What to Wear on an E-bike Tour

Maybe it’s easier to start by saying what E-bikes are not. They are not motorbikes or scooters. E-bikes are bikes – they have seats and handlebars, as well as pedals and gears. You ride an E-bike as you’d ride a regular road bike. You’ll still be pedalling, changing gears, and braking – the main difference is that there is an electric assist that increases with each touch of the button. There are a few different levels ranging from Eco to Turbo. It’s up to you to decide when and how much electric assistance you might need on each stage of your E-bike journey. 

Learn more about our E-bike fleet here.

Padded lycra cycling shorts/chamois – E-bikes might make cycling more accessible and arguably easier, but a saddle’s a saddle, and you want to be comfortable while seated on your saddle. Therefore, correctly choosing what you wear on your lower body is the cornerstone of riding comfort, whether they are bibbed or not.

Bib shorts or cycling shorts?

Bib shorts are form-fitting padded bike shorts that have suspenders over the shoulder. While lycra bib shorts may initially feel unfamiliar, they offer unparalleled comfort by keeping everything in place on the saddle. Consider giving them a try for a sleeker and more comfortable riding experience.

If you prefer a more traditional fit, bike shorts with padded chamois are another great option. Of note, avoid wearing anything underneath, as it diminishes the benefits of padded shorts. You’ll get the same level of padding and aerodynamics with this E-bike option.

Leggings or longs for riding – Opt for specialized road cycling leggings for colder-weather rides. Look for leggings with ankle zips for easy removal during stops. Alternatively, long-legged “bib shorts” are available, but you’ll need to commit to wearing them throughout your cycle. In Ireland, the weather can be quite changeable, and the wind factor is no joke, especially on the coast, and especially as you whizz along on your E-bike. We recommend you check the weather forecast ahead of time.

Lightweight waterproof trousers – While optional, lightweight trousers can be quite handy. Water-repellent leggings or leg warmers are also available to wear between your padded shorts and socks for added protection against the elements. As E-bike tours incorporate plenty of cultural and culinary stops, having dry outer layers to throw on during your stops is essential to getting the most out of your E-bike trip.

Helmet – While there are no legal requirements in Ireland to wear a helmet when cycling, we consider it imperative and non-negotiable for anyone riding with us. Given the high speeds and sharing roads with other vehicles, proper head protection in case of a fall is paramount, particularly when on an E-bike. We strongly advise a snugly fitted helmet. If you’re bringing your own, it’s advisable to research the safety certifications and consider features such as ventilation and aerodynamics before purchasing. We also provide helmets if you prefer not to pack your own.

Gloves – Whether full-fingered or fingerless, having gloves is invaluable when riding in unpredictable Irish weather and wind conditions.

Riding Lenses – Clear lens glasses or interchangeable sunglasses offering 100% UVA and UVB protection are indispensable. They safeguard your eyes from wind and debris while riding. This is especially important on the windy west coast of Ireland.