We sell and service Human Power Augmented a.k.a. Electric bikes and ride them enthusiastically ourselves. See also our folding bikes at Folding Bikes West.
To order phone 800/940-6548 (not operable from all U.S. locations) or 206/547-4621 or visit one of our stores:
Please note that on February 1, 2008 we moved within Seattle to:
Electric Bikes Northwest
4810 17th Ave NW
Seattle, WA 98107 - Map
ph: 206/547-4621
ph: 800/940-6548
fx: 206/547-4841
Email form
Spring Hours
Monday through Friday: 11–6
Saturday: 11–5
Electric & Folding Bikes California
(store established 2006)
220 Wisconsin Ave
Oceanside, CA 92054 - Map
(30 miles north of San Diego)
ph: 760/757-3440
ph: 800/940-6548
Email form
Hours
Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays: 11-3
Saturdays: 10-4
While egalitarianism may not be in favor in today's society the bicycle can be an instrument hereof. The humble bicycle allows us to interact primarily as Humans, not as one Ford versus one Mercedes. Cyclists move about at a remarkably unimpeded pace on an uncovered contraption that amazingly weighs a mere fraction of the average rider. Only the cyclist her or himself must take credit for or bemoan the ride's actual progress, not some engineer in Detroit or Stuttgart.
Rain falls on cyclists' faces, pedestrians ignore their chiming bells, dogs chase them, mud splashes on to their shoes, drivers hurl their invectives, and bicycle helmets flatten their hairdos - without regard to individual protestation, merit, wealth, position or presumption.
Cyclists are mostly denied the glamour of talking on cell phones and sipping coffee while under way. They have to seek excitement elsewhere instead of chasing around the block for a parking spot. Cyclists have no business at gas stations but may always stop off for a newspaper. They may not impress drivers impressed with themselves behind an expensive wheel but if such drivers knew what they are truly missing cyclists would inspire envy and awe.
The bicycle is safer than the car. If you have any doubts in this regard ask yourself whether you would rather be run over by a bicycle or by a car.
Cycling is quite benign to the environment. No fumes, no pollution and no engine roar. No fuel other than what the cyclist ingests. No overseas military entanglement is required to secure a steady supply of toast, orange juice, potatoes etc—although in the light of recent events we may no longer assume that such a campaign could not be rationalized.
All the cyclist needs to do is to pedal, and all cyclists need to pedal. All of us perspire at some point. Seize the opportunity and ride now while perspiration is still legal, one just never knows what the powerful deodorant lobby may be up to next.
Cyclists acknowledge each other as they pass. Are they cowering together oppressed by the Car Driving Class? No, cyclists often ride with a smile. They smile as they share a world of well being, health, peace, excitement and, well...happiness.
The above is an excerpt from The Adventure of Human Power Augmentation, Eric Sundin's book-in-progress
Copyright © 2006 Folding Bikes West
While Eric Sundin commutes, runs errands, preserves resources, saves money and stays fit by riding his bikes these uses and benefits pale in comparison to how simply enjoyable it is to ride.