2. An increasing number of Germans are taking to bikes for their vacation. Would you recommend Germany to cycling fans?
Maximilian Semsch: Absolutely! I've cycled through countries like Russia or Kazakhstan. Of course, each trip was a wonderful new experience; however, there wasn't a single kilometer of bike path. Germany has 75,000 kilometer of cycle trails. On my route, I will be using a total of 8,000 kilometers. For me, Germany is one of the more bike-friendly countries. The infrastructure is intact, signage is good and you will find accommodation and shops wherever you go. In Germany I can cycle 1,000 kilometers and reach the Alps or the sea and enjoy the Elbe Sandstone Mountains, Berlin and the Mecklenburg lake district in between. Germany has a lot to offer. What's more, the distances are relatively short, which is perfect for an exploratory tour by eBike.
3. When you take the eBike on tour, what are the points to watch for during your preparations?
Maximilian Semsch: A certain amount of planning is vital. First of all I need to think about what I definitely want to see and do on my tour. I choose my route accordingly. However, it is not necessary to book all your accommodation months in advance. Even if you don't like camping, you will generally find a place for the night as and when you need one. Before you start off, consider what you need and how you can transport it on the bike. You should always carry the right tools, a repair kit and a bicycle pump so that you can carry out repairs as you go. A first aid kit with plasters and disinfectant is also vital. But my main piece of advice for your preparations is: don't plan too much. Just get out on the road and see where your journey takes you.
4. Your eBike is fitted with Nyon. How have you found the on-board computer?
Maximilian Semsch: I must admit that I was skeptical at first. Until now, I have always planned my tours using printed maps and have avoided navigation systems. Now, having spent four months traveling with Nyon, I wouldn't be without my on-board computer. I haven't consulted a printed map once on my entire trip. I have mostly allowed Nyon to navigate the route and have planned the destinations using my Smartphone app. Almost all of the longer bike trails have their own web sites, where you can download GPX files for free. I uploaded the files to the Bosch eBike Connect portal, allowing me to trace the trip.
5. What has been your best experience?
Maximilian Semsch: I have gathered so many different impressions during my trip and have seen and done so much that it is difficult to choose just one highlight. However, if I were really pressed for an answer I would say the western beach on the Darß peninsula on the Baltic coast: it is so untouched and wild, with not a hotel or bar to be seen for miles. My wife and I pitched our tent right by the sea and had an unusual visitor that evening. A fox came to within a few centimeters of where we were, showing the same level of trust as a dog. It was incredible to sit together with a fox on that isolated beach watching the sun go down.