It was an “aha” moment for Steve Gerhartz—that eye-opening maiden voyage on an electric bike (e-bike). He immediately understood what e-bike aficionados were raving about. “You don’t have to go 50 yards on one of these to know how great they are,” he says. Owner of Seacoast E-Bikes in Newington since 2020, this savvy entrepreneur seeks to spread the word about the myriad lifestyle benefits of this wondrous cycling innovation.
Starting at around $1,200, e-bikes suit the serious athlete and casual neighborhood tourist but have the greatest impact on riders of middle age and beyond looking to continue doing something they love, but with a bit of help. Restoring this lost joy to older cyclists is a mission for Gerhartz. But his vision for the e-biking future is even grander. He sees a Seacoast with as many bikes as cars in the transportation mix, easing traffic congestion and cutting fuel costs. As president of the nonprofit Seacoast Wheelers, Gerhartz actively advocates for biking infrastructure to make this a reality.
Riding an e-bike unveils new horizons for cyclists of all ages, getting people back outside and
moving and offering commuters a new and healthier option. Mountain biking trails are now open to these new-age bikes, enabling adventurers of all fitness levels to enjoy the splendor of nature on two wheels. Four categories of e-bikes provide the perfect fit for every kind of rider.
Recreational
Tour the Town
Most of these models are step-throughs for easy getting on and off, especially as people age. These bikes are perfect for cruising the neighborhood, riding the rail trail, or seeing the sights, all while getting a little exercise—not to mention the mental health benefits that come from the pure exhilaration of riding.
Fitness
Boost the Burn
Fitness riders love these sleek, lightweight bikes that offer a touch of backup for those grueling hills or breath-stealing winds. These bikes are streamlined for all-important aerodynamics and have smaller batteries and less powerful motors. Suitable for all fitness levels, these e-bikes fit the bill for even the most hardcore cyclists.
Mountain and Trail
Go Nature’s Way
These bikes are coming on strong, gaining popularity among seasoned mountain bikers and newbies alike. These are heavier models with knobby tires and front and rear suspension to absorb rough terrain like rocks and tree roots. With more trails now open to e-bikes, nature lovers are going wild for electric mountain biking.
Cargo
Cherish your Commute
Young families with children adore their e-bike commute. Some ditch the second car in favor of this fun and economical ride to work or school that kids love. Cargo bikes come in two types: the Long Field boasts a platform behind the rider for parcels or passengers; the Front Load holds cargo or passengers in front.