I recently had the opportunity to make an e-bike video for the National Solar Tour. Over the course of a weekend I shot a few hours of video and edited it down to just over five minutes. (It was great fun and took a whole lotta time!)
The hardest part was all the info that hit the cutting room floor. I had a writing professor once tell me that editing meant that I had to get used to killing my babies. That's how I felt with this, even if most of my babies were boring, long winded, and poorly filmed.
The same professor told me to write [or create video] about what I know, so I made a video about the e-bike I've been commuting on for two years now - a Juiced OceanCurrent. It's a bike I would happily recommend to anyone; however, it was discontinued two years ago.
In its absence, here are some bikes that are very similar in specs and price in case you're looking for such a thing:
A sampler of simple e-bikes for commuting (under $1600 shipped)
Rad Power Bikes (many models)
Rad Power is the most successful e-Bike seller here in the States for a reason - they offer a lot of value at a low price and have a reputation for great service. They have many models that would work for commuting - my first choice (for a commuter) would be the RadCity. (But I'd buy a RadWagon because I am a cargo bike dork!)
Blix
Blix offers four simple e-bikes that would make great commuters. If you don't like step-thru frames, you'll need to look elsewhere. If you like cargo bikes, theirs is a nice bike at a low price.
Aventon
Aventon offers the Pace in a 350 watt and a 500 watt model. If you're under two hundred pounds and don't live near mountains, the $1099 350 watt. Should be plenty for a commuter. If you need the extra power, spend the extra for the $1399 500 watt.
Ride1Up
Ride1Up is a relative newcomer but they have a strong reputation and great lineup of bikes that would fit the bill from $1000 to $1500. I love the looks of the Core-5 ($1095) but the extras that come with the 500 Series (with rack and fenders added) at $1275 would be a better bike to get you around.
Sondors
Sondors continues to offer new models. The $1199 Smart Step is a little different in this crowd with its folding frame and knobby tires, but it could be a very competent cruiser. (My Buddy Grizz has now owned 3 Sondors bikes and has been very happy with them. See his newest squeezed into the pic above.)
A little bit more advice on e-bike shopping:
Before you buy a bike online, go see what the local bike stores have to offer. I've been pleasantly surprised to see some e-bikes in the local shops lately and a few have been pretty close in price to what I've listed here. And, you know the bikes are put together correctly and are ready to go. Plus, you have someone to help you out if the bike develops any problems. (I'm a big fan of local bike shops!)
More Advantages of commuting on an e-bike:
This may sound counter-intuitive, but study after study has shown that e-bikes (with pedal assist) have an equal or greater impact on a person's health when compared to riding a non-electric bike. How is that? Well, the e-bike encourages a person to ride more often and further. For people with joint and pain issues, the e-bike helps level out the strain. Riding on a regular basis is shown to improve cardiovascular and mental health as well.
When I started commuting on an e-bike, I did not have the health or stamina to ride a non-electric bike. These days, I commute on the e-bike but ride a standard bike for recreation and for trips under three miles.
Tips specifically for suburban commuting (Lubbock, TX)
Avoid school traffic whether by route or schedule
Riding near schools can be hectic. Stressed out parents and or teen-aged drivers all rushing to the same place at the same time - that is no place to be. Sometimes leaving five minutes earlier (or later) can make all the difference in your stress level.
Ride humbly
Sure, the right of way may be yours, but the law of physics leans toward the F250s and Escalades. In fact, even the Slug Bugs and Smart Cars won't be intimidated by the likes of you and your bike. Your goal is to arrive alive and joyful - middle fingers never help.
Carry your stuff on the bike - not on your body.
Ride decisively
Signal your intentions to turn, take your turn at four-way stops, take the lane if you're turning left. Car drivers don't like a wishy-washy cyclist any more than they do a wishy-washy driver.
Work at being seen
Admittedly, everyone looks dorky in high-viz clothing, but I see a noticeable difference on days when I wear a reflective vest. My commute takes me across several of the busiest streets in town and the combination of vest and bike lights help no what time of day (or night).
(Choose to) Enjoy the ride!
Your attitude determines the quality of your ride as much as any other element. There are days I take off in a foul mood, but the bike offers time to look around and count my blessings. Sunrises, sunsets, birds, flowers - unexpected beauty and humor have ways of finding people on bikes. Keep your eyes open.
Let your bike carry the weight - not your neck and shoulders.
Bike racks, bags, and baskets go a long way in making bike commutes more pleasant. Also, you'll be surprised how often you'll need to haul something you did not plan for.
Tips for upgrading your bike (electric or not) for commuting
- racks, bags, and baskets (see above)
- lights - for seeing as well as being seen. I like small and inexpensive but powerful, USB rechargeable lights that remove easily (for charging or swapping to different bikes.)
- Thorn-resistant tubes - very few new bikes come with these installed. Do yourself a favor and swap these before your first ride. Flats really suck!
Okay, that's enough for now. Whew if feels good to get that off my chest!
May you enjoy the ride while creating a healthier world for all! (Let me know if you have questions I did not answer.)
