I am very lucky to be supported by Evans Cycles this year for my adventures and events. I was asked if I would be interested in trying an electric bike. To be completely honest I have never tried and electric bike before and have never felt the need to have a bike with a motor in it so I was sceptical and not expecting to like it. BUT it is so much fun!
The bike I took delivery of was the Raleigh Motus Evans Exclusive Low Step 2021 Electric Hybrid Bike and I will admit I was super impressed with the chap who delivered this on a push bike in a trailer! This bike, like most electric bikes, are heavy so kudos to that man.
The Bike Spec:
A bit more about the bike – it comes with:
- mudguards front and back
- pannier rack with straps
- it does have reflectors, however, I would always add bike lights depending on the time riding and how dark it is
- a bell, which is always useful especially with a hybrid bike if riding off road or through park pathways
- kickstand
The spec is as follows:
- 300WH battery that provides energy output of up to 250% of your pedal power
- 7 speed
- Bosch motor – weighing in at 2.9kg that is a decrease from the previous version by 25%
- hydraulic disc brakes
- schwalbe tyres
- anti slip pedals
- mains adaptor for charging
- handlebar bike computer to turn on, change settings and displays speed and current range in miles
The bike has the following settings:
- eco
- tour
- turbo
- sport
- walk
Depending on what setting you use the battery, when fully charged, can last up to 60 miles.
It does have front suspension to make certain terrain more comfortable, however, don’t expect the same as an off road ride as it was still fairly bumpy even on the road going over some bumps/cracks/holes.
How Does It Work With Strava?
When I tried the bike for the first time I loaded my ride onto Strava and it flagged with a message to say it looked like the ride was on an e-bike (which I was fully planning to mark it as) and gave me the option to amend. Interestingly I had someone comment on the activity joking that it was lazy, however, electric bikes do have a place so hold that judgement!
Why Choose An E-Bike?
I had a friend who was very unwell a couple of years back and loves cycling, so she had said that if she did not recover enough to cycle as usual she would look to purchase an electric bike so she could still enjoy the sport she loves, which is amazing.
You may wish to continue cycling and not be able to go as far as you wish and an electric bike may allow this. You may have an injury that would mean an electric bike is more suitable. You may be getting older and wish to continue cycling without as much stress on joints that an electric bike facilitates. Plus it enables time outdoors, which is always an environmental benefit and good for wellbeing.
As you ride an electric bike you continue to pedal and work and yes it makes it easier especially on inclines but there is a common misconception that you jump on a electric bike and it does all the work for you, which is not strictly true.
Electric bikes are obviously cheaper than travelling by car or train and with no emissions are more environmentally friendly. However, I would note that they are not cheap to purchase.
I had a lot of fun using this bike and would love to try a mountain bike version, which I am sure would be huge fun on the trails!
Thanks to Evans for sending me this bike to have a play around with!