Jet Blue Miami

Category: A2B Launch | Date: 16 July 2010

Some hardcore cyclists may consider the notion of an electric bicycle oxymoronic, but two stores later, The Electric Bicycle Store (get directions) is working hard to prove the naysayers wrong. Much like Harley Davidson disciples, electric bicycles command their own passionate devotees. And those devotees shop here for the largest selection of bikes and accessories. Oh — and to further fuel the fire of old school versus high tech electric — the store sells remote controlled skateboards, too. But that's another story.

Get Plugged In Electric bikes, it seems, are all the rage. "From virtually nothing a decade ago, electric bikes have become an $11 billion global industry," trumpets the New York Times. Don't believe them? "Electric bikes are the new global growth industry, and they're competing with regular bikes, even competing with cars. Bikers around the world are snapping up these bikes that include electric motors," seconds NPR's Morning Edition.

Naturally, Electric Bicycle Store owners Mark Lechter and Scott Balson couldn't agree more. "Electric cycling is not our sideline, it is our passion and our sole focus," explains Balson. "As battery technologies rapidly improve range, people are opting out of their cars for shorter commutes and errands. For many baby boomers, seniors and people who are not able to pedal aggressively, electric bicycles offer the benefits of exercise, without stressing joints."

Electric bike motors are powered by a rechargeable battery — meaning no gas, zero carbon emissions, and hardly any noise except, perhaps, cheers from the converted biker who has seen the light. Choose from either a completely motorized form of cycling or a mix of pedaling and motor power known as "pedal-assist," which is especially easy on the knees. Proponents of electric bicycles say they're good for relationships, because if one of you is an avid biker and the other isn't, an electric bike can keep couples riding together. Move over, Dr. Phil. Could world peace be next? Keep motoring and stay tuned.

http://miamifortlauderdale.jetblue.com/2010/07/power-biking-at-the-electric-bicycle-store.html