Long-distance bicycle tours have gained enormous popularity in recent years, in some ways, thanks to the emergence of electric bikes.Long-distance bicycle travel, also known as cycle touring, is a unique and fascinating way to explore the world.This new way of traveling, often associated with the concept of slow travel, contrasts with the hectic rush of mass tourism and allows you to enjoy the destination at your own pace, fostering interactions with the local community, reducing carbon emissions and supporting small businesses.In short, providing a perfect blend of sustainability, cultural exchange and personal growth.However, in order to get the most out of a long-distance trip, you need to bring a bike that is up to the task, otherwise your trip can turn into a real Odyssey.How to choose the best electric bikes for long distance touring?When it comes to choosing the best bike for long distance touring, several factors come into play. Here's a breakdown of what to consider: Type of bikeThere are many types of bikes: city, road, mountain Each one focused on specific terrain and needs. But only one of them is perfectly adapted to any situation: Gravel eBikes.The only ones that allow you to ride both on asphalt and mountain trails without affecting precision. That's why they have become the best companion for any long-distance trip. Levels of assistanceOn long-distance rides, it is essential to dose the effort. So opting for an eBike with different levels of pedaling assistance can be a good idea.This way, you can extend the range of your eBike by saving battery power on flat stretches and reserve the electric assistance for the more delicate moments. The battery and the motorThe battery and the motor are the heart of any electric bike. So, if you are going to cover long distances, the best thing to do is to opt for an eBike that gives you the autonomy and power you need to cover each stage, without compromising comfort and handling.In this regard, mid-drive motors are a popular choice among long-distance cyclists, providing efficient power and excellent torque.Such as the Fazua Motor system, one of the lightest mid-drive electric systems on the market, which offers a range of 90 km (56 mi) and a torque of 58 Nm. WeightThe weight of the bike plays an important role in long-distance touring.An excessively heavy motor can significantly affect the eBike's handling and performance, making it less maneuverable, affecting its balance, reducing its range and, in the end, leading to higher energy consumption.However, Crow's lightweight eBikes, with their removable motor system that allows the weight of the bike to be reduced by about 3 kg when riding unassisted, become the perfect solution for these trips.As it not only improves the versatility of the eBike, but also solves the weight issues associated with the motor, ensuring a more natural and comfortable riding experience for riders. CustomizationWhen it comes to long-distance touring, it's best to have a customized eBike. Either by adding additional accessories such as luggage racks, panniers or a more comfortable saddle, or by modifying the seatpost length and handlebar width to adapt the bike to your morphology.And, since we are going to customize, what do you think if we review the features that every long-distance bike should have?Features to consider of a long distance ebikeIf you are looking for the best electric bike for long distance touring, you should consider the following features:Gearing SystemOpt for a bike with a versatile gearing system that includes a wide range of gears. This is essential for tackling various terrains, from steep climbs to fast descents, ensuring you can maintain an efficient cadence in different riding conditions.Braking SystemReliable brakes are essential to maintain safety during long-distance rides. Disc brakes, especially hydraulic ones, offer excellent stopping power and modulation, instilling confidence when navigating challenging descents.Tires and WheelsThe choice of tires and wheels can greatly affect your ride quality when touring. Consider wider tires with good tread patterns for enhanced grip, stability, and comfort. In addition to strong and durable tires, essential for carrying heavy loads and withstanding long hours on the road.Frame MaterialThe frame material plays an important role in both the weight and durability of your eBike. If you don't know which one to choose, in this article you will find the advantages and disadvantages of aluminum vs. carbon fiber e-bikes.Suspension forkWhen considering an eBike for long distance touring, don't overlook the possibility of mounting it with a suspension fork. This type of fork can greatly improve your control and comfort on uneven terrain, reducing fatigue and allowing you to enjoy the ride without having to feel every bump in the road.PedalsPedals are often overlooked but play a vital role in your comfort and efficiency. Choose pedals that match your preferred styleflat, clipless, or a combination of bothand ensure they provide good grip and support for your feet.All of these aspects will help ensure comfort, performance, and safety throughout your trip. However, there are still more things to consider when preparing your electric bike for a long-distance tourOther factors to consider in your ebike for long-distance touringBefore embarking on a long-distance tour with your electric bicycle, check point by point what we share with you in the following list: Maintenance and tuningIt is advisable to thoroughly check your electric bike or take it to a professional workshop to make sure everything is in order before starting your trip.This includes inspecting the frame, wheels, tires, brakes, gears, and transmission. Replace any worn or damaged components and make sure everything is properly lubricated and adjusted. Handlebar and saddle comfortAssess the comfort of your handlebars and saddle for extended periods and, if necessary, consider using grips, handlebar straps or special saddles that reduce hand and seat discomfort. Small adjustments can make a big difference in comfort over long distances. Storage and accessoriesPlan storage solutions carefully. Install a luggage rack, panniers, or bags to carry your gear and make sure they are well mounted and can accommodate the essentials without affecting the stability of your eBike. Lights and visibilityEquip your bicycle with front and rear lights, especially if you plan to ride in low light conditions or at night. Reflective elements on your clothing and bike can increase your visibility to others on the road. Range extendersIf you anticipate longer periods between recharges, consider using range extenders or extra battery packs. This will give you peace of mind that you have enough power to cover long distances without interruption. Test driveBefore embarking on a long-distance tour, test your eBike to make sure everything is working properly, and you are comfortable with your new setup.If you keep these aspects in mind, you will be well prepared for a long-distance touring by bike, minimizing the risk of mechanical problems and improving your overall experience.But if you really want an extraordinary long-distance touring experience, we recommend you make the journey on the back of a Crow.Our lightweight, customizable eBikes, equipped with powerful mid-drive motors and a detachable motor system, offer the perfect combination of efficiency, comfort, and versatility for your ride.Discover Crows Long-Range Electric Bike

Written By: Rollo GillespieIts not often you hear that a bike saved someones life, however without my Fustle Causeway, I doubt if I would be in the position that I am today. The 15th October 2021 is a day I wont forget in a hurry. Never having had anymedical problems, I collapsed in work suffering from multiple bi-lateral pulmonary embolisms (blood Clots) and a what was described in my notes as a massive central mass saddle clot. I was hospitalised, extremely unwell and unable to move my right leg at all as that is where the clot had originated.The following week I was told that it should have been fatal, but for some reason my lungs are larger than normal, and my heart was somehow used to being under prolonged periods of high strain (this was eventually put down to my cycling). This is the main reason I survived the initial attack.Once home I was unable to do anything as my right leg simply wouldnt work but little by little movement came back and by Christmas, I was able to stand and shuffle about with the help of crutches. Being told total rest was needed I decided I knew better than the professional, I just needed a way to move about. In January, I persuaded Linda (my wife) to take me and my Fustle to Gosford Park to let me go round the carpark. Against her better judgement she did, and I managed to clock up a whole 1 mile that day but spent 3 days in bed after!! Slowly, this became 4 miles then 6 miles, which I found to be my limit, so I did this 1-2 times a week, until I had a relapse at the end of February. During my forced bed rest and nearly 6 weeks off the bike, Ineeded to set myself a goal and I made the decision then to enter The Lakeland Gravel Grinder in October 2022! Well, if youre going to set a goal make it a good one!After the setback, I was even more determined. My Fustle fitted my needs perfectly, and I was able to get about. Over the next weeks, the miles started getting more and more until August, I was doing just over 25 miles at a time with no major issues. Could my mad idea back in February of doing the Gravel Grinder now actually be a possibility? By September, most of my mobility is back and I can do a lot of what I could previous to the emboli, just with a few more breaks and a bit of walking up some hills as I have not as much strength in my right leg yet, but Im happy(ish) with that!Jump forward to the 8th October 2022 and Gravel Grinder Day is here, with my bike and the amazing Fustle family that comes with it, I went out on what was my longest and hardest ride 1 week short of the 1st anniversary. 3 hours and a sneaky picnic later we did it completing the Little Dog 50k loop!I still have a way to go in my recovery, initially my consultant said 12-18 months of medication and rehabilitation would be a minimum. I got there in 9! Their opinion was the bike played a massive role in this achievement. So, a big thanks to Fustle and the Fustle family as I literally wouldnt be here without you all!! Heres to the next set of adventures.I have talked all about the physical benefits, however the mental mental benefits of getting out on the bike allowed me to cope with the impact this all had on my mental health. The ability to be mobile and independent even for an hour at a time allowed me to focus on the next outing rather than the issues I was dealing with at that time.So, whats next? Who knows, but whatever it is, I know my Fustle will be a big part of it thats for sure.

This post compares 7 of the best bike locks, and shows you the Independent Security Ratings of the strongest, most secure bike locks on the market. All but one of these locks are rated as Gold Standard by Sold Secure. Use this post to help you quickly choose the best possible bike lock for your own specific needs.The post 7 of the Best Bike Locks to Keep Your Bike Safe in 2024 appeared first on Average Joe Cyclist.

It's not so long ago Isaac del Toro grabbed his first professional victory with a surprising late attack at Tour Down Under. Now, three months later, the 20-year-old Mexican's triumph at Vuelta a Asturias felt almost like a formality. And that's exactly what we recieved from UAE Team Emirates with R...

Would you like to get to know Europe from a different perspective?Bike trips in Europe are a dream come true for any cyclist, offering a wide variety of terrains, cultures, and experiences.In today's article, we'll show you some of the best bikepacking trips in Europe, as well as the must-know tips for biking safely across the ancient continent.Shall we get started?The 7 best bike trips in EuropeEurope, a continent steeped in history, has been traversed by numerous civilizations over the centuries.Its roads have remained impassive before different empires, crossing the same forests and mountains that we have in front of us, leaving behind a set of monuments and constructions that connect us with past eras.So, saddle up your bike and get ready to explore the 7 best bike trips in Europe, each promising a unique journey through breathtaking landscapes and cultural wonders.1 Greenway of Ojos Negros (Spain)If you are looking for a cycling adventure that delves into Spain's diverse landscape, don't miss the Ojos Negros Greenway.An extraordinary route that stretches for some 200 kilometers (ca. 125 mi), following the route of the old train line that ran from Teruel to Valencia.The Ojos Negros Greenway bears witness to Spain's rich history, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.Along this Greenway, the longest in Spain, you will find charming villages, ancient viaducts and the world's most important black truffle production area.However, this is only the beginning. In this other article of our blog, you will find more bike trips in Spain.2 The Danube Cycle Path, Europe's Longest RiverEmbarking on the Danube Cycle Route is like embarking on a journey through time and nature.With more than 2,760 km (ca. 1,715 mi) through ten countries, this extraordinary route starts at the source of the Danube in the German Black Forest and winds its way to the picturesque Romanian delta.A bike trip that follows the course of the Danube as it passes through some of Europe's most beautiful cities, such as Vienna, Budapest and Belgrade, where time seems to have stood still.In addition, the stunning countryside of Central Europe offers a sense of serenity that is hard to find elsewhere.3 The Romantic Road (Germany)Germany's Romantic Road invites you into a fairy tale world.A 460 km (ca. 286 mi) bike trip that will take you through the breathtaking landscapes of Bavaria, immersing you in a realm of medieval towns and rolling vineyards.Cycle along cobblestone streets and discover the charming villages of Rothenburg ob der Tauber and Fssen, where centuries-old architecture tells stories of yesteryear.And between castle and castle, don't forget to take a break to visit its traditional breweries, where you can enjoy both a good beer and the delicious flavors of German cuisine.4 The Amalfi Coast (Italy)Venture into one of the most charming areas in Europe.A coastal bike trip that offers exquisite views of the Mediterranean at every pedal stroke, in a visual feast of turquoise waters and towering cliffs.Discover the secret nooks and crannies of Positano, Amalfi and Ravello, where pastel-colored buildings seem to cling to the cliffs.And take your time to savor authentic Italian cuisine, while soaking up the relaxed atmosphere of this stunning region.5 The Loire Valley (France)The Loire Valley, known as the Garden of France, is one of the most popular areas in Europe for cycling enthusiasts.This UNESCO World Heritage Site covers more than 1,000 km (ca. 621 mi) of splendid castles, vineyards and scenic trails.However, most of its treasures are to be found on the 450 km (ca. 280 mi) stretch linking the city of Orleans to Nantes, coinciding with the stretch of the Eurovelo 6.Discover the history of French royalty while pedaling between such emblematic castles as the Chteau de Chambord and the Chteau de Chenonceau.6 The North Sea Cycle RouteThe North Sea Cycle Route is one of the most comprehensive bike trips in Europe. In fact, it holds the Guinness record for being the longest marked international cycle route in the world.A route of about 5932 km (ca. 3,685 mi) that connects the northern tip of Scotland with the Norwegian city of Bergen, crossing the coasts of England, Belgium, Holland, Germany, and Denmark following the course of the Eurovelo 12.Along the route you will see Paleolithic burial monuments, beautiful countryside, breathtaking fjords and countless historic towns.Ready to follow in the footsteps of the Vikings?7 The Ring of Kerry (Ireland)A bike trip through the Ring of Kerry is the best way to discover the untamed beauty of the Irish countryside.For this incredible 179 km route, which encircles the Iveragh Peninsula, offers breathtaking views of the country's most fascinating mountains, beaches, lakes, and rivers.In addition, as you embrace the captivating charm of the Emerald Isle, you will have the opportunity to experience the culture and hospitality of the Irish people, with their traditional music and pints of Guinness.Already know which one to choose? Well, while you think about it, let us share with you some indispensable tips for your bike trips in Europe.Top tips for cycling in Europe safetyBefore you embark on your cycling adventure through Europe, it's essential to ensure your safety and preparedness:Plan Your RouteBefore setting off, carefully plan your route, taking into consideration the terrain, road conditions, and available accommodations. GPS navigation tools or bike route planners can be invaluable companions during your bike trips in Europe.Safety GearEnsure you have all the necessary safety gear, including a helmet, reflective clothing, lights, and a first-aid kit.Local LawsFamiliarize yourself with the local traffic laws and regulations of each country you'll be cycling through. Each region may have different rules for cyclists.Travel InsuranceInvest in comprehensive travel insurance that covers possible accidents and medical emergencies during your bike trips in Europe.Stay Hydrated and Well-FedCycling can be physically demanding, so it is important to stay well hydrated and pack small snacks in your backpack to keep your energy up along the way.Stay InformedKeep an eye on weather forecasts and road conditions, especially if you're cycling in mountainous regions.And finally, although Europe has a good infrastructure for your bike trips, it is important to be well equipped.So, if you are thinking of changing your bike, we recommend you take a look at our eBike buying guide. It will help you find the perfect bike for your European travels.However, if you are looking for a lightweight and powerful eBike that fits your riding style like a glove, you can go straight to our online store.Find the perfect bike

Have you always wanted to build your own bike frame?CLICK HERE TO VISIT THE PRODUCT PAGE AND REGISTER INTERESTFustle bikes is a Northern Ireland based cycling brand, with a history in bicycle design and an appetite for unique and confidence inspiring off road bikes. We decided that we wanted to add a steel version of our award winning Causeway frame and that it would be great to partner with some other local talent right here in Northern Ireland in the form of Owen Byrne from Donard Bikes. In the first part of the story, company Director Alastair Beckett talks us through the desire to step away from Computer Aided Design and into the world of hand crafted bicycle frames, and introduces us to Owen from Donard bikes who creates hand made bespoke custom bike frames in Newtownards, Northern Ireland. It was great to get hands on with the Reynolds and Columbus tubing along with dropouts from Bear Frame Supplies. We will be releasing these bikes as a limited batch on a first come first served basis, and all enquiries should be submitted to us via email to hello@ridefustle.com Stay tuned for the 2nd episode where we finish the frame, and discuss paint and assembly to take this box of steel tubes and turn it into a finished masterpiece. For more information about the Causeway Frame: https://www.ridefustle.com/ You can check out our current bikes here: https://www.ridefustle.com/collection... Follow us on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ridefustle/ Follow us on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ridefustle/ For more information about Donard: https://www.donard.cc/ The video was produced by Neil McTeggart, who is a Strength Coach with a passion for story telling. He helps keep team Fustle fit and healthy and capable of enjoying every mile on our bikes.https://www.neilmct.com/

This post with video reviews showcases the best BUDGET e-bikes under $1000 you can buy on Amazon. A really great e-bike can cost a lot of money but the good news is that if you want to try electric bikes for the first time, you can buy decent quality e-bikes for less than $1000. In this post, we show you the best budget e-bikes we could find. Pick one, try it out, and experience the joy of electric biking!The post 7 of the Best Budget E-bikes under $1000 for 2024 appeared first on Average Joe Cyclist.

Looking for new adventures on two wheels? In Spain, you will find a new discovery with every pedal stroke.Because a bike trip in Spain is much more than just moving between two points, it's an opportunity to interact with nature, visit charming villages and discover a new version of yourself that you didn't know about.With routes that challenge and delight at the same time, cycling in this country is not just a sport, it is an open window to new experiences, wonderful people and, undoubtedly, memories that will remain indelible in your memory.Dare you take the first pedal towards your next adventure?7 bike trips in Spain that will amaze youIf you decide to embark on a bike trip in Spain, you will immediately see how its breathtaking landscapes, its stories and legends, and its great cultural background unfold before you like a majestic tapestry.And, so you can see that we are not making this up, we would like to share with you some of the best routes to travel through Spain by bike.Will you join us?1 - Pirinexus RouteThis 360 km (ca. 224 mi) circular route, which connects the northeast of Spain with the south of France, goes into territories of rich biodiversity and cultural heritage. A journey through charming villages that ends where the imposing mountains of the Pyrenees merge with the sea.Needless to say, the views are spectacular, isnt it?In addition, although it includes some sections of some hardness, most of the trip runs through greenways and rural roads, making it ideal for beginners in the exciting world of bike touring.2 Camino de SantiagoFrom Roncesvalles or Somport to Santiago de Compostela, with various routes that can exceed 800 km (ca. 500 mi).Doing the Camino de Santiago by bike is an experience in itself that offers a great diversity of landscapes and adventures. In fact, it is one of the most iconic routes in Spain. If you want more information about it, we invite you to consult our guide to Cycling on the Camino de Santiago.3 - Va Verde de la SierraSpreading its charms along 36 km (ca. 22 mi), the Va Verde de la Sierra offers you a quiet and pleasant bike trip from Puerto Serrano to Olvera.Imagine pedaling along old train tracks, now converted into cycle paths, where tunnels and viaducts intertwine with such spectacular places as the Zaframagn reserve, one of the most populated vulture reserves in Europe.4 Va Verde del Aceite Cycling RingWith more than 128 km (ca. 80 mi), crossing the provinces of Jan and Crdoba, this path takes you on a journey through the culture of olive oil.A trip that not only delights your senses with landscapes of endless olive groves, but also immerses you in the history of the liquid gold: olive oil. Travel along old railway lines, visit mills, and let yourself be seduced by the delicious gastronomy of Jan and Crdoba.5 The Cid RouteFrom Burgos to Valencia and along more than 2000 km (ca. 1,243 mi), the Cid route embarks you on an epic journey through Spain's medieval history, allowing you to experience an eclectic mix of landscapes and culture.Follow in the footsteps of the legendary hero El Cid as you make your way on your bike through castles, fortresses, and lands that seem to have been extracted from a medieval novel. The Cid Route is a historic bike trip that combines the best of Spain's culture, history, and nature.6 - TransAndalusWith approximately 2000 km (ca. 1,243 mi), the TransAndalus takes you on a complete circuit through the eight provinces that make up the region of Andalusia.Villages with white houses, Mediterranean forests, beaches with turquoise waters and even snow-capped mountains! A true odyssey of 23 stages that will awaken your explorer instinct and allow you to enjoy the most beautiful and less traveled landscapes of this wonderful region.7 The Silver RouteThe Silver Route, an ancestral road that crosses Spain from North to South along 800 km (ca. 497 mi), links Gijn, in the northern region of Asturias, with the historic Seville, in the southern region of Andalusia.Each pedal along this ancient Roman road takes you on a trip that intertwines the green and mountainous landscapes of northern Spain with the endless plains of the meseta and the seas of olive groves in the south. This offers a continuous spectacle of nature and adventure for cyclists.As you can see, each of these routes has its own charm and special character. Every kilometer you ride, you will discover a new facet of Spain, exploring its essence from the mountains to the sea, from the cities to the villages. Giving you a rich and varied experience that can only be appreciated above a bike.ButWhy is Spain the best cycling destination?If you like bikes, Spain is the place for you, and we'll tell you why.To begin with, the climate.Did you know that Spain enjoys more than 3000 hours of sunshine a year?This means that you can enjoy your bike trips in Spain without having to worry too much about the weather. You just need a good bike route planner and start riding.And speaking of routes, if you feel like facing new challenges, try climbing some of its mountains on one of our gravel eBikes. They are made for all types of terrain and will take you to places you thought impossible.However, when we say that Spain is an excellent destination for cyclists, it is not only because of its nature and sport, but also because of its culture and the friendliness of its people.Spaniards are open-minded people who love to share their traditions, their gastronomy and, of course, their favorite cycling routes. No wonder they invite you to join a group of cyclists to explore the surroundings together or share battles around a table.And hey, if at some point you decide to change your scenery, you can also continue your bike trip in Europe. Who knows? Your next destination could be in neighboring Portugal or the French Alps.But while you're deciding, why not take a look at the bikes we offer at Crow Bicycles? We're sure you'll find the perfect companion for your next adventure.TAKE A LOOK AT OUR ONLINE STORE

We all know the scene.... walking around the arcade, wide eyed and dazzled by the bright lights and sounds blasting out of these big white boxes with race car seats bolted to them.The year is 1995, I am a 10 year old boy just about to really discover my passion for bicycles, but until that point, there was one other true love in my life...Sega Rally Championship.One car in particular really caught my attention as a young and impressionable youngster, and the specific colour and configuration of those instantly recognisable stripes had been imprinted on my brain from the very instant I first set eyes on them.The sport of Rally appealed hugely to me, albeit at 10 years old I struggled to negotiate a shopping trolley around a super market never mind a race car at high speed on narrow gravel roads and through forests. I think it was this ability for a perfectly unsuspecting object (the motor vehicle) to operate on such terrain that excited me and planted a seed of mischief and abuse of machinery that still lives with me today.In fact, I see a lot of parallels between the sport of Rally, and the Gravel Bike riding that we enjoy so much today. You don't need to look too far to find events such as the Dukes Weekender where participants attack super special stages against the clock on their trusty gravel bikes, all whilst covering huge distances around the Scottish landscape of rolling hills, forest trails and endless loose gravel paths.I wanted to pay homage to the Martini Racing stripes that adorned that punchy little Lancia Delta Integrale that took this 10 year old boy away from the every day challenges of school life and into a world where speed and adrenaline were the sole focus. (not to mention the feeling of pushing equipment to a place that it was not really originally intend for).It might not be quite as fast, or quite as noisy, but the experience I have on a gravel bike today goes some way to bring just the right amount of excitement, adrenaline, risk and reward as this now 37 year old needs in his life.Check out our gravel bikes here:

Here are the pros and cons of a hub motor vs a crank drive motor for an electric bike, so you can decide which would work better for your needs. This post starts with a chart summing up the Pros and Cons of Hub Motors vs Crank Drive Motors for ebikes. After that, we explain []The post Hub Motor vs Crank Drive Motor Which is Better for an Electric Bike? appeared first on Average Joe Cyclist.