Frequently Asked Questions
What are the requirements for booking a tour?
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We accept Venmo or cash. A deposit via Venmo is suggested but not required.
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We require a minimum of two riders for all tours. All tours are private.
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Riders must be at least 18 with valid identification to participate in our e-bike tours.
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The minimum age to ride is 13, but a parent or guardian must accompany those under 18.
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Bikes can accommodate riders up to 250 lbs.
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Riders under 5’3” should be comfortable with starting and stopping an e-bike.
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We provide helmets, high-vis vests and gloves.
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Please wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes. I prefer bubble slides.
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Any damages to the e-bike or property will be the rider’s responsibility. I expect you to be hard on the brakes, which is considered normal wear and tear.
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Before the tour, guests must sign both the Liability Waiver and Yosemite E-Biking Acknowledgement forms. You can sign in person when you get here via my iPad.
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What's included in the tour?Â
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A custom e-bike equipped with mirrors, bells, tassels, and a comfortable seat.
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Safety equipment, including fun helmets. Who doesn’t like flare? I wear blue fox ears – who gets the unicorn horn, brown fox ears, or rainbows is up to you.
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Drinks and snacks to be enjoyed at the most picturesque spots in Mariposa County. I’m the snack-providing king.
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A professional guide with 10,000 miles of biking experience in this area and a heart for adventure and storytelling.
What should I bring?
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Camera for capturing the stunning Sierra Foothills. I have a selfie stick.
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Sunglasses.
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Sunblock.
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Comfortable, closed-toe shoes or sneakers.
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Dress appropriately for the weather, keeping in mind that temperatures can vary.
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Gratuity for exceptional service is always appreciated.
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Who is the tour guide?Chris Van Leuven, a Mariposa local rock climber, e-bike enthusiast, and award winning journalist. Learn more about him here.
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Are there restrooms along our route?Yes. There are two restrooms at our meeting location.
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What should I wear?Remember, it’s essential to dress comfortably. Bicycle shorts are not necessary. Closed-toe shoes are suggested for safety. Dress in layers in the winter (which is the best time to visit, in my opinion. In cooler months, a wind-resistant outer layer is recommended. If it’sit’s unexpectedly cool, we’ll come up with solutions. The real issue here is heat – it gets hot in summer. Mariposa County can be cooler than surrounding areas, and there’s also the breeze while the e-bike is in motion.
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Are there stops along the route?We stop several times to rest, eat and take photos.
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Do I need to have experience to participate in e-biking or rock climbing?Not at all! Yosemite E-biking has taken people of all ages and experience levels on tours customized for them. Please let Chris any concerns or questions you may have.
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What are the E-bikes like?The Aventon Aventure e-bike and the Aventon Level e-bike used on your tour are designed to offer a comfortable and easy-to-use riding experience. The Aventon Aventure e-bike comes equipped with a suspension fork and wide tires, providing a smooth and comfortable ride on a variety of terrains, whether you're riding on paved roads or off-road trails. Similarly, the Aventon Level e-bike is designed for comfort and ease of use. The bike's lightweight design makes it easy to maneuver. The bike also comes equipped with a comfortable saddle and ergonomic grips, ensuring a comfortable ride even on longer journeys.
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Why should I choose a guided tour?Because it took me hundreds of hours to learn all the roads and trails around here, I had to dial them in to know how long batteries last on each, where to cool off on hot days, etc., where to plug in for a recharge, what is needed, and what is not. I’ve lived in this area since 1995, love it, and enjoy showing people the most beautiful places on earth.
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How long is the drive to Mariposa from Yosemite Valley?1 hour from the 140 entrance gate. 1.5 hours from the 41 and 120 entrance gates.