Electric Bikes
Northwest

Driving Less and Enjoying It More

Car versus Bike: What constitutes 'realistic' and 'practical'?

When it comes to transportation in the U.S. the bicycle is rarely considered a serious option while in the highly developed countries of Europe, Japan et al (as well as in a small number of U.S. communities) the bicycle is used to get around by a fair percentage of 'mainstream' individuals. When factual information about such widespread, actual use is brought in to the U.S. 'debate' it is usually impatiently dismissed.

Those who bring up such facts are often chastised for not being 'realistic and 'practical'—while there may be some 900 million cars and light trucks (of which the U.S., with about 4% of the world's population, may own about one third) in the world today. Ought not the glaring concern rather be whether all these vehicles (with more being rapidly added) constitute a 'realistic' and 'practical' manner in which to transport ourselves, taking care of the planet with its dwindling resources, and being considerate of future generations?

Even those dismissive of the bicycle's role in transportation may concede that the lowly bicycle is affordable, uniquely efficient, needing only minimal maintenance and space, is benign to the environment, promotes health and fitness, does not require foreign wars to fuel it (although these days, who can be sure?) etc. Those of us who ride bikes regularly would add: Above all profoundly enjoyable to ride.

Yeah but, I still just won't ride

If a person is convinced that wearing a bike helmet flattens hairdos beyond what Fashion dictates, that bicycling suggests financial failure, that all travel must be undertaken in a glass and metal bubble (preferably of 25 times the weight and 1,000 times the power of the driver), that it is not safe etc—then presumably the matter shall rest there. The same bicycle that remains treasured by numerous Americans for recreation shall thus remain jilted for transportation—even for short distances, on easy terrain, in good weather and with light loads.

I'll be glad to ride—if only

But what if, on the other hand, we are reluctant to bicycle simply because we find hills too taxing, that perspiration is not acceptable for arriving to certain appointments, that we cannot seem to stick to pedaling or we assume that with age biking cannot possibly be as joyous as it was when we were children or young adults?

In such events, here's great news:

The electric bike lets us decide instantaneously whether we want to pedal hard or lightly (or anywhere on a continuum in between) or not at all, i.e. whether to get a workout or arrive at our destination rested, crisp and presentable—or both. The lightness of youth and childhood are put back into biking when we partner with a small, quiet, strong, loyal and interactive electric motor.

Join us

Even in today's automobile society there are actually millions of us who are recreational cyclists. The advent of the electric bike has made it even more enjoyable to go riding, to do so regularly and on expanded routes.

We treasure the elation that the unique blending of human and electric power bestows. A deeply satisfying experience awaits you. Don't miss out. Find out for yourself: Come in for a test ride!

Copyright © 2011 EbikesNW

October 2011

Cargo Bikes

Have an Xtracycle cargo extension kit added to your bike, as e.g. done to the Giant Twist electric bike shown to the left or purchase a complete Radish cargo bike (with the option of adding electric power).