Electric Toscana

This is one of our more relaxed adventures, where we return to the same hotel for several nights in each location. The itinerary is flexible, with optional rides available in the afternoon, depending on how you feel.

The rides near Siena are on a mix of single-track, double-track, and some dirt road sections. The riding in Massa Marittima is on purpose-built singletrack, accessed by a 10-15 minute asphalt or gravel road pedal to the two main trail networks. Most trails are considered cross-country and in forested zones with some open views. The terrain is a mix of roots and some fixed rock sections which can be muddy in wet weather.

No, you can keep your gear at the hotel each night. We do recommend bringing a medium-sized duffle or roller bag, and other smaller bags. A 6L daypack is recommended.

You should ride what you feel comfortable. Your guide is there to provide guidance and encourage you, but you make the call if you need to walk a section of trail. After multiple days of riding, you will gain confidence and improve your skills.

On this holiday we spend three nights at a three-star hotel just outside the walls of Siena, two nights at a four-star hotel in Massa Marrittima and two nights at a seaside hotel on the beach in Castiglione della Pescaia.

All breakfasts and 2 dinners.

Known for its saltless bread, extra virgin olive oil, and robust meat dishes, Tuscan food showcases bold, earthy flavors. Pasta such as pici and legumes like cannellini beans are commonly used in rustic dishes, while Pecorino cheese and cured meats add rich layers, complemented by renowned wines like Chianti and Brunello.

Your accommodation will have a laundry service available for a fee. Please inquiry with front desk.

It is imperative when signing up for one of our trips that you are confident that your riding ability matches the required riding ability for the trip, regardless if it’s an eMTB or MTB trip. If you have the required ability level for the trip but little (or no) experience on an eMTB this is fine, our guides will give you tips to help you learn to ride these assist-bikes. They are intuitive and you will be a pro within a few days. Read more about the benefits of eMTBs in one of our Trail Tales.

eMTB’s generally come in two battery sizes, sub-400 Wh and 750 Wh (or above). On our trips we utilise the bigger battery bikes which allow riders to easily ride four to six hours in higher-assist modes. Riders will carry their chargers daily, if needed we will charge batteries over lunch to further ensure that riders do not run out of juice. Note that the bigger battery bikes have greater torque and make the bikes heavier.

As it is with any bike on any ride, a personal bike or rental bike, a short ride or long ride – mechanical issues can, and will, occur. As it has been for 20+ years of running our trips we are aware of this possibility and prepared to deal with issues if needed. We help riders to avoid mechanicals by performing bike checks and with general bike care. Note that mechanicals and breakdowns are at your cost (including potential itinerary interruptions or changes), on rental eMTB’s or personal MTB’s.

We source the best rental bikes available in each region through our partner bike shops. We ensure that rental bikes are inspected, well-maintained and have appropriate tires, brakes and extra parts. We know that quality bikes and components are paramount to a good experience. Note that a rental bike will never be as comfortable as one’s personal bike, riders must expect some adjustment and compromise when riding the rental bikes. For some destinations, there is the option to upgrade to a high-performance eMTB.

Upon registration for your trip you will be asked to input your height, weight (for suspension set up) and preferred frame size. We will then communicate the bike brand, model and specs to you. Flat pedals are included on bikes, if you ride clip pedals, you are required to bring your own pedals. Bikes also include a set of brake pads, tire levers, a multi-tool and tubes. It is suggested to bring your own pump and specific tools. It is also suggested to bring your own saddle for added comfort and related riding gear: helmet, globes, knee pads, eye protection, hydration bag, etc.

In the majority of countries that we run our trips protection insurance is not available. If it is available we will communicate this to you. Riders are 100% responsible for all damages to rental bikes – you must inspect your bike for existing damages (take photos) before the first ride. If damages occur while riding the rental bike we will communicate the details and cost to you upon completion of the trip. Once agreed upon your credit card on file will be used to cover cost of damages from the bike shop where bike was rented from.

eMTBs have four or five assist modes (from eco to turbo). On most days, we ride in the middle level to ensure that we are conserving battery. As on any bike, eMTBs perform best when pedalling at a consistent and relatively fast cadence (70-90 RPMs). They are heavier than regular bikes, which takes some adjustment, as the weight is often low on the bike, which adds stability in loose rocks and increased speeds. Riders must look further ahead when riding e-bikes and change gears well in advance (while light pedalling). With the pedal-assist, there is added stress on the drivetrain, and it is suggested to lower saddle height slightly and move weight forward more than usual on steeper climbing sections. For more information, check out one of our Trail Tales. 

With the exception of a few trips (Treasure Islands and Mediterranean Dreams) we try to avoid mixing e-bikes and acoustic mountain bikes on our trips. However, on private departures, we are able to host a mixed group to help groups ride together. Our policy with mixed groups is that the pace of the ride follows acoustic riders, and e-bikers will have a “cruisier” experience and must be patient and expect to wait at times.

We recommend purchasing Euros (€) prior to leaving home or using the currency exchange at your departure airport. However, you can also go to an ATM at the airport upon arrival. Each day you will need to purchase your own lunch and coffee, snacks, and any alcoholic beverages. On most days we have the opportunity to stop at a bank machine.

Spring and autumn are perfect times to be in Tuscany. The sea is warm for swimming, nights are still warm and days are very comfortable for riding bikes with temperatures in the mid-20s C.

Most restaurants include a “coperto” on the bill, which is a per-person charge for bread and table service. This means tipping is not necessary, but you can tip if the service was exceptional or in more touristy areas. Gratuities for your Big Mountain guides may be given at your discretion in response to their professionalism and leadership throughout the week. We suggest 5-10% of the trip price per individual guest to be divided among your guiding team as a tipping standard.