PEDALLING OVER PT: HOW E-BIKING CAN PREVENT THE SPREAD OF CORONAVIRUS

• Posted on 25 June 2021
• By Coralie
• Posted in Commuter bike
• 0

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, an increasing number of people are opting to cycle rather than drive or commute on public transport. At Velo Cycles, we’ve seen an influx of people prepping their bike for daily use, many saying that they haven’t ridden their bike in a number of years. Our bike monitor readings are through the roof: this week, 6000 more riders went past on the Capital City Trail

Since the outbreak of COVID-19, an increasing number of people are opting to cycle rather than drive or commute on public transport. 

At Velo Cycles, we’ve seen an influx of people prepping their bike for daily use, many saying that they haven’t ridden their bike in a number of years. Our bike monitor readings are through the roof: this week, 6000 more riders went past on the Capital City Trail compared to the same period last year. 

It’s not just Melbournians hopping back on their bikes. The New York Times recently reported a 52% increase from last year in the number of cyclists commuting across the East River bridges. The surge in cycling correlates to a drop in subway commuters. 

Bike riding is “perfect social distancing”: one of the only transportation options that allows you to get from A to B whilst keeping a safe distance from others. 

While some people might find it easy to make the switch from PT to pedaling, others may find the transition daunting. That’s where e-bikes come in. 

With added electrical motor assistance and large weight carrying capacities, regular riding and longer distances become light work. E-bikes are suitable for all riders, from seasoned cyclists to people with physical or cardiac impairments. 

During pandemic panic, an e-bike might be your ultimate transport solution.

In the last 20 years, the popularity of e-bikes has skyrocketed. Most large bike companies offer an electric range, and even some car companies have an e-bike alternative. With a huge range of models available, there’s an e-bike to suit almost all urban commuting and lifestyle needs. 

If you usually share your car with others, you’ll reduce the risk of spreading germs by e-biking solo. Plus, by choosing to e-bike, you’ll reduce harmful carbon emissions and traffic congestion.

For the sake of your health, the benefits of e-biking are numerous. 

Studies have shown that after buying an e-bike, people ride more frequently. Regular bike riding strengthens your immune system and increases fitness levels, helping you fend off nasty viruses. In 2018, a study found that 125 amateur cyclists aged 55 to 79 still had the immune systems of young people.  

If you’re social distancing, your exercise options might be compromised. Luckily, e-biking lets you get a workout while staying away from contaminated gym equipment or busy public spaces. A research group discovered that when 20 previously non-exercising people rode an e-bike for 40 minutes three times a week, their cardiovascular fitness and blood sugar levels improved within one month. 

Owning an e-bike not only increases your physical health, but can improve your mental health during times of stress. If you’ve ever ridden an electric bike, you’ll be familiar with the rush of happy chemicals it produces, that great feeling when you glide along the road or track with ease. 

Dr Rial, a cyclist and GP, says that

‘Being isolated is never good for anyone’s mental health, and cycling is well known to improve this and reduce the risk of depression. I see cycling as a good form of mindfulness, as when I’m out on the bike I’m in the moment, enjoying the scenery and not distracted by other things.’

During the outbreak of coronavirus, safety is more important than ever. If you’re feeling sick, don’t ride, and try to avoid riding in groups. We’d recommend sanitising your bike after you ride, as well as proper handwashing. 

As the number of cyclists on roads and bike trails sets to increase, make sure to be extra vigilant, and check that your tires, brakes and gears are in peak condition. For e-bikes, ensure that your batteries are charged before your journey.  If you haven’t ridden for a while, we recommend booking a service with your local bike shop. At Velo Electric, we’ve got a range of service packages that are specifically designed to keep your e-bike in perfect condition. We also offer servicing on all regular bikes. 

At Velo Electric, we’re committed to the health and safety of both you and your bike. Our mechanics all wear gloves and sanitise bikes and workspaces between each service, and our staff use sanitiser before touching products and interacting with customers. 

If you buy your e-bike from us, you’ll receive FREE membership to Velo Love Club (valued over $500) that includes 1hr FREE mechanic servicing for the lifetime of your bike. Other benefits include free access to loan e-bikes, priority servicing and customer only discounts. 

OUR RECOMMENDATION: E-CITY BIKES

Looking for the perfect e-bike but feeling daunted by the range on offer? For first-timers and experienced riders alike, we recommend e-city bikes. 

E-city bikes are our most popular style of e-bike, perfect for anyone who wants to achieve everyday commuting and errands without breaking a sweat. Suited to all rider abilities, e-city bikes feature comfortable step-thru or top tube frames, integrated lighting, rear cargo racks and up to 160kg weight carrying capacity. Here are our top picks: