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
The treadmill (the stationary exercise machine) is obviously about providing an appropriate level work out. The electric or human power augmented bike is also designed to assure an appropriate level of exercise, while this may be less obvious at first glance. After all, treadmills have proliferated for decades while the electric bike is a relative newcomer on the U.S. market.
The treadmiller can adjust the level of exercise from light to hard, and in between. The electric bike rider can also instantaneously adjust the level of power assist. On a pedal-activated bike power is delivered in response to the rider's pedalling and on a throttled bike by the rider turning the twist grip.
There are times when indoor exercise may be the preferred choice, such as on a Winter day in North Dakota, when the wallpaper needs to be examined once more or watching TV. At most other times the electric bike offers more as it is The Exercise Machine With Ever Changing Scenery, while the treadmill does not (assuming it is properly affixed to the floor) get you anywhere. The electric bike provides exercise without us having to set aside time solely for this purpose. We can obviously choose to get a workout while running an errand or returning home from from work.
The versatile electric bike can be purchased for half or less than the sole-purpose treadmill (source Hoist $1,999 and LifeFitness from $2,299-3,499).
Stop off for a trial workout at your nearest electric bike dealer.
Copyright © 2007 EbikesNW
Eric Sundin has been riding electric bikes regularly since 1996. He appears fit and reasonably trim despite never setting his foot inside a gym and being genetically predisposed toward less than sleekness.