Electric Bike Revolution: How I Feel Fit Again With My New Ride
- by Gunnar Herbst
- ⏱️ - 2 Min
- Experiencing a youthful rejuvenation while riding this electric bicycle
Casual When I was younger, back when e-bikes weren't even a thing, I loved cycling—to school, band practice, my civilian service post, university. Biking was my thing, no distance too long, no weather too harsh. I was fit and nimble. Then life happened. I aged, got lazy, slowed down. My strength faded. And with it, so did my passion.
When I bought a Vespa 20 years ago, the excitement returned. The motor scooter replaced the bike, perfect for both short and long journeys. Navigating Hamburg traffic was a breeze, but the Vespa wasn't much help in winter, when temperatures dropped below freezing.
From Scooter to E-Bike
But two months ago, my scooter was stolen. The disappointment was huge. At the same time, I saw it as an opportunity to try something new and switch to an e-bike for three weeks—mainly to commute between my apartment and work. About seven kilometers each way, mostly downhill on the way there, uphill on the way back, along the Elbe.
For my everyday test, I chose the Urban Evo 2 from Bulls, a powerful and appropriately urban option. Bulls is an in-house brand of the bicycle purchasing cooperative (ZEG), founded by retailers to improve purchasing for the bicycle trade. You get a lot of e-bike for 3599 euros with my model.
The Smartphone as a Speedometer
First glance: The bike looks sleek, well-made, and lightweight at just under 20 kg. The control unit is placed in the frame's top tube. Here, the bike and light are turned on and off, and one of the four support levels is selected. It also displays the battery charge status.
For those who want it, the system can be connected to an app, transforming the phone into a speedometer. Navigation and anti-theft protection also run through the app.
In everyday life, I don't need navigation, and I lock the e-bike in the basement at home and at the office to prevent theft. Even without the app, the ride is enjoyable. Because I'm lazy, I choose the highest support level. The rear hub motor, hardly noticeable from the outside and similar to the battery, runs quietly and efficiently. With just a few pedals, the bike reaches 25 km/h. If I want to go faster, I have to pedal without assistance.
Picking up speed, shifting gears, turning, braking—everything is effortless. After four days and about 70 kilometers, the battery is drained. Cold temperatures and high support setting have drained a lot of power, causing a sudden loss of momentum towards the end of each trip. Even with the front and rear lights still on, I get home safely. In the basement, I charge the battery overnight. Since it can't be removed from the frame, the charging cable is inserted into a socket at the bottom of the crank.
The days pass like this. Every trip becomes exciting, even leisurely excursions I make by bike, just for fun. The e-bike becomes my fountain of youth: I feel almost like I used to.
Bulls Urban Evo 2Price: 3599 eurosWeight: approximately 20 kgTorque: 30 NmRange/Battery: approximately 80 km/520 Wh
- E-bike
- Electric bike
- Commuter
- Hamburg
In urban settings, e-bikes can be an excellent choice for commuting and boosting fitness. Features like powerful motors, extended battery ranges, and ergonomic designs can make all the difference. With adjustable pedal assist levels and torque sensors, riders can customize their experience and challenge themselves while still enjoying the convenience of electric assistance.
When considering an e-bike, look for models that offer these features to ensure you find one that meets your needs and helps you rediscover the joy of cycling.
- In an urban environment like Hamburg, electric bikes, such as the Urban Evo 2 from Bulls, are optimal for commuting and promoting fitness.
- While navigating the bustling streets of a city, those interested in adopting a bike as a commuter vehicle might consider trying an electric bicycle, especially with powerful motors and ergonomic designs.
- As I transition from a Vespa to an e-bike for my daily commute, I feel the potential to not only boost my fitness but also rediscover the pleasure I used to find in cycling.
