Back in the saddle again...

by Holly B. Hansen, Midway

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My bike atop Memorial Hill, facing the mountain I can't find.

A Birthday Surprise 

This past May for my birthday, my husband got me a green ‘RAD’ eBike from a shop in Switchback Sports (Heber). I gladly posed for pictures and then stashed it. There it sat, neglected in our garage.

Overcoming Hesitation

“Don’t you like your bike?” he asked early one day as I got my coffee, half asleep. I jolted awake, feeling instant guilt.

“I do love it, but… I don’t wanna go by myself,” I sheepishly admitted. He knows my PTSD behaviors well, so later that day, he went back and got himself the blue bike. We rode together that evening and this was a totally different, much better bike-sperience! You can use the ‘e-assist’ to help you: get going, get up hills/steep terrain, etc. Or, you can push yourself.

Safety First 

We quickly realized that helmets are mandatory because of the unnatural speeds, as well as the inevitable car backing out of a driveway as you whiz by tornado style on a narrow, bumpy sidewalk. I wiped out going around a turn too fast and hit a patch of dry hay. These bikes can be incredibly dangerous if the rider doesn’t focus and keep speeds under control at all times. A rider should be watching constantly for danger.

Sneaky, sneaky!

Ya'll, this does not feel like exercise! It’s too much fun! I am constantly bugging my husband and daughter: “You wanna ride bikes!?” and I feel like Anna begging Elsa to build a snowman. It is so fun, freeing, and utterly amazing!

Unexpected Benefits

Physical therapy (by accident): We both have pain issues, so while riding, if pain starts, I just stop pedaling and let the bike do the work. His leg cramps and posture improved and his leg ‘feels great’! Both my doctor and his physical therapist are thrilled that we are out riding bikes (but it can’t be exercise, if it’s this fun!)

Things to Consider 

•  Safety and Responsibility – It is terrifying how fast it goes (parents, please decide based on each child and their ability to handle it).

•  Insurance– They sell inexpensive insurance for eBikes! #Boom

• Charging – I’ve seen reports of the units starting fires, so please charge while you are home, awake and aware, with good ventilation. Check on it and unplug immediately after use.

• Alerts – The little fairy bell that comes standard is ineffective for alerting cars, trucks, and traffic. It is ideal, however, for when you pass another pedestrian, bike, or for blind spots. Invest in a separate, loud (enough but not embarrassing) horn.

• Tech– They have helmets with Bluetooth, flashing lights, USB charging and even walkie talkie options. Just get a helmet and keep your head safe.

• Music – I require music, so I put in one ear bud and leave one ear free to hear horns, sirens, bikes approaching, etc. For your safety, only one ear should be blocked. (This applies anywhere for anyone where an attack, avalanche, vehicle, rock slide, etc. is at all possible.)

• Safety – If you are afraid of animals (including dogs), get whatever protection you feel best grabbing and using while riding. *Check local laws.

• Etiquette – I was told that all trails in Wasatch County are open to eBikes. With that in mind, when people are walking, they’re not expecting a fast, silent bike to suddenly whiz by, startling them. I try to move out of their way (if/when it’s safe). Be courteous and use the fairy bell or your voice to alert others prior to your presence. Then, announce: ‘passing on your left!’ as you approach and go by.

  
  

**Final Thoughts**

Being able to be part of this community and to have found this hobby has made me incredibly grateful and happy, and I wish the same for you. Be thoughtful, stay safe, and I hope I get to see you out there!

From your neighbor with the braids and a goofy smile,

Holly Hansen, Midway

*(Still undecided? You can rent e-bikes!)*