Senior E-Biker Podcast #3
Welcome! My name is Scott, and this is episode #3 of The Senior E-Biker Podcast. If you’re 55 and up and have any interest at all in e-bikes, I truly believe you’ve found your huckleberry.
Whether you already own an e-bike, are actively shopping for one, are looking for e-bike tips, or are simply curious about electric bikes, my goal is to be a dedicated resource for you and to answer all your questions.
This podcast is dedicated to helping you rediscover the joy of cycling in your golden years, with a little help from modern technology.
You know, I talk to a lot of folks who miss riding a bicycle. They miss that feeling of freedom, the wind in their hair, the ability to just… go. But maybe the knees aren’t what they used to be, or the thought of tackling that hill on your street is more daunting than it is exciting.
Well, what if I told you there’s a way to flatten those hills, to laugh in the face of a headwind, and to get back out there exploring your neighborhood and beyond, all while getting some wonderful, gentle exercise?
That, my friends, is the magic of the electric bike, or e-bike. And on today’s show, I’m going to demystify the process of choosing and buying one. I’ll break it down, step-by-step, so you can walk into a bike shop, or browse online, with confidence. I’ll cover the different types of e-bikes, the key features you absolutely need to know about, and how to make sure you get the perfect bike for you.
So grab your favorite beverage, get comfortable, and let’s get ready to ride.
Now, before I get into the nuts and bolts, I want to take a moment to help you really understand why an e-bike is such a game-changer for so many of us. I like to call it the great equalizer.
First and foremost, it empowers you. The electric motor doesn't do all the work for you—(unless you want it to on some models). Instead, it provides a "pedal assist." As you pedal, the motor kicks in and gives you a boost. You can choose how much of a boost you want. Feeling energetic? Use a low level of assistance. Coming up to a steep bridge? Crank it up and cruise over it with a smile on your face. It takes the strain off your joints and your lungs, allowing you to ride longer, go farther, and tackle terrain you never thought possible again.
It’s also a fantastic way to stay active. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. E-biking is perfect for this! You’re still pedaling, still moving your body and getting your heart rate up, but you’re doing it without the discouraging strain.
And let’s not forget the social aspect. You can join group rides, keep up with your grandkids on their bikes, or simply ride to a friend’s house for a visit without arriving completely exhausted. It’s freedom, it’s fitness, and it’s fun, all rolled into one.
Alright, let's head to the e-bike buffet. When you first start looking, you’ll see lots of different styles, and it can be a bit overwhelming. But for our purposes, they really boil down to a few key types that are perfect for seniors.
First up, the Cruiser E-Bike. Picture this: a classic, comfortable beach cruiser. You're sitting fully upright, with wide, swept-back handlebars. It’s like sitting in a comfortable armchair on wheels. These are all about comfort and leisurely rides. They have big, cushy seats and are incredibly easy to ride. Perfect for a relaxed spin around the park or a trip to the local market.
Next, I want to talk about the Hybrid or Commuter E-Bike. These are a wonderful all-around choice. They blend the comfort of a cruiser with a slightly more efficient riding position. You're still mostly upright, but leaning forward just a little. They usually have more gears than a cruiser and are great for fitness rides, running errands, and handling a variety of terrain. If you want one bike that can do a little bit of everything, a hybrid is a fantastic place to start looking.
Then there’s the Folding E-Bike. Now this is a clever one. As the name suggests, these bikes fold up into a compact package. Why is this useful? Well, if you live in a smaller apartment or a retirement community with limited storage space, a folding bike can be a lifesaver. It can fit in a closet or the trunk of your car. They are also perfect for folks who love to travel in an RV. You can bring your bike with you wherever you go. They tend to have smaller wheels, but they are surprisingly zippy and capable.
And finally, and this is a very important one, the Electric Tricycle, or E-Trike. For anyone concerned about balance, an e-trike is the ultimate solution. With three wheels, the stability is built right in. You don’t have to worry about putting a foot down when you stop. You can just sit there, relaxed and balanced. They often come with big baskets for groceries or even for bringing a small pet along for the ride. An e-trike provides all the benefits of an e-bike with the supreme confidence of three-wheeled stability.
So, to recap: Cruisers for comfort, Hybrids for versatility, Folders for portability, and Trikes for ultimate stability.
I'll add a bonus type of E-bike to consider. The fat tire off road bike. Now I don't expect you to get out there and ride Pike's Peak on this thing but if you want super comfort and flexibility, do what I did. I bought an E-mountain bike with 4 inch wide tires and converter it into a cruiser. It's a little known secret that you aren't stuck with the handlebars, seat, etc. that come with any given bike. You can change those around - I did - and I have the most comfortable cruiser E-bike I've ever seen or ridden. It's just food for thought.
While there are other types of E-bikes - my focus is on comfort, safety, and ease of use for seniors.
I'll get into this more in-depth on my newsletter - which you can read for free on Substack - link in the show notes, but I do want to give a shout out to the local bike retailers all across the country.
Finding the right bike is about getting the right advice. That’s why I always recommend starting your journey at your local bike shop. The folks there are passionate about cycling and can offer personalized service that you just can’t get from a website. They’ll help you with sizing, service, and all those little questions that pop up. Support your local businesses, and they’ll support you right back. Next up, the nuts and bolts - key features to look for on your new E-bike.
I’ve talked about why you want an e-bike and the main types of e-bikes. Now for the most important part: what specific features should you look for? Get ready to take some mental notes.
First and most important: The Frame. You will see two main styles: a Step-Through frame and a Step-Over frame. A step-over has that high top bar you have to swing your leg over, like on a traditional men's bike.
My strong recommendation for most seniors is to look for a Step-Through frame. It has a very low, or even no, top bar. This means you can get on and off the bike incredibly easily and safely, without having to lift your leg up high. This is a massive benefit for anyone with hip or flexibility issues. I have bad knees and cannot use a step-over bike. It’s a non-negotiable feature for many of us, and for good reason. Safety and ease first! Real quick another valuable feature about step-through bikes is the fact that if you have to come to a halt and quickly dismount for safety reasons it's much faster to do that with a step-through frame.
Second, let's talk about the motor. There are two main types: Hub-drive and Mid-drive.
A hub-drive motor is located in the center of the front or rear wheel. It feels like it’s pushing or pulling you along. It's a very common and reliable system, and it's generally found on more affordable e-bikes. It’s simple and it works great.
A mid-drive motor is located in the middle of the bike, where your pedals are. This motor applies power directly to the chain. The feeling is incredibly smooth and natural. It feels like my own legs have suddenly become superhuman. Mid-drive bikes are exceptional at climbing hills and are generally more efficient, but they do tend to be more expensive.
My advice? Both are great. Try both if you can, but a hub-drive motor is more than capable for most people’s needs.
Third, the Battery! Think of the battery as your gas tank. Its capacity is measured in watt-hours, or Wh. A bigger number means a bigger "gas tank" and a longer range. Don't get too bogged down in the numbers. Instead, just ask the shop or check the description for the bike's estimated range in miles or kilometers. Think about your typical ride. Will you be doing 5-mile trips or 25-mile adventures? Be realistic and choose a battery that fits your lifestyle. Also, check how easy it is to remove and/or charge the battery. Most lock to the frame for security, but can be removed with a key so you can bring it inside to charge, which is much easier than hauling the whole bike inside. Also look at where the charging port is located. On my Pedego Fat Tire Trike, the battery is in the back below the cargo tub. It faces down and it's impossible to see the charging port. You have to feel your way around to find it. No big deal but it's not nearly as convenient as the charging port on my Velotric Nomad II. It's on the right side of the battery and easy to spot and reach.
Next up the throttle question - Throttle vs. Pedal Assist. This is a key difference. Pedal Assist is the system I talked about earlier—it gives you a boost as you pedal. All e-bikes have this. Some e-bikes also have a throttle, which is usually a little button or twist-grip on the handlebar. When you push the throttle, the bike goes without you having to pedal at all, just like a scooter.
Having a throttle can be a wonderful feature. It's great for getting started from a dead stop, (I use mine for that purpose every day) and it's particularly helpful (and safer) at things like traffic lights. It's also good for giving you a little break from pedaling if you get tired. I highly recommend looking for a bike that has both pedal assist and a throttle for maximum versatility.
And finally, Brakes. This is a critical safety feature. E-bikes are heavier and faster than regular bikes, so you need good stopping power. Look for disc brakes. You’ll see them as metal discs, or rotors, at the center of the wheels. They provide far better stopping power than old-fashioned rim brakes, especially in wet weather. If you can, opt for hydraulic disc brakes. They require very little hand strength to operate and give you smooth, powerful braking. They are a real confidence booster. I personally would never buy another E-bike without hydraulic breaks.
So, now I want to review those key features: A low step-through frame, a reliable motor, a battery with enough range for your rides, (oh by the way - you need to know almost all manufacturers exaggerate capability of their battery. If they say it will go for 50 miles, expect it to be about 25 miles in real world use...) okay back to the list - look at the the versatility of throttle and pedal assist, and powerful disc brakes.
Okay, you're armed with knowledge. Now, where do you actually buy the bike? You have two main options: a local bike shop or buying online. There is a third that I do NOT recommend. Avoid the big box stores for this mission - I don't think I know anyone who thought that they had a good experience buying an E-bike at a big box store.
For a first-time e-bike buyer, I cannot stress this enough: start at your local bike shop.
Here’s why: You get to see, touch, and most importantly, test ride the bikes. A bike can look perfect on a webpage, but you won't know how it truly feels until you sit on it. A good shop will let you ride a few different models. While you’re on that test ride, see how it feels. Is the seat comfortable? Can you reach the handlebars easily? Practice getting on and off. Test the brakes. Ride up a small slope if you can.
The staff at a local shop are also experts. They will ensure the bike is the right size for you—which is crucial for comfort and safety—and they will assemble it professionally. Plus, when it comes time for a tune-up or a repair, you have a trusted place to go back to.
Buying online can sometimes be cheaper, but it comes with challenges. The bike will arrive in a box, and you'll have to do some assembly yourself, which can be tricky. And if something goes wrong, dealing with customer service over the phone can be a hassle. For peace of mind, that local connection is worth its weight in gold.
And what about price? A good quality, reliable e-bike from a reputable brand will generally cost somewhere between $1,500 and $3,500. You might see some for much less online, but I would be very cautious. With e-bikes, you often get what you pay for, and you don’t want to compromise on the safety and reliability of the electrical components and brakes.
Okay - I've covered a lot of ground today! Let's boil it all down to three key takeaways.
One: Prioritize a step-through frame for ease and safety.
Two: The test ride is really important. It's the only way to know if a bike is right for you. If you cannot test ride check the return policy of the seller and know that there is probably a re-stocking fee.
Three: Start your journey at a local bike shop. Their expertise and service are invaluable.
Getting an e-bike isn't just about buying a new piece of equipment. It’s about investing in your health, your happiness, and your freedom. It’s about saying "yes" to new adventures.
Oh, and once you get your bike, don't forget the essentials! A comfortable, properly-fitted helmet is an absolute must. Also consider a mirror for your handlebars, a good bell, and lights for visibility.
I hope this has helped you feel more confident about starting your e-bike journey. On the next episode, I’ll talk about basic riding skills for your new e-bike, rules of the road, and if I have time, some simple maintenance tips to keep your ride running smoothly.
That wrap's up today's episode of the The Senior E-Biker Podcast. You can find show notes and a transcript of this episode on the show's website at https://senior-ebiker.transistor.fm. If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email at seniorebikerpodcast@gmail.com.
Be sure to subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts. That way you won't miss a single episode. And if you enjoyed today’s show, a review would be wonderful!
Also consider signing up for the free show newsletter. I'll have more in-depth reviews of bikes and bike accessories there along with extra tips and eventually - some contests. It's over at SUBSTACK and if you want direct access you can find it at https://substack.com/@ebikepodcasthost
I hope you'll join me again. New episodes drop the first and third Tuesday of every month. Take care and remember, it's never too late to roll.
Whether you already own an e-bike, are actively shopping for one, are looking for e-bike tips, or are simply curious about electric bikes, my goal is to be a dedicated resource for you and to answer all your questions.
This podcast is dedicated to helping you rediscover the joy of cycling in your golden years, with a little help from modern technology.
You know, I talk to a lot of folks who miss riding a bicycle. They miss that feeling of freedom, the wind in their hair, the ability to just… go. But maybe the knees aren’t what they used to be, or the thought of tackling that hill on your street is more daunting than it is exciting.
Well, what if I told you there’s a way to flatten those hills, to laugh in the face of a headwind, and to get back out there exploring your neighborhood and beyond, all while getting some wonderful, gentle exercise?
That, my friends, is the magic of the electric bike, or e-bike. And on today’s show, I’m going to demystify the process of choosing and buying one. I’ll break it down, step-by-step, so you can walk into a bike shop, or browse online, with confidence. I’ll cover the different types of e-bikes, the key features you absolutely need to know about, and how to make sure you get the perfect bike for you.
So grab your favorite beverage, get comfortable, and let’s get ready to ride.
Now, before I get into the nuts and bolts, I want to take a moment to help you really understand why an e-bike is such a game-changer for so many of us. I like to call it the great equalizer.
First and foremost, it empowers you. The electric motor doesn't do all the work for you—(unless you want it to on some models). Instead, it provides a "pedal assist." As you pedal, the motor kicks in and gives you a boost. You can choose how much of a boost you want. Feeling energetic? Use a low level of assistance. Coming up to a steep bridge? Crank it up and cruise over it with a smile on your face. It takes the strain off your joints and your lungs, allowing you to ride longer, go farther, and tackle terrain you never thought possible again.
It’s also a fantastic way to stay active. The American Heart Association recommends 150 minutes of moderate exercise per week. E-biking is perfect for this! You’re still pedaling, still moving your body and getting your heart rate up, but you’re doing it without the discouraging strain.
And let’s not forget the social aspect. You can join group rides, keep up with your grandkids on their bikes, or simply ride to a friend’s house for a visit without arriving completely exhausted. It’s freedom, it’s fitness, and it’s fun, all rolled into one.
Alright, let's head to the e-bike buffet. When you first start looking, you’ll see lots of different styles, and it can be a bit overwhelming. But for our purposes, they really boil down to a few key types that are perfect for seniors.
First up, the Cruiser E-Bike. Picture this: a classic, comfortable beach cruiser. You're sitting fully upright, with wide, swept-back handlebars. It’s like sitting in a comfortable armchair on wheels. These are all about comfort and leisurely rides. They have big, cushy seats and are incredibly easy to ride. Perfect for a relaxed spin around the park or a trip to the local market.
Next, I want to talk about the Hybrid or Commuter E-Bike. These are a wonderful all-around choice. They blend the comfort of a cruiser with a slightly more efficient riding position. You're still mostly upright, but leaning forward just a little. They usually have more gears than a cruiser and are great for fitness rides, running errands, and handling a variety of terrain. If you want one bike that can do a little bit of everything, a hybrid is a fantastic place to start looking.
Then there’s the Folding E-Bike. Now this is a clever one. As the name suggests, these bikes fold up into a compact package. Why is this useful? Well, if you live in a smaller apartment or a retirement community with limited storage space, a folding bike can be a lifesaver. It can fit in a closet or the trunk of your car. They are also perfect for folks who love to travel in an RV. You can bring your bike with you wherever you go. They tend to have smaller wheels, but they are surprisingly zippy and capable.
And finally, and this is a very important one, the Electric Tricycle, or E-Trike. For anyone concerned about balance, an e-trike is the ultimate solution. With three wheels, the stability is built right in. You don’t have to worry about putting a foot down when you stop. You can just sit there, relaxed and balanced. They often come with big baskets for groceries or even for bringing a small pet along for the ride. An e-trike provides all the benefits of an e-bike with the supreme confidence of three-wheeled stability.
So, to recap: Cruisers for comfort, Hybrids for versatility, Folders for portability, and Trikes for ultimate stability.
I'll add a bonus type of E-bike to consider. The fat tire off road bike. Now I don't expect you to get out there and ride Pike's Peak on this thing but if you want super comfort and flexibility, do what I did. I bought an E-mountain bike with 4 inch wide tires and converter it into a cruiser. It's a little known secret that you aren't stuck with the handlebars, seat, etc. that come with any given bike. You can change those around - I did - and I have the most comfortable cruiser E-bike I've ever seen or ridden. It's just food for thought.
While there are other types of E-bikes - my focus is on comfort, safety, and ease of use for seniors.
I'll get into this more in-depth on my newsletter - which you can read for free on Substack - link in the show notes, but I do want to give a shout out to the local bike retailers all across the country.
Finding the right bike is about getting the right advice. That’s why I always recommend starting your journey at your local bike shop. The folks there are passionate about cycling and can offer personalized service that you just can’t get from a website. They’ll help you with sizing, service, and all those little questions that pop up. Support your local businesses, and they’ll support you right back. Next up, the nuts and bolts - key features to look for on your new E-bike.
I’ve talked about why you want an e-bike and the main types of e-bikes. Now for the most important part: what specific features should you look for? Get ready to take some mental notes.
First and most important: The Frame. You will see two main styles: a Step-Through frame and a Step-Over frame. A step-over has that high top bar you have to swing your leg over, like on a traditional men's bike.
My strong recommendation for most seniors is to look for a Step-Through frame. It has a very low, or even no, top bar. This means you can get on and off the bike incredibly easily and safely, without having to lift your leg up high. This is a massive benefit for anyone with hip or flexibility issues. I have bad knees and cannot use a step-over bike. It’s a non-negotiable feature for many of us, and for good reason. Safety and ease first! Real quick another valuable feature about step-through bikes is the fact that if you have to come to a halt and quickly dismount for safety reasons it's much faster to do that with a step-through frame.
Second, let's talk about the motor. There are two main types: Hub-drive and Mid-drive.
A hub-drive motor is located in the center of the front or rear wheel. It feels like it’s pushing or pulling you along. It's a very common and reliable system, and it's generally found on more affordable e-bikes. It’s simple and it works great.
A mid-drive motor is located in the middle of the bike, where your pedals are. This motor applies power directly to the chain. The feeling is incredibly smooth and natural. It feels like my own legs have suddenly become superhuman. Mid-drive bikes are exceptional at climbing hills and are generally more efficient, but they do tend to be more expensive.
My advice? Both are great. Try both if you can, but a hub-drive motor is more than capable for most people’s needs.
Third, the Battery! Think of the battery as your gas tank. Its capacity is measured in watt-hours, or Wh. A bigger number means a bigger "gas tank" and a longer range. Don't get too bogged down in the numbers. Instead, just ask the shop or check the description for the bike's estimated range in miles or kilometers. Think about your typical ride. Will you be doing 5-mile trips or 25-mile adventures? Be realistic and choose a battery that fits your lifestyle. Also, check how easy it is to remove and/or charge the battery. Most lock to the frame for security, but can be removed with a key so you can bring it inside to charge, which is much easier than hauling the whole bike inside. Also look at where the charging port is located. On my Pedego Fat Tire Trike, the battery is in the back below the cargo tub. It faces down and it's impossible to see the charging port. You have to feel your way around to find it. No big deal but it's not nearly as convenient as the charging port on my Velotric Nomad II. It's on the right side of the battery and easy to spot and reach.
Next up the throttle question - Throttle vs. Pedal Assist. This is a key difference. Pedal Assist is the system I talked about earlier—it gives you a boost as you pedal. All e-bikes have this. Some e-bikes also have a throttle, which is usually a little button or twist-grip on the handlebar. When you push the throttle, the bike goes without you having to pedal at all, just like a scooter.
Having a throttle can be a wonderful feature. It's great for getting started from a dead stop, (I use mine for that purpose every day) and it's particularly helpful (and safer) at things like traffic lights. It's also good for giving you a little break from pedaling if you get tired. I highly recommend looking for a bike that has both pedal assist and a throttle for maximum versatility.
And finally, Brakes. This is a critical safety feature. E-bikes are heavier and faster than regular bikes, so you need good stopping power. Look for disc brakes. You’ll see them as metal discs, or rotors, at the center of the wheels. They provide far better stopping power than old-fashioned rim brakes, especially in wet weather. If you can, opt for hydraulic disc brakes. They require very little hand strength to operate and give you smooth, powerful braking. They are a real confidence booster. I personally would never buy another E-bike without hydraulic breaks.
So, now I want to review those key features: A low step-through frame, a reliable motor, a battery with enough range for your rides, (oh by the way - you need to know almost all manufacturers exaggerate capability of their battery. If they say it will go for 50 miles, expect it to be about 25 miles in real world use...) okay back to the list - look at the the versatility of throttle and pedal assist, and powerful disc brakes.
Okay, you're armed with knowledge. Now, where do you actually buy the bike? You have two main options: a local bike shop or buying online. There is a third that I do NOT recommend. Avoid the big box stores for this mission - I don't think I know anyone who thought that they had a good experience buying an E-bike at a big box store.
For a first-time e-bike buyer, I cannot stress this enough: start at your local bike shop.
Here’s why: You get to see, touch, and most importantly, test ride the bikes. A bike can look perfect on a webpage, but you won't know how it truly feels until you sit on it. A good shop will let you ride a few different models. While you’re on that test ride, see how it feels. Is the seat comfortable? Can you reach the handlebars easily? Practice getting on and off. Test the brakes. Ride up a small slope if you can.
The staff at a local shop are also experts. They will ensure the bike is the right size for you—which is crucial for comfort and safety—and they will assemble it professionally. Plus, when it comes time for a tune-up or a repair, you have a trusted place to go back to.
Buying online can sometimes be cheaper, but it comes with challenges. The bike will arrive in a box, and you'll have to do some assembly yourself, which can be tricky. And if something goes wrong, dealing with customer service over the phone can be a hassle. For peace of mind, that local connection is worth its weight in gold.
And what about price? A good quality, reliable e-bike from a reputable brand will generally cost somewhere between $1,500 and $3,500. You might see some for much less online, but I would be very cautious. With e-bikes, you often get what you pay for, and you don’t want to compromise on the safety and reliability of the electrical components and brakes.
Okay - I've covered a lot of ground today! Let's boil it all down to three key takeaways.
One: Prioritize a step-through frame for ease and safety.
Two: The test ride is really important. It's the only way to know if a bike is right for you. If you cannot test ride check the return policy of the seller and know that there is probably a re-stocking fee.
Three: Start your journey at a local bike shop. Their expertise and service are invaluable.
Getting an e-bike isn't just about buying a new piece of equipment. It’s about investing in your health, your happiness, and your freedom. It’s about saying "yes" to new adventures.
Oh, and once you get your bike, don't forget the essentials! A comfortable, properly-fitted helmet is an absolute must. Also consider a mirror for your handlebars, a good bell, and lights for visibility.
I hope this has helped you feel more confident about starting your e-bike journey. On the next episode, I’ll talk about basic riding skills for your new e-bike, rules of the road, and if I have time, some simple maintenance tips to keep your ride running smoothly.
That wrap's up today's episode of the The Senior E-Biker Podcast. You can find show notes and a transcript of this episode on the show's website at https://senior-ebiker.transistor.fm. If you have any questions, feel free to send me an email at seniorebikerpodcast@gmail.com.
Be sure to subscribe to the show wherever you get your podcasts. That way you won't miss a single episode. And if you enjoyed today’s show, a review would be wonderful!
Also consider signing up for the free show newsletter. I'll have more in-depth reviews of bikes and bike accessories there along with extra tips and eventually - some contests. It's over at SUBSTACK and if you want direct access you can find it at https://substack.com/@ebikepodcasthost
I hope you'll join me again. New episodes drop the first and third Tuesday of every month. Take care and remember, it's never too late to roll.