Originally Posted by
KraneXL
I wouldn't mind an e-bike that allows you to keep with your straight and level effort while climbing.
Actually my e-bike retro fit accomplishes that. I will climb a steep hill with greatly improved posture, no more standing, weaving and wagging the saddle left and right. The torque sensor encourages me to work harder because the more I work the more the motor kicks in. In the past I would twiddle up the 500' hill to my home in the granny chain ring without even breathing hard because the return was not worth the additional effort. With the assist I am rewarded when I pedal harder and arrive home winded. Yes, overall the ride is a bit easier but I'll also now do multiple rides up and down my hill per day. In the past one round trip would be the limit.
That said, I'd much prefer to be riding and long distance touring unassisted as I have for the past 50 years. 4 years ago I would have been among the many BF e-bike skeptics. At age 70, after 5 heart attacks, femoral nerve damage and end stage ankle arthritis...well I just can't do that any more. The e-bike HAS kept me off the TV couch. Age and disability happen. The OP has come to that realization with his intitial comments 8 pages ago...
Originally Posted by
Barrettscv
But an e-bike is going to happen eventually...
Being active will always be superior to being sedentary. An e-bike keeps a cyclist active, pure and simple. Especially if you enjoy scenic, hilly routes, an e-bike will increase your overall health and happiness.
When I pull the trigger for an e-bike I won't worry what anyone else thinks or says. I'll still be pedaling and enjoying the great outdoors, that's all that matters.
Time to go check mail at the PO, round trip number 1 for the day!