By michael - February, 5th 2014

Cycling is the new driving. Bike commuting, cycle-share programs, and expanding bike-lane networks top most big-city traffic agendas. But while attitudes toward cycling are changing, so are bikes themselves. Electronic bicycles—also known as e-bikes—have hit the scene and are making a major impression. While they look like normal two-wheelers, they have a built-in electric motor for propulsion; some kick in with pedaling and others have engines where you can thumb the throttle. So, you ask, if the bike is doing the work, where’s the exercise? Well, the trick to making your e-bike a fitness tool is to use the motor just enough to keep going. Cycle until you’re either wiped out or you hit a steep hill, and then rev the engine for that extra oomph.

After a month together, Susan Clark and her borrowed electric bike part company but is she hooked and will she spend £1,000 plus to make their relationship a permanent one?

To buy … or not to buy?

For most of us, the answer or the beginning of the reasoning that will take us to a final answer will usually start with cost. And electric bikes, for all the refinements that have taken place over the last decade or so in terms of weight, powering mechanisms and speeds, still do not come cheap.

The Compy model (see here) I have borrowed – originally just for June but extended to the end of July after I had a non-bike related accident that meant I could not cycle for several weeks – retails at £1,150 which is significantly cheaper than many of the better known brands. This bike is imported from China. I can't speak for those other …

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