How much experience do I need to ride an e-bike on gravel trails and switchbacks?

You should be comfortable riding a bicycle on uneven surfaces, controlling your speed on descents and navigating corners before starting this tour. Electric assistance makes hills easier to climb, but it does not replace the balance, braking skills and judgement needed on the Grade 3 sections between Lake Kaniere and Kawhaka Pass. If you are new to e-bikes, practise starting, stopping, changing assistance levels and braking on gravel before your trip.