New Generation of Electric Powered Transportation

The problem with electric powered bicycles

As an avid cyclist, I've questioned the use of electric bikes and scooters for years. 

I measure my road rides by the number of riders I pass and the number of cyclists that may have passed me. When I ride/train with this mentality, every cyclist ahead of me becomes a target to add to my numbers. Inherently I assume every bike I approach is under manual power. About two years ago, this all changed. I eyed a cyclist ahead and planned my strategy for attack, only to find out as I finally caught up that I was chasing a pedal-assisted electric bike. 

These occurrences became more common and spawned my uncomfortableness with electric bikes. They climbed steep hills faster and could propel their riders further than I might venture on an average after-work ride. Though much heavier, e-bikes come with safety features like headlights and brake lights and the ability to transport more gear in the event of a flat or need to assist a fellow downed e-cyclist. They accomplish these feats quietly and without polluting the environment. 

With the things beginning to get back to normal, it was time for me to head back to a real office, an office in downtown Seattle, and if you don't know Seattle, it's hilly. Not San Francisco hilly, but hilly enough to get you sweating before you arrive to work. The second time I showed up for a morning meeting, having to change into a spare dry shirt, it became apparent that e-bikes might not be all that bad.

I would still be able to get some exercise. The city is cyclist and bike-friendly. And traveling on an e-bike was a lot less expensive than driving to work or parking my car.

I decided its time to purchase an e-bike, not to replace my road bike but to improve my commute and do my part in having a positive impact on greenhouse gas emissions where I can. 

The next question was, what type? Rear hub or mid-drive? Pedal-assist or power on demand? Class 1 or Class 2? Should the battery be 10Ah (amp hours) or 20Ah? Foldable or standard bike design? I was faced with so many decisions with prices ranging from $1200 to $5000 I knew I'd need to do some research.  

I encourage you to check out our blog sections, where each week, we'll answer these questions and more. Or pick up the phone and call us; our team is always eager to talk bikes, with or without electricity.