The band Queen said it best, “All I want to do is bicycle, bicycle, bicycle…” and now it’s easier than ever! Always looking to be on the cutting edge, Austin Lehman Adventures has just announced that we are charging up our European vacations this year by being one of the first US tour operators to introduce electric bicycles as an option on all of its European Biking Vacations.

Ron van Dijk, our Director of European Operations, with over 40 years in the industry; has witnessed many changes in the way bicycles have been used in European vacations. From the use of increasingly lighter touring bikes and gears moving from 10 to 27 gears, as well as high-tech brakes and now, battery-powered bikes. “With e-bikes now anyone, regardless of age, strength or ability, will be able to take on even the most strenuous tour itinerary.” 

This move has already made a difference. One New York couple who have taken fifty-four,  Austin-Lehman Adventures biking vacations were ready to hang up their helmets until they learned that electric bikes would now be an option. They’ve just booked three more adventures this summer. Tour alumni Patty and Brian Hohner always had a Tuscany biking adventure on their bucket list but were always intimidated by the hills. Once they heard about e-bikes they immedi ately signed up.

Electric bikes, originally the rage of bike commuters, are quickly becoming the next major evolution in recreational cycling. With Austin-Lehman Adventures leading the way in Europe by offing an e-bike option to guests on all of their multi-day cycle tours. Essentially e-bikes level the playing field. Couples can cycle together without fear of leaving a companion in the dust. For the first time the arm chair/casual cyclist thinking of an Italian bike tour can do a challenging trip like Tuscany without fearing the inevitable long ascents synonymous with the area. These bikes are ideal for multi-generational groups and families.