One of the main reasons I have actually been thriving during the Covid pandemic is that my bicycle and I have become true friends. I remind myself constantly how incredibly fortunate I am to live in this beautiful place. Out here miles of bike trails throughout the National Seashore can take you on adventures into the dunes, through the woods, and on out to the ocean! Not only am I safer on my bike, away from people, but I get to exercise and allow nature to do its magic. And I feel calmer and more relaxed after a ride. Goodness knows we all need these benefits right now!
One of the more recent trends in the cycling world is the increased marketing of both motorized bikes and electric bikes. Wikipedia defines them this way: a bicycle with an attached electric motor, or engine and transmission, used either to power the vehicle unassisted or to assist with pedaling. Regular bicycles and motorized or electric bikes look similar in lots of ways. However, motorized bikes motors use gasoline, while electric bikes have motors that detach and plug unto a power source for charging.
So what more do we know about these bikes? Here are some things to consider before running out to buy one:
- E-bikes are overall pretty pricey, starting at around $1,000.
- Their battery life is rather short.
- The battery charge time is long.
- Riding range can be disappointingly short.
- They are considerably heavier than a regular bicycle.
- Maintenance and repairs are costly.
- They tend to have low re-sale value.
- Motorized bikes are powered by gasoline and are generally even heavier than E-bikes.
- Some motorized bikes may actually require a license to operate.
Denise’s
2 Cents:
To be perfectly honest, I haven’t exactly been a big user of either a motorized or electric bike. That’s probably because I don’t own one. One might think from my description of these bikes that I disapprove of them. But don’t get me wrong. I have seen these bikes really enable people with physical challenges or simple low energy due to a de-conditioned state. In other words, these bikes allow them to get outside and enjoy what they otherwise couldn’t experience. I have also heard that more vigorous bikers use them to go farther and see more on their trips. I actually have a very open mind about this technology.
Really, my bottom line is this: get outdoors as much as possible, and not only during these challenging times. Regardless of the state of the world—and we WILL get back to a better place—use whatever bike that will make the outdoors happen for you. Regular, motorized, or electric: it’s your call. Just please wear a helmet!