The first bikes imported into Australia were the famed penny-farthings, named after the biggest and smallest of Britain’s coins because the bikes had a very big front wheel and a much smaller rear wheel.

If you've read Banjo Paterson’s famous 1896 poem, Mulga Bill’s Bicycle, it'll make you laugh out loud as it satirises the enthusiasm with which Australians took to pedalling bikes: 

'Twas Mulga Bill, from Eaglehawk, that caught the cycling craze; 
He turned away the good old horse that served him many days;
He dressed himself in cycling clothes, resplendent to be seen;
He hurried off to town and bought a shining new machine; 

As Mulga Bill discovered, those bikes were notoriously difficult to ride.

Fast forward to 2024 and Blue Mountains Adventure Company’s fleet of hardtail Merida e-bikes with 630Wh lithium-ion batteries, a 10-speed drive train, and hydraulic disc brakes are state-of-the-art. 

They would be almost unrecognisable to Mulga Bill and they make Blue Mountains cycling an option for anyone with slightly more skill than Mulga. 

If you're thinking of riding in this World Heritage-listed area, here are three fun facts to get you pedalling under your own steam.

3 Electric Bike Fun Facts
 

Fact 1: A human being cycling a well-maintained bike on flat terrain is the world’s most energy-efficient means of transport. 

When venturing further into the heart of the Upper Blue Mountains and its delicate environment, e-bikes tick the box as an environmentally friendly option for exploration with a lower impact.

Fact 2: The terrain of the Blue Mountains is not flat and cycling an “analogue” bike here is hard work. 

For anyone new to road cycling or cycling holidays, opting for an electric bike gives you that extra confidence boost for a smooth and enjoyable journey. BMAC's quality hardtail Merida hybrid e-bikes effortlessly iron out hills with the additional power assist allowing you to tackle tougher climbs with ease.

Fact 3: E-Bikes have revolutionised Blue Mountains cycling by making it so much easier and so much more fun to take in the local magic.

With an e-bike, you can explore beyond the usual tourist spots and find the best local lookouts (with the help of our resident team) for breathtaking views of the World Heritage Listed Blue Mountains. You are your own guide, deciding when to stop for photos or choose to lock up and head on a short walk to see some incredible sites.

Discover cycling itineraries designed to let you take breaks whenever you want, all while soaking in the best of the Blue Mountains in a day or two. View trips →