Prof. Samantha Clarke
Electric bikes are becoming increasingly popular in the Valley, with programs like Cruise the Creek expanding their operations to meet the growing demand. While some may have reservations about this environmentally-friendly alternative, it’s important to experience an e-bike firsthand before passing judgment.
Cruise the Creek operator Patrick Simms, now entering his third year, understands the skepticism surrounding e-bikes. He acknowledges that they are sometimes seen as the “ugly sister” of the biking community due to their motorized assistance. However, he encourages people to try them out before forming opinions.
E-bikes have multiple speed settings but are limited to a maximum speed of 15 mph, making them suitable for the Mill Creek trails. When you pedal, the motor kicks in to provide assistance, making exercise more accessible and enjoyable.
According to Simms, using an e-bike still involves physical exertion. “If you’re pedaling with the bike, you’re getting some form of exercise. And that’s more than a lot of people are getting right now,” he explains.
This year, Cruise the Creek has extended its services to include a location near the Mill Creek Metroparks Kirk Road Trailhead. They encourage riders to take advantage of these e-bikes to fully experience and enjoy the parks.
With the assistance of the motor, e-bikes provide a little extra motivation to explore farther. Simms believes that the motorized assistance allows riders to reach all the destinations they want to see.
If you’re curious about electric bikes, the rental season for Cruise the Creek begins on May 1st. Take the opportunity to try out these bikes and discover the many benefits they offer for outdoor enthusiasts.
The electric bike industry has been experiencing significant growth in recent years, with more people opting for these environmentally-friendly alternatives to traditional bikes. According to market forecasts, the global electric bike market is expected to reach $38.6 billion by 2025, growing at a compound annual growth rate of 7.9%.
One of the reasons for the increasing popularity of electric bikes is their ability to make exercise more accessible and enjoyable. With multiple speed settings and a maximum speed of 15 mph, e-bikes are suitable for various terrains, including trails like the Mill Creek trails. The motorized assistance provided by e-bikes makes pedaling easier, allowing riders to cover longer distances and explore new areas.
Despite concerns about the level of physical exertion involved, using an e-bike still provides a form of exercise. According to Cruise the Creek operator Patrick Simms, pedaling with an e-bike can be a great way to get active, especially for those who may not engage in regular exercise. It offers a way to enjoy the outdoors while increasing physical activity levels.
Cruise the Creek, a popular e-bike rental program, has expanded its services to include a location near the Mill Creek Metroparks Kirk Road Trailhead. This expansion offers riders the opportunity to utilize e-bikes and fully experience the beauty of the parks. The motorized assistance provided by e-bikes allows riders to explore farther and reach all the destinations they want to see.
If you’re interested in trying out an electric bike, Cruise the Creek’s rental season begins on May 1st. Renting an e-bike can provide a firsthand experience of the many benefits they offer, including convenient transportation, increased accessibility to outdoor activities, and a greener way to commute or explore nature.
For more information on the electric bike industry and its market forecasts, you can visit industry-leading websites such as MarketsandMarkets or Grand View Research.
