E bike for exercise

[lupus_paradise]

Hi fellow lupus warriors

I think I've posted before about my joy in finding the electric bike. I was very active before getting lupus. I walked extensively and cylcing and walking were part of my everyday routines. I used to run alot in my 20's and 30's too. I have since found it difficult to even walk getting fatigued just doing the minimum errands and developing long lasting pains in my back and hip if I try to walk for a while. Even taking public transport or cycling was tiring. Then I got my electric bike and I love it! You have to peddle to make it go so you still get exercise, but you don't get so tired and you can make it up hills! I love the freedom to go places that it restores for me.

For those of you interested in electric bikes but not gone for it yet, I'm happy to answer any questions. Also I recently learned that there are two different types that no one talks about but makes a huge difference when strength and energy are a factor. The motors of these bikes have sensors that are either torque sensors or rotation/cadence sensors. The torque sensors respond to how hard you push. So the harder you pedal the more the motor helps you. rotation/cadence sensors allow you to set the bike on the easiest gear and as long as you are pedaling, it gives you the power you want. So a normal fit person doesn't necessarily notice that the torque sensors can still be tiring, especially going up even gentle hills. The good news is that rotation/cadence sensor bikes are less expensive because the mechanism is cheaper to make.

So if you tried an e-bike but didn't think it helped very much, it might be worth looking at the type you tried. Good luck!

[MrsMarigold]

So this is interesting to me. I have only seen them mostly in resort type cities. How is braking?

[lupus_paradise in reply to MrsMarigold]

All the brakes I've tried are great but they do come in different levels. Hydraulic brakes are the best if that is something critical for you.

[BonnyB]

Oh it is lovely to read your post. We have just returned from Norfolk. Went to a national trust estate whilst there. They hired electric bikes to go round the grounds, a circular one hour route. My husband was very keen, I think he gets frustrated at my walking pace and energy levels, as they've changed so much and he knows if I push it I'm wiped out for days.

Anyway we got them and it was amazing! He enjoyed a zoom round. I enjoyed a slower pace. So he'd shoot off a bit then come back, we actually did something together that we really enjoyed. Like you say I felt free.

Our bikes had gears, had different modes like sport etc.

I'm going to look into them but I know they are expensive. I've been told there's a government scheme , bike to work. Plus we'd need a bike rack etc as I want to go on cycle paths not on roads. Plus I'd like to find out if you can have larger handle grips as I find grip a problem. Great to hear you've found them a good experience too x

[Betty909090]

A very recent worldwide study has shown that WALKING is the best exercise for all age groups!

It’s weight bearing unlike cycling so will certainly help with osteoporosis prevention and better bone health. Cycling certainly is good for cardiovascular health but a brisk walk everyday or other day is better than cycling.

I used to cycle but nowadays I find the polluting and dangerous traffic totally off putting? Too many inconsiderate drivers on the road.

[SoooManyQuestions]

Have been so incapacitated over the last year that I had to give up my ebike, but am much improved now and can't wait to get back on!