In America at least, the sale of Electric Bikes for those of us in our Third Age appears to be booming. While the sale of standard bikes for children and the under 30s has plummeted, the sale of ‘Lifestyle Bikes’ for the Over 50s has increased exponentially.

In America, the sale of Pedal-Assisted Electric Bikes is forecast to reach 30% of total bike sales this year. Astonishingly perhaps, they are fast becoming the hottest mode of two-wheeled transport in the USA. And amazingly, it is a market that was practically non-existent a mere decade ago!

Pedal-Assisted Electric or ‘Lifestyle Bikes’ may not be cheap, but if you like to ride but find the old legs, hips and back are not quite what they used to be, perhaps one of these could just get you touring again. They’re cheaper than the car, more reliable than public transport and over time, much better value than gym club membership!

Comfort vs Speed
Now okay, so Pedal-Assisted Electric Bikes might not be the height of sartorial fashion (although they do come in an assortment of eye-catching designs and colours), and they’re certainly not the most aerodynamic bike in the wind tunnel, but then they are most definitely built for comfort and not for speed.

The Seat
You’ll be pleased to hear that Lifestyle Bikes don’t come equipped with ‘tear-you-in-half’ micro saddles. Comfortingly, they boast rather plusher, padded seats generally spring-mounted and gel-filled for the most comfortable ride imaginable.

The Frame
Lifestyle Bikes have what is known as a ‘gender-neutral step-through frame’, (also known as ‘crank-forward geometry’ apparently), or lower U-shaped crossbars make it easier to mount than a bike with a conventional crossbar. (Much easier than getting your leg over but not nearly as much fun!). Crank-forward geometry also minimizes knee strain because the rider can sit lower and put his or her feet flat on the ground when they come to a stop. Ergonomic handgrips also help to reduce road shock.

The Pedals
With Lifestyle Bikes, once the power is activated, pedalling is optional!

The Gears
Lifestyle Bikes have low, quick-shift gears in order to make pedalling easier. Many also come with sensor-controlled automatic shifters which change gear automatically according to your speed.

Motor/Battery
Housed beneath the seat or crossbar is an easy-to-charge lightweight lithium battery which powers the optional-use motor capable of propelling you at speeds of up to 20 mph.

Handlebars
Lifestyle Bikes employ a sturdy but lightweight upright frame with upright handlebars (adjustable even on the move) to reduce the discomfort (spinal stenosis and other back problems) caused by hunching over drop handlebars.

Suspension
Yes, Lifestyle Bikes come complete with suspension – shock absorbers in the front fork and seat post.

Mud Guards
Remember those? Unsightly perhaps, unfashionable maybe, but what better to prevent your clothes from getting filthy from spray or dirt on the road! Likewise Lifestyle Bikes come with chain guards to protect your trousers from oil and grease.

Brakes
Lifestyle Bikes with Disc Brakes on the front apply a firm, steady pressure to make stopping all the more safer, particularly in the wet.

So if you yearn for the open road in your Third Age but find that while the spirit is willing the flesh is weak, a Pedal-Assisted Electric Bike or Lifestyle Bike might just be what the doctor ordered. Whether you’re a leisure cyclist, someone looking to keep fit, or someone wishing to save money by commuting by bike to work, there’s a Lifestyle Bike out there somewhere with your name on it!