However, the idea of slipping into tight Lycra vest and shorts and puffing and panting to get to the top of our lovely Dorset hills is not everyone's idea of a good time.
That was the starting point for a new venture by Martin Gershon, the owner of Marshwood Trails, a business established in the spring of 2012 to offer guided electric bike adventures in some of the loveliest parts of the West Dorset countryside.
Martin realised that many were deterred from cycling locally because they were worried about the amount of effort required to pedal in hilly West Dorset. Electric bikes were the answer.
Also referred to commonly as an e-bike, this amazing machine is a traditional bicycle that incorporates the assistance of an electric motor, allowing riders to travel further with much less effort than if under their own power alone.
Martin said, "It really is incredibly exciting how electric bikes are transforming cycling, opening it up as an activity to people who would never previously consider having a go. Our electric bikes are top-of-the-range models that are tough, reliable and ride brilliantly. You can select exactly how much assistance you want the motor to provide, although you do still have to pedal. They can be ridden all day without the need to recharge the battery and have proved themselves in the Alps, so Dorset hills are well within their capability."
Marshwood Trails' guided tours have been designed to show guests the very best that West Dorset has to offer. Destinations include the stunning Marshwood Vale fringed by Iron Age hill forts, the short but perfectly formed Bride Valley, the glorious Hardy Country and the rocky Isle of Portland.
Although a new venture, the tours have already been featured on ITV and in a number of national press articles. Guests consistently rate them as 'Excellent' on Trip Advisor.
Martin said, "The routes for our guided electric bike tours have been carefully selected to ensure guests, whatever their age or fitness level, have a great day out. It’s definitely about the experiences along the way, not the number of miles covered, so the pace is gentle and the distances travelled are always to everyone's comfort."
Prices for a half-day guided tour start at £30 which includes bike, helmet and pannier hire. Large groups can be accommodated, so the tours are ideal for special family events and corporate activity days.
Marshwood Trails also offer electric bike hire for those wanting to explore without a guide, as well as 'try before you buy' taster sessions for people considering an electric bike purchase. More details about all Marshwood Trails' activities can be found at www.marshwoodtrails.co.uk or by calling Martin on 07796 135256.
Discover other Dorset start-up stories here.
