E-bike curious?

Are you e-bike curious? If you find yourself intrigued by the idea of an electric bike (or ‘e-bike’) but aren’t quite sure if they’re right for you, this blog aims to unravel the allure and highlight the numerous benefits of embracing e-bikes.  PLUS we’ve got just the bike for you.

Pedal-Assist Super Power

E-bikes are equipped with an electric motor that provides what we call ‘pedal-assist’, meaning they amplify the rider’s pedalling power. This feature comes in handy when tackling challenging Manx terrain, steep hills, or longer distances.

There is a common myth that using an e-bike is cheating, but this simply isn’t true. You still must pedal on an e-bike, which still can require effort and fitness. And, with different levels of assistance to choose from, you can actually choose when you work harder and when you don’t, allowing you to ride unaided by your motor if you wish.

The trick to making your e-bike the perfect fitness tool is to use the motor just enough to keep going. Cycle until you’re either wiped out or have hit a steep hill, then increase the power for that extra oomph!

Studies have shown that riding an e-bike can actually make you fitter than a standard bike. This sounds odd, but the theory is that if you can get around easier without having to change into lycra or work up a sweat, you’re more likely to choose to ride often.

Battery Life & Mileage

Your e-bike can generally get you pretty far without running out of battery, so you can travel long distances before running out of steam. As a rough guide, you can work out how many miles you might get from your battery by dividing the Wh capacity by 15.  However, weather, terrain and rider weight can all affect the range so be sure to bear this in mind and ask the Cycle 360 expert team for advice.

Battery life itself is dependent on how you ride and the level of assistance you choose. If you put in most of the work yourself on eco mode, you could get hundreds of miles on a single charge. If you use the turbo-mode and ride on a route with lots of climbs, your range will be reduced.

The average range is generally 45-60 miles, but most e-bikes have a display showing your battery life to allow you to adjust your route accordingly!

Most battery packs on an e-bike can be removed to allow you to plug into a mains socket, or your charger will plug straight into your bike. Depending on battery size, it should take around 3-4 hours to fully charge your battery.

The perfect bike for the e-bike curious

Introducing, the Cube Reaction Hybrid Pro. 

The Cube Reaction Hybrid Pro is designed to offer riders a versatile and capable e-bike experience on various terrains.

Here are some of its key features and specifications:

1. Electric-Assist System: The bike is equipped with a powerful electric-assist system to provide riders with extra assistance while pedalling. It features a mid-drive motor, which is integrated into the bike’s frame near the bottom bracket, providing a low centre of gravity for improved stability.
2. Motor and Battery: The Reaction Hybrid Pro is powered by a Bosch Performance Line CX motor. This motor is known for its reliability and performance, offering smooth and powerful assistance across different riding conditions. The bike is equipped with a Bosch PowerTube battery, which is integrated into the downtube of the frame for a sleek and balanced look.
3. Frame and Suspension: The bike features a lightweight and sturdy aluminium frame that is specifically designed for off-road riding. It utilises Cube’s Advanced Hydroforming technology to optimise the frame’s strength and weight. The Reaction Hybrid Pro typically comes with front suspension, such as a RockShox fork, to enhance comfort and control on rough trails.
4. Drivetrain and Gearing: The e-bike is equipped with a wide-range Shimano or SRAM drivetrain, offering a reliable and smooth shifting experience. It typically features a 10 or 11-speed cassette, providing riders with a wide range of gear ratios to tackle various terrains.
5. Tires and Wheels: The Reaction Hybrid Pro often comes with 27.5-inch or 29-inch wheels, depending on the frame size and model. These larger wheel sizes provide better roll-over capabilities, increased stability, and improved traction. The bike is usually equipped with knobby off-road tires to deliver excellent grip on dirt trails.
6. Brakes: Cube equips the Reaction Hybrid Pro with hydraulic disc brakes, such as Shimano or SRAM models. These brakes offer reliable stopping power in all weather conditions and provide precise modulation for improved control on descents.
7. Display and Controls: The e-bike features a handlebar-mounted display that allows riders to easily monitor and adjust the electric-assist settings. The display typically shows information like speed, distance, battery level, and assistance mode. The controls are intuitive and user-friendly, allowing riders to switch between different power modes on the go.

Overall, the Cube Reaction Hybrid Pro E-Bike is designed to provide riders with an exhilarating off-road experience with the added benefits of electric assistance. It combines high-quality components, reliable performance, and advanced technology to deliver a capable and enjoyable ride on trails and rough terrain.

Affordable methods to purchasing your first e-bike

First and foremost, the Cube reaction Hybrid Pro is currently featured as a raffle prize for the upcoming Lighthouses Challenge!  You can win the e-bike above for just £10(!), by purchasing a ticket here.  All proceeds raised are going to local charity, Isle Listen and even better – the Zurich Foundation are matching all donations made.

Then there’s the cycle-to-work scheme. Your employer buys a bike of your choice from Cycle 360 to allow you to ride to work (and for pleasure!).  You purchase it from the employer by making monthly payments from your salary, which is an agreement between you and your employer that doesn’t exceed three tax years. When the agreed purchase period comes to an end, you own the bike!  The scheme is even more generous for e-bikes: check out all the details here or pop in and chat to us, we’ll take the headache out of it all for you.

Cycle 360 provides attractive finance options, so you can spread the cost of your new bike and cycling gear, over a time period that suits your budget. Our finance is supplied by Conister Bank, who will provide you with a decision in seconds. You can get your dream bike along with all the added extras you desire in one easy, affordable finance package as long as the total equates to £500 or more. We help you spread the cost with 0% finance over 6, 12, 18 or 24 months.

So, what are you waiting for? Go electric!

Embracing e-bikes is a step towards a sustainable and healthier future. These innovative vehicles combine the best of traditional cycling with the convenience and power of electric assistance. Whether you’re a daily commuter, fitness enthusiast, or simply someone looking to make a positive impact on the environment, e-bikes offer a compelling and versatile solution.

So, we urge you take the plunge!  Hop on an e-bike and experience the countless benefits they have to offer.  The freedom, fun, and eco-friendly adventures await you on the electric two-wheeled journey.