I’d never thought I’d be sharing a story about my time on an electric bike, but here we are! At 62 and retired, I’m not super active like I used to be, but I still run errands all the time and stay busy, so I’m in reasonably good shape. I’ve been so happy with the addition of my e-bike to my life that I wanted to share it with you all.
My Journey
I bought an folding e-bike at the recommendation of my sister. She has an older one that her husband gave her when he upgraded. I opted for a new K1 from KBO (it was much cheaper than other models with similar features so I went for it!). I was hesitant at first, but I look forward to my next e-bike ride all the time now. It’s been a game changer for me. I’ve made it my goal to ride in every park in and around the city where I live each weekend.
I get excited just thinking about my trips. And the foldable feature of the K1 e-bike I bought is perfect. It fits easily into the back hatch of my standard Subaru Forester so I can take it anywhere. I enjoy rides along the peaceful riversides and meandering trails near me, helmet fastened, water bottle in hand, listening to the birds chirping. The biggest advantage for me personally is the little motor and battery helping me out with every pedal. I can easily climb steep hills and concentrate on taking in the sights and sounds of the outdoors instead of being out of breath and cramped.
Getting off the usual route is one of the most thrilling parts of e-biking for me. There were tall hills or long roads I never used to travel down on my old bikes. Now I go for outlying places finding less riders, big open meadows, and even breath-taking views I never knew where there.
My favorite ride lately is right in the town of Meriden, CT, where I live. One large green area in Meriden is called Hubbard Park. We have beautiful stonework, some small water features, and cool bridges making it a picturesque locale inside the city.
Though it’s a stunning location all year round, this park really comes alive in the spring. There are acres of color as all the brilliant daffodils blossom. Getting my new bike this spring was perfect timing.
But it’s about the relationships I’ve rekindled as much as the trips. To make friends and exchange experiences with other riders, I joined a local bike group and go on group rides with my sister and her family. We ride new routes, tell each other about our rides, and enjoy the excitement of biking together. Not everyone has an e-bike, but about half of us do. I charge it in my garage each night after I use it and it’s always ready to go the next time I grab it.
Riding e-bikes recreationally is a new way of life that, for me, offers a greater connection to nature and community that I’ve been missing ever since I retired during the pandemic. Getting back out and being active again has felt so great.
My Recommendation
I would definitely endorse e-bikes to anybody looking for this type of convenience and fun. Personally, I like the foldable one that I got since it was not over-priced but also came in a lovely pink color which is what I chose. The important thing is not to wait. I wish I had pulled the trigger on this bike years ago. So, if you’re on the fence, I don’t think you can go wrong with any e-bike, but the K1 checks all the boxes for me and I think it would be good for anyone like me, too.
I hope this review is helpful for you! Thanks for reading.
