Staying safe on the trails and ensuring you get the most from your E-Bike hire.

One of Whizzy's high performance Giant Talon E-Bikes

“Our trails are a playground of beauty and responsibility.”

Queenstown trails offer breathtaking landscapes and challenging rides. The mix of steep inclines, winding paths, and scenic vistas adds an element of adventure, but it also demands respect for safety. Riders need to acknowledge that every twist and turn has its challenges - from unpredictable terrain to sudden weather changes that can affect traction and visibility. With nature on full display, every E-Bike enthusiast must gear up not only for the ride but for the unique conditions of these trails.

Whilst riding the stunning new Shotover Gorge Trail at the weekend I was reminded of the sheer numbers of people, both locals and tourists, that ride/walk/run our trails on any given day.  It’s a great reminder to ride safely and within your means but also to make sure that the gear you’re using is up to scratch and can keep you safe.  As an E-Bike operator that prides ourselves on a high safety level, it’s imperative to us to ensure we’re doing as much as we can to keep you safe on the trails.  Whether that be a well maintained, appropriately fit E-Bike or a simple pair of Winter riding gloves, we want to give you everything you need to have a fun adventure that you’ll always feel safe doing. 

In this article we’re going to talk safety, give you some tips to get the most out of our gear and ensure you tackle the trails safely, keeping yourselves and other trail lovers out of harm's way.

First up are our MIPS Helmets - A new standard in head protection.

When it comes to helmets, nothing beats the peace of mind you get from a model featuring MIPS - Multi-Directional Impact Protection System. MIPS technology is designed to reduce rotational forces during angled impacts, one of the key contributors to brain injuries during crashes. What sets these helmets apart is their ability to allow a slight movement between the head and the helmet, absorbing much of the energy that would otherwise be transferred to your brain. For an E-Bike rider facing both speed and unpredictable terrain, investing in a MIPS helmet isn’t just smart - it’s essential. The added protection means you can focus more on the exhilarating ride and less on worrying about what-ifs.  All of our hires now come with MIPS fitted helmets as standard, at no extra cost!  

During the winter months it’s common to be riding in cold or even frosty conditions.  Your hands will definitely know this as you pedal through the countryside, maybe towards a warm, cozy Winery fireplace.  We offer all of our guests complimentary riding gloves and branded Whizzy neck warmers to defend against the cold. The neck warmers are multi functional and also make a nice souvenir.  Make sure you ask your friendly guide for yours on your winter ride.  

Being safe and comfortable is a huge part of our operation but without a top-notch E-Bike none of that matters.  Our E-Bikes come in a range of sizes and are regularly serviced and maintained, especially through the colder, wetter months.  Make sure you pay close attention to your E-Bike and check that the tires are inflated, the chain and gears shift correctly and a bell is fitted to the handle bars.  You should also be given a suitably sized bike and a good way to make sure of this is to jump on the saddle and see if you can touch the floor.  If you can’t, your bike is likely too big or the seat is too high.  If you’re flat footed, you might want to get a larger bike or increase the seat height.  We’ve found that the most comfortable ride height is when you’re just on tip-toes when sitting in the saddle.  This ensures that your legs are sufficiently bent, but not over-bent, when going through the pedal stroke.  Too much bend and you can find that achy knees are a problem at the end of your ride.  Straight legs will mean that you’re not getting the most power from your legs on each stroke, meaning you’ll have to work harder on those hills! 

Braking - A little may well be enough. 

Braking on an E-Bike is an art form, and having the right equipment makes all the difference. High-quality disc brakes are fitted on all of our bikes, as are high quality brake components like levers and pads. Brakes are often used incorrectly, particularly when navigating challenging trails where sudden stops can be necessary. Effective braking helps you maintain control, especially on downhill sections or in loose, uneven terrain typical of Queenstown. Ensuring your bike’s braking system is well maintained is a crucial step to guarantee safety and forms a big part of our maintenance routine, giving you the confidence to tackle a ride head-on.

The braking system in New Zealand is back brake - left and front brake - right.  This is different to some countries, including the US.  For our guests that are used to brakes on opposite sides, it’s important to be gentle on braking until you’ve overcome the muscle memory of opposite brakes.  It’s surprisingly easy to come down a hill, pull, what you think, is the back brake, and sail straight over the handlebars because you’ve inadvertently jammed the front brake on! 

Bike Size and Fit - The foundation of a safe and comfortable ride. 

The size and fit of your E-Bike play a significant role in your overall safety. An ill-fitting bike can impair control and reaction time, potentially leading to accidents. It’s important your E-Bike suits your body dimensions and riding style. Whether you’re a tall rider who needs ample leg room for tackling climbs or someone who values agility on twisty trails, the right bike can transform your experience. Properly adjusted components - from the saddle to the handlebars, ensure your body remains in optimal position, reducing fatigue and the risk of falls.

Trail Composition - Know and understand what you’re riding on.

Finally, knowing the trail composition is essential for any rider. Queenstown trails vary from gravel paths to steep, technical singletracks. Each surface demands different handling techniques. For instance, trails with loose gravel or unexpected obstacles require more cautious speed control and sharper braking responses. Familiarize yourself with the conditions, and always be prepared for quick adjustments during your ride. A well-planned approach to trail riding can be the difference between a stunning ride and an unexpected mishap.

Most of our trails are made up of loose gravel but some include tarmac, shared roads and muddy single track.  Some more remote trails, like the Coronet Loop, are 90% single trail and also include lots of fast downhill sections.  You’ll find more information about all of Queenstown’s extensive trails network on the Queenstown Trails website.  

Enjoy the ride and stay safe!

Gravel makes up around 70% of all the Queenstown Trails.

Hiring an e-bike in Queenstown is a game-changer. It allows you to enjoy the incredible scenery, take on challenging trails, and conserve your energy for all the other amazing activities this adventure-packed town has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned cyclist or a casual rider, an e-bike ensures that you can explore Queenstown to the fullest without the limitations of a regular bike.

So next time you’re considering Queenstown bike hire, think about choosing an e-bike for your adventure. With the convenience, comfort, and fun factor, it’s the ultimate way to experience everything Queenstown has to offer!

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