Elderly and new to Electric-Bike's

[tomjasz]

I think our responses reflect our experience. I, alas, only have extensive experience with one brand. It's so great to have all of you who have so much more experience than I do. It's all a matter of finding a bike that fits the individual and their interests and needs.

And we all tend to reflect that in our responses. Something I’m trying to become more mindful of. When a customer calls we discuss lots of options and try to sort the needs. Which means I often send folks another direction.

 

[ebikemom]

So important! It's great to have folks like you here who know about so many options for potential ebikers.

 

[tomjasz]

So important! It's great to have folks like you here who know about so many options for potential ebikers.

If I were smart I’d be rich. Not so... I learn a lot here. Forum best! Moderator best! You care, it shows!

 

[Mr. Coffee]

I think our responses reflect our experience, and hopefully all have their value, when we understand that we each bring our own unique perspective that is going to be different from someone else's. I, alas, only have extensive experience with one brand. It's so great to have all of you who have so much more experience than I do. It's all a matter of finding a bike that fits the individual and their interests and needs. It's great to be able to help @Norwin navigate this new world. All I can do is share my own experience, and I hope that that small sharing that I can do is helpful in its own limited way.

@ebikemom, down the road you might want to take whatever opportunity you can to try out some other e-bikes. Not because you are doing anything wrong but because experiencing different perspectives never hurts anyone. I've put a lot of miles on both a Pedego Interceptor (hub drive), and a Riese & Muller Charger (mid-drive Bosch CX), and have shorter experiences with a Rad Rover, a Trek (Bosch HS), and a Sondors. Any of those except the Sondors I think are perfectly fine bikes.

What I've learned over two years is:

• Hub-drives are generally "zippier", and you generally don't have to work as hard to maintain a given speed on a hub drive.
• Mid-drives are generally more efficient, especially in hilly terrain. By "more efficient" I mean that you'll get more range for a given battery size.
• For a given power output and drivetrain configuration, mid-drives will generally climb steep hills better.
• Throttles are nice and it is easier to have a throttle on a hub drive bike.
• Mid-drives are tougher on the chain (and to a lesser extent the whole drivetrain), but if you properly maintain your chain and replace it at reasonable intervals you won't have problems.

In the future I'd like to try a Stromer and a mid-drive bike that doesn't use Bosch. Just to educate myself.

Again, there isn't really one best bike. I love the Charger and it is an excellent and most awesome adventure bike. I love Interceptor because it is zippy and a great bike for running errands.

 

[Feliz]

I agree, I've tried to accumulate bikes that are different and offer different riding experiences. I recently sold my Juiced CCS and now own a Haibike Trekking 9 with a Bosch mid drive, I have an Elby 9 speed.......that has a BionX D500 Direct Drive, I also have a Pedego Interceptor Platinum step through, a Voltbike Yukon 750, a Radpower RadRover, a Biktrix Juggernaught Classic with a Bafang BBSHD mid drive which runs like a locomotive, an eProdigy Magic Pro with their proprietary mid drive (powerful) with a Gates Carbon Belt and a Shimano Alfine 8 IGH. I also have some conventional bikes. And no I'm not wealthy, I rode, restored and raced motorcycles (and bikes) most of my life and I had accumulated quite a collection. When I turned 80 for safety sake I sold my motorcycles and started riding eBikes so I really just turned motorcycles into eBikes.

 

[ebikemom]

@ebikemom, down the road you might want to take whatever opportunity you can to try out some other e-bikes.

I was going to do that at our local Bike Show, but my son had other things in mind! I kind of hate to waste people's time since I know I'm not going to buy anything since we're all set. But it would be fun to try them. It's definitely on my recreational "to do" list!!

 

[Deleted member 803]

Brand is not important for you two young folks (at least from my perspective). My best advice:

a. easy to get on (step-through)
b. comfortable reach to handle bars
c. simple controls (a big display is not necessary)
d. purchased and serviced locally

Now for my parental advice (listen to your elders):

a. Always wear a helmet and gloves
b. Obey all traffic and road signals
c. Ride with lots of lights on even in the daytime
d. Wear reflective clothing
e. Wear an ID bracelet with your medical info (EpicID)

 

[6zfshdb]

Hello My New BEST friends,

I am at a loss as to what should be my budget for a introductory E-bike, however, as a preliminary guess I would think somewhere between fifteen hundred USD to twenty five hundred USD as I have to ALSO take into consideration the ADDITIONAL international transit of the bike from the USA or Canada or wherever that the bike shall be sourced to our little island - which is normally a further 7%...and, then the import duty which my government charges to import such items is another 22%.

The rule of thumb is another 30% ADD-ON COST for bike's. And, that makes purchasing a minimum of our two first bikes, a rather risky first, huh?

Of cousse, getting the Mrs. and I into a good bike is the goal.

Therefore, please continue to refine and forward your recommendations and advise. I certainly don't wish to save a few $$$ and then find what I have purchased was a totally bad decision.

And, to whomever suggested the rental idea of bike's to tourists. As well as, sales.

Indeed, a wonderful idea. I would think that there must be one of the e-bike companies who would see the opportunity and want to help in the cost of these multi-unit purchases...as no one in my modest sized island country has yet even seen an E-bike and where better to ride year round' than where there is ONLY year round sunshine. Huh?

Please, dear friends - keep the information coming as I am truly most grateful.

My respects,

Norwin

First of all, welcome to the forum! You've come to the right place to get your questions answered.

Shopping for your first ebike can indeed be a daunting task. There are many seniors in our ranks and you will get a lot of advice & personal opinions here. Normally, the best thing to do is to test ride as many bikes as you can. Unfortunately, this is likely not an option where you are. The next best approach to take some time, read as much as you can and see how the advice you get will fit your personal needs.

The first questions I would have were I in your place is, are there any government ebike regulations on your island? Are there likely to be any in the near future? Are licensing & insurance required? Does the population of you island have enough disposable income to be able to afford an expensive ebike? Is there enough tourism to support a rental business? Many countries use the class system which put limits on the type of ebikes that can be used in certain areas. To me, the answers to these questions would be the starting point in looking at a potential purchase and / or a possible rental - dealership.

My wife and I are seniors and among the happy Pedego owners here on the forum. We shopped for almost 2 years before deciding on the Pedego brand. Pedego is quite popular among seniors for it's world wide network of friendly knowledgeable dealers. Their outstanding customer service is second to none. Unfortunately, their pricing may be above what you are looking to spend.

My wife and I own three Pedego Interceptors. She is 5' 2" ,125# with a 27" inseam and has no trouble riding her 26" step thru model. With the seat height set properly, there is still 2" of seat post showing. From our experience, a Pedego with a 24" wheel size isn't necessary for someone 5' 3" unless they have very short legs.

You're sure to get many opinions here so take advantage of the experience others offer. Ask more specific questions as they arise and good luck with your search!

 

[Norwin]

Dear ALL,

I am, humbled and grateful for ALL of the replies I have received and read.
However, so much of what I read, I don't understand as this understanding will ONLY come after becoming knowledgeable with e-bike ownership. Indeed, I have no opportunity at this stage to even test a bike. I will have to purchase our two e-bike's sight unseen. Untested. And, without any prior hand-holding,whatsoever...other than what I am able to glean from those herein who have offered this elderly gentleman and Mrs. their expertise and experience.
Those of you who throw out technical terms, fly over my head. Sure, I can read and try to understand, but you have to respect, you have an e-bike, and you can relate to these terms relative to your experience and use of an ebike. Whereas, they're just words. And, only a few days, ago. Never previously read or heard.

Simply, I WISH to know specific brand names and design recommendations. And, If I have to stretch my budget, I'd rather stretch than purchase the wrong bike. As once they are here on-island. There is no sending the bike back. The import duty and handling will have been paid. It's in a word...my mistake.

Yes, many have glowed about Pedego. And, many have suggested I test ride same at my dealer. However, there is no Pedego dealer. This will be the first E-BIKE in this country. And, there are no rules. No regulations. No insurance issues. And, no one to put it together. Nor, to help teach on how to ride it. It is more like the voyage of Columbus, someone has to be 'first'. And, I am prepared for that task.

I just don't want to be going forward totally blind. And, why THIS FORUM is of such ENORMOUS value. And, I warmly applaud each of you. And, the administrator...for YOUR generous kindness.

If only I could understand why no one has recommended the Rav (if that is what it is called) as it seems value priced, big fat tires - and, if I purchase two at the same time, which I intend to do, they cut the price even further.

However, having had no recommendations, it seems out of the ball game. Unless, someone from Seattle says otherwise.

Yes, I beg of you to continue to narrow my selection, as this is a lot of money, a lot of effort, time and there will be no turning back once the dye is cast.

My continued respects, Norwin

 

[harryS]

Now that you are not going to open a bike business, at least for a while, where are the bikes going to be ridden? Are there quiet paved roads or are they unimproved gravel/dirt? Do you want to ride them near the salt water on packed sand?

What kind of biking would a person with a regular bicycle do on your island? If people know the type of riding, then a recomendation is easier.

 

[Norwin]

Now that you are not going to open a bike business, at least for a while, where are the bikes going to be ridden? Are there quiet paved roads or are they unimproved gravel/dirt? Do you want to ride them near the salt water on packed sand?

What kind of biking would a person with a regular bicycle do on your island? If people know the type of riding, then a recomendation is easier.

Mr. Harry,
I am sorry, I failed to indicate where the bikes are to be ridden. We have paved roads. Paved sidewalks. And, never on sand. Never near the salt water. And, as for the business opportunity. Indeed, there is a significant opportunity. However, I need know something about ebikes in order to even consider the business aspect.

And, I need own a bike to know something, right?

with my respect and friendship,

Norwin

 

[indianajo]

One can try out frames for fit among the various used pedal bikes around, then take a tape measure and see what dimensions were right for you & your wife. I find actual bike shops only carry frames that are too big for me, so I found my proper size among the kid bikes rejected at the charity resale shop. You will also find smaller frames among discount store stock, that are sold to children. Then you can order a bike over the internet with more confidence. Read one of the many FAQ's online about how to fit a bicycle. However kid bike rim brakes won't stop one effectively in the rain, and shimano kid bike shifters caused a 10 cm cyst above my r thumb joint. Disk brakes are state of the art, and I use a twist shifter now. The SRAM shifting mechanism on the yubabike left is more precise than the cheap shimanos on kid bikes.
I bought the bike left sight unseen, the nearest dealer was 1500 miles away. but it fits me. Then I electrified it, which is how I know so much about hub motors. Wheels can be bought with a motor in them, and a tire already installed, so conversion is a couple of afternoons. What I couldn't try locally was the stretch frame, which puts my weight on the front tire to balance the groceries etc I carry in the bags on the back. My 4 previous bikes all dumped me onto my chin at some point, the last one breaking it. MTB's and cruisers both. This bike hasn't done that yet in 13 months.
The wide tire bikes are superior for sand and snow, but a PIT* to change the tires on the road, people report. I can change a 26"x2" tube in about 30 minutes, anywhere. Wide tires run the costs up, and the 3rd electric bike I saw in my county, the owner stopped me and asked me to look for his stolen wide tire bike. They are desirable now.
As far as the government questions about the business, some of us have read Herman Wouk's Don't Stop the Carnival about business in the Carribbean. All it takes is one government functionary to decide that your electric bicycles are motorcycles requiring driver's license, liability insurance, license plate, and helmet, to kill your business. Furthermore any policeman could decide if he finds you riding on the sidewalk, to confiscate your bikes. At our age, I woudn't take the risk.
I think it would be worth the fare to ride a boat to a bigger island, and try out some electric bikes. I liked my bike left without electricity. The kit I installed was $190 for the motor wheel & controller, $630 for the battery with warm weather range of 80 miles. So I wasn't out a ton of money if I didn't like it. I may still trash the DD (direct drive) 1000w motor and buy a geared hub drive wheel for better speed when pedaling without power. Another $350 possibly. Integrated bikes look better, which only increases theft risk, IMHO. Also integrated bikes have a specially built battery. In 3 to 5 years, that battery may have to be replaced for almost the cost of a new bike. My generic battery, on the front of the picture left, can be replaced by nearly any other 48 v LiIon or LiFePO4 battery. The custom mount was built by me out of aluminum angle from the home store.

 

[Bruce Arnold]

I often suggest to people that they start by looking for an ebike that looks good to them. If you're going to be seen on one, you want it to have a style you like, right? This helps to narrow your search down considerably.

Then you can start educating yourself on the various specs. I think you can tell a there's a lot of willing help with that kind of thing here on the EBR forum, when you can be more specific.

 

[tomjasz]

I often suggest to people that they start by looking for an ebike that looks good to them. If you're going to be seen on one, you want it to have a style you like, right? This helps to narrow your search down considerably.

Then you can start educating yourself on the various specs. I think you can tell a there's a lot of willing help with that kind of thing here on the EBR forum, when you can be more specific.

And then wear that awful, lack of any style, battery powered yellow vest. <not a word of truth>
as I’m nearly 70, style is last. Comport and sustainability is first. Fit is first. Bring able to efficiently pedal in best form, is real style for a lifelong rider.

 

[tomjasz]

Is your location a secret? Some of us are well traveled and haven lived out of country. It might help in making recommendations to know where you are. I’ve a couple of options in mind, (not trying to or selling anything for profit) but could do bmetter with more than your basic description.

All the best,

T

 

[tomjasz]

ADDITIONAL international transit of the bike from the USA or Canada

Sort, with help, the better China direct sources. No reason to pay a reseller for a product purchased direct. Your Island country may be kinder on duty charges from China. And of course currency exchange can play a part. With a trusted seller moneys can be safely reasonably done by an international bank exchange. More options...

Do you have a local bike shop, or good bike repair spot?

Having lived on an island where everything was inflated, and having used more than a dozen motors and kits, I’d opt for a well supported brand of motor, controller, and display. A bike with common enough parts that even a slow boat to the island would still at least be available.

Which countries is your island nation most amenable with?

PS. Insanely jealous that I couldn’t retire to any number of islands!

 

[Deleted member 803]

OK, specific recommendation. The Elby is easy to mount, has adjustable handlebars, has a bullet proof motor, and is one of the best built bikes in the market. They should be able to ship to you. They have a program for direct purchasers where the bike is fully assembled and then boxed. Take a look at their website and give them a call.

And I sold a lot of them to folks in their late 70's.

 

[tomjasz]

OK, specific recommendation. The Elby is easy to mount, has adjustable handlebars, has a bullet proof motor, and is one of the best built bikes in the market. They should be able to ship to you. They have a program for direct purchasers where the bike is fully assembled and then boxed. Take a look at their website and give them a call.

And I sold a lot of them to folks in their late 70's.

Now that BionX is defunct, what motor? And wouldn’t you think it somewhat difficult to support and repair with proprietary systems? Pretty cool looking bike....

 

[Feliz]

OK, specific recommendation. The Elby is easy to mount, has adjustable handlebars, has a bullet proof motor, and is one of the best built bikes in the market. They should be able to ship to you. They have a program for direct purchasers where the bike is fully assembled and then boxed. Take a look at their website and give them a call.

And I sold a lot of them to folks in their late 70's.

The Elby is a great bike I know I have one. Everything on the bike is quality. Elby bikes are still available but I'm not sure if that will continue. I have a bulletin that was circulated after the restructuring and BionX motors and parts are and will be produced......THE ARE NOT DEFUNCT. I bought my Elby at a bargain price and I keep forgetting to grab another one, this is a good reminder. There's hundreds if not thousands of BionX kits sitting on dealers shelves so even without further production parts would be available.
I know of four kits within a half hour drive of my home. The D500 motor is bullet proof in any case. All the dealers have the bulletin if you're curious.

 

[Norwin]

OK, specific recommendation. The Elby is easy to mount, has adjustable handlebars, has a bullet proof motor, and is one of the best built bikes in the market. They should be able to ship to you. They have a program for direct purchasers where the bike is fully assembled and then boxed. Take a look at their website and give them a call.

And I sold a lot of them to folks in their late 70's.

Good morning, Feliz -


Many thanks for your concise and direct response to my seeking to find an e-Bike for myself and my Mrs.

Indeed, I have now looked up the Elby on their website as you suggested - it is beautiful, elegant, and a stunning creative design. The words expressed on their website has also encouraged my writing to the Elby company inquiring of availability and of their hopeful response to my inquirey.

Yes, your reply is exactly of the type of reply I am seeing, as well as, my knowing it is sent to me by someone who understood the risk and worry I have in making this purchase - sight unseen, untested and with no prior knowledge of E-bikes.

Bless' for the courteous of your reply,

Norwin