Best e-bike trails mapped out for cyclists
Chargers and cafes also pinpointed
A new map showing the top e-bike trails in the Trossachs has been launched.
Loch Lomond and Trossachs Countryside Trust and Forth Valley and Lomond Leader launched the free resource, mapping out six stunning routes, taking in sights such as Loch Lomond, Loch Katrine, Duchray Castle, Stronachlachar Pier and Strathyre Forest.
Jason Clark, cycling tourism officer at Forth Valley and Lomond Leader, said: “We created the map to encourage more people to get out there and explore the area on two wheels. With e-bikes you can ride for longer and enjoy some of the incredible landscapes and attractions the Trossachs is famous for.”
Routes range from the 12.5km Rob Roy Loop, from Strathyre to Balquhidder, to the 50km Loch Katrine Loop, from Aberfoyle to Trossachs Pier and onto Stronachlachar.
Jason added: “It’s no surprise that e-bikes are growing in popularity. As well as helping cyclists cover greater distances, they allow people with different levels of fitness to ride together. There’s no need to worry about being able to keep up with your friends.”
It’s hoped the new trails will also provide a welcome boost to businesses along the routes, as cyclists stop while they charge their bike.
Jim Riach of The Loch Lomond and Trossachs Countryside Trust said: “It only takes about 30 minutes for most people to ride 10km on an e-bike. You can let the bike do the work and take the sting out of those hills,
“As well as popular attractions we’ve marked out some quieter routes to avoid busy places, along with great coffee and café stops on the map,so you’ll be rewarded for going further.”
He added: “We’ve also installed new fast chargers along the various routes. You can now top up your bike in Callander, Strathyre, Aberfoyle, Loch Katrine, Loch Ard, Gartmore and Balmaha.”
Balmaha’s St Mocha coffee shop and ice cream parlour is one of the new charging point locations.
Proprietor Stuart Fraser said: “We’re thrilled to be a part of this e-biking project, the fast chargers will be a great asset and I’m sure our customers will make great use of them. We’ve seen a real increase in e-biking recently and the timing for this project is just right.”
For residents living in the Trossachs area, The Loch Lomond and Trossachs Countryside Trust can provide a loan of e-bikes to individuals and local communities. Bikes can also be loaned from Stirling Active at Travel Hub.
As well as helping cyclists cover greater distances, they allow people with different levels of fitness to ride together. There’s no need to worry about being able to keep up Jason Clark