Hi everyone - 50 yr old from Telford in Shropshire. Decided to get an EBike for the daily commute (less than 2 miles all on flat, cycle paths - and I use my car!). I had tried biking to work but such a drag when a nice warm and dry car awaited on the drive - but actually I was more worried about the harm it is causing to the car (an Alfa Romeo) with all those short trips. Fuel consumption is silly too for such a short trip.
Anyway, have been aware of ebikes for a while but was not impressed by heavy lead acid batteries. Then I saw Li Ion technology had arrived and interest rekindled.
Only one shop in Telford and all they had was a Powabyke X-6 - whereas I really wanted a folder so when I bike to work and its chucking it down come home time I can call the missus to come and get me!
After some change of direction, I wanted a trial - first place I called in the Midlands was not very accommodating as they only do tests in the week - and I cant get out. They were not able to meet me at a weekend so they lost the sale. Then I discovered JuicyBikes and this forum where they sounded like they knew what they were doing and within range for a day trip. Anyway, two weeks ago, went along (sadly Bob was out) and was allowed to go on a series of ever more ambitious test runs on my own for a couple of hours. I was absolutely astonished by the hill climbing as well as exhilarating on the flat. After that the least I could do was to buy the bike and take it home.
I bought an Urban 20 folder. And I love it. For what I want its excellent and already I have made a trip or two in some different directions to the planned commute. Biggest problem is having to stop and explain it all to the very interested walkers I pass - even the little kids in the road declared it "cool".
I will do a proper review when I have a few more miles under its tyres but so far it seems great.
Peter
Anyway, have been aware of ebikes for a while but was not impressed by heavy lead acid batteries. Then I saw Li Ion technology had arrived and interest rekindled.
Only one shop in Telford and all they had was a Powabyke X-6 - whereas I really wanted a folder so when I bike to work and its chucking it down come home time I can call the missus to come and get me!
After some change of direction, I wanted a trial - first place I called in the Midlands was not very accommodating as they only do tests in the week - and I cant get out. They were not able to meet me at a weekend so they lost the sale. Then I discovered JuicyBikes and this forum where they sounded like they knew what they were doing and within range for a day trip. Anyway, two weeks ago, went along (sadly Bob was out) and was allowed to go on a series of ever more ambitious test runs on my own for a couple of hours. I was absolutely astonished by the hill climbing as well as exhilarating on the flat. After that the least I could do was to buy the bike and take it home.
I bought an Urban 20 folder. And I love it. For what I want its excellent and already I have made a trip or two in some different directions to the planned commute. Biggest problem is having to stop and explain it all to the very interested walkers I pass - even the little kids in the road declared it "cool".
I will do a proper review when I have a few more miles under its tyres but so far it seems great.
Peter
