Is an e-bike cheating?

No. You still pedal and still get exercise, the motor just smooths out the hills. It mostly means you go further and have more fun.

Do I still have to pedal?

Yes. The motor assists your pedalling rather than replacing it, so you set the effort and it tops it up.

How far will the battery go?

Plenty for a day's riding on most tours, and guides plan routes around the range. It depends on the bike, terrain and how much assist you use.

No, standard e-bikes are treated like normal bikes. The operator will flag anything unusual about their bikes.

How fit do I need to be?

Less than for a normal bike. The assist means most people can manage a decent ride comfortably.

Do I need my own bike?

No. Most tours and rides provide the e-bike and a helmet.

E-biking in Cumbria

Cumbria and the Lake District are England's adventure heartland — fell hiking, white-water rafting, canoeing and paddleboarding among the country's highest peaks and largest lakes. Trek the high fells with a mountain guide, raft and canoe the rivers, paddleboard across Windermere, Coniston and Derwentwater, and add ghyll scrambling or climbing to the mix. Whether you want a gentle family day on the water or a serious multi-day mountain trip, North West England's national park is hard to beat.