Kalkhoff the red-nosed reindeer

[Tim]

Hello, we've just come across a story released by Stretton Climate Care Four Santas rode their trusty steeds around Stretton to mark the launch of their new electric bike hire scheme.

Stretton Climate Care

'Electric bike hire comes to Stretton'

So that's another location you can try out a Kalkhoff (this time in beautifully hilly countryside) - they're now available in Shropshire, Richmond Park, Loughborough, with more locations to follow.

Good to hear that Presteigne 2009 is on as well, 9-10 May. Who'll be there?

Other Christmas news - I've been using an Agattu to get in and out of Kingston on various shopping trips lately. I don't even have to use panniers, as it's possible to attach those re-usable carrier bags securely to the luggage rack, with a bit of determination.

And on another mad Christmas dash into central London, on a Pro Connect this time, I managed to park my bike in the same spot on the same train carriage on the way home - from Waterloo to Fleet Street and back in about 17 minutes. Wish I'd worn gloves tho. There's no better way to venture into town if you have to.

 

[musicbooks]

Hi Tim,
Good to see councils beginning to offer this service. I think Powabyke have done a deal with Bath Council ( but yet to see the bikes on the road??). Are you finding that interest and orders from councils is increasing? If so, this is good news for all.. and it probably means that you guys could probably afford a decent holiday in the sun this Christmas too

Looking at the photo.. does that mean the bikes have made it all the way from the North Pole? Now that is what I call reliability!!
bw
Tom
musicbooks

 

[flecc]

Nice one Tim, the more locations available to try the different kinds of e-bikes the more chance there is of the market expanding, and I'm sure the widespread access via dealers has been the key to Powabyke's success for a decade now.

It seems a bit contradictory at a time when online sales are so damaging to the high streets, but I think unfamiliar products like electric assist bikes demand personal access for more sales to be achieved.
.