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The force behind our e-bikes

two people riding e-bikes on a paved, waterfront path with palm trees in the background

If you look around your home, it wouldn’t be surprising to find a Bosch appliance, but did you know that Bosch is also responsible for engineering the pedal-assist technology that powers our e-bikes? We sat down with some of the e-bike experts at Bosch to learn more about the motors that make our bikes go.


Who is Bosch?

Bosch was founded in 1886 and contributed one of the key technologies that helped make internal combustion possible for use in automobiles – the magneto ignition device. Today, Bosch technology is present in a variety of industries around the world. In fact, it’s difficult to go through a day without Bosch technology touching your life in some way. Bosch sensors are in more than 50 percent of cell phones, Bosch home appliances and power tools are found in homes and worksites globally, Bosch security cameras adorn buildings all around the world, while Bosch hydraulic technology is present in the Panama Canal and Tower Bridge in London. Virtually every vehicle on the road in the world today has Bosch technology on it, and Bosch was the first to bring life-saving safety technologies like anti-lock braking and electronic stability control to market. Known for its quality and dependability, Bosch’s technology and expertise in electric motors, sensor technology, displays, and lithium-ion batteries makes them the leading and most-qualified supplier for electric bike systems.

When and why did Bosch start making e-bike motors?

Bosch first forayed into e-bikes in 2011, when the Automotive Electronics division launched its first e-bike system and essentially shaped the modern e-bike as we know it today. Once a small startup within Automotive Electronics, e-bike is now its own independent division within Bosch, which truly demonstrates just how far e-bikes have come and how highly valued they are within the company as a pillar of Bosch’s mobility solutions sector.

So, why e-bikes? Broadly speaking, Bosch sees the mobility of the future characterized by three elements: automation, electrification, and connectivity. E-bikes exemplify these traits, and broaden Bosch’s definition of mobility to include more than just automotive transportation. Mobility is a basic human need, in whatever form it takes to get from place to place, and e-bikes unite technology with healthy human-powered mobility, which really stays true to our motto, “Invented for Life.”

What can you tell us about the components that you’ll find in the Trek Verve+ 3 that we ride on our trips?

The Trek Verve+ 3 sports the Active Line Plus, a well-balanced Class 1 drive unit with a max assist speed of 20 mph or 32 km/h. It has enough torque to succeed on hills while maintaining excellent battery range, bringing simple enjoyment to everyday riding. It’s quiet, reliable, and has barely any noticeable pedal resistance. The power of the Active Line Plus is delivered smoothly to achieve a natural riding sensation.

Purion is our compact, easy-to-read display that’s mounted on the left handlebar with the e-bike assist controls integrated within it. The display provides a clear overview of the charge status, speed, riding mode, range, trip distance, and total distance. All the important details are just a thumb-click away, perfect for riders who want simplified information and controls.

Bosch’s PowerTube lithium ion batteries have the power you need for any ride, and are easily rechargeable from any standard 110v wall outlet. The Verve+ 3 integrates its PowerTube 500 battery within the frame for worry-free riding, and a safety latch prevents the PowerTube from falling out even on challenging terrain.

How much power is in a typical e-bike battery?

Our e-bike batteries have their capacity measured in watt hours (Wh) and come in several sizes ranging from 400 Wh to 625 Wh. On average, you’re paying roughly 17 cents for every battery charge, and traversing anywhere from 35 to 100 miles on a single charge, depending on various factors (which you can learn about on our interactive e-bike Range Calculator page). It’s tough to compete with that level of energy efficiency versus a car!

Are there any surprising statistics or facts to know about?

  • • Our Speed, Torque, and Cadence sensors make over 1,000 measurements per second as you ride, which translate to smooth, realistic, and quick responses to every pedal push you make.
  • • Our 4-amp Charger will take your e-bike battery from zero to full charge in roughly 4.5 hours.
  • • The Purion display also lets you control your integrated lighting by holding the “+” key.
  • • As a company, Bosch has made good on our promise to achieve carbon neutrality by 2020.
  • • The Robert Bosch foundation, a nonprofit foundation, holds 92 percent of the company’s shares, seven percent are in the hands of Robert Bosch’s descendants, and the company holds the remaining one percent.
  • • Our complete e-bike system features the UL 2849 safety standard from the prestigious Underwriters Laboratory (UL), a strong commitment to long-term component quality for peace of mind.
  • • Want a tune-up? Our field team has trained over 4,400 retailers in North America to bring e-bike expertise to every neighborhood.
  • • E-bikes are so much fun, it’s virtually impossible to complete an e-bike ride without smiling.

What’s the most important thing to know about e-bikes?

E-bikes are even more fun with friends! Riders on your Trek Travel trip can enjoy the same sights and climb the same hills regardless of differences in riding skill or fitness level, making a tour by e-bike an unforgettable experience for everyone.

Explore e-bike vacations with Trek Travel

See E-bike Tours

Online Booking Guide

“This is the largest technology project Trek Travel has ever taken on, and I’m stoked at the user experience our guests can enjoy at anytime from anywhere in the world.”
-Mark, Technology Manager at Trek Travel

The team at Trek Travel is always looking for ways to make the guest experience better, more fun, and easier. Starting in November 2019, even the booking process has been upgraded. Now, guests can simply and efficiently book a trip online! Check out the video above to see how quick and easy the process is.

Why is this a major benefit to guests? We talked to the project lead, Mark, to learn more about the new online booking system.

Why was online booking created?

We realized we wanted to create a great user experience through our website that would allow our guests to book one of our vacations anytime of day. We also want to offer a way for our guests to book their vacations in whatever technology they use most. For a lot of people, that means booking online as it has become such a natural extension of purchasing travel.

How will this make the guest experience better?

With the new system, it means we are able to accept bookings 24/7. That allows guests to schedule a trip when it is most convenient for them, whether that be weekends, evenings, or regular business hours. Along with offering the ability to purchase online, we also built out a customer account center. While still in its infancy in terms of features, this account center gives our guests information on trips they have booked with us, travel information, and more. We also have a road map in place to offer more functionality and features in the future to give our guests the best user experience possible both on and offline.

What should guests expect after they have booked online?

After completing the online booking process, guests will receive a confirmation email and within two days, one of our trip consultants will reach out to verify we have all the necessary information and answer any questions the guest may have. After speaking with a trip consultant, guests will receive a final confirmation for their trip. At any point between booking and trip departure, guests can always reach out to our expert trip consultants to get advice, ask questions, or learn additional information about a trip.

Please note that some select trips are so special they cannot be booked online, but our trip consultants are ready to help. It will be noted on the trip page if a trip cannot be booked online.

What are you waiting for?

Book your next trip

 

Top 5 Tips for Simple Bike Maintenance

It would be difficult to find a cyclist who claims the thrill of maintaining their bike was what initially attracted them to the sport. Let’s be honest, we would all rather spend our precious time riding our bike than cleaning it. However, like it or loathe it, bicycle maintenance plays a vital part in improving performance and simply can’t be ignored.

Professional cycling has shown over recent years that a focus on this area can provide the marginal gains required to propel you to victory. But what are the benefits for an everyday cyclist? Well, regular bicycle maintenance is proven to reduce mechanical problems, extend the life of your bike, and ultimately protect your investment. So, with this in mind, we’ve done our research and found the best ways to get all the benefits in a fraction of the time! Here are our top five simple tips for maintaining your bike.

Trek Travel's partner, Finishline Products

1. Work smarter, not harder

With so many intricate components and hard to reach places, removing stubborn grease and grime from your bicycle’s drivetrain is a notoriously difficult task! Thankfully, there’s a product on the market to help make this achievable and super quick. Finish Line Speed Degreaser’s no-rinse formula and turbo sprayer get to work instantly, displacing moisture, removing soils, and completely decontaminating all metal parts. It’s ideal to use on disc brake rotors, derailleur pivots, cassettes, chains, and any other metal components that need a thorough clean. As well as removing the need for hours of elbow grease, its “dry” degreasing technology quickly evaporates, leaving components and chains residue-free and ready to be lubricated. This clever cleaning product will extend the life of your drivetrain and ensure smooth, quiet shifting. It’s a big hit with our mechanics and saves time, making us more inclined to take on the task.

Trek Travel's partner, Finishline Products

2. Choose the right tool

You wouldn’t use a hammer to tighten a screw, and it’s the same logic when it comes to cleaning your bike. Using tools designed to access all the hard to reach places on your bike will save you time and ensure you’ve cleaned it thoroughly. With Finish Line’s Grunge Brush, cleaning chains and gears has never been faster or easier. Working in conjunction with a degreaser, scrub your chain with the brush’s unique three-sided bristles to deep clean the chain’s plates and pins. Then, use the long bristles at the other end to clean cassette sprockets, derailleurs, cranksets, brakes, and pedals.

Trek Travel's partner, Finishline Products

3. Keep it clean

Keeping your bike clean is the best way to prevent wear and tear and optimize performance. Dirt left on your frame, wheels, and components will affect your bike’s efficiency and can potentially cause long term damage. A bucket of soapy water has been the “go-to” for most, but research suggests this can be harmful to paint and means the extra time-consuming steps of rinsing and drying. Our team uses Finish Line’s Super Bike Wash. This fast-acting and powerful cleaner requires no water and can be sprayed on and wiped off with a towel. It protects your paint and leaves your bike looking like new. It’s high surface tension and eco-friendly cleaning agents are non-toxic, biodegradable, and make it safe to use indoors and out.

Trek Travel's partner, Finishline Products

4. Lube it correctly

Once your bike is clean, it’s all about choosing the right lube. If you lube it right, not only will you get optimal performance, but you’ll also have less maintenance work to do at the end of each ride! We recommend choosing between Finish Line’s Dry and Wet Lubricants depending on riding conditions.

Optimized for variable conditions, dry Lube goes on wet and sets up with a dry, wax-like synthetic film. It helps keep your chain clean by not absorbing excessive amounts of grit, grime, or dust. Perfect for everyday riding, its Teflon fluoropolymers coats the chain in a water-resistant film, while reducing friction and wear on all surfaces.

Wet lube is the strongest, longest lasting, and most water-proof lubricant. Wet lube goes on wet, never washes off, and delivers quiet riding, smooth shifting, and easier pedaling. Its water-repelling synthetic oils will protect your chain in the harshest conditions.

To find the perfect bicycle lubricant for your next trip, visit Finish Line’s website and use their handy Lube Selector Tool.

Trek Travel's partner, Finishline Products

5. Less mess after you’ve cleaned

Tidying up the mess after cleaning your bike is a task that interests no one, ever! Our time is precious, so any steps we can take along the way to minimize the clean-up operation at the end are welcome. Tools like Finish Line’s No Drip Chain Luber were invented for exactly this reason! Save money by avoiding spilled lube and ensure every link in your chain is properly lubricated without wasting a drop. Simply fill the No Drip Chain Luber with your lubricant of choice and while backpedaling, place the applicator head on the chain and squeeze the bottle. A wicking pad in the applicator head ensures every link is evenly coated, without lube dripping or flying all over the place.

Most importantly, it will save you clearing up time and allow you to get on with more important tasks, like planning your next cycling trip.

 

Ride With Confidence. Ride With GPS.

Introducing Ride With GPS Experiences

Now you can store your itinerary, host and hotel contacts, routes and trip notifications all within the Ride With GPS app on your phone or tablet. It’s a modern-day replacement to your standard vacation folder. And the best part? You don’t have to be connected to WiFi or data to use it. Now available on all trips.

Looking or more detailed Ride with GPS instructions? Find them here»

Use Ride With GPS Navigation on a Trek Travel Cycling Tour

VIEW AND NAVIGATE ROUTES

See each day’s route options and navigate with turn-by-turn directions right from your phone. We’ll even provide a mount.

CONTACTS AT THE READY

Need to get a hold of your host? Forget the name of your hotel? Want to make a reservation at one of our recommended restaurants? Find all the contact info you need, all in one place.

Trek Travel RWGPS Itinerary
Ride With GPS bike tour

YOUR ITINERARY AT YOUR FINGERTIPS

See exactly what’s in store for the day from meetup times to dinner plans without having to dig through paper packets or emails.

LOCAL RECOMMENDATIONS

If the best patio bistro or coffee shop rest stop is what you’re looking for, we’ve got our list of our local favorites ready to go.

Trek Travel RWGPS Itinerary

Looking or more detailed Ride with GPS Instructions? Find them here.

See what else is included on a Trek Travel vacation.

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Father’s Day Rundown

For Father’s Day we chatted with a few TT dads about dream bikes and post-ride drinks. You know, dad stuff. Read on to learn more about some of the coolest dads we know.

Ben Trek Travel Father's Day

Where/what is your favorite ride? Any ride with my wife. We used to spend hours talking and riding in the mountains, kids change that a little but any ride with her is better than any ride without her. The best ride with her in recent memory was the Colorado National Monument Loop in Grand Junction.

Dream bike? Boone RSL, with Sram CX1 and Bontrager Aeolus Tubular Wheels and Dugast tires.

Favorite post-ride drink? Depends on the ride. If it is a hard ride, I prefer to have a GU Vanilla Recovery Shake. If it is not too hard, then there is nothing quite as good as an ice cold Stella Artois.

Favorite piece of gear? Cycling Related but not a bike would be Bontrager XXX Lite Shoes or Oakley Jawbreakers. Not cycling related would be a 1975 Toyota Land Cruiser FJ40.


Mark Trek Travel Father's Day

Where/what is your favorite ride? The Whole Enchilada mountain bike ride in Moab, Utah. Just an incredible downhill mountain bike ride through all sorts of different natural environments.

Dream bike? Handmade, fully custom, Vanilla road bike. I think the wait list is around 7 years.

Favorite post-ride drink? A local IPA to the place I am riding in. Especially if I’m out on a deck with friends.

Favorite piece of gear? A dropper seat post. How did I ride mountain bikes before without one?


Sean Trek Travel Father's Day

Where/what is your favorite ride? Around the lake with my family.

Dream bike? An OCLV aero penny farthing. Boom.

Favorite post-ride drink? A cold Hopalicious or any IPA for that matter.

Favorite piece of gear? My DeWalt Planer. It takes rough lumber and makes it into dimensional lumber so you can build things (nerd). I got it for last Father’s Day, I’m most excited to use it to build an exotic wood Jenga set. I’d also love a Rancilio Silvia espresso machine.

The Intimidation Factor

If you’ve ever been intimidated to walk into a bike shop, I’m here to tell you that you’re not alone. It’s common to feel nervous in any specialty store, and bike shops are no exception. The intricate mechanics and technical jargon can be confusing.

The good news is, retailers understand and shop owners have been in your shoes. Even the strongest riders started out as a novice and their main concern is getting more people on bikes. It’s not about skill level, gender or disposable income. Their goal is simply to make sure everyone has a safe, comfortable and enjoyable ride.

We reached out to Trek retailers across the country and asked about the most valuable lesson they’ve learned from owning a bike shop. We were amazed by the number of responses that talked about this very issue–customer service. Read their stories then stop in to the bike shop nearest you!

“The most important lesson I’ve learned over 34 years is to be patient and kind. People are often intimidated when they go into a bike shop. If employees are nice, helpful and patient the customer will come away with a positive experience. For customers, don’t try to impress the shop guy by talking about your high dollar equipment or bragging about you race results. The best way to make friends with the employees is simply to say, ‘Man, I love to ride my bike!'”
– Paul Kingsbury, Kingsbury’s Cyclery

“For me the most valuable lesson is to never assume someone knows about bikes or cycling. I’ve worked with beginners who surprised me with their knowledge and I’ve worked with expert racers who have surprised me with their lack of knowledge. No matter what I always try to pass along the little details that I take for granted as an experienced cyclist. Such as pumping up your tires before every ride and not to wear anything between you and your shorts/bibs. Anytime I feel myself getting impatient with someone’s lack of knowledge, I try to remember what it was like when I first started riding. The research that left me more confused or the bike shop that treated me inferior. I left that shop feeling quite disheartened and almost gave up on a sport that I absolutely love. Then there was the time I rode six months before someone told me to pump up my tires or the bike I ordered online thinking ‘compact’ referred to the frame size. I bought a 54cm frame that was way too big for me because I really ride a 50cm women specific frame with a compact chainring. Those details and memories have allowed me to better introduce many people to a sport they have grown to love. My best memories are of watching those newbies grow into experienced and accomplished cyclist. Life is too short not to ride a bike.”
– Michelle Clonce-Turner, Trace Bikes

“It was about 25 years ago that I started my journey to becoming a bike shop owner. I managed hotels for Marriott out of college and learned some great skills that I carry with me today. First, treat every customer that walks in the door as if it may be your last. Make them feel welcome and find out what serves their needs. To this day every customer is greeted within 30 seconds of walking in the door. And second, we’re in the bike business. Have fun, sell fun. Make cycling fun for everyone.”
– Michael Reuter, American Cycle & Fitness
 
 
Visit your local Trek Retailer

Gear of the Week: CycleOps Virtual Training

CycleOps VirtualTraining is a software program that allows you to ride virtual routes from all over the world. These routes are created by cycling enthusiasts, just like you, who hit the road with a GoPro, a moped, bike, car or even drone, and record every turn of a famous or favorite route.

We’re talking real video of actual roads. There’s nothing computer generated about it.

The CycleOps VirtualTraining community is over 40,000 strong, many of whom are committed to filming and uploading routes. Additionally, we’ve got a team that certifies them based on GPS accuracy. That way you know the elevation grades on the screen are the same you’d be experiencing if you were hitting Alpe d’Huez in person. This same certification team traveled Europe this summer to film over 20 fan-favorite routes from the Tour de France and the Giro d’Italia.

The platform has come a long way since we first launched. Once only available on PC desktop, it can now also run a variety of devices included iPads, iPhones and Android tablets and mobile devices. Get yours today at CycleOps.
 
 

Gear of the Week: Grand Trunk Travel Pillow

Whether you’re flying home from the holidays or on your way to Europe for a cycling vacation, a Grand Trunk Travel Pillow is a must-have companion. You’ll get sound rest before your next adventure begins.

Avid outdoorsmen Jon Neff and Kevin Kaiser decided it was time travelers stopped crumpling up their jackets into makeshift headrests. They designed these pillows for their company Grand Trunk, which creates products to enhance active lifestyles.

The Adjustable Pillow easily changes shape to suit your surroundings and preferences. Tighten or release the drawstring to make it round and puffy or flat and soft. The Hooded Pillow is a memory foam neck ring covered in comfy fleece, with an attached drawstring hood to block out light. Both come with a storage sack that makes them easy to tote around.

To get your travel pillow, or find other undiscovered products invented by people with stories, head to The Grommet today!

Private

If a date is marked as Private, it is reserved for a private group.

Looking to travel with a small group or looking for a custom date?
Call our trip consultants at 866-464-8735

What is the Difference?

Ultimate Luxury:

Savor some of the most spectacular, 5-star properties in the world. Exuding luxury and elegance, these one-of-a-kind accommodations offer the chance to rejuvenate at award-winning spas, dine at Michelin-starred restaurants, and more.

Luxury:

Enjoy luxurious accommodations handpicked for a refined experience. From signature spa treatments to delicious local cuisine, you’ll be more than provided for; you’ll be pampered.

Explorer

These handpicked hotels provide relaxation and fun in a casual and comfortable environment. Delicious cuisine and great service mix perfectly for a memorable stay.

Combined

On select cycling vacations, you’ll stay at a mix of hotel levels, from Explorer to Luxury to Ultimate Luxury. Rest assured, no matter which level of hotel you’re at, our trip designers carefully select every accommodation.

Activity Level

Level 1:

Road: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 25 mi (40 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Gravel: 1-3 hours of riding. Up to 20 mi (35 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 1-3 hours of hiking. Up to 5 mi (8 km). Up to 1,000 ft (300 m).

Level 2:

Road: 2-4 hours of riding. 20-35 mi (35-60 km). Up to 2,500 ft (750 m).

Gravel: 2-4 hours of riding. 15-30 mi (25-45 km). Up to 2,000 ft (300 m).

Hiking: 2-4 hours of hiking. 4-8 mi (6-12 km). Up to 1,500 ft (450 m).

Level 3:

Road: 3-5 hours of riding. 25-55 mi (40-85 km). Up to 4,500 ft (1,500 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 20-40 mi (35-60 km). Up to 3,000 ft (900 m).

Hiking: 3-5 hours of hiking. 6-10 mi (9-16 km). Up to 2,000 ft (600 m).

Level 4:

Road: 4+ hours of riding. 40-70 mi (60-110 km). Up to 8,000 ft (2,400 m).

Gravel: 3-5 hours of riding. 30-50 mi (45-80 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

Hiking: 4+ hours of hiking. 7-15 mi (11-24 km). Up to 4,000 ft (1,200 m).

What are your trip styles?

Classic - Reserve:

Savor the finer things as you relax in luxurious 5-star accommodations and wine, dine, and ride in some of the most unforgettable destinations around the world.

Classic - Signature:

Explore beautiful destinations by bike, enjoy extra inclusions, savor delicious local cuisine, and enjoy the perfect mix of accommodations.

Classic - Discovor:

Enjoy a casual cycling vacation with fantastic routes and comfortable accommodations.

Ride Camp:

Train like the pros in some of their favorite riding destinations.

Pro Race:

See the pros in action at the biggest cycling events of the year.

Cross Country:

Tackle an epic adventure that takes you point-to-point across mountains, countryside, and more.

Self-Guided

Enjoy a bike tour on your schedule with just your chosen travel companions.

Single Occupancy

Sometimes it’s more convenient and comfortable to have your own room while on vacation. We understand and that’s why we offer a Single Occupancy option. The additional price guarantees a private room all to yourself