There are two types of bicyclists. Those that are bicyclists and those that ride bikes for other reasons. I ride for other reasons.

Back in my twenties I did a 2,000 mile tour of Europe on a bicycle. I went against my best judgement and thought that the ONLY way I could tolerate Europe was to keep myself as independent as possible. Loved the bicycling.....Europe, well it is so.....1970.

So for me bicycles are a mode of really cool transportation. Same with electric bicycles. Different era for me, different tool. I am hoping to use the electric bikes for touring New Zealand.

The Trek e-bikes will go about 20 miles on average. While touring Europe the perfect day with stops for castle and other tours was about 25 miles. Sure 50 miles plus were recommended as an average day but a tour stop in the morning and one in the afternoon, with lunch in between leaves you about 25 miles per day! I am still looking for a solar charging option for the bicycles, but none of the e-bike sites seem to care or realize how large this market.

I finally found decent touring bags: Arkel. So hopefully, we will hit our shakedown cruises this summer.

Trolling motor on a cedar strip canoe......only if it is solar powered: http://usbackroads.blogspot.com/2012...hing-boat.html

I never had a chain break on me......neither e-bike or road bike....but then again I went 2000 miles in Europe without a flat!!