E-Bike
 

Ok - Yes - I'm being a bum and am looking for help in terms of choosing an electric bike. A few years ago I used to commute on a regular basis on my bike. Since then my job has expanded where I need to go to multiple company sites (and still wear a tie). I also stopped riding (yes - gasp) when I started my MBA due to excessive school work. I'm looking to get back to it now that school is finally over (yes - feel free to call me master) but with the multiple sites I need to travel to I'm interested in exploring the world of electric bikes. I'm looking for suggestions that people might have.

Thanks,
Bret

Hi Bret,

Do you need to carry much things when you travel to other sites? I think there are many brands of electric bicycle in the market. Choose one which fits your needs is not so easy. I have a Wisper 905Se sport style bike, wisper has a city style bike which has a rear carrier and full mudguards. You may see the picture of my firend rode this bike. Hope it helps you a little.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/JohnInStockie/S...JPG?imgmax=512

I actually do have to take some things with me. I need to transport a laptop and various amounts of paperwork. I have a nice messenger bag that I used to use that should be able to take my laptop. I will need something with fenders and probably a good size bag that I can attach. I will take a look at the whisper series. I think I waited to long to start my research to find something for this summer but we'll see. If anyone else has any suggestions it would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks again,
Bret

I have an eZee sprint which came with rack, fenders & the works for around $1600. I commute 11 miles each way pulling my daughter in a burley trailer and the sprint works like a charm. I arrive at work smiling!

eZee, Giant and Schwinn
 

I own an eZee Torq and the Giant Lite. I like both, though they're rather different. I recently rode a friend's Schwinn Campus. The Lite is no longer made, but there's a new Giant, the Twist. For info on the Giant and eZee models, google "Electric Bikes Northwest". I bought both from them. They're in Seattle, but they ship. They also have a couple California locations. NYCE Wheels in New York also sells eZee's; not sure about Giants.

From my experience the $500 electric bikes won't be able to take commuting any distance. A conversion kit with an upgrade from SLA batteries and your donor bike is a good place to start. You might want front and or seat post suspension as well to smooth the ride. A couple of good panniers on the back will solve your 'carrying stuff' problems.

I've been commuting 42 kms a day on an e-bike for 2 years and I find the Wilderness Energy and Cystalyte hubs very reliable.