eBike Tours Safety FAQs

Your comfort and safety are central to every Solebike experience. Before each tour, we prepare your equipment, adjust your eBike and explain how to ride it. During the tour, your leader sets an appropriate pace and guides the group along a carefully planned route.

Cycling in a city always involves some level of risk, so every participant must follow the safety briefing, the tour leader’s instructions and local traffic rules. These frequently asked questions explain how we help you prepare for a safe and enjoyable Athens eBike tour.

 

Are Solebike eBike tours safe?

Our tours are designed to make cycling in Athens as comfortable and manageable as possible.

We use carefully selected routes that prioritise pedestrian areas, cycling-friendly sections, parks, quieter streets and low-traffic connections whenever possible. Every experience begins with bike fitting, an equipment check, a safety briefing and time to practise using the eBike.

Our small-group format also allows the tour leader to communicate more easily with participants and manage the group at a controlled pace.

However, an outdoor cycling activity cannot be completely risk-free. Guests are responsible for riding attentively, following instructions and informing us before the tour about any condition that could affect their participation.

 

Do I need cycling experience?

You do not need to be an experienced or athletic cyclist, but you must already know how to ride and balance independently on a standard bicycle.

Before departure, we explain how to start, stop, brake and use the electric assistance. You will have time to practise before entering the tour route.

The training period helps you become familiar with the eBike, but it is not a cycling lesson for someone who has never learned to ride. A participant who cannot control the bicycle safely may not be able to join the tour.

 

Are electric bikes difficult to ride?

Our pedal-assist eBikes ride much like regular bicycles. The motor supports your pedalling and makes hills and longer distances easier, but it does not replace the need to steer, brake and balance.

You remain in control of the bicycle and can select the level of assistance that feels comfortable. Our team explains the controls and supervises a short practice session before departure.

 

What happens before the tour starts?

Please arrive at the meeting point at least 10–15 minutes before the scheduled starting time.

Before departure, our team will:

  • Select an eBike suitable for your height

  • Adjust the saddle and riding position

  • Provide and correctly fit your helmet

  • Explain the brakes, gears and assistance controls

  • Check that the bicycle is working correctly

  • Present the main riding and group-safety rules

  • Allow time for a short practice ride

The tour starts only after the group has completed this preparation.

 

Are helmets provided?

Yes. A properly fitted cycling helmet is provided to every participant and must be worn throughout the riding part of the experience.

We offer helmets in different sizes, including suitable options for children. Please follow the team’s fitting instructions and avoid loosening or removing your helmet during the ride.

 

What other safety equipment is provided?

Depending on the tour, season and time of day, your equipment may include:

  • A properly fitted cycling helmet

  • Front and rear bicycle lights

  • High-visibility equipment when appropriate

  • An audio whisper receiver and earpiece

  • Rain protection when conditions require it

  • A bottle of water

The whisper audio system helps you hear your tour leader’s directions and commentary without needing to ride too closely or gather in unsafe positions.

 

How are the tour routes selected?

Our routes are designed by local cyclists who understand Athens and its changing street conditions.

We prioritise pedestrian promenades, parks, quieter backstreets and lower-traffic connections wherever the itinerary permits. Busy roads and technically demanding sections are avoided as much as reasonably possible.

Some interaction with regular city traffic, pedestrians, road crossings and uneven surfaces may still be necessary. The tour leader will explain how to approach these sections and may ask the group to stop, walk the bicycles or move in single file.

 

How large are the groups?

Our scheduled eBike tours operate in small groups so the tour leader can communicate clearly, observe the riders and keep the group together.

Smaller groups also make it easier to cross roads, stop safely, adjust the pace and respond to individual concerns.

The exact maximum number of participants may differ between experiences, so check the information displayed on the selected tour page.

 

How does the tour leader communicate with riders?

Participants receive a wireless audio whisper system on tours where it is included.

This allows you to hear commentary and important instructions clearly while maintaining an appropriate distance from the tour leader and other riders. It also reduces the need for the group to crowd together at stops.

The audio system supports communication, but every rider must still watch the road, surrounding traffic, pedestrians and signals.

 

What safety rules must I follow during the ride?

For everyone’s safety, participants should:

  • Follow the tour leader’s instructions

  • Wear the helmet correctly

  • Maintain a safe distance from other bicycles

  • Avoid sudden stops or changes of direction

  • Use both brakes progressively

  • Keep both hands available for controlling the bike

  • Ride in single file when instructed

  • Stop only in places indicated by the leader

  • Respect traffic lights, signs and local road rules

  • Avoid using a phone or camera while cycling

  • Inform the leader immediately if they feel uncomfortable

Riders must not participate while under the influence of alcohol, recreational drugs or medication that impairs concentration or coordination.

 

What should I wear?

Wear comfortable clothes that allow easy movement and closed, secure shoes suitable for cycling.

We recommend avoiding:

  • Flip-flops or loose sandals

  • Long, flowing clothing that could reach the wheels

  • Large or heavy backpacks

  • Loose straps hanging from bags

  • Valuable items that cannot be secured

  • Headphones that block surrounding sounds

During warmer months, sunscreen and sunglasses are useful. In cooler or unsettled weather, bring a light jacket or suitable rain layer.

 

Is the tour suitable for children?

We provide family-focused experiences and different equipment options for children. The appropriate setup depends on the child’s age, height, cycling ability and the selected tour.

Available options may include:

  • Properly sized children’s bicycles

  • Children’s helmets

  • Baby or child seats

  • Tag-along bicycles

  • Other family cycling equipment

Children who ride independently must already be confident cyclists and able to follow the tour leader’s instructions. Minors must participate with a responsible adult included in the same booking.

Please provide each child’s age and height when booking so we can confirm the most appropriate equipment and tour format.

 

Can young children join a regular small-group tour?

Not every scheduled tour is appropriate for every age or equipment setup.

Families with younger children may be directed towards a dedicated family experience or a private tour, where the pace, route, stops and equipment can be better adapted.

Contact us before booking when travelling with babies, young children or children who are not confident independent cyclists.

 

Is there a minimum height or maximum weight?

Participation requirements can vary according to the bicycle model and selected experience.

Some tours or eBike models may have minimum height or maximum rider-weight limits. Guests close to or above 110 kg should contact Solebike before booking so that we can confirm whether suitable equipment is available.

For children and shorter riders, please send us their exact height in advance. The requirements shown on the individual tour page apply to that specific experience.

 

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility limitations?

Our eBike tours require the ability to balance, steer, pedal, brake, get on and off the bicycle and react safely to changing city conditions.

They may not be suitable for guests with significant mobility limitations, balance difficulties or conditions that affect safe bicycle control.

Because individual needs differ, please contact us before booking. We can discuss the tour demands, but participants remain responsible for deciding whether the activity is appropriate for their physical condition and abilities.

 

Should I tell you about a medical condition?

Yes. Please contact us before booking when a health condition, recent injury, pregnancy, medication or mobility issue may affect your ability to cycle safely.

Our team cannot provide medical clearance or medical advice. When uncertain, consult your doctor before participating in a cycling activity.

You should also inform the tour leader before departure of any relevant issue or emergency information they may need to know.

 

What happens if I do not feel confident during the practice session?

Tell your tour leader immediately.

We may provide additional explanation, adjust the bike or allow more practice when time and conditions permit. If you still cannot control the eBike safely, the tour leader may decide that participation would create an unacceptable risk.

This decision is made for the safety of the participant and the rest of the group.

 

What happens if I feel tired or uncomfortable during the tour?

Inform your tour leader as soon as possible rather than waiting for the next scheduled stop.

The leader can assess the situation, find a safe place to stop and determine the most appropriate next step. Depending on the circumstances, this may involve resting, adjusting the equipment, changing your assistance level or helping you leave the tour safely.

 

What happens if it rains?

Athens has many dry days, but weather conditions can change.

Light rain does not always require a cancellation, and rain protection may be provided when appropriate. The route, pace or stops may be adjusted according to the conditions.

When weather creates an unreasonable safety risk, such as severe rain, thunderstorms, extreme wind or other hazardous conditions, Solebike may delay, modify, reschedule or cancel the experience.

Please check the specific weather and cancellation terms included with your booking.

 

What happens during very hot weather?

During warm conditions, we encourage guests to drink water, use sunscreen, wear light clothing and inform the leader immediately if they feel unwell.

The tour leader may adapt the pace, use shaded stopping points or modify the experience when necessary. In exceptional heat or official extreme-weather conditions, operational changes may be required.

Guests with conditions affected by heat should seek medical advice and contact us before booking.

 

Do tours operate after dark?

Some experiences may finish around sunset or operate during lower-light conditions.

Where required, bicycles are equipped with appropriate lights or additional visibility equipment. Participants must follow the tour leader’s positioning and spacing instructions carefully.

Availability and timing depend on the selected tour and season.

 

What if there is a mechanical problem?

Our eBikes are checked and prepared before departure. If a mechanical or electrical problem occurs during the tour, stop in a safe place and inform the tour leader.

Do not attempt to repair or adjust the bicycle yourself unless the leader asks you to do so. The team will assess the bicycle and arrange the most suitable solution based on the location and circumstances.

 

Can I carry a bag or personal belongings?

Bring only the essentials needed for the experience.

Large bags, heavy backpacks and loose items can affect balance and bike control. Please contact us in advance if you are travelling with luggage.

Storage at the meeting point may be limited, and valuables are carried or stored at the participant’s own risk.

 

Can I use my phone or take photographs while riding?

No. Do not hold or operate a phone, camera or other device while the bicycle is moving.

The tour includes regular stops where you can safely take photographs. Always park the bicycle securely and follow the tour leader’s instructions before using your device.

 

Are private tours safer for families or less-confident riders?

A private tour may provide more flexibility in pace, route choice, practice time and stopping frequency.

It can be particularly useful for families, mixed-ability groups or guests who prefer a more personal setup. However, private participation does not remove the basic requirement to know how to ride and control a bicycle safely.

Contact us so we can recommend the most suitable experience for your group.

 

Can the tour leader refuse someone’s participation?

Yes. The tour leader may refuse or discontinue a participant’s involvement when they reasonably believe that continuing would endanger that person, the group or the public.

Reasons may include:

  • Inability to control the bicycle

  • Ignoring safety instructions

  • Dangerous or disruptive behaviour

  • Alcohol or drug impairment

  • Unsuitable clothing or footwear

  • An undisclosed condition affecting safe participation

  • Equipment limitations

  • Weather or route conditions

Safety decisions made by the tour leader must be respected.

 

What should I do in an emergency?

Follow the tour leader’s instructions and move away from traffic or other immediate hazards when it is safe to do so.

For urgent assistance relating to your booking or meeting point, contact Solebike through the emergency telephone or WhatsApp number provided in your confirmation.

For a serious medical or public emergency in Greece, call the European emergency number 112.

 

Still Unsure About Joining?

Contact us by email or WhatsApp before booking and tell us about your cycling experience, height, age range, children’s needs or any other concern.

We will help you identify the most appropriate scheduled, family or private Solebike experience.

Solebike is a heritage tours operator specializing in the art of the narrative. Driven by our academically grounded experience curators, we create journeys, connecting the city's historical legacy and modern life through intimate, small-group urban explorations on our premium mid-motor eBikes and with our audio tours.
OFFICE: 11 Lempesi street, Athens 11742
*Our office is 3min walk from Metro Acropolis
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SOLEBIKE Travel Agency, Ministry of Tourism, Greece. Licence: 0206E60000767701
Official Member Of: Hellenic Association of Tourism Enterprises In Outdoor Activities.

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