And unless an electric bike has regenerative braking, which lets the motor help slow you down while charging the battery at the same time, expect to change the brake pads more often than on a standard bike.

WSJ: The Best Electric Bikes: High-Wattage Wheels

Backroads, a California company that offers bike tours of China, Bali and northern Thailand, lets participants cycle at their own pace and take a break from biking with sidetrips like elephant trekking or whitewater rafting (Tel: 1-510-527-1555).

CNN: ASIANOW - TIME Asia | Travel Watch

Charity Miles lets you raise money for the cause of your choice while you walk, run or bike.

CNN: 5 impact-worthy apps