Recent content by Coby Black

Thanks to all who have posted. So much to think about. I've gone to the first bike store and took a test ride on a Batch, step-through, mid-engine (Bosch), pedal assist only. It felt great. I rode 95% of the time with power off, and I was surprised at how easily I could go 12mph into a light...

Well, as you probably suspected, my "guess" on elevation was pretty far off. After exploring this afternoon, armed with an elevation app on my phone, I calculate the grades of six hills to range from 6% to 12%, with three of them above 10%. Walking up these, they feel plenty steep. I know...

Many thanks to all who have replied (and helped!) so far. I have a lot to learn. I now have an elevation app on my phone and will have a better handle on my hills soon. The issue of hub motor vs mid motor(?) seems important, as does the pedal assist vs throttle. I want to pedal as much as...

Many thanks. Very helpful. A lot to digest and a lot to learn. I may be back with more questions.

Yes, I would like to pedal as hard as I can the uphill stretch, probably increasing my share of the effort over time. It's hard for me to estimate grade. A wild guess---the road raises 120 feet (I'm thinking of a 15-story building) in maybe a tenth of a mile or less. I've walked up one of the...

I'm 5'9", 150lbs, no particular budget. I don't want to spend more than I need just to be "showy", but I can spend any amount that will help the cause.

I'm in the USA, Lancaster County, PA. As said, I can keep most of my rides essentially flat or very gently rolling. However, there are a one or two serious uphill climbs in most directions. Thanks

I’m 74 years old, recovering from hip surgery. I have been an exercise “nut” all my life. In my 20’s and 30’s, I cycled actively for exercise. After I developed carpal tunnel issues from the dropped handlebars, I gradually changed to running for my main cardio exercise. I remained a...