Pedego Trail Tracker—Pumped-up Fat Bike Fun

Pedego Trail Tracker—Pumped-up Fat Bike Fun.

Big and powerful, this E-bike has the word fun written all over it.

Wow—Look at those tires—Where can I get one?—So much power—It might as well be a motorcycle—This is great—Hey daddy, look at that—I want one—This is awesome—Does it recharge when you pedal?—Why?—Can I jump some curbs?—You mean I can ride it?—Big—One more time around the block?—Why the big tires?—That’s just plain crazy—Who would want this?—Who wouldn’t want this?—I need this bike.

In addition to tons of neck snapping looks and pointed fingers, these are just some of the multitude of comments made by onlookers and riders of this ‘roll over anything’ bike during my time with it.   And if you think these came from just the boys and men around town you would be way wrong.   In a world where size matters, this cool E-bike speaks to people in many different ways.

Just playing around.

Some will be riding a Trail Tracker just for the looks it gathers.   Of all the bikes I ride on a daily basis, this one gets more notice then all of them put-together.   If getting seen on your bike matters, then there is no better mount for you.   It is as much at home on the street as it is on its intended surfaces, sand, snow and gravel.   For me the ride is more important than the look, so let’s dive into what make this Pedego Trail Tracker different.

 
Yes, this is a big bike.   Still my wife has ridden it to work (and on group rides) on more than a few occasions.   Swinging a leg over the frame isn’t as easy as some, but once on the saddle, she powers up and hits the road.   The combination of a 48 volt power system and a 600 watt rear hub geared motor really make you feel invincible as the hills and head winds try to slow your progress.   And those big tires make easy work of the rough and soft roads ahead.

600 watts—single-speed—and disc brakes.
Simple fun and excitement starts here.

Just by looking at the Trail Tracker you can see what you’re in for during a ride.   Without even a test ride your mind can envision the kind of fun it can wheel you into.   Those 4 inch wide tires float over the kind of terrain that most bikes wouldn’t even begin to make it through.   The beefy frame and pieces are barely taxed with the abuse it begs for.   The simplicity of this E-bike is one of the key factors in your experience.   Two brake levers, a hand throttle and a set of handlebars is all you see and feel as the sand flows under your feet.

I’ve been riding this bike for over 2 months now and each time I start to ride the excitement ramps-up like a brand-new thrill.   Most of the time it is an around town cruise, but then again I have really pushed it to its limits on so many occasions.   On any given bike ride you normally take the smoothest path, on a Trail Tracker you seek out the bumps, rocks and berms to see what you’re made of.   This is a trail bike not a mountain bike, yet some jumping and the such just comes naturally.

The single speed drivetrain sports a rust proof chain and a bevy of sealed bearings all around.   It is said you can forge deep water and mud, hose the bike down after and it will shake it off with a smile.   I do think being a little careful of the electronics with the water is a good idea, but then this bike and the word careful are not really on the same page.   I do have to admit that mud puddles are about the only thing I avoided during the crazy rides it took me on.

Here you can see the up-grade to a triple ring front gear set. The great crew over at Pedego Huntington Beach has mastered this arrangement

The Pedego shop in Huntington Beach has been doing some cool up-grades that might interest you.   They are swapping out the solid front fork with a suspension model and a lighter, narrower front rim and tire.   Plus a three-ring front gear adds some pedaling ease too.   I’ve ridden the up-graded bike and can say it makes it much more versatile and fun with these two additions.   The steering is lighter and the hill-climbing is more spirited.   The lighter front end makes it easier to power over bigger obstacles and do some wheelies too.

Riding with the single-speed isn’t too bad, but having the three is better.   With the stock set-up you are depending on the motor’s power quite a bit.   Taking off from a stop a bit of juice helps you get going.   In heavy sand you also need the grunt of the motor at the lower speeds.   At full song (which is a good 20 mph I figure), I keep my feet moving (just because) but they are no longer helping to move the bike.   At an easy cruise, the motor and my pedaling find a good match and the ride is easy.   The spider tires do play a song from slapping the pavement that out sounds the silent and smooth nature of this monster E-bike

Great lines and big excitement are yours when you climb aboard.

For now the Pedego Trail Tracker comes in 4 different color combos, and soon they will add a camouflaged bike to that line-up.   I am totally in love with the shade of this red one I’ve been riding, and the chance to custom paint your own version is a given.   With an E-bike this special, a special finish to match your needs could really make sense.   Me, I am happy to take this fully stock E-bike on rides to anywhere it guides me.   As a side note, Pedego Trail Trackers come with the loudest, best sounding bike bell around.

 
I do sometimes pop on my BikeSmart pannier, and always have a set of blinking lights front and rear.   That and I have my cool bright red aluminum bike key chain hooked to the battery locking key.   Other than those, the way it comes from the factory has been perfect for me.   Every now and then I wipe it down to clean it up and make it shine, other than that it just keeps rolling.

 
I have played with the tire pressure to see how it affects the traction and ride.   Leaving them about 18 lbs seems to work fine.   You can go down to 5 or 10 for the sand, but that does make the steering much heavier.   It smoothes out the ride at the lower pressure, yet around 18 works good on the sand and road with a ride that is a little firm, but more than acceptable.

With an up-graded front end and gears, the Trail Tracker becomes even better.

Well I haven’t gone much into the details and specs, but you can find all that on Pedego’s website.   This bike won’t appeal to everyone that is for sure, but if just the photos speak to you, than a full test ride is called for to see if you are the Trail Tracker kind of person who wants to ride over everything you used to go around.   If you do get one, make sure to let someone ride it now and then while you follow behind by about 30 feet.   It is in this manner that you will really experience the kind on neck snapping attention a E-bike like this generates.

Got sand?   Turbo Bob.

“Shred lightly.”—Scot Nicol.

Pedego on the web and Facebook

http://www.pedegoelectricbikes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/PedegoElectricBikes?fref=ts

Pedego Huntington Beach

https://www.facebook.com/pedegohb?fref=ts

One on the several Trail Tracker videos I’ve posted on my You-Tube channel.   Search around for the other ones.   There are many.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qXMsjTZULPU

A2B Los Angeles Re-launch of Products—2013

A2B Los Angeles Re-launch of Products—2013.

Zipping along the pier in Sana Monica, the Shima and Alva make a cute couple.

Part of the fun involved with my writings and videos are the invites to special events in the bike world.   This time it was to view and ride the brand-new offerings from A2B.   This company has been mostly known for their Metro E-bike that has gone mainstream in many ways.   My first look at this particular bike was a bit with Jay Leno showing-off his A2B Metro in a much seen video.   A2B and Fast4ward E-bikes were coming out of the Ultra Motor camp at that time.

In 2011 HERO Eco moved to purchase Ultra Motor and by the next year it was their baby.   With new money and enthusiasm infused into the picture, HERO Eco has really made the move to bring their products fresh looks and performance.   To introduce the new bikes, they orchestrated a series of world-wide re-launch events that have reached from London and Munich, to New York, San Francisco and last week Los Angeles.   I was able to attend both days of the LA re-launch excitement.   The first day they set-up at the end of the Santa Monica Pier with day two being hosted by and at Electric Bikes LA in El Segundo.

Looking sharp sitting in front of Electric Bikes LA, there is more than just a cool color that defines a nice E-bike.

I got a full inside feel for their new mission statement, the perceived reasons potential customers will embrace these new E-bikes and a chance to ride every bike at the event as much as my heart desired.   I met several of the high-rollers behind these bikes and the company.   I hob-knobbed with established dealers for the A2B line and some with hopes to bring them onto their sales floors.   I also got some insight to the new names emblazoned on each E-bike.   See if you can figure out how these names came about.

Part of the new features they introduced revolve around torque sensor based control systems on some of the bikes.   Something I call intelligent control, it is one of the best and most modern ways for an E-bike to know when and how to power up the motor.   The bike can tell through a dropout mounted load sensor just how hard you are pushing on the pedals.   It translates this information to a mini computer and user operated sensitivity controls to allow the bike’s power to feel seamless and smooth as you ride.

Octave

Originally the Metro, the new Octave has more going for it than just some new graphics and a name.   This full-suspension powerful E-bike has been their flagship and that is one thing that hasn’t changed.   This is a fairly large and heavy E-bike, and has the option of adding a second battery on the rear rack to double its range for some really long rides.   It is a throttle only controlled E-bike, but a novelty European version will be offered that sports hydraulic brakes and a crank sensed pedelec control system.   I am not sure if that version will come to the states, but I would think there are many that will desire it.

Shima

The Shima and both Alvas share this new well designed display unit.

This is their new bike that will draw the most excitement from performance E-bike enthusiasts.   Like the new Alva and Alva+, it is based on the Velociti, yet has some new lines and refinements from the old model.   Touted to do 28-30 mph with its new torque sensor based control system, it has no hand throttle to operate.   By using only the knowledge of how hard you are pedaling, the Shima can really move out, and still stays within California and Federal guidelines for E-bikes.

It shares a great new display / control panel with the two Alva models.   It is easy to operate and make changes to the modes with a single dual function knob.   I found it to be intuitive and sleek.   The components on this bike are high-end to match the kind of riding and riders it is designed for.   A very long range is predicted, and I wouldn’t be surprised, as torque sensor controlled E-bikes are quite efficient with the use of the battery’s stored energy.

Alva+

Like the Alva and the Shima, this model has a couple cool features I haven’t seen on other E-bikes.   One is the electronic key that turns on the bike’s system with a quick wave over the display unit.   The battery connector from the bike has a strong magnet that holds and connects it to the battery with no effort needed.   Like the Shima it has brakes that are hydraulically controlled for smooth and powerful stops.   New colors are offered on this and some of the other A2B E-bikes.

The Shima had many riders take the helm over the two-day event.

The front and rear lighting package works well.   I got a chance to ride the this and the Octave at night, and even though it (on the Octave) is not the same set-up as the two Alvas and the Shima, all had the juice to light-up the road for some fun sun down riding.   Dual control is my preferred control system and it allows you to add power from the throttle when you feel like you need more than the pedelec feature offers at any given point of your ride, and the Alva+ has this feature.

Alva

This bike is more like the old Velociti than the Shima and Alva+.   It is throttle only and many seem to like this type of control system.   It does have some up-dates from the old model including refinements, graphics and colors.   The one I rode was in a great shade of red and garnered many compliments as I rode the streets of LA during the re-launch event.   Like the other bikes from A2B mentioned here you can get much more info on the specs and up-dates by going on the HERO Eco website.

Kuo

This folding E-bike from A2B is not changed too much from the previous bike, called the Edge.   It rides nicely but does have some flex in the chassis and handlebars.   This is no surprise and not unlike most folding E-bikes.   The available top speed under power is less than their other E-bikes, partially because it uses a 24 volt power system and also because it is more of a kick-around fun bike as opposed to their full-sized bikes.   But make no mistake, you can ride this as long and hard as you like.

F4W Peak and Ride

I rode them all with fun and gusto.

I got a chance to experience a prototype Ride earlier in the year.   You may have seen the write-up and video I posted about that day.   These are E-bikes designed for riders who are a little more cost conscience, yet still have good power and dependability.   I like the sleeker bike looks and lighter weight this type of E-bike has.   So as you check out all the HERO Eco E-bikes, don’t discount these two bikes for a great way to have some fun while you get around in the most green way possible.

Conclusion

All the bikes I rode are prototypes, but the production models aren’t far behind.   I was able to give my personal input right to the source on what I liked and didn’t like about these bikes.   With all that I do with the reporting and the such, I do feel that my feed-back to the E-bike makers is my most important contribution to you, and the E-bike designers and builders.   It does seem that HERO Eco has a good handle on making things just right.   Down the road I will get more time on the production bikes and I will be sure to speak out about that experience.

Did you figure out where the new names came from?   Turbo Bob.

“My idea of a good mountain bike ride is one in which speed, time and distance are forgotten.   It’s supposed to be a renewing experience—one that takes you, not one that pulls you back and reminds you.”—Gary Wockner, Gold Hill and Back.

HERO Eco on the web and Facebook

http://www.wearea2b.com/us/

https://www.facebook.com/A2Bbikes?ref=ts&fref=ts

I posted several videos about the event and bikes—start here and scroll around my channel to find them all.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HistJQeXjVs

eFlow E3 Nitro—The Future is Here

eFlow E3 Nitro—The Future is Here.

Sleek looks and great performance come your way with a eFlow E3 Nitro.

I started riding this cool and futuristic E-bike the same day it was introduced to the nation’s sales floors.   I got a chance to ride it for a couple months to make sure I understood and experienced everything it could offer me (and you).   With so many advanced features and great pieces, I found that it really is the bike many have been waiting for.   Let’s see if I can sum them all up in this short article.

Of course as an E-bike you expect solid power and quiet operation.   These you get to add to the awesome feel of the torque sensor based intelligent assist of the E3 Nitro.   The levels of assist / sensitivity are controlled from the multi-function display panel and come to you in a seamless and safe way.   Some other E-bikes I’ve ridden with this kind of control system are programmed in a way I feel can hinder your riding and bring forth hidden risks, yet eFlow hit the mark with the perfect blend of operational features.

The display unit is easy to read and works great.

If you’ve never tried a intelligent-assist E-bike that was tuned for your riding needs, then the first ride aboard the Nitro will be eye-opening.   The smooth power comes to your trek with no thought or effort to you.   As you pedal the bike, the power is melted into your ride with a great feel like no other.   The many functions of the system allow you to ride un-power assisted, using the throttle for assist at any time, or in the auto-assist mode for a very efficient, long ride under power.

The large lithium battery is the seat post, located in a position that centers with your own body weight and balance.   It can be recharged on or off the bike, which also allows the ability to secure the battery away from the bike when parked.   Its large capacity (36 volt, 10.7 Ah) battery makes for some spirited and lengthy rides.   The large frame bike I tested can use an optional 17 Ah battery that is on the books for even longer journeys between recharges.

The looks of the eFlow are very unique.   With a sleek appearance and nice pieces in every corner, you are viewing some very modern bike advances.   The bump absorbing uni-shock in the front fork really packs a punch with each turn of the wheels.   It has an easy to adjust pre-load and feels rock solid, even though the travel is minimal.   I would think it also shaves some weight from the bike compared to the normal front suspensions you see nowadays.

The shock and the front brake are up to the tasks at hand.

The hydraulic disc brakes work so good.   They are not touchy and give much power to the stopping ability of the E3 Nitro.   Most of the time when I ride E-bikes the strength of the brakes are not an issue that concerns me, but with the sporty way the eFlow begs to be ridden, I was glad they were there.   They modulate very nicely, with no grabbyness or other bad traits.

Speaking of the sporty way this bike rides, the handling is just another one of the thrills it deals out.   The stiffness and geometry of the frame and fork are well suited for the kind of moves you can make on the Nitro.   Whether you are just in cruise mode or on an all out tear, it never seems to feel out of line.   The cockpit is a little more geared for the serious rider than I like, but on the whole, it was never something that bothered me.

The display / control panel has large digits for the speedometer part.   It is fairly easy to run though all the modes and functions.   It has all the same bits as most bike computers and even has indicators to tell when the battery power is being used or regenerated.   I was also so glad to see it has a clock, as many of the E-bikes I test leave this mode out of the picture.

The Nitro does offer battery power regeneration when slowing or descending.   Much has been said (pro and con) about the regen feature on E-bikes.   On other brands you can feel the drag brake effect during regeneration, but not on this eFlow.   The amount of power it makes during this mode is limited to keep the battery and control system safe from excesses that could cause problems.   I figure as long as it doesn’t cause issues, it is nice to have but not fully necessary.

The load sensor is located in the dropout and runs the awesome control system in the E3 Nitro.

Riding the eFlow E3 Nitro has been a thrill.   The smart use of the assist makes for a natural feel that is hard to duplicate on other E-bikes.   Hard to explain, but easy to enjoy, intelligent pedelec is the future for E-bikes.   The extra components and internal complexity add to the price as much as it adds to the ride.   A simple throttle controlled E-bike is okay, but for a real purist, this sensor activated assist just makes sense.

Of course on a bike like this you get much more that a cool control system for the extra dollars.   You get high-end handling, a quality easy to use drivetrain and other pieces that make it worth the extra outlay.   I can’t say personally that I would go the extreme of making this bike my own, but many have already and they are deriving the benefits it offers.   And everyone knows that if you use your E-bike on a regular basis it will pay for itself many times over, so the extra expense is not that big of a deal.

Good times and solid performance are the name of the game with this high-end E-bike.

My future may hold a modern E-bike such as this, so getting a chance to wring it out so heavily was very fun and interesting.   Time will tell if every E-bike on the market comes so well equipped and with this awesome intelligent control system.   For now if all these attributes are in your immediate future, then the eFlow E3 Nitro should be on your list for some test hops.   They are on the sales floors of many shops so finding one to ride shouldn’t be too hard.

Flow to the future with an eFlow?   I can envision it, Turbo Bob.

‘I ride my bicycle to ride my bicycle.”—Zen proverb.

Offered by Currie Technologies, here are links to their web and FB sites

http://www.currietech.com/

https://www.facebook.com/currietech?fref=ts

And on the west coast, the IZIP Store

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Izip-Store/138640456164010?fref=ts

East coaster can find these at NYCeWheels

http://www.nycewheels.com/

https://www.facebook.com/NYCeWheels?fref=ts

I posted two videos with the eFlow E3 Nitro

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j50Qw2LGOBo

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5HgBQ4xS630

CicloSDias—Coming this August

CicloSDias—Coming this August.

As part of the group at CicLAvia 2102, we had great fun.

The excitement is brewing here in San Diego as our own version of Ciclovia is coming this year.   This car-free (aka open streets) event started in the 70’s in Bogota, Colombia and has spread to many countries and cities as the years have passed.   With the idea of opening streets for safer cycling, walking and skating, our town has been pushing for our own going on four years.

With the help of many local cycling advocates, our new mayor and the bike friendly city council members, the date August 11^th, 2013 is on the calendar for our first CicloSDias.   It will span an area from near downtown, past Balboa Park, through South and North Park into the community of City Heights.   There will even be a few mini-CicloSDias to prep the people around our area for the big day.   Check the links below for the website and Facebook pages.

Last year at CicLAvia, Barbara rode the E-Brompton and I was on my vintage Oxhead with a Ridekick E-trailer to help.

Although still in the planning stages, you can expect plenty of great food, live music, DJs, bike and crafts oriented booths along the route.   They will start this event on a smaller scale and as the interest and participation builds thorough the years, it will get bigger and bigger.   The San Diego cycling community is quite large so I see no problem with CicloSDias becoming a major draw before long.

 
My wife and I have ridden in three of the six CicLAvia days put on by the city of Los Angeles.   I can say from experience what a fun and thrilling way it is to spend a Southern California day.   The smiles and fun are so obvious with each block ridden.   We just went to the Spring CicLAvia and it was better attended that any in their short history of hosting this event.   With a group of 100,000 people on hand for each one, this day was said to have at least 150,000, and I read that possibly the amount was double that.

I turned around at one of the stops for this shot last year.

With so many willing to come to ride, walk and skate, it is no wonder that these types of days are becoming more popular.   At each CicLAvia we have gone to, the amount of kids on their own bikes or in trailers and carriers was mind-boggling.   Many brought their pets too.   The variety of bikes and people is a sight to behold.   All ages and genders enjoyed the ride.   Costumes were not the norm, but seen quite often.   All-in-all, it is the kind of day that you can’t miss no matter what.

 
As the route is car-free, there are places where they can cross the route.   Volunteers and police are at each of these locations to make sure things go smoothly.   Sometimes there was a little back-up, but this gave everyone time to talk and check-out each others bikes and fancy appointments.   At each underpass, the riders would hoot and holler with joy to hear the reverberations of their jubilation.   The bells on each bike equipped with one got the workout of the year with almost continuous use.

This year we rode an IZIP E3 Compact and a Tern Link D8.

At last weekend’s Spring CicLAvia, my wife and I made it a two-day trip by enjoying some other bike events on Saturday and then spending the night in a motel right on the route in Venice Beach.   This was the first CicLAvia that made it all the way to the water, that is part of what drew so many more people than before.   We met up with a local friend, Steve, and the three of us rode together.   Many of our other friends were there, yet we never spotted them in the mass of cyclists as the day progressed.

Our breakfast stop was at an outdoor café that allowed us to watch the action as we ate.   Later when we made it back to the hub at Venice Beach, we recharged on fish tacos and cold drinks at a tasty spot.   All along the route there were so many things to see and places to eat, but the spots we found were great.   With thirty or more miles of pedaling behind us, we still toured the town of Venice Beach after the roads were reopened to the people behind the wheels of their autos.

The Tern booth at the Venice Beach hub was hopping this and every year. They are one of the sponsors of CicLAvia.

In LA, the event is financed by the non-profit CicLAvia group, many sponsors and the city of LA with state and federal funds.   I am not sure yet of how our city of San Diego will handle ours, but I would assume it will be much in the same way.   It is s a costly event, but from what I’ve seen and heard, the amount of tourist and tourist’s dollars it brings to the community is well worth it.   Plus, how can you put a price on the happiness of the citizens and visitors?   I don’t think you can.

So please ‘like’ the CicloSDias FB page to get all the details.   Attend all the events listed to have fun and show your support for this great new San Diego happening.   See you there?   Turbo Bob.

“If one cyclist is bad, he is nothing compared to a whole group.   When they take to the road it’s goodbye to everyone.”—Octave Mirbeau, Sketches of a Journey.

CicloSDias on the web and Facebook

http://ciclosdias.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/CicloSDias-San-Diego/424638600946661?fref=ts

Here are a few videos I took last weekend at CicLAvia, plus if you scout my You-Tube channel you can find some from our last visit.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=t3OKvRthhVE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eGbcr2hnfkE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hdz-vAkXBZ0

This next video just got put up on You Tube by a tall bike rider. Although I don’t recommend you do this, a good idea of the ride and view of the riders and event are shown here.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bJXXckWLc0E

SDG&E Annual Earth Fair & Alternative Fuel Vehicle Car Show—Getting the Word Out on E-bikes

SDG&E Annual Earth Fair & Alternative Fuel Vehicle Car Show—Getting the Word Out on E-bikes.

Before the show started I was prepped and ready for action.

When I started my bike blog three odd years ago my idea was to share info on my vintage bikes and interests, tell about great bike rides and to spread the word on the fun and utility of E-bikes.   Little did I know at the time what a strong advocate and educator I would become in the world of electric-assist bicycles.   I was pleased and honored to be invited to introduce the employees at our local power company to the thrills and uses of E-bikes.

Although I rode my first E-bike in the mid 90’s, it wasn’t until about five years ago that I had one of my own.   The pair my wife and I purchased proved (and keep proving) to be the perfect way to keep our cars parked during our work commutes, local errands and many fun rides.   Spreading the word of their benefits started as a one-on-one quest, worked into larger things and has blossomed into speaking to large groups.   My bi-yearly E-bike seminar (the next one is on April 25^th) is just one example of my passion to spread the word.

At this large event I spoke to so many interested in alternative transportation choices.   The three E-bikes I was able to bring got ridden by 50 or better of the people on hand.   Many more were anxious to give them a try, but time constraints (several were on their lunch breaks), apprehension or their business attire kept them from experiencing an electric-assist bike for the first time.   Of those, dozens promised to attend my up-coming E-bike seminar to learn more and turn the pedals on one of the 30 or better electric bikes (from many makers, at all price ranges and just about every different type available) that will part of that evening.

I didn’t see any frowns from the riders having their first run on an E-bike.

As you can see from the photos, the smiles were contagious as the E-bikes showed their stuff.   With each person, I could see the wheels turning in their eyes as they contemplated exactly what benefits they could derive from having their own E-bike.   The reasons are many—sustainability (one of the themes of the day)—heath improvements (important for the many who work from a desk all day)—money savings (big for most anybody)—just plain fun (maybe the best feature of an E-bike).

Of the three electric bikes I brought, you would think there would be a clear favorite.   Such was not the case.   Each of them are so different, sharing only the electric-assist and the fact they are bicycles.   I wish I could have brought a mid-priced E-bike for them to give a try, but as luck would have it the bikes I am testing right now are premium examples of the selection of E-bikes available.   Here is the run-down on each of the bikes and how they were received by today’s riders.   Since the event included lots of electric and hybrid cars, I will use automotive references, something I normally avoid nowadays.

Fist up is the awesome E-Brompton folding bike from NYCeWheels.   This H3L Brompton has been professionally converted to an E-bike by the crew at Nice Wheels, something they do on a steady basis.   The up-grade to electric-assist doesn’t affect the fold, which is quick and brings the bike down to the smallest of packages.   Even though it appears different from a full-sized bike, it rides solid and feels the part.   The convenience of use and ease of securing it at your destinations is quick to see and understand.

My booth was nestled between a Tesla S and these cool E-motorcycles.

Just like an electric Smart Car (the Car-to-Go version of these were on display and available for test drives at this event), it does everything needed in a small and fun manner.   You can zip along with minimal energy exerted.   It gives you the big bike feel without the bulk and storage issues you might expect.   Although at first glance some of the people weren’t that impressed, after a ride and seeing the fold, their opinions changed as fast as the bike folds.

The big, bulky, powerful and go anywhere ability of the Pedego Trail Tracker was obvious to the eyes of the crowd.   Just like a 4-wheel drive monster machine, the mere thought of what you can do on this E-bike rolled through the minds of the men and women alike.   A few turns around the lot and climbing the ramp to the upper level confirmed that the looks of this bike are not deceiving.   Coveting the over-sized tires brought many to say, “This is the bike for me”.   The power of the motor had much to do with that too.

Another happy Trail Tracker.

They had to believe my tales of all the rough and radical riding I’ve done on the Trail Tracker as there was no place on hand at the event to really test the off-road capabilities of this brand-new to the market E-bike.   The bright red color attracted their interests, but is the overall look and the thoughts of wild places you can ride this bike that really dominated the talk of this Pedego.   Some of the women were surprised to hear how much my wife has ridden it, so they climbed aboard to feel the thrill it offers.

If one was the compact and the other was the rock climber, then I guess we can consider the eFlow E3 Nitro as the sports car.   Sleek, smooth and agile were words used in the comments of the attendees that rode it.   The high-end components in the drive train and braking system are easily over-shadowed by the ’lets ride faster’ feel this E-bike’s handling brings to the table.   The fantastic looks were mentioned more than once too.
The real draw of this bike came to the lips of each rider over and over.   That draw is in the way it seamlessly feeds the power to the bike by sensing the effort added at the pedals without any thought from the person in the saddle.   What I call intelligent pedelec control is actually a torque sensed system that has to be ridden to fully understand.   It is the pinnacle of what you will experience when it comes to E-bike power systems.   It does raise the price-point some, but each tester agreed that the effect was worth the admission.

I was too busy talking E-bikes to take as many photos as I would have liked. So I am throwing in this one of the E-motorcycles. I will be taking a test drive on one of these soon.

One other subject was repeated many times, is Turbo Bob the salesmen of these bikes?   The answer there is no.   What you most likely already know, is that I do this because of my passion.   A passion for bikes, a passion for our environment, a passion for spreading the word of these great world changers.   I’ve never asked for or received any payments for what I do here with my bike blog.   Sure I get great perks like spending time with these bikes, bike goodies and an occasional free meal or t-shirt.   Just like my E-bike seminar, I am independent (free from outside influences) and un-paid for my services.

I feel more than anything else, the feed-back I give to the makers of these bikes is my biggest service.   With very few exceptions, my recommendations and critiques are received with vigor as the companies strive to make the best and safest E-bikes possible.   The fact that I get to present them to the public is the icing on the cake.   And to be fully honest, a little ego boosting never hurts either.   I love what I’ve been doing and people tell me all that time that it really shows.

See you at my E-bike seminar on the 25^th in San Diego?   I hope so, Turbo Bob.

“There is nothing, absolutely nothing, quite so worthwhile as simply messing about on bicycles.”—Tom Kunich.

Here’s where to find the E-Brompton

http://www.nycewheels.com/

https://www.facebook.com/NYCeWheels?fref=ts

The Pedego Trail Tracker?—Look here

http://www.pedegoelectricbikes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/PedegoElectricBikes?fref=ts

Looking for an eFlow?

http://www.currietech.com/

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Izip-Store/138640456164010?fref=ts

https://www.facebook.com/NYCeWheels?fref=ts

Here is a link to the video I took that day

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmHBPNd3oDk

More info on my E-bike seminar in San Diego on April 25th

http://turbobobbicycleblog.wordpress.com/2013/04/09/introduction-to-electric-bicycles-a-free-public-service-seminar-april-25th-in-san-diego/

‘Introduction to Electric Bicycles’—A Free Public Service Seminar—April 25th in San Diego.

Now being scheduled twice a year, my seminar is getting more popular.   Not only can you learn about the E-bikes and why we all might need them, you get a chance to test ride many different types and brands after my talk.
They will supply snacks and refreshments.   Plus there will be lots of free bike goodies and E-bike rentals given away in the raffle.   I sure hope you can come.   Consider letting family, friends and others know about this fun and informative event.

Here is a link to a article I wrote about the last one.

http://turbobobbicycleblog.wordpress.com/2012/07/19/introduction-to-electric-bikes-seminar-an-overview-of-the-evening/

Pedal or Not Electric Bicycle Guided Tours—Seeing Santa Monica from the Saddle of a Pedego

Pedal or Not Electric Bicycle Guided Tours—Seeing Santa Monica from the Saddle of a Pedego.

Our morning started with getting to know Steven and Barb at their shop. Look for another new, bigger location within a week.

Pedal or Not Electric Bicycle Tours has been giving guided E-bike tours for over three years.   They have guests from all over the world, country and even the locals like to get in on the fun.   Steven and Barb love what they do and part of that is showing their wonderful community to all that are interested.   With such a exciting tour to be had, I thought it was high time that Barbara and I tuned in on the action.

All this time they have done business out of a small kiosk behind the Vons store in Santa Monica.   In one week’s time their new location will be in full operation to work in addition to this one.   Even closer to the water, only a mile from today’s shop, their new digs will be larger and better than ever.   It will allow them to expand their line-up of Pedego E-bikes and accessories to serve each customer more fully.   Plus an expanded list of local tours seems to be on the table.

On to our E-bike tour.   Barbara and I arrived a little early and checked in with the shop.   Then we went over to the Vons for some pastry and drinks to start off our morning.   Getting a chance to chat with Steven and Barb before the ride, we learned about the shop, talked E-bikes and generally got better acquainted.   We checked out our steeds for the morning, mine a white low-framed Pedego City Commuter, and Barbara’s, a dark metallic green Pedego Comfort Cruiser.   Both had baskets with a bag graced with water and goodies to keep us strong as the morning expanded.

On our second stop, all of Southern California seemed to greet us.

Steven is always keen to give a full primer on the bike’s operation, but Barbara and I are E-bike veterans so this part was of the morning was shorter than usual.   We were hoping our friend from the area would join us, but we found that Eleanor was not able to come.   So this morning it would just be the three of us, Barb hosting our tour, and Barbara and I.   Pedal or Not normally has bigger groups (4-6), and when their new shop is in full swing, up to 10 guests (with 2 guides) will be possible.

We started out on the bike friendly streets in Santa Monica.   Heading north our first stop was the Santa Monica Church.   Barb filled us in on many of the celebrities and notable people who have used the church for weddings, visits and other slightly morbid reasons (funerals and the such).   This town has a lot of famous history and Barb was there to expand our knowledge and wow our interests.   Already we were enjoying the day, yet it was just getting started.

This gem has so much local history to tell.

As we headed towards the water, all three of us shared stories and laughs, as the very quiet nature of bike riding allows full conversations.   Our next stop was a beach over-look platform with some great public art there.   Stopping for photos and views, the smiles were getting larger.   Barb many times took our pictures and like she does with every guest, she will send them to us to help remember the great time we had and the many sights we experienced.

After working our way down to the wide and paved beach bike path, we turned north for a short way to see the Marion Davies Guest House.   It is funny that Barbara and I have ridden by this great location several times and never noticed it or the knew of the history behind it.   That is one of the joys of a guided tour, to see and learn of the hidden treasures that are easily passed without a clue.   Once again, Barb was full of fun stories and even had photos to show it in its full glory before the years made its changes.

Riding the wide, smooth beach bike paths.

As we u-turned on the beach path, the Santa Monica Pier was in full view.   Being a quiet Spring Monday morning, the path and pier were not very crowded with the throngs of beach goers and tourists.   We didn’t mind, yet people watching at the beach can be half the fun of any trip there.   The bikes rolled easy and our pace was mellow.   Like is the story with electric bikes, we could pedal or just use the power and float along.   Me, I like to do both, using a little power as my feet stir the pedals with minimal effort.

We stopped for photos and laughs many times as we moved through the Santa Monica beaches towards Venice Beach.   Our water and snacks came in handy as the morning fun flowed like the E-bikes.   In the town of Venice Beach we got to learn about and see the actual canals still left from the beginning of this vintage town.   Once again, Barb had fact-filled stories and photos to fill in the historic details of a part of town that was new to us.   What a beautiful place and a fantastic way to see it all.   The quiet of the bikes, the amazing stories and the iconic scenery made for the best way to fill in a vacation away from home.

You can’t buy smiles like these at the local souvenir shops.

Unlike the Gillian’s Island boat ride, our three hour tour came to end where we started.   Still refreshed and ready for more, the electric bikes had fulfilled their promise to take us on their backs in the most comfortable and easy going way possible.   All this would have been too much for foot travel and impossible in a motor car.   The E-bikes, our guide Barb and our own desire for a fun way to sight-see came together in a way un-like any other.

Some of the canals from the 1800′s still exist. We had never seen them before.

Of course if you have your own E-bike (or even regular bike for that matter), you can replicate our tour.   But, better bring along your guide book or smart phone and be prepared to pay attention to those if you want to know about the things you are seeing.   Why waste your time with those when you can have a fun and personable Barb filling you in at each turn of the bike path?   I can’t imagine any better way to experience any area than on an E-bike and with a guide with all the info and answers.

Remember, with a quick stroke or two on your keyboard, you can make your reservations on a Pedal or Not E-bike tour.   That’s how we did it and you can too.   If you are headed to the coastline of Southern California any time soon, don’t miss this great opportunity to see it all from the saddle of an Pedego E-bike.

Thanks Steven and Barb, you two are the best, Turbo Bob.

“I’ve seen mountain bike rides transform people—not just their bodies but their way of thinking.   Their spirit.”—Charlie Cunningham.

Pedal or Not E-bike Tours on the web and Facebook

http://pedalornot.net/

https://www.facebook.com/#!/pedalornotelectricbicycles?fref=ts

Interested in a Pedego?   See Steven or Barb at Pedal or Not—or…

http://www.pedegoelectricbikes.com/

https://www.facebook.com/#!/PedegoElectricBikes?fref=ts

Here are three videos I shot that day.   The first one show the shop and the next two I took during our E-bike tour

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zuI_EYvVV94

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=crzLmqynimE

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uX_hpzg8cYc