01.01.2025: New Year, New Resolutions, New Challenges - My eBike Foil Adventure
Introduction
A new year often brings fresh opportunities and renewed enthusiasm for personal growth and adventures. For me, January 1st, 2025, marked a thrilling return to one of my favorite activities: eBike Foil riding. After over a year without practice, I decided to dive back into the sport during my stay at "La Plage du Débarquement" in La Croix Valmer, South of France. What followed was a day filled with exhilarating sensations, breathtaking views, and a few challenges that made the experience unforgettable.
Rediscovering the Joy of eBike Foil Riding
Perfect Conditions for a Comeback
The weather couldn’t have been more inviting: clear skies, calm waters, and the picturesque beauty of "Baie de Cavalaire-sur-Mer." Despite the long hiatus, everything felt surprisingly natural. From the easy beach start to gliding smoothly across the water, it felt as though I had been riding just the day before.
Exploring the Baie de Cavalaire
Starting from "La Plage du Débarquement," I set my course towards Cavalaire Port. The serenity of the bay, coupled with the responsiveness of the Manta5 XE1 with Mobula preparation eBike Foil, made the ride effortless and enjoyable. Continuing further, I reached near Rayol Canadel beach before looping back to my starting point.
A Challenge Towards Le Cap Lardier
Battery Swap and Extended Exploration
After exchanging the battery, I embarked on a new route heading towards Gigaro and the iconic "Le Cap Lardier." This part of the journey revealed a stark contrast to the protected waters of the bay. The open sea brought stronger currents, adding a layer of excitement and challenge to the ride.
An Unexpected Hurdle
On my way back, I encountered an unexpected issue: algae stuck on the front tiller of my eBike Foil. This created drag, impacting my aerodynamic performance and draining the battery faster than anticipated. By the time I neared the shore, the "battery out of power" alarm activated, and I had to rely entirely on muscular effort for the last three pedal strokes. Fortunately, I made it back to the beach just as the system powered off.
Gear and Setup
Equipment Details
- eBike Foil: Manta5 XE1 with Mobula preparation
- Clothing:
WildSuits 4/3mm suit
Forward Wip Jacket, Socks, and Gloves
Salomon Amphibian Shoes
- Accessories:
Apple Watch Ultra 2 for tracking performance
Vuarnet Glasses for clear vision under the sunny skies
Fidlock Hermetic Dry Bag
Spinlock Life Jacket
Weather and Distance
- Location: La Plage du Débarquement at La Croix Valmer, South of France
- Weather: Clear and sunny with calm water conditions
- Distance Covered: 26.56 kilometers
- Total Duration: 2hrs 13 mins 56 secs
Key Takeaways from the Ride
The Joy of Rediscovery
This ride reminded me of why I embarked early 2022 as the Manta5 XE-1 France Distributor and the pure joy that comes from reconnecting with a beloved activity. The perfect conditions and the stunning natural scenery made the experience truly special.
The Importance of Preparation
Challenges like the algae on my tiller highlighted the importance of thorough equipment checks and anticipating potential obstacles.
Pushing Boundaries
Exploring beyond the bay into more challenging waters demonstrated the value of stepping out of comfort zones. Despite the hurdles, the satisfaction of conquering those challenges was immense.
Conclusion
January 1st, 2025, was more than just the beginning of a new year; it was a day of personal triumph and rediscovery. My eBike Foil ride at "La Plage du Débarquement" offered the perfect mix of adventure, reflection, and inspiration to carry into the rest of the year. For anyone looking to explore eBike Foil riding, the Baie de Cavalaire-sur-Mer is a destination that promises unmatched beauty and a thrill worth every moment.
Follow my sport's aventures on Strava.
FAQs
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What is an eBike Foil? An eBike Foil is a watercraft equipped with an electric motor and hydrofoil, allowing riders to glide above the water's surface seamlessly.
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What makes La Croix Valmer a great spot for eBike Foil riding? La Croix Valmer offers calm bays, stunning coastal scenery, and a range of routes suitable for both beginners and experienced riders.
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How should I prepare for an eBike Foil ride? Ensure your equipment is in good condition, check weather conditions, wear appropriate clothing, and plan your route in advance.
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What challenges can arise during an eBike Foil ride? Challenges may include strong currents, equipment malfunctions, or unexpected obstacles like algae. Proper preparation can help mitigate these issues.
- Can beginners try eBike Foil riding? Yes, many models, including the Manta5 XE1 with Mobula preparation, are designed to be user-friendly, making them suitable for beginners with proper guidance, such as Water Riders, and practice.