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If you’re looking for a better way to tour Scotland’s rugged beauty and captivating landscapes without literally losing your breath, you should consider upgrading to a fat tire electric bike. The rise of e-bikes, also known as hybrid bikes, in the cycling world has shaken up the way people commute to work and go on long distance rides. While electric bikes were initially associated with short commutes, manufacturers have now introduced models to accommodate the demands of various customer lifestyles. A fantastic example of a hybrid bike that can take you not just from to and from work but also from home to anywhere you want to go is a fat tire electric bike. This design is incredibly versatile, as it offers increased comfort, safety, and range for its rider. As cycling enthusiasts, we are always on the lookout for innovative ways to elevate our riding experience. Whether you’re looking to upgrade your cycling gear or just want to get to know this new breed of bikes, many brands provide a solid case for quality fat tire electric bikes with two of its 750 watt fat tire electric bike models. Why Should You Consider Touring Scotland with a Fat Tire Electric Bike? Image from: https://pixabay.com/photos/mountain-bike-e-bike-bicycle-mtb-5567847/ Touring is always an exhilarating and rewarding experience. However, it can also be physically challenging, especially when you plan to ride across a region as diverse in terrain as Scotland, with its rolling hills, rocky trails, and muddy paths. The best way to conquer these paths is to come prepared – and what better way to start than by having the right bike? Here are several reasons why you should consider touring Scotland with a fat tire electric bike: Terrain Versatility: Fat tire electric bikes are designed to handle diverse terrains with ease, giving you stability and traction on uneven surfaces. Enhanced Stability: You’ll have more control of your balance and stability with a fat tire bike, as the fat tire offers a wider contact patch with the ground. This is especially more useful when you’re navigating challenging terrains or encountering unpredictable weather conditions. Power and Performance: Electric bikes are equipped with powerful motors that assist in pedaling and conquering steep inclines. The added assistance allows riders to cover longer distances in shorter time, tackle hilly terrains with relatively more ease, and navigate Scotland’s undulating landscapes without needing to physically overexert themselves. More Range: Fat tire electric bikes offer riders more range in less time thanks to their high-capacity batteries. 750 watt fat tire electric bikes have the battery to help you venture off the beaten path, explore remote areas, and reach more breathtaking viewpoints that would otherwise be a major challenge if you were on a regular bike. Less Fatigue, More Comfort: You’ll be able to enjoy your tour more as fat tires absorb shocks and vibrations from the ground better than regular tires. Ride In Any Weather: Scotland is famous for its unpredictable weather. With fat tire electric bikes, you won’t need to fret over being caught in the rain as its wider tires provide you with better traction over wet and slippery surfaces. This also means that you are assured a safe ride in challenging conditions. Experience More: With the increased comfort, stability, and range from your bike, you have more chances of exploring historical sites, ancient castles, and hidden landmarks while enjoying the scenic beauty around you. Fair Ride: Whether you’re touring alone, with family, or with a mixed group, these bikes are a great choice, as they can accommodate riders of varying fitness levels and abilities, thanks to its electric assistance. Scotland Loves E-BikesTo make e-bikes more accessible to people across Scotland, the Scottish Government created the eBike Grant Fund to assist organizations across Scotland to adopt e-bikes as a sustainable alternative to traveling by car. Apart from providing people with a travel alternative, the fund also aims to reduce transportation costs and emissions as well as set an example of active travel for businesses and organizations. However, it’s still best to be aware of the e-bike laws of the place you’re planning to tour before you go. Fat Tire Electric Bikes Image from https://engwe-bikes.au/product/engwe-ep2-pro-750w-fat-tire-electric-bike/ If you’re an on-the-go cyclist, fat tire electric bikes will make a great addition to your collection as it offers a versatile combination of power, convenience, and speed. Currently, there are three categories of fat electric bikes you can choose from. These three main types offers unique advantages, catering to the different preferences and needs of riders: Folding Electric E-Bikes: One of the most popular designs for fat tire electric bikes take shape in the form of folding bikes. This style is particularly popular as it allows cyclists the opportunity to take their e-bike along with them anywhere they want to go! Folding fat tire electric bikes boast smaller frames and lighter weights but do not scrimp on the power and ride quality it delivers. Some of the best contenders in this category include the Engwe EP-2 Pro, and the ADO A20F (which has a removable battery!). Hunting Fat Tire E-bikes: As fat tire e-bikes are associated with off-road use, it’s only natural that there would be a variation created specifically for hunting use. These bikes are kitted with additional accessories and components designed to complement the needs of hunters and tackle the rough backcountry trails. General Use Fat Tire E-Bikes: If you want a bike you can take anywhere - to the beach, to the mountains, or around the city - all-rounders are for you. These general purpose fat tire e-bikes strike the perfect balance between power and adaptability, offering optimal motor power, battery capacity, suspension, and component quality to accommodate your lifestyle. Some notable all-rounder options include the sleek Engwe C20 Pro and the Nakto Discovery Fat Bike. In conclusionFat tire cycling bikes make an ideal companion if you’re looking for a more immersive touring experience. With their unmatched versatility and power, these bikes offer comfort, safety, assistance, and longer range, you can certainly look forward to an unforgettable journey across Scotland’s breathtaking landscapes.
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They were known as the islands that roofed the world because of their huge slate deposits. The Slate Islands have a rich industrial heritage in beautiful surroundings. They are 12 miles south of Oban and a joy to explore by bike.
Highlights
Getting there
The first step is to travel the 12 miles from Oban to the Clachan Bridge, the 'bridge over the Atlantic.'
The Clachan Bridge takes you over to the Isle of Seil, the northernmost Slate Island. The single-track road on the island feels like it's a guest here, almost overwhelmed by the trees, ferns and grasses that enclose it.
Twisty road on the Isle of Seil
Kilbrandon Church
Three miles from the Clachan Bridge you'll find this gorgeous church. The interior is worth seeing with the stunning stained glass windows beautifully framed by the bare stone walls.
Kilbrandon Church
Detail from a stained glass window in Kilbrandon church
From the church there's a view to Ballachuan Loch, surrounded by the lush greenery that carpets the island. Beyond the loch and across the sound are the hills on the mainland. They look imposing and rocky.
Ballachuan Loch
Ferry to Luing
Just under a mile from the church is Cuan where you can catch the ferry to the Isle of Luing.
The ferry runs every 30 minutes and the crossing takes about 5 minutes. 
The ferry that crosses between the Isle of Seil and the Isle of Luing
Lobster pots at Cuan where the ferry leaves for Luing
Even a short ferry trip has a restorative effect. There's something about the motion, the sound of water against the hull and the sea spray that makes you go into an almost meditative state.
How I felt coming here was perfectly summed up on one of the island's tourist information panels: "Isle of Luing- a place to think, a place to be."
Arriving in Luing the rain came on heavy. I sheltered in the ferry waiting room. It's kitted out with cushions, a stack of magazines and a noticeboard with community information.
Isle of Luing ferry waiting room.
Views and perfect roads
There's a steep climb to leave the ferry dock, but the views are spectacular at the top. Even with clouds and mist the composition of water, islands and hills would sell a million postcards.
The view from the Isle of Luing
I knew immediately that I wanted to spend longer here. Reader, you should come here and enjoy this road. There's hardly any traffic and the green colours and landscape textures will make you smile all the way.
The wonderful textures and green colours of the landscape in Luing
At one point the road was blocked by a cow that was not for moving. She stood her ground as I carefully went around.
A cow blocking the road on Luing
Cullipool
Cullipool
Around 2.5 miles from the ferry is Culipool. It's the largest settlement on the island, but that doesn't mean it's a busy place. Quite the opposite. The streets of white cottages were quiet and I didn't see another person.
It's very different to how this place must have been when the slate quarry was operating. It once employed 175 men and these cottages were their homes.
The quarry closed in 1965 and its remains are a fascinating, alien word. There are big hillsides in various states of destruction.
Remains of the slate quarry on Luing
Men were once suspended by rope from the top of these hills. They drilled holes and packed them with gunpowder. The blasts left these hills looking like something from a sci-fi film set. The ground is littered with shattered slate of all different sizes and shapes.
Remains of the slate quarry on Luing.
The beach at Cullipool is covered in shards of slate. When the waves roll in they push and then pull the slate. The sound this makes is gentle, soothing. It's a memory that will stay with me long after I depart these islands.
The beach in Cullipol is covered with shards of slate
I had to catch the last ferry back to the Isle of Seil so I couldn't spend any longer on Luing. If I am lucky to return one day I would visit:
The ferry was busier this time. The vehicle deck was so full that a van was on the ramp with its rear wheels dangling over the water. 
The ferry from Luing to Seil
Ellenabeich, Isle of Seil
It's about 3.5 miles from the ferry to Ellenabeich, the largest village on the island of Seil.
It's another settlement with rows of white workers cottages. Some have small front gardens adorned with plants. There's a village square with a crane rescued from the derelict pier as a a focal point. There's also a shop and a classic red phone box that looks great set against the white washed buildings. The street lamps, have a vintage look, a bit like gas lamps. 
White cottages with front gardens in Ellenabeich
Row of cottages in Ellenabeich
The telephone box in Ellenabeich with the Oyster Bar in the background
The Oyster Bar is the only place for a meal. There's quality seafood, burgers, steak and more. I had chowder. This was a super tasty creamy potato broth packed with smoked salmon, smoked haddock, prawns and scallops.
Chowder at The Oyster Bar
A night out
A normal Tuesday night at home would probably be spent watching the TV. In Ellenabeich I went for a bike ride.
I took the hill out of the village. The view up here shows off the beauty of this place. The craggy hill, Dun Mor, dominates the scene. You can see how close Easdale Island is to Ellenabeich. This island is famous for hosting the World Stone Skimming Championships each year. Competitors use Easdale slate skimming stones in one of the disused quarries. The island is car-free as the ferry takes only passengers. I didn't have time to visit Easdale this time around. 
The view towards Ellenabeich. It's dominated by the hill, Dun Mor, On the left of the picture is the island of Easdale
I explored the rocky shoreline and the slate covered beaches. Apart from the gently rolling waves the only other sounds were the cry of seabirds and the occasional bleating sheep.
The rocky shoreline near Ellenabeich with views of islands
The beach at Ellenabeich is covered in shards of slate
Garragh Mhor bed and breakfast
I stayed in Garragh Mhor on Ellenabeich. The hosts were super welcoming. They told me about the incredible wildlife on the island. Otters passed their front door a few days ago. There was a time when a guest forgot to close the door and lots of toads made their way inside! A swarm of hornets once gathered above the B&B- it was like a black cloud sitting just above the roof.
I love that conversations with B&B owners can give you a real flavour of what it's like to live in the places you visit. Oh, and the smoked salmon with scrambled eggs for breakfast was superb. 
Garragh Mhor B&B in Ellenabeich, with Dun Mor towering above it
My thoughts on the Slate Islands
The Slate Islands are not as well-known as other islands in Scotland, like Skye or Harris. That can make them quieter, but the experience is just as good as those other places.
I thought the scenery was spectacular. I loved the novelty of crossing the 'bridge over the Atlantic' to get to the islands and then the short ferry ride across to Luing. The quiet roads make for great cycling and the industrial heritage of the islands is a fascinating part of Scotland's history. Explore Argyll and Bute
The Slate Islands are in Argyll and Bute. You can read more blogs about this part of Scotland.
 One of the best feelings as an athlete is knowing you’re ready to advance. After years of incremental growth and the excitement of discovering new approaches, athletes (whether hobbyists or amateurs hoping to go pro) are usually ready for a new challenge. In fact, this extends to anyone hoping to advance and challenge themselves. For example, Scottish poker pro David Docherty got his start back in 2008 after winning a contest to see the World Series of Poker Main Event live. The tournament captured his attention and he went on to start playing competitively online. Fast forward fifteen years and Docherty is one of the premier players in the UK scene. But to advance from a Texas Hold’em newcomer to one of Scotland’s top players, Docherty needed to break through the noise. To grow, he started rubbing elbows with industry pros at events like the European Poker Tour and online tournaments. By 2021, he had nabbed a six-figure win at the Grosvenor UK Poker Tour. For cyclists looking to level up their game—whether with the hopes of becoming the next David Millar or simply to challenge themselves with a route like Bealach na Ba—you’ll need to know the signs of when you’re ready to go from a spectator to a participant. And, from there, when you’re ready to leap from an amateur into the big leagues. Here are four signs that you might be ready. You’re a Pro with Your Cycling Kit, Including RepairsThe list of basic skills cyclists must develop is extensive, from learning how to ride in wind and rain, sit on a wheel, and drink while riding. But one of the most important skills revolves around the cycling repair kit. Not only should you be highly specialized with your kit, but you should also know how to use it in remote locations. This means knowing how to repair tire punctures and change a flat at the bare minimum. But if you’re ready for the next cycling challenge, you should be aware of a few other gear notes. These include things like greasing all threaded equipment, switching from metal to nylon tire levers, and knowing how to use a smartphone to keep track of dismantling. You’ve Built (or Joined) a Cycling CommunityFor Docherty to become one of the UK’s most qualified poker pros, he had to join the international poker community. Given most people practice with online events and games, Docherty’s community was largely virtual. By comparing his technique and performance against other pros, he was able to benchmark his progress. The same goes for cyclists. If you have a strong cycling community around you, you’re prepared to take on new challenges. Not only will a community support you, but they’ll also push you to perform at your highest level.  You’ve Got a Hankering for UltrasOne sure sign that you’re ready to advance is that you’ve started looking into ultras. These are some of the most demanding physical contests in the world—nonetheless in cycling. So, if you’ve started eyeing specific training programs that will help you prep for 50-70 km events or for those that run 70+ km, then it’s time to target a specific event. Keep in mind that you can start off a bit slower. For example, the Around the Bay ride includes options from 20 km to 300 km events. Rather than dive straight into a larger ultra, varied events like Around the Bay will let you take things at your own pace as you level up. Your Calendar is Filling UpThis sign goes hand in hand with having the itch to take on an ultra. As you become more enmeshed in the cycling world, you might find that you’re penciling down more events—whether with the aim of watching or participating. You might even be keeping track of pro cyclists as they prepare for the grand tours in France, Italy, and Spain. If that’s the case, then know that you’re psychologically prepped to start taking on new challenges, whether solo pursuits or organized events.
 This is one of the best books I have read about cycling around the world. Julian Sayarer is a brilliant story teller. He notices details, he questions what he sees, he analyses. He creates a picture of the world that's so vivid it feels like you are right there with him.
Life Cycles is about braking the world record for a circumnavigation by bike. To do this Julian Sayarer must ride 110 miles every day for 6 months. There are a lot of books about cycling the world. I've noticed when there is a record attempt the content can be focused on times, distances and performance. A lot of readers want this, but I find that it can detract from what is also an incredible journey on planet earth. It should be an opportunity for the author to share their experience of the world. Thankfully, Sayarer has written an account that's very much about travel and people. The opening pages struck me as a somewhat cynical introduction to world record attempts. Sayarer certainly has strong opinions and is not afraid to share them throughout the book. Once I got used to this writing style it really grew on me. It's honest, raw and beautiful and that's why I loved this book. By describing what he sees, what he thinks about and who he meets, Sayarer creates a gripping account of world travel. The record attempt doesn't really matter as much as what he sees, who he talks to and what he experiences. I like that he tells us about the bad things as well as the good things. Even a description of the simple act of buying supplies in a Hungarian supermarket reveals so much about the world we live in. Sayarer meets some fascinating people on his journey. The conversations and encounters are beautifully told. One of my favourites is his meeting a homeless man cycling in New Mexico. In America homeless people riding a bike, loaded with belongings, is a common sight. So much so that Sayarer is often handed money by strangers, assuming him to be homeless. On the subject of America this book had me dreaming of visiting Oregon. The descriptions of this place are gorgeous and the author says "I want to ride through Oregon every day for the rest of my life." Kazakhstan is the other place that I really want to visit after reading this book. Some writers don't quite manage to paint a picture of what a country looks like, but Julian Sayarer does it perfectly. This book transports you to that place as if you are on that road and seeing it with your own eyes. There's plenty of drama in this book. The mechanical problems to contend with. The inevitable illness. Encounters with the police. Crazy weather and temperatures. Then there's the incredible physical and mental toll of this journey. It makes you wonder why anyone would want to do this. But the payoff is experiencing the world by bike and who wouldn't want to do that? Read a review of Fifty Miles Wide. This is another great cycling book by Julian Sayarer. This time the journey is in Israel and Palestine. 
I want to leave this world behind, jump on a bike, go on a journey without others, dive deep into the self, and let the weight of my human identity dissolve into the wind."
C.D Seventeen embarked on a 46-day, 658 mile journey in the Scottish Highlands. This experience inspired her to write poems. This book is a collection of 22 poems, each paired with photographs from the journey. The combination of photography, using a film with a purple-hued character, and the poems makes for a beautiful book. The poems are thought-provoking. The author explains that writing them helped her on a journey of self-redemption. There's a theme of facing fear, creating freedom and expressing emotions. Travelling in Scotland by bicycle is an emotive experience. It impacts us in different ways and for C.D. Seventeen it has inspired this work of art. Each poem and photograph records an intimate moment in the journey and the pages are decorated with beautiful watercolour patterns. I liked picking up the book and opening it at a random page and letting the words and photography take me to that moment on this cycling journey. This is a unique book that illustrates the creativity that bicycle travel can inspire. |
