Bluenose

Hi everyone - I'm new here - I recently bought a cheap Schwinn IZIP electric bike after looking at the Bionx set-up, I decided I would try the ebike concept first on something much less expensive as a kind of test.

I've discovered that I'm really enjoying this kind biking, I work out of my home and I've found that the ebike is perfect for running errands around town, going to the post office, bank, returning movies etc. because I can leave my office and return without feeling tired and get right back to work once I'm home and surprisingly I find it doesn't really take any longer than when I used the car.

My trips into and around town and back are about 15km and the bike works great for that, I do wish the motor wasn't as noisy "I get some strange looks from people".

The only downside is the recharge time of 6 hrs., I've ordered a Lifepo4 battery from China and that should solve things nicely.

I own 2 very nice motorcycles and 2 cars, so I've got a nice choice of vehicles I could drive, but more and more I'm taking the ebike, I don't choose it because I need the exercise, I run 5k each day for that, I don't choose it because it's fast - 30kmph is the top speed - I choose it because it's just plain fun and easy to get around on, no parking space problems, no sitting in traffic, and I can avoid most of the traffic because I live next to a bike path that goes right into town.

I've read a lot of posts by people who struggle with the whole notion of electric bikes, but here we are in 2008 finally with the technology to create a new kind of vehicle - "The human/electric hybrid" so why not give it a try - it's not for everyone for sure - but for some like me who live close to town - and travel less than about 20km each day, it's another option and a fun one a that.

I like what someone else said about people who make fun of ebikes - some people have 24 gears on their bikes to make it easier to pedal up hill - I just have a little motor and 7 gears that does the same thing.

Just wanted to share my experience.

toyfountain

I see it has the ebike having gears 15 to 21. With the motor, it doesn't need the first 14 gears since it's always run in the last two gears unless in a very very steep hill.

WJChris

Welcome.

I too am convinced that these bikes will only gain in popularity.

I just ordered mine and I cant wait to use it to commute to work and run errands. I already use my regular bike for short trips to the rental place and grocery store.

Now my range will just increase! It brings me big smiles to see my Honda sit for a week, and pass up all those gas stations.

adamtki

Great to see a new convert. I really think commuters on regular bikes don't know what they're missing out on. It's nice coming into work with a little exercise and not break a sweat and get around as fast as a fit road cyclist.

Bluenose

I think I would do it now even if gas was cheap - it's just a great way to get around, more choice is always good depending on the situation - hmmm... what would I like to do today... take the car, the motorbike, the ebike, the regular bike, maybe I'll walk or run depending on my mood.

The only downside is - like every other hobby - you can keep spending money on upgrades - better batteries, faster motors, better controllers, stronger bikes etc. etc. and I thought motorcycles were bad for this.

WJChris

LOL! No kidding on the upgrades. With my personality type, we got to have some "Hobby" to spend on.

Mine went from teenager "Lowriders" to Roadracing a Honda, to Off roading in a Jeep. This is my first 2 wheel "hobby"!

pajo1235

I bought the same IZip, and so far I am impressed. I agree the battery could be better. But Lead Acid has been around forever, and is a proven commodity. My first battery was a dud, and they replaced it on warranty. New one really has the juice. Will see how long it lasts. I think Karma said he is around 300 charges and still going. Like others have said, the fun factor is amazing. :You actually look forward to getting on it and going places. And when you hit the throttle and hit full speed, amazing.