FAQ’s

How fast can the e-bikes go?
Our Class II e-bikes can reach speeds of up to 20mph using throttle only — perfect for scenic rides through Sonoma Valley’s vineyards and backroads.

How far can I ride on a single charge?
Battery range depends on terrain, rider weight, and assist level. Most guests enjoy 20-100 miles per charge, plenty for a full-day adventure

Are e-bikes heavy?
Yes. Each e-bike weighs approximately 80 lbs due to its motor and battery. The extra weight provides stability and a smoother ride on varied terrain.

Can I ride in the rain or bad weather?
Light rain is fine — our e-bikes are weather-resistant. If an unexpected downpour occurs, Vine & Vista will coordinate a pickup for you and your bike. We do not rent bikes when rain, high winds, or unsafe conditions are forecasted before departure. In those cases, we’ll assist with rescheduling or issuing a credit or refund as outlined below.

Are e-bikes allowed on trails?
Trail access varies by park. Riders must follow all local, state and federal park regulations and respect posted signs. Please only ride on trails that specifically allow e-bikes.

Are helmets required?
Yes. Helmets are mandatory while operating an e-bike. Each bike includes a California DOT-approved Lumos smart helmet with built in LED turn signals and brake lights.

To use the blinkers:
• Press the left or right arrow on the handlebar remote to signal your turn.
• Press the same arrow again to turn the signal off.

Riding with a helmet and lights enhances safety and is required under our rental agreement. Failure to wear a helmet voids all liability coverage under the waiver.

What skill level does riding our e-bikes require?
Vine & Vista Tours e-bikes are designed for riders of all experience levels. If you can comfortably balance, pedal, and steer a standard bicycle, you’ll feel right at home. The pedal-assist system provides a smooth boost that makes hills and longer rides easy, letting you enjoy the scenery without the strain. No advanced cycling experience is required — just a sense of adventure and basic bike comfort.

Dog size requirements
For the comfort and safety of all riders, dogs must weigh no more than 100 lbs to ride in the sidecar. Smaller dogs are just as welcome — if your furry friend is underweight for proper balance, a counterweight will be added to ensure a smooth and stable ride. Our team checks every setup before departure to keep both rider and pup safe throughout the journey.

What happens before I depart? (Safety and Departure Checklist)
Before each ride, our staff completes a comprehensive safety inspection and orientation with each guest:

• Pre-Ride Inspection: A full bike check is performed, including tires, brakes, throttle, pedal assist, lights, and battery verification.
• Helmet Sync: Your Lumos helmet is paired and checked for signal and lighting functions.
• Rider Readiness: We confirm that each guest can safely operate the e-bike and understands local traffic rules.
• Dog Harness Check: Dogs must wear a secure harness with both front and back loops, clipped into the dual tether system inside the sidecar.
• Weight Balance: For dogs under 50 lbs we add a ballast weight to the sidecar to maintain proper balance.
• Paw-senger Safety: When a sidecar bike is rented with a dog, we provide detailed instructions on how to secure your pet safely so they cannot fall out — even if they stand during the ride.
• Paw-senger Bag: A soft-sided bag is available for smaller dogs and must be securely attached to the rear basket when used.
• Safety Video: All guests must watch the Vine & Vista Tours safety video before departure.
• Final Approval: Riders must complete the digital waiver and initial all required safety items before leaving.

Can I cancel or reschedule my reservation?
Our cancellation, refund and weather policy follows the terms of our Rental Agreement:

• 72+ hours notice (in writing): Full refund.
• Within 72 hours of reservation: Store credit for the full amount paid.
• Same-day cancellations, no-shows, or cancellations after your start time: No refund or credit.

Company cancellations:
• If Vine & Vista cancels due to weather, you will receive a full refund.
• If we cancel for safety reasons (such as impairment or inability to operate safely), we reserve the right to determine whether a refund or store credit will be offered.

Store credits are non-transferable and not redeemable for cash (except as required by law).
All cancellations must be submitted in writing via email.

What if my dog or I decide not to continue after starting?
If you return within the first hour because your dog isn’t comfortable or your’e not confident handling the bike and sidecar, you’ll be charged for one (1) hour at current rates. The remaining balance will be issued as store credit. This covers staff setup time and your reserved slot.

What happens if there’s a dispute?
All disputes related to your rental are subject to binding arbitration in Sonoma County, California, under California law.

Route guidance
Explore the best of Kenwood, Glen Ellen, and Santa Rosa at your own pace with curated routes through scenic backroads, historic landmarks, and dog-friendly parks. Enjoy insider tips for picnic areas, regional parks, and local eateries that capture the authentic charm of Sonoma County.

What happens after my ride? (Post-Ride Process & Cleaning)
• Post-Ride Inspection: Upon return, our staff performs a walk-around inspection of the bike and sidecar. If any damage is found, photos or video documentation will be taken to record the incident.
• Sign-Off: Vine and Vista staff will ‘sign off’ on the return once the equipment has been inspected and cleared.
• Cleaning & Disinfection: Helmets are disinfected after every use, and bikes, sidecars, and accessories are cleaned thoroughly between rentals to ensure safety and hygiene.

Can anyone rent an e-bike or sidecar?
Riders must be 21 years or older and present a valid government-issued photo ID and credit card (prepaid cards are not accepted).
No children are permitted in the sidecar — it is designed for dogs only.
Vine & Vista reserves the right to refuse or cancel rentals if a guest appears impaired, intoxicated, or unable to operate an e-bike safely.
Riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs is strictly prohibited and may violate California DUI laws.

Am I responsible for the e-bike and accessories?
Yes. Riders are fully responsible for the condition of the equipment during their rental period.
Damage or Loss: You are responsible for any damage, loss, or theft of equipment, including sidecars and accessories. A $1,000 security deposit is required to rent. Funds are automatically released once the bike(s) are returned in good condition.

Retail replacement values:
• Electric bike: $2,999.00
• Sidecar: $1,500.00
• Helmet: $129.00
• Dog leash: $35.00
• Rear basket: $100.00
• Snap-on trunk bag: $150.00

Locking: Always lock your bike when unattended using the provided FoldyLock through the back wheel. If renting multiple bikes, daisy-chain them together for added security.
Failure to Return: Riders have a 15-minute grace period to return bikes on time. After this window, an additional 1/2 day booking fee will be charged. Unreturned bikes may be treated as theft and reported to law enforcement.

What are the rules of the road?
E-bikes must follow all California traffic laws and local ordinances.
• Ride in the bike lanes when available.
• Yield to pedestrians and vehicles at intersections.
• Signal turns and remain visible at all times.
• Avoid riding under the influence of alcohol or drugs.
Unsafe or reckless riding may result in termination of your rental without refund.

Media & Marketing
By participating, you consent to photos or videos of your experience being used for Vine & Vista’s marketing and social media. You may opt out anytime by notifying us in writing before or after your ride.