Alternative to Ebikes

[Wjklewis]

A couple of friends called today to try our electric bikes, as they had a mind to buy a couple. Unfortunately, one of my friends has had a knee replacement and was unable to handle the bike very well due to the rotation/movement required to get the bike going. That was the main reason for trying our bikes first as they suspected it would be a problem.

I know folk on here have loads of experience and just wondered what sort of alternatives are available. When questioned what they would use the bikes for. The answer that came back was mostly off road, forest paths/tracks but definitely not mountain biking.

If you have any suggestions or even better photos that would be a great help.

Many thanks John

 

[Bill-H]

Thumb (or twist) throttle quite legal on UK electric bikes - provided they only operate up to 6kph (3.something mph) - which is to assist in pulling away.
The rest of the bike spec obviously needs to be within legislation , 250w motor etc.

 

[Apacheman]

I ride a few thousand km a year. If I cycle with my saddle too low, it'll blow my knee in 15 minutes and I'll be hobbling for days.

No one is suggesting that you should cycle with your saddle too low and what works for one doesn’t work for everyone. Starting at the most extended point and over time lowering the saddle as it becomes more comfortable was a suggestion based on my recovery after knee replacement surgery. If successful it would get you to a point where you can comfortably ride a bike. Knee surgeons class a 90* bend as successful. It’s difficult riding a bike with only that amount of flexibility.

 

[Guigsy]

No one is suggesting that you should cycle with your saddle too low and what works for one doesn’t work for everyone. Starting at the most extended point and over time lowering the saddle as it becomes more comfortable was a suggestion based on my recovery after knee replacement surgery. If successful it would get you to a point where you can comfortably ride a bike. Knee surgeons class a 90* bend as successful. It’s difficult riding a bike with only that amount of flexibility.

Apologies, it was partially posted in jest. My knees aren't in great condition. I can't run any distance. I've got to be careful lifting heavy stuff, especially twisting. But if I get my saddle position right (and don't over train) I can do 100km gravel rides. Cycling doesn't necessarily have to be rough on your knees. And an ebike can considerably reduce the load.

 

[Apacheman]

Apologies, it was partially posted in jest. My knees aren't in great condition. I can't run any distance. I've got to be careful lifting heavy stuff, especially twisting. But if I get my saddle position right (and don't over train) I can do 100km gravel rides. Cycling doesn't necessarily have to be rough on your knees. And an ebike can considerably reduce the load.

Love cycling and it was one of the things I wanted to get back to after my op. I attended all the physio sessions and achieved what was expected but it wasn’t enough to be comfortable cycling. It was the physio made the suggestion as I was being discharged and it worked for me. Initially even at full extension it was difficult but once warmed up it got easier. Dropping it to the next notch once the knee was warmed up made it bearable. Exercising several times a day and eventually getting lower meant that after about 10 weeks I was able to ride my bike. It’s a slow process and not an overnight solution. Bad knees are no fun. Keep up the cycling, one of the best things you can do.