Archive for May, 2008

Is an Electric Bicycle Worth Buying?

If you are a keen cyclist, you’ll know how tough it can be sometimes when things aren’t going your way. You might get caught out in a rainstorm, for example – never much fun even if you have a full set of waterproofs on. Or you might find yourself faced with a long uphill struggle, on a day where you just don’t seem to have the energy to cope with it.

It is days like these that might persuade you to buy an electric bicycle. They aren’t a very common sight on today’s roads, but more and more people are discovering that they can be worth the money.

Here are some things to bear in mind if you are thinking about taking the plunge and buying an electric bicycle.

Is The Price Right?

Compared to a decent, good quality regular bike, an electric bicycle actually won’t set you back a lot more, and the price is bound to come down the more popular they become.

But if you are in the market for a new bike and you just want to get a relatively cheap model, then an electric one probably isn’t for you – especially if you aren’t intending on using it that much.

A More Versatile Choice

If you cycle regularly and live in a hilly area you might find it worthwhile to invest in an electric bicycle. The beauty of it is that you can use it as a regular bike if you wish, and then turn on the juice to get you up those dreaded hills. In this sense you might find you get out and about and cycle more often than you would if you spent less on a normal bicycle.

It’s a big decision, and it’s worth spending some time deciding which investment will pay you back the best in the long run.

A Greener Alternative To The Car

If you are looking to give up the car journeys to and from work in favor of a healthier alternative, you can do yourself and the environment a favor by purchasing an electric bicycle.

Electric bikes are very environmentally friendly, and if you aren’t used to cycling they will break you in far more gently than if you were to buy a regular bike. If the hill or slope is too steep for you to manage, then simply let the bike do all the work.

In short, an electric bicycle could actually make you fitter, more health conscious and kinder to the world around you than you might at first think.

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May 15 2008 | bikes | No Comments »

Taking Part in Cycling Tours

Cycling tours can be so much fun especially for those who love to bike. Depending on what kind of bicycle you have, you can either have a tour focused on smooth roads or a tour that can go off road at times. Most cycling tours take several days to complete depending on the participants in the tour. You will need to be able to know the basics of riding a bike when you go on cycling tours since most bikes have gears which you will shift according to the road you are on and the speed your group is travelling.

Kinds Of Cycling Tours

Cycling tours can last for several days while others or just a day or two. The tours that take several days to complete are usually reserved for those who have already gone on a bike tour and know what to expect. Beginners usually feel out a tour by going on one day tours. This is not a rule so if you wish to go on a longer tour, then there is nothing to stop you.

Some cycling tours also feature camping while others have accommodations at inns and motels. These are good for those who would like to have a comfortable bed to rest on at the end of the ride. There are some inns and motels that are biker friendly especially in states where cycling is customary.

Cycling tours operators may also have an agreement with some inns regarding discounts and bike storage. The cycling tours that include camping usually need special permission especially if you plan to camp out in National Forest reserves and other government land. It is better to let the local authorities know regarding the movement of your group in case of emergency.

Other advantages of contacting an outfit that hosts cycling tours instead of going out on your own are the route maps and tips that the guides can offer you. There are many routes and trails where some bikes are not allowed to pass through. This is especially true in some mountains where the trails need to be preserved for walking or other activities. Some trails may also be closed due to the wildlife and seasonal changes.

Going on cycling tours can build a strong bond among friends and family. It is also a great way to spend part of one’s spring break or summer vacation. Before going on any cycling tour, it is best to scout around for ideal locations that are biker friendly.

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May 12 2008 | cycling | No Comments »

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