Staff of Toole Design Group’s Washington, DC office spent time last month learning about, and riding, electric-assist bicycles at The Green Commuter Bicycle Shop in Takoma Park, MD. Shop staff explained the different parts of an electric-assist bicycle and how they are operated. Co-owner Eric Reyes noted that the largest demographic buying electric assist bicycles in the shop has been mothers with young children.
After learning about the electric-assist bicycles, Toole Design staff had the opportunity to go outside and ride some around the neighborhood. For many, the experience was their first with an electric-assist bicycle. When riding, the electric motor subtly supplements your pedaling power up to a maximum of 20 miles per hour, seamlessly accelerating and decelerating as you change your pedal cadence. In this regard, the electric-assist felt more like a boost of energy, rather than an overpowering force. The motor made steep hills a breeze, and would be particularly beneficial for those interested in bicycle commuting but deterred by unfriendly topography.
Indeed, electric-assist bicycles will be an important tool to “assist” in getting more people utility bicycling in the years ahead. Thank you to The Green Commuter for your hospitality and knowledge!
