Contents From the editor

Welcome to the first edition of Electric Bike magazine!

Electric bikes are many things to many people. Some want to extend a commute or arrive less sweaty, and others need a helping hand on the hills, when transporting children, or to keep up with fitter riding companions. For others less able, an electric bike can be an empowering tool for independent mobility. And many just love the fun-factor of riding with electric assist: it flattens the hills and takes the trudge out of headwinds. Cycling without the strain can be an inspiring experience.

This is an exciting time in the electric bike world, with the technology developing fast. A dedicated magazine for the industry is, we think, long overdue. So we’re here to review the bikes, to pass on essential information and buying advice, and to keep you up to date with the latest technology.

We’ve already had superb support from the electric bike industry: their advertising makes this magazine possible. Please do support them with your trade, and mention Electric Bike when you do!

For our part, we’ll do our very best to bring you a realistic and practical insight into electric cycling in the new century. Do also check out the extra material on our busy website, www.electricbikemag.co.uk, where you’ll find the latest news, a reviews index and much more.

This first issue is heavy on advice: future issues will keep up the flow of reviews but also add a range of editorial features. In particular, we’d very much appreciate your feedback, questions or comments for the first Letters page!

Peter Eland

ELECTRIC BIKE Electric Bike magazine is published quarterly by Velo Vision Ltd. ISSN: Applied for. Velo Vision Ltd York Eco Business Centre Amy Johnson Way York YO30 4AG Tel/Fax 01904 692800 info@electricbikemag.co.uk www.electricbikemag.co.uk

Cover photo: Raleigh UK

Editor/Publisher: Peter Eland Art Director: Brian Holt Web Programmer: Simon Ward Editorial Assistant: Sue Archer Photo Assistant: Debz Butterworth Printer: Stephens & George Magazines Ltd

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4 News All the latest from the electric bike world.

6 The Basics Essential information for the newcomer to electric cycling.

8 Review: Ezee Torq Dual Battery

12 Review: Gepida Reptila 1000

18 Review: BuyBuyBikes Electro-city

22 Review: Raleigh Dover Deluxe

26 From the shows Reporting from the Electric Bike Rally in Presteigne, the York Cycle Show, and from the SPEZI in Germany.

28 Basics continued More essential information.

30 Dealer locator Find your nearest electric bike dealer and see what they stock.

32 How to subscribe Get Electric Bike delivered direct to your door, and check out its sister publication, Velo Vision…

Autumn 2010 E l ec t r i c B i ke 3