Having decided that above all, I wanted a hybrid bike with some assistance rather than a full on electric bike, I went for a Powabyke X-24 (2011 model) and bought it from Atmosphere in Bristol.
Firstly, Atmosphere are a great shop and it was worth the 2 hour trip to discuss my needs, have a test ride, get lost in Bristol and eventually make the purchase. I highly recommend them.
Secondly, the bike. My commute is 7.5 miles each way and my main reason for riding is to get exercise. So, the idea is that i ride with only my own power to work, ride halfway home with my own power but use the assistance to get up the nearly 4 mile hill to my house.
There were a few teething problems with the standard gears on the bike and unfortunately the the chain got mangled in the front Derailleur 2 miles from home. Based in Southampton I was almost very regretful that I'd bought the bike from so far away but both Powabyke and Atmosphere were very helpful in getting this sorted.
However, I have now made 3 journeys to work and am loving the bike.
I've tried using the throttle as I thought that would be the best way to ride up the hill (whilst still pedalling) but am now convinced that pedal assist is the best way to go. I've been riding that last 4 miles with a grin from ear to ear.
In the past this ride was so unpleasant that I'd really have to psych myself up to ride again the next day.
For anyone that wants some power assist but really wants to continue riding as much as possible I highly recommend the Powabyke. The battery seems to last for about 6 miles of uphill pedal assist which is exactly what i need. I'm sure it would go further on the flat and also would go further if I wasn't 16.5 stone. I just hope the battery doesn't degrade too much in the next year or so.
Apart from getting loads of grief for having a "lazy", "old mans" bike from people that I'm sure get no exercise, it is great. Hopefully electric bikes will continue to catch on and convince others to get out in the fresh air. Previously I was only riding 2 days a week but am hoping for 4-5 now.
Any ideas where i can store my water bottle?
Firstly, Atmosphere are a great shop and it was worth the 2 hour trip to discuss my needs, have a test ride, get lost in Bristol and eventually make the purchase. I highly recommend them.
Secondly, the bike. My commute is 7.5 miles each way and my main reason for riding is to get exercise. So, the idea is that i ride with only my own power to work, ride halfway home with my own power but use the assistance to get up the nearly 4 mile hill to my house.
There were a few teething problems with the standard gears on the bike and unfortunately the the chain got mangled in the front Derailleur 2 miles from home. Based in Southampton I was almost very regretful that I'd bought the bike from so far away but both Powabyke and Atmosphere were very helpful in getting this sorted.
However, I have now made 3 journeys to work and am loving the bike.
I've tried using the throttle as I thought that would be the best way to ride up the hill (whilst still pedalling) but am now convinced that pedal assist is the best way to go. I've been riding that last 4 miles with a grin from ear to ear.
In the past this ride was so unpleasant that I'd really have to psych myself up to ride again the next day.
For anyone that wants some power assist but really wants to continue riding as much as possible I highly recommend the Powabyke. The battery seems to last for about 6 miles of uphill pedal assist which is exactly what i need. I'm sure it would go further on the flat and also would go further if I wasn't 16.5 stone. I just hope the battery doesn't degrade too much in the next year or so.
Apart from getting loads of grief for having a "lazy", "old mans" bike from people that I'm sure get no exercise, it is great. Hopefully electric bikes will continue to catch on and convince others to get out in the fresh air. Previously I was only riding 2 days a week but am hoping for 4-5 now.
Any ideas where i can store my water bottle?
