Frequently Asked Questions
If you have a question that is not answered here, please contact us and we will get right back to you.
What is an Ebike?
An Ebike is a bicycle with a small electric motor that gives an extra boost of power to the rider on uphills, against headwinds and generally takes some of the strain out of cycling. You still have to pedal, but the electric motor makes it easier to ride up hills while offering all the fun of riding a bicycle.
How fit must I be to ride an Ebike?
A base level of fitness is required as you still need to pedal the bicycle. If you walk a few times a week and have no health problems you should be good to go. Our electric bicycles offer up to 200% power gain over the effort you put in. As a guideline, if you can walk up a hill, you can ride an ebike up it too.
Are there any Restrictions?
Minimum and maximum height restrictions apply. You must be between 150 - 190 cm / 4"11 - 6"2 tall to safely and comfortably ride a ParkeBike. Maximum rider weight of 100 kg / 220 lb is recommended as battery range will decrease significantly for heavier riders. Please note that rental bicycle riders must be aged 14 years or older.
How powerful are the ParkeBikes?
Our Ebikes are EU compliant, 250 watt pedal electric bicycles. They can be safely ridden by anyone familiar with riding a standard bicycle. The electric motor will provide power assisted riding up to a maximum 25 km/h.
What is the Range of a ParkeBike?
In the hilly riding terrain of Sintra, you can count on at least 40 km of battery range, and any rider under 100 kg / 220 lb should be able to cover the distance of any of our marked routes. You should be aware that rider weight, strength and outdoor temperature will all affect battery range.
What happens if I run out of Battery?
If you are heading out for a long day's ride we may be able to provide you with a spare battery or a battery charger so you can recharge your battery while you have lunch for example. Should you for some reason lose all battery power, you will be able to cycle as with any ordinary bike, and we are always just a phone call away.
Where do I lock my Ebike?
Each bike has its own lock with a security key. You must lock your bike frame to fixed structures, such as the floor mounted bike racks at each Sintra Parks monument or others such as benches or lamp posts.
Can I ride off road?
Your ParkeBike must not be ridden off road as it is designed for comfortable and safe riding on paved roads only. Any damages that occur from misuse of the bikes will be charged to the rider, as well as a €15 cleaning surcharge.
What about Safety?
We take your safety very seriously. The ParkeBike routes have been selected for low or slow traffic and helmets are mandatory and provided by us. Optional reflective vests can be provided on request. All bikes have automatic front and rear safety lights and reflectors.
What if it Rains?
Don't worry, you won't get an electric shock - nor will you have to ride. Ebike rentals can be cancelled up till 9:00 on the day of your rental and Guide services can be cancelled with no charge until 19:00 the day before your scheduled tour and we will give you a full refund - that's our Good Weather Guarantee(TM)
What happens if I return my Ebike late?
We understand sometimes things get delayed, and people lose track of time, so we allow a 30 minute late return grace period from your established return time. Delays beyond the grace period will be charged at €10 per hour to the nearest hour.
Can I reserve my ParkeBike online?
You can book online and we recommend you do so at least 24 hour in advance. To avoid no-shows, we require full payment at the time of booking. We will hold your bike or bikes up to 30 minutes after your scheduled pick up time on the day of your reservation. Please call or message us if you get delayed or are unable to make it for any reason. You are entitled to a full refund as per our terms and conditions.
Can I operate my own ParkeBike location?
We get more and more inquiries regarding the possibility of opening and operating a ParkeBike tour and rental franchise, and we are very happy to say we are taking inquiries right here.
