A 23-Mile Nature Bike Ride with the Lewis Brothers and Their Mom Kim Who Just Bought Her First eBike

“Nothing compares to the simple pleasure of a bike ride.”

—John F. Kennedy

What a way to begin the morning. Cecile and I took a walk around the lake where we live. I was invited to join our daughter Michelle’s mother-in-law Kim—who just got a new eBike—and her son’s Kyle and older brother Chip for what turned out to be a joyful two and a half-hour ride. I planned a route that avoided as much traffic as possible, including quiet neighborhoods throughout Saratoga and the Los Gatos foothills that are actually a part of the Santa Cruz Mountains. From there we hopped on the Los Gatos Creek nature, pedestrian and biking trails leading to Campbell Park where we looped around and headed back from where we began. Of course we stopped along the way to take these photos of what we witnessed along the way.

Kim’s husband Al recently bought Kim a Gazelle eBike, which features a low seat, swept-back handle bars, and a step-thru frame that makes it easy to mount and get off to the races so-to-speak. It is a beautiful sleek bike made by Royal Dutch Gazelle. Founded in Dieren, the Netherlands in 1892, they have a rich history of innovation, mobility and craftsmanship. Their original factory was totally renovated and the new facility was opened by His Majesty Willem-Alexander in 2015. Congratulations, Kim! Now if this means you will become an heir to his Majesty’s Estate that would really be something:-)

Though Kyle and Chip prefer conventional bikes, and are only in their mid to late 30s, they love to test their limits, often riding upwards of 35-50 miles at a clip. In contrast, electric assist bikes have become accessible to a wider range of people. They allow aging adults like myself to up their level of exercise. Several years ago while in my mid 60s, I didn’t believe I could ever ride up steep inclines or ever be able to ride as many miles as I do now (currently 70 miles or more per week). Then there’s the health benefits. Electric assist bikes are capable of improving cardiovascular health benefits somewhat similar to conventional bikes. Moreover, while it’s true that eBikes provide an easier ride, eBike riders are also able to ride further, pedal faster, balance easier, climb steeper hills and generally ride more often than one could do on a conventional bike.

Sport physicians estimate that an hour of riding on an eBike burns around 300 calories compared to a regular bike that burns about 500 calories. And, as a former foot doctor I can tell you that while running burns two to three times more than riding an eBike, riding eBikes are much gentler on your joints.

Before saying goodbye to Kim in her driveway where we all began our ride together, I could see how joyful she was. She has upped her game by riding regularly with friends and family. I asked her if she feels that sense of feeling liberated, that in my view means feeling more energized, feeling the wind caress one’s face, the torque of the electric motor beneath ones feet, enjoying the beautiful scenery, the hum of the tires, not to mention bonding with her two sons, she didn’t hesitate to say “YES.” When she texted me recently to let me know the good news—that she had purchased an eBike, I told her it would change her life for the better and by all indications, it looks like it has.

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