Summary

The article discusses the impact of e-bikes on traditional cycling, questioning whether e-biking should be considered the same as cycling and expressing concerns about the normalization of e-bikes in society.

Abstract

The author of the article "Is E-Biking Really Cycling" reflects on the e-bike revolution and its implications for the traditional understanding of cycling. The piece argues that while e-bikes fit the technical definition of a bicycle, the essence of cycling as a human-powered activity is lost with the introduction of electric motors. The author emphasizes the importance of the physical and mental challenge in cycling, which is diminished by the assistance provided by e-bikes. Furthermore, the article raises concerns about the broader societal trend of making activities easier through technology, suggesting that this may not always be beneficial or environmentally sound. The author also critiques the notion that e-bikes are a democratic means of transportation due to their cost and questions the necessity of such technology when traditional bicycles and human-powered activities suffice.

Opinions

E-bikes, while technically bicycles, do not represent true cycling because they alter the physical and mental effort required.
The author values the self-reliance and personal achievement inherent in traditional cycling and other human-powered sports.
There is a concern that the normalization of e-bikes reflects a broader societal trend towards making activities easier, potentially undermining the benefits of physical effort.
E-bikes are seen as less environmentally friendly than traditional bicycles and not particularly democratic due to their high cost.
The author suggests that the push for e-bikes is part of a consumerist culture that encourages the constant acquisition of new technology, such as paddleboards, drones, iPhones, and electric cars, which may not be necessary.
Despite these criticisms, the author acknowledges that e-bikes have encouraged some individuals to cycle who might not have done so otherwise.

MODERN LIFE EXAMINED

Is E-Biking Really Cycling

And what’s next — an e-paddleboat?

Imagine gently pedalling across a lake on your paddleboat that’s in the shape of a swan, and being overtaken by another swan. Only this swan has an electric motor in it. The whole lake full of high-powered swans skimming across the surface like cars on a racetrack.

This is what’s happening with the e-bike revolution. You’re gently cycling on your push-bike, a nice leisurely amble to the shops, when you hear the screaming bell of a $3000 cargo bike roaring up on the outside.

Whizz!!!

“Shit! I didn’t think motorbikes were allowed on bike paths.”

Many people in the last piece I wrote on this, raised this very question. Are e-bikes actually bicycles?

What Is Cycling?

E-biking fits in with the definition of cycling, which is: to ride a bicycle. A bicycle is a vehicle consisting of two wheels held in a frame one behind the other, propelled by pedals.

OK, so it is a bicycle. But is it cycling in the truest sense?

No. Absolutely not.

For many, the whole point of cycling — or running, rowing, swimming — is that there’s no back up. You’re on your own! It’s you and the bike.

This is why these activities are separate from sports like motor racing. Your momentum is governed by your body. And more importantly your mind. Sometimes you want to stop because your legs are burning, but you keep going because the mind overrides the body.

There’s no fall back. It’s just you. This is very important because it gives you an incredible sense of achievement and well-being. And it doesn’t have to be an Alpine ascent, it’s whatever you want. But the important thing is, you’ve done it.

I’m not against e-bikes. As I mentioned in my last post, for some people, it’s made them get on the bike when before they would not.

HOWEVER, there is a big difference between cycling and e-biking. They are not the same thing either physically or mentally. It is in essence, a different sport all together.

The Normalization of E-Bikes

I don’t want to preach, but I think we have to be careful. And I’m not just talking about cycling. I’m talking about everything that has been trivialized or made easy.

Of course, we want to make things accessible to everyone. Especially sports. But I don’t think e-bikes are a good example of this. E-bikes are not particularly democratic because of their cost. And neither are they that great for the environment. They are better than cars, but not as good as an old-fashioned bicycle. Or walking!

Bicycles have been the standard non-motorised mode of transport for over a hundred years. And yet, suddenly, they are not good enough. Now you need an e-bike! Just like you need a paddleboard or a drone or an iPhone or an electric car.

How about if you don’t need any of these. How about you just get on your bike. Or paddleboat.

Thanks for reading, for more debate, see

So You’ve Just Bought an E-Bike — Why?

Why electric bicycles are just a tedious fad

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What Will the Rich Hijack Next — Chess?

What’s next on the rich hit list?

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