycle the same distance as a pilgrim on a regular bike each day.

Does cycling the Camino on an e-bike work for all types of terrain?

We will provide an e-bike that is suitable for the terrain that you will face on your Camino. All e-bikes have adequate suspension, tyres and are very comfortable to ride.

Should I clean the bicycle?

Yes, when you are cycling the Camino on an e-bike, you should clean your bicycle each day if it has gotten muddy after your cycle.

What sizes are available?

E-bikes are available in sizes for heights from 1.65m (5 foot 4 inches) to 1.95m (6 foot 3 inches).

Are they available for children?

This will depend on the height of the child. Please see the previous question in relation to bike sizes. Remember, it is mandatory for anyone under 16 years of age to use a helmet in Spain. Of course, this is recommended for pilgrims of all ages. If you would like to take a family holiday on the Camino, visit our Camino for Families section.

The Camino on an e-bike – Surcharges

Please make a note of surcharges that will be charged should any of the following occur:

• Theft or loss of bicycle: Coluer standard €650 | Ebike 2.000€ |
• Theft, damage or loss of panniers: €30
• Theft, damage or loss of helmet: €15
• Theft, damage or loss of tool kit: €15
• Theft, damage or loss of bicycle lock: €15
• Theft, damage or loss of handlebar bag: €15
• Theft, damage or loss of saddle gel cover: €15
• Late return fee Coluer: €23 per each day that the customer exceeds the return date stated in the booking agreement.
• Late return fee E-BIKES: €50 per each day that the customer exceeds the return date stated in the booking agreement.
• MTB bicycle collection at customer’s hotel: €35

Ebikes surcharges

• Theft or loss of Ebike: 2.000€
• Theft, damage or loss of battery and charger: 300€
• Theft, damage or loss of LCD screen: 300€
• Theft, damage or loss of key: 200€
• Damage or scratches of frame: 250€
• Damage on wires: 200€
• E-bike at hotel rather than shop: 300€

Enjoy your experience cycling the Camino on an e-bike!

For more information about cycling the Camino on an e-bike, please don’t hesitate to contact us. You can also stay up-to-date with all our latest news on our Facebook page.