Dr. Alexander Reynolds
They say that opposites attract, and that couldn’t be more true for my wife Jo and me. She’s a yoga teacher, incredibly fit, and not to mention, stronger than me. On the other hand, I’m an enthusiastic cyclist, always seeking new challenges and adventures. The only problem? Jo finds cycling uphill “utterly pointless.” Living in the hilly Cotswolds, this posed a significant challenge for our cycling escapades.
Searching for a solution, we decided to invest in an electric bike for Jo – a bicycle for people who claim they don’t like cycling. And let me tell you, it was a game-changer. Her Liv hardtail e-bike with its powerful torque and extensive battery life transformed her into the queen of every road, effortlessly conquering any slope in her path. Gone were the days of spinning low gears and struggling uphill.
But as her cycling abilities soared, I found myself left in her dust, struggling to keep up. I had become a cyclist who no longer enjoyed cycling, who found uphill battles to be utterly humiliating. It became clear that I needed a solution too. Enter the Specialized Turbo Creo SL Comp Carbon EVO – a lighter, sleeker, and more agile e-bike that would reignite my love for cycling.
Weighing in at 13kg, the Creo’s lightweight build and premium-grade carbon frame made it a joy to ride, even without the assistance of the motor. The Future Shock headset suspension provided a smooth and comfortable ride, especially when conquering rough terrains. Its low-power motor, while feeble compared to Jo’s Liv bike, created a natural and consistent delivery of assistance, allowing me to rediscover the joy of cycling.
With just three levels of assist to choose from – ECO, SPORT, and TURBO – the Creo offered a customizable riding experience that perfectly complemented my energy levels and desired intensity. And when the battery finally ran flat, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that the Creo could still be ridden as a capable analog bike.
The versatility of the Creo became evident in its ability to adapt to various cycling scenarios. Whether it was leisurely family rides, recovery rides, or exploring new routes, the Creo was my trusty companion. But perhaps the highlight was the summer evening rides with Jo, where we would venture out to nearby hilltops and witness the breathtaking sunset over the picturesque Cotswold valleys.
In the end, electric bikes had transformed our cycling experiences, bridging the gap between our different cycling abilities and opening up a world of shared adventures. So, whether you’re a cycling enthusiast or someone who claims to dislike cycling, consider the versatility and joy that an electric bike can bring to your journey.
The electric bike industry has been experiencing significant growth in recent years. According to market research firm NPD Group, sales of e-bikes in the United States doubled from 2019 to 2020, with no signs of slowing down. The global electric bicycle market is expected to reach a value of over $27 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate of nearly 7% during the forecast period.
One of the main drivers of this growth is the growing popularity of e-bikes among people who previously did not consider themselves cyclists. Electric bikes have opened up cycling to a wider audience, allowing individuals with different fitness levels and abilities to enjoy the sport. This has led to increased demand for e-bikes that cater to various needs and preferences.
The versatility of electric bikes is another key factor contributing to their popularity. Like in the case of Jo and the author, e-bikes can bridge the gap between cyclists with different abilities and fitness levels. The ability to choose from different levels of assist allows riders to customize their riding experience and match their energy levels and desired intensity. Furthermore, the advancements in e-bike technology have made them more lightweight and agile, providing a smooth and enjoyable ride even without the assistance of the motor.
However, the rising popularity of e-bikes also raises some concerns. One of the challenges faced by the industry is related to regulations and infrastructure. As e-bikes become more prevalent, there is a need for clear guidelines and legislation regarding their use on roads and bike paths. Additionally, infrastructure such as charging stations and secure parking spaces for e-bikes needs to be developed to support the growing number of riders.
To learn more about the electric bike industry and stay updated on the latest trends and developments, you can visit reputable industry websites such as eBicycles and Bike Europe. These websites provide comprehensive information on e-bike models, industry news, market forecasts, and issues related to the industry. By staying informed, you can make informed decisions when it comes to choosing and enjoying the benefits of electric bikes.
