I'm a complete novice with e-bikes so I visited the E-Bikes Direct open day this morning. They were very hospitable and at no time was there any pressure selling - which was greatly appreciated.
The first bike I tried was the Salisbury and trustingly, they allowed me to ride it around Battersea Park. I could tell I was getting some help to supplement my own efforts but it was fairly subtle and not what I had expected from an e-bike. I found a nice slope and turned off the power and I could feel the difference but it wasn't pronounced.
Back at the shop the sales chap suggested I try the Freego Eagle and right away I felt power. I liked the handlebar mounted battery meter and the three levels of assist - both not present on the cheaper bike. I also preferred the upright seating position of the Freego. In traffic it is the riding position I feel safer in. I've also discovered that during my present commute (on my standard bike) my hands go a little numb from the pressure of leaning forward.
The price of the Eagle was more than I really wanted to pay so the salesman suggested that I try the Hawk which has a lower distance range. My commute is only 5 miles each way so I don't need the bigger battery of the Eagle.
I couldn't feel any difference, the Hawk was absolutely fine. I also liked that you can start off from traffic lights just using the throttle.
Had there been a special price on the Hawk I probably would have bought it today. The salesman gave me a price that was the same as all the other dealers I had checked, so I will take the opportunity to do some more research before taking the plunge.
As it is, I'm very impressed by the feel of Freego's and the 2 year warranty on all parts including battery. I'm less impressed by the Salisbury and the 6 months battery warranty but you get what you pay for. I suppose it is down to what warranty the manufacturers pass onto the dealers so I don't blame e-bikes direct for the measly 6 months.
I hope the appalling weather didn't frighten off too many customers. e-bikes direct should be commended for putting on the demonstration day with coffee and doughnuts. Thanks also for the extended test rides and trusting me not to go home with it. I could well see myself going back to them.
- Brian
The first bike I tried was the Salisbury and trustingly, they allowed me to ride it around Battersea Park. I could tell I was getting some help to supplement my own efforts but it was fairly subtle and not what I had expected from an e-bike. I found a nice slope and turned off the power and I could feel the difference but it wasn't pronounced.
Back at the shop the sales chap suggested I try the Freego Eagle and right away I felt power. I liked the handlebar mounted battery meter and the three levels of assist - both not present on the cheaper bike. I also preferred the upright seating position of the Freego. In traffic it is the riding position I feel safer in. I've also discovered that during my present commute (on my standard bike) my hands go a little numb from the pressure of leaning forward.
The price of the Eagle was more than I really wanted to pay so the salesman suggested that I try the Hawk which has a lower distance range. My commute is only 5 miles each way so I don't need the bigger battery of the Eagle.
I couldn't feel any difference, the Hawk was absolutely fine. I also liked that you can start off from traffic lights just using the throttle.
Had there been a special price on the Hawk I probably would have bought it today. The salesman gave me a price that was the same as all the other dealers I had checked, so I will take the opportunity to do some more research before taking the plunge.
As it is, I'm very impressed by the feel of Freego's and the 2 year warranty on all parts including battery. I'm less impressed by the Salisbury and the 6 months battery warranty but you get what you pay for. I suppose it is down to what warranty the manufacturers pass onto the dealers so I don't blame e-bikes direct for the measly 6 months.
I hope the appalling weather didn't frighten off too many customers. e-bikes direct should be commended for putting on the demonstration day with coffee and doughnuts. Thanks also for the extended test rides and trusting me not to go home with it. I could well see myself going back to them.
- Brian
