Electic Bikes: A Fabulous Fad

The buzz on electric bikes

by Chad Denning

Have you heard about the new electric bikes? Stop by Village Sports in New London or Golf & Ski Warehouse in West Lebanon and check them out!

John Kiernan, owner of Village Sports, carries the Torker brand bike in his shop. The bike is extremely easy to operate, surprisingly light, and zooms up to a comfortable 18 mph. So who’s buying this bike? “The customer base seems quite broad,” John says. “We sell electric bikes to people in their twenties and to those in their eighties. The largest customer group is active middle-aged folks.”

Reasons for purchasing electric bikes are as varied as the people who by them, according to John. “I think the main reasons to consider buying one are for a unique riding experience, to get motivated to bike more, staying fit, saving money, and the satisfaction of making a forward-thinking purchase.”

The electric bike is similar to other bikes with pedals, wheels, and a drive train, but it also has an electric-assist motor in the front hub, complete with a lithium ion battery for power. The typical bike carries a charge for two continuous hours or up to 40 miles and can be recharged in four to five hours on a normal 120v outlet. There are many different types of electric bikes on the market today, differentiated by design, weight, and purpose. Prices range from $1,000 to $2,200.

Golf & Ski Warehouse in West Lebanon carries electric bikes and features the Hebb product line. Store manager Nick Matulonis says, “These bikes are a great way to commute in this age of going green. People are saving gas, saving money, and having lots of fun.” Chris, a sales associate, agrees, “The electric bike is an experience you will never forget!”