Television
If you follow a week’s worth of soaps and films on any TV channel you’ll very rarely, if ever, see evidence of an Ebike. Waste recycling is sometimes referred to, but when it comes to positive solutions for the problems posed by climate change there are few constructive ideas.
Garages feature in both Eastenders and Coronation Street and wouldn’t it be fun to see the residents of Albert Square heading off for a night out on one of the new Ebikes.
These machines were only launched last year and are currently more popular on mainland Europe than in the UK, but it’s still early days for this mode of transport.
The film Quadrophenia glamorised the bikes and scooters of the Mods and Rockers, perhaps a 2014 version could feature modern youth riding around on battery-operated bikes?
Trend
The Ebike is quiet and easy to use as it only has three gears and can access GPS through a smartphone cradle. Perhaps the presenters of Countryfile could use one of these vehicles in the series.
The lithium-ion battery produces 48 volts and needs to be recharged every five hours, and the 200-watt electric motor has a range of around 62 miles. To a certain extent this concept is an upgrade on the bikes or mobilletes that were so beloved of the French.
Given the fact that the machines are easy and cheap to run, will not pollute the atmosphere and cost around £2,500, they are far cheaper and more energy efficient than that a car or motorbike.
Also, you do not need a driving licence for an Ebike. The bike has won a design award for its sleek appearance and might well prove to be a great success for those who find the exercise of cycling up hills draining.
Of course if the battery should need recharging you can always resort to pedal power like with a traditional bike to reach your destination. This bike provides a green alternative for those who don’t want to join the cycle obsessive Lycra brigade but still want to make their contribution to a cleaner environment.