I admit that I’ve never been an advocate of electric bikes (e-bikes). When I cycled coast to coast across America, I was determined to pedal every inch under my own power. I viewed e-bike riders as slackers and lazy. However, I’ve had a change of heart about e-bikes. So, what changed my mind? Old age!
As a young man, I start cycling for exercise. I felt that cycling was a good sport for me because I could continue cycling into my old age, and I have. I cycle across America in my mid sixties and I am still riding strong and doing centuries (100 miles) rides in my seventies. While I want to remain active and enjoy the outdoors, I know I can’t continue cycling like this forever.
As baby boomers like me age, cycling will become more difficult. E-bikes are the natural transition for us to stay active and enjoy our sport. I like the idea that when I need it, an e-bike will give me a battery-powered push. Yet, I still will be pedaling my bike to get it.
Ken Whittaker