Where should I park my bike in the historical centre?
Use the metal bike racks. Don’t block narrow sidewalks or lean bikes against old church walls — police
may move them.
Do I have to wear a helmet in Portugal?
No — helmets are recommended, but not compulsory. Portugal does not have a mandatory helmet law for normal bicycles or for e‑bikes limited to 25 km/h with motors up to 250 W.
If the electric bike has more than 250W, or can go faster than 25 km/h with motor assistance, then it is legally treated as a moped, and the wearing of a helmet becomes mandatory.
Do I need a license for an e-bike?
No, our e-bikes are limited to 25 km/h and from a legal perspective are considered regular bicycles, so no special
license or registration is required. Also note that no insurance is required (unless you choose it voluntarily).
What should I do if I get a flat tyre?
Firstly, we provide a repair kit and pump with every bike, so you have the means of making repairs to the tyres when you're out on a ride. IF you're not familiar with changing tubes/tyres, feel free to call us any time. There is also a useful article in our blog. See Top Tips for Using Our Rental Bikes.
Is it safe to leave my bike outside at night?
Locked or unlocked, we do not recommend that you leave your bike outside at night. While Lagos is considered a safe place, theft can happen. Always bring the bike inside your hotel or apartment, even if you have a lock.
Can I ride on the footpath/sidewalk?
No, you generally cannot ride a bicycle on the footpath (sidewalk) in Portugal, unless it is explicitly marked as a shared pedestrian/bicycle space.
You can ride on:
- Roads
- Dedicated bike lanes (ciclovias),
- Shared pedestrian/bike lanes (marked as such).
You may not ride on:
- Motorways (autoestradas).
- Regular footpaths/sidewalks that are not designated for shared use.
Can I ride on the boardwalks in Lagos?
The short answer is no, cycling is not permitted on the boardwalks. During the day, it's best to walk your bike or use the parallel paved roads to avoid crowds, and potential fines.
What size Stand Up Paddle Board do I need?
The size of a Stand Up Paddle Board (SUP) you need depends on various factors, including your weight, skill level, the type of paddling you plan to do, and the conditions in which you'll be paddling. Here are some general guidelines to help you choose the right size SUP:
- Weight: Your weight is a crucial factor. The more weight a board needs to support, the larger it should be. Most SUPs have a weight capacity rating, and you want to choose a board that comfortably accommodates your weight. As a general rule, for every 25 pounds (11kg) of weight, you should add one inch (2.5 cm) to the board's width.
- Height: Your height is also a consideration when selecting a board. Taller people may need longer boards to accommodate their height and provide adequate stability.
- Skill Level: Beginners may find larger and wider boards more stable. If you're new to paddleboarding, a wider board can provide better stability. As you gain experience, you might opt for a narrower board that allows for greater maneuverability.
- Type of Paddling:
- All-Around: If you're planning to do a bit of everything (flatwater paddling, small waves, yoga), an all-around board is a good choice. These boards typically have a rounded nose and are versatile for various conditions.
- Touring: For longer distances and exploring, a touring board might be more suitable. These boards are designed for better tracking and efficiency in straight lines.
- Surfing: If you're interested in catching waves, a shorter and more maneuverable board designed for surfing is preferable.
- Conditions:
- Flatwater: For calm lakes and rivers, a longer, wider board provides stability.
- Waves: If you're going to be in surf, a shorter, more maneuverable board is better.
- Volume: This is a more technical aspect. The volume of the board contributes to its buoyancy. Generally, a higher volume is suitable for beginners.
As a general guideline, if you are a beginner paddler, you may want to consider a board that is at least 10 feet long (3 meters) and 32 inches (81 cm) wide. If you are an intermediate to advanced paddler, you may want to consider a board that is between 9 (270 cm) and 12 feet (360 cm) long and 28 (71 cm) to 32 (81 cm) inches wide. It's highly recommended to try out a few boards if possible before purchasing. Many rental shops allow you to try different boards to get a feel for what suits you best. Also, consider seeking advice from experienced paddlers or professionals at a paddleboard shop who can provide personalized recommendations based on your specific needs and preferences.
