Author Archives: Russ Lowthian

Bike Pic Aug 14, it’s an ice cream smile Sunday cookie attack

In this bike pic Sunday – I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! This week’s pic features a different type of ice cream, a sandwich between two chocolate chip cookies. Get out there and try one for yourself, they are delicious!

Get into the zone when continuing your time outdoors and your #NextBikeAdventure. View all the great ideas and bike destinations in the latest Iowa or Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide. Then plan your next outing with family and friends in one of Minnesota’s HaveFunBiking destinations. And now, check out more stories at Let’s Do MN.

Thanks for viewing our latest bike pic

Now rolling through our 18th year as a bike tourism media, enjoy! As we pedal forward, we aim to encourage more people to bike and have fun while highlighting all the unforgettable places you can ride. As we continue to showcase more places to have fun, we hope the photos we shoot are worth a grin. Enjoy the information and stories we have posted as you scroll through.

Do you have a fun bicycle-related photo of yourself or someone you may know we should post? If so, please send your picture(s) to [email protected]. Please Include a brief caption to the image, who shot it, and where. Photo(s) should be a minimum of 1,000 pixels wide or larger to be considered. You will receive photo credit and acknowledgment on Facebook and Instagram if we use your photo.

As we continue encouraging more people to bike, please view our Destination section at HaveFunBiking.com for your #NextBikeAdventure. Also, check out the MN Bike Guide, now mobile-friendly, as we enter our 13th year of producing this handy information booklet full of maps.

Remember, bookmark HaveFunBiking.com on your cell phone and find your next adventure at your fingertips! Please share our pics with your friends, and don’t forget to smile. We may be around the corner with one of our cameras ready to document your next cameo appearance while you are riding and having fun. You could be in one of our next Pic of the Day.

Have a great day with a safe and memorable year ahead!

Bike Pic Aug 12, ice cream smiles Friday, in Anoka!

In this bike pic, ice cream smiles were prevalent as this biker chick displayed while enjoying a cool treat at a rest stop in Anoka.

Thanks for viewing our latest bike pic

Have a great day with a safe and memorable year ahead!

Pedaling around Winona can give you a feel of Indiana Jones

by Andrew Ellis

Soon, Minnesota’s beautiful fall colors will be gracing the Mississippi River Bluffs in and around Winona. Pedaling along the bluffs at this time of the year may make you feel like you’re Indiana Jones scouring foreign lands for lost treasure. But hold on there just one minute, Major Tom, you’re still in Southeast Minnesota. Ready to enjoy the thrills and features of one of the most bike-friendly communities in the state. The city of Winona and its surrounding area is a must-visit destination for those yearning for a free-wheeling outdoor bicycle experience. And perfect for a one-tank. day or overnight staycation.

: Mountain biking in the Mississippi River Valley area is colorful this time of the year.

The area allows you to roam nearly wherever you choose – and there’s plenty for you to explore. You can forget about your weekday worries as you pedal down the scenic country roads. And if you’re looking to take a break and spend some time on the water, then there’s lakes, rivers, and streams to wet your line or paddle around on.

Biking opportunities in Winona

The town of Winona, bordered by bluffs in the Mississippi River Valley, offers several opportunities to explore the area. You can enjoy the trails around Lake Winona, explore the many low-traffic county roads and the local section of the Mississippi River Trail, or get in some mountain biking around the bluffs. Whatever you and your bike crave, there’s something for you, like a ride out to the historic Pickwick Mill south of town.

Levee Park and the Winona Lake bike path

I love to swing by Levee Park when I am in the area and look at the river. Especially in the morning and catch the sun rising, slowly leaking over the river and onto the rooftops of the city.

: Riding the trail around Lake Winona, enjoy the colors surrounding like Sugar Loaf (Chimney Rock) in the background.

At Winona Lake Park, the paved trail offers riders a 3.7 and 5.3-mile loop option. It runs along the south side of the city and circles both segments of Lake Winona. The terrain is flat and easy for all skill levels. It’s also a multi-use trail if you prefer to walk it.

Mississippi River Trail (MRT) and the wildlife you will see

: The Historic Pickwick Mill is just on of the sights you will see riding south out of Winona.

The Mississippi River Trail is a bike route that follows the Mississippi from Lake Itasca to New Orleans. Signage is complete through Winona to make it easy to follow. One of my favorite routes, if you like to view wildlife, pedal your bike along the Mississippi River Trail upstream. Turn right out of Prairie Island Park and follow the left fork of the road (the right leads to McNally’s Landing) down a long straightaway. Watch for waterfowl — you’re surrounded by the National Wildlife Refuge.

Road biking Winona’s roads

Winona’s roads offer long and refreshing rides along scenic county roads where you can get a glimpse at all nature has to offer. And there are many loops you can follow so you won’t have to fear getting lost. There’s the Gilmore Valley Loop which takes you past St. Mary’s University, the Burns Valley Loop, the Pleasant Ridge Loop takes you by the Bunnell Historic House, the Prairie Island Loop, the Richmond Ridge Loop, and the Rollingstone route goes through Winona State University and ends at the Luxembourg Historical Museum. See more on page 46-47 of the Minnesota Bike/Hike Guide.

Mountain and fat bike fun in Winona Area

With several off-roads cycling opportunities in the area, the whole family will enjoy the trail systems here. Here are a couple options:

Holzinger Lodge Trail

The mountain bike trail offers 12 miles of short and steep climbs and downhills, as well as winding curves as it forks and wanders through mature hardwood forest and bluff top. Most of the surface here is rocky clay, and in the spring, wildflowers bloom to add to the picturesque scenery.

Richard J. Dorer Memorial Hardwood State Forest

This state forest offers mountain bikers and hikers alike several options with the Bronk Unit Plowline Trail. Winter, spring, summer, or fall, the trail system here offers a mixed terrain ride of fun loops to ride. The North loop has two spur trails that lead to scenic overlooks of Stockton Valley and the Mississippi River Valley. There’s also the Trout Valley Forest Management Forest Unit which has two multi-use loops that take you from the valley to the top of the bluffs and more. You can also go on another unforgettable adventure in the Kruger Forest Management Unit that takes you along the Zumbro River and the area’s bluffs.

More About Bike-Friendly Winona

Sitting on the edge of the Mississippi River, Winona is also home to three unique colleges: St. Mary’s University, Minnesota State College Southeast, and Winona State University. These colleges add a lot to the city’s bike-friendly atmosphere making it easy to take in all the attractions here.

The city’s bike-friendly nature allows for more than just hitting the trails and its scenic roads. There’s plenty to discover about its history, and many of the buildings here are on the National Register of Historic Places. You will also find many locally-owned shops and restaurants, so there is something for everyone.

An At-A-Glance Look at Winona

Be sure to check out our At-A-Glance Winona Article for more details on where to stay, play, and explore for your hand-held devices. As this story and the At-A-Glance Article are mobile-friendly for your convenience. So have fun, visit Winona and enjoy the fall colors.

What’s an e-bike battery’s range and its life cycled?

Estimating the distance your e-bike can travel per charge is called range. This is an important specification to pay attention to when comparing a specific e-bike battery with your desired riding style. For example, if your commute involves steep climbs, you don’t want to run the battery low halfway up the hill. Without power (volts), an e-bike can be an uncomfortable mode of transportation that demands more energy for the cyclist to pedal. So the range of an electric bike generally depends on the following.

The e-bike battery’s range is volts x amp-hours = watts

Here a center mount e-bike-battery is storing the watts for the range

Most e-bikes now come with Lithium-ion batteries that typically last for over 1,000 complete charge cycles. Maybe more with these helpful tips, as the battery is generally a third of the cost of an e-bike. To get the right battery, think volts x amp = watt-hours. Volts are the “force” pushing an amp through the system. The higher the voltage, the more energy the motor can move. This is perfect for quicker starts or climbing hills. The amp hours (AH) measure the volume of the electrons. Figuratively, the AH measure describes the flow of the electric current going to the motor.

Has the idea of using an electric bike, called an e-bike, piqued your interest? If so you are in luck, the E-bike Challenge is coming to Minneapolis, MN.

Here the e-bike battery is mounted on the back rack

Now, multiply the volts by the amps, and you will get the true measurement to feminine the range you can expect from a full charge. h

Here is a general guide listing some of the sizes to the riding distances you could expect under ‘normal’ riding conditions on a full charged battery:
· 36V 10.5Ah battery – 16 to 32 miles (26-51 km)
· 36V 17.5Ah battery – 25 to 52 miles (41-85 km)
· 48V 10.4Ah battery – 21 to 42 miles (34-68 km)
· 48V 14Ah battery – 30 to 56 miles (45-90 km)
· 52V 10.5Ah battery – 23 to 46 mph (37-74 km)
· 52V 17.5Ah battery – 40 to 76 mph (61-122 km)

Please note: the above distances can vary greatly depending on conditions (on the riders weight or rider, accessories, and cargo being hauled, along with the hills, temperature, and wind). Still, they might be helpful as a rough rule of thumb to compare against manufacturer claims.

E-bike battery cost

Speaking of batteries, replacing them, or riding with a second battery can cost you around $250 to $550. The price mainly relies on the amount of Wh or energy stored in the battery. Currently, that’s not bad since you only need to replace your battery(s) every three to five years. The more well-maintained the battery is, the longer it’ll last.

What are the different types and speeds of e-bikes?

Referred to by most as an e-bike, an electric assist bicycle refers to a motorized version of the traditional bike. With three general classifications, the speeds of e-bikes vary. Compared to a regular bicycle, which relies totally on your pedal power. The electric motor assists your pedaling efforts allowing you to go farther using less energy and having more fun. The only downside to an e-bike is the added cost of the electrical system, motor, and battery lifespan. When buying an e-bike, also consider how far you’ll be riding between charges. And whether you can charge the bike’s battery at regular intervals.

A folding is ideal for commuting and touring.

Different types and speeds of e-bikes

You can use an electric bike as you would use a conventional bike. Take it on a casual city ride. Use the bike to commute to work. Or on long cross-country trips. Use the electric motor’s power to help you tackle or ascend hills by combining electric energy with mechanical gears. It is like you are mainly always riding on flat terrain.

E-trikes are also an option

Once you have defined how you will use the bike and the model you prefer, you will have to choose which of the three e-bike classifications best fits you.

Class 1: e-bikes are pedal-assist only, with no throttle, and have a maximum speed of 20 mph

Class 2: e-bikes also have a maximum speed of 20 mph but allow for throttle assistance

Class 3: e-bikes are pedal-assist only, with no throttle and a maximum speed of 28 mph.

For more information about e-bike speed and the best classification, best for you see the Bosch Guide here.

What you need to know if considering e-bike financing

Now that you have selected an electric assist bike, you may want to know if e-bike financing is an option. And should you finance all or part of the purchase to get the right bike that will fit your needs over the next two to five years? With the growing popularity of electric bikes, many lending institutions are now offering attractive financing for electric bikes. Yes, and some manufacturers are currently offering 0% financing. So do a little more shopping for the best loan rate that fits you.

Should you consider e-bike financing?

Called “point of sale finance,” this type of loan is a relatively new offering in the market. It allows consumers to spread their purchase price over several months through a financing offer accepted at the time of checkout. The phrase “buy now, pay later” holds true here. Typically, but not always, the rates offered at a local lending institution or bike shop are lower than you would see using a credit card.

: Adding a few accessories to the bike purchase

First, check with your local bank or credit union, like Infinity Plus, to see if their bicycle-specific loan program fits your budget. Some programs allow you to borrow 120% of the bike’s cost to buy accessories (helmets, locks, baskets/panniers, lights, etc.).

Do they offer attractive loan packages that you like at the bike shop or through the bike manufacturer online? Interest rates can vary from 0% to rates up to the double digits. It usually depends on your credit rating for the rate you will qualify. If your credit score is not high enough, you may have to pay a certain amount of the purchase down or a higher rate.

In our opinion, here at HaveFunBiking, the 0% or slightly higher rate can make a lot of sense, assuming that the payment isn’t burdening your financial situation. On the other hand, if you only qualify at a higher rate, it might be better to wait and save up for your electric bike. Unless you’re using the electric bike to commute to a job and can justify the added monthly cost.

Why are there so many variables to pedal-assist e-bike costs?

You may want to compare all kinds of features and components when looking at e-bike costs. First, consider the style of the e-bike you like. Will the bike help fulfill your transportation needs to justify the investment? Next, are there options for the battery and motor size, the warranty, and the weight? With that information gathered, you can expect to pay between $2,000 and $9,000, with some high-end carbon fiber models running as high as $15,000. So, look beyond price and the following questions.

What components on the electric bike make up the e-bike costs?

To help those just learning about e-bikes, we hope this article will help you justify the investment and fit your needs. Once the type of e-bike you are interested in is in sight, the next thing to consider is the motor and battery size options. Also, to rationalize the investment and cost, review the accessory components, including the display, throttles, PAS sensors, gearing, racks, etc.).

1. The Electric Motor

From a fundamental perspective, the motor on an electric bike transfers electrical energy into mechanical energy. All electric bike models use either a center or hub drive system. A crank/drive motor is located between pedals. With a hub motor it can be incorporated into the rear wheel, front, or both. The motor type plays a major role in the bike’s price, ride quality, and overall performance.

: A CENTER CRANK/DRIVE MOTOR SYSTEM ADDS MORE TO THE E-BIKE COST

: REAR HUB MOTOR SYSTEM ON AN ELECTRIC BIKE

Depending on how you will use the e-bike, a mid-drive motor generally accelerates faster, climbs better, and has a higher top speed but costs more. One more variable of the cost is the motor’s watt size. Depending on the model, your options may include either 250 watts, 350 watts, or 500 watts size, and here in the U.S., 750 watts is not uncommon.

2. The Battery

Before looking at the battery cost for the e-bike model you like, another question to ask yourself is, how far (range) will I ride regularly?

Because the battery is a large portion of the bike’s purchase price, it’s vital to consider the range or miles you can expect between charges. Having a general idea of the range will be very helpful in degerming the battery’s capacity. A very common rating is 36 volts and 10.5Ah. On this type of battery rating, you can get 20 to 40 miles per charge, depending on your riding style and how much you pedal. That’s an excellent baseline to start your selection for the battery.

HERE IS A BATTERY CONNECTED TO A FRONT WHEEL MOTOR HUB

General battery sizing guide to answer some of your e-bike questions

Here is an available guide listing some of the battery sizes to the riding distances you could expect under ‘normal’ riding conditions on a full charged:
· 36V 10.5Ah battery – 16 to 32 miles (26-51 km)
· 36V 17.5Ah battery – 25 to 52 miles (41-85 km)
· 48V 10.4Ah battery – 21 to 42 miles (34-68 km)
· 48V 14Ah battery – 30 to 56 miles (45-90 km)
· 52V 10.5Ah battery – 23 to 46 mph (37-74 km)
· 52V 17.5Ah battery – 40 to 76 mph (61-122 km)

*Please note: The above distances can vary greatly depending on the rider’s weight, hauling cargo, hills, temperature, and wind. And a rough rule of thumb to compare against manufacturer claims.

Battery Cost

Speaking of batteries, replacing them, or riding with a second battery can cost anywhere from $250 to $550. The price mainly relies on the amount of Wh or energy stored in the battery. Currently, that’s not bad since you hopefully only need to replace your battery every three to five years. Remember, the more well-maintained the battery is, the longer it’ll last.

Is a Warranty a part of the e-bike costs?

Please make sure you ask about what the warranty is for the bike you’re interested in. Be aware the coverage can vary for different parts of the cycle. Buying an electric bike is a significant investment. The warranty length is usually a good indicator of the quality of the bike and the company standing behind it. A 12, 24, or 36-month warranty on parts, motors, and the battery is reasonable to expect from most manufacturers (with no exclusions for regular use).

We hope these facts and options will open up specific questions you might want to ask when visiting the dealer and choosing your bike.

E-bike assistance after hip or knee surgery

by Russ Lowthian, HaveFunBiking

Recovering from hip or knee surgery can be fun when adding an electric-assist bike to the post-rehab process. After my second hip replacement and talking to others with hip and knee procedures, the e-bike made the rehab process easier. I achieved full-joint motion and an active lifestyle after surgery and physical therapy (PT). Especially with the improvements in electric bike technologies in the last few years.

The Tern HSD p-9 E-bike I used for my rehab.

This time, I used an e-bike from Tern Bicycles that helped me keep a comfortable cadence regardless of the terrain. A massive help in low-impact exercise to aid both the hip and knee rehabilitation process.

Incorporating an e-bike into your post-rehab process

Using an e-bike in the post-rehab process can be a great exercise. Ask your doctor or physical therapist if it is suitable for your specific condition. Then, once you move on a stationary bike, add some light resistance with an outdoor e-bike. Usually, within four to six weeks post, this will help improve the strength around the joint(s) you had replaced. Your therapist can help you determine the right amount of resistance settings when it’s time to convert to an e-bike. Just remember, if you are feeling any abnormal pain, inform your therapist and decrease the resistance or stop.

Going from a stationary bike to an e-bike in the post-rehab process

Using the Tern e-bike in my post-rehab schedule.

During my hip rehabilitation, I talked to several physical therapists at Twin Cities Orthopedics. They all recommended using a stationary bicycle for two to three weeks to help reduce the swelling. For a knee replacement, you may need to wait an additional week or two before starting to ride outdoors.

After six weeks of using a stationary bike and a regular walking regimen, I was able to start riding my bike outside.

From a stationary trainer to an e-bike outdoors

Once your physician clears you to start riding, take it slow and stop if you feel any sharp pain. Most e-bikes allow you to control the amount of electric assistance you use to gain a steady pedal rhythm or cadence. Start with the highest pedal assist level in a low gear and gently spin. This will ensure that you don’t stress your rehabilitated joint. As you progress, you can gradually decrease the level of assistance for a more robust workout.

The advantages of using e-bikes as compared to other activities

As you can see in this video, riding an e-bike after knee replacement surgery provides the perfect balance to make a complete recovery. This is because a bicycle can strengthen your muscles and increase your mobility without putting too much strain on your joints when exercising. With the pedal assist of electric power, the e-bike requires less physical intensity and allows you to retain an average cadence level to heal faster.

Finding the perfect gear for cadence

There are many e-bikes to choose from when selecting the right one.

Finding the perfect e-bicycle that allows you to pedal comfortably after surgery can be challenging. We all have a natural cadence pace, and the body performs best as the bicycle’s crank spins with steady yet comfortable resistance. The goal of an e-bike is to allow you to shift gears and motor speed to allow you to pedal at a stable and comfortable pace even as the topography changes.

Plus, stopping, starting, or accelerating with an e-bike maximizes your chances of a full recovery and a rapid return to regular activity.

Electric bike technologies will improve the post-rehab process.

As I mention above, e-bikes are continuously changing for the better. After replacing my right hip in 2014, very few e-bikes are available on the market. At the time, they either came with a front or rear hub motor.

Look for an e-bike with reputable parts and a 3 to 5-year warranty.

Now, with mid-drive motors mounted directly into the crank, you have a balanced power movement from the pedals to the drivetrain. The Tern HSD E-bike with a class 1 Bosch motor system was perfect for my recent hip post-rehab process. Thanks to Perennial Cycles, in Minneapolis, for their assistance.

Some added e-bike buying tips for the post-rehab process.

After talking to others who have used an e-bike in the post-rehab process, here are a few more suggestions when looking for an e-bike that fits your needs and budget:

Make sure the e-bike has a dropper seat post (especially for knee rehab), as adjustments will need to be made throughout the rehab process
Also recommended is having a riser or adjustable handlebar setup, so you sit upright instead of leaning forward
Use a non-slip pedal – a Chester pedal with pins works excellent and allows you to quickly dismount to move your foot to the ground and stabilize your balance.
Enjoy the post-rehab process with an e-bike.

E-bike-maintenance, and what if it needs a repair?

Just like a regular bicycle, doing an ABC (Air, Brake & Chain) check regularly can help you avoid any unnecessary repairs and maximize your e-bike investment. E-bikes aren’t a one-and-done kind of purchase. You’ll need to consider the maintenance costs or have a good warranty because repairs can a shocker.

E-bike maintenance and repair

Here are some general maintenance tips to help you avoid those costly repairs.

Regularly, do an ABC (Air, Brake & Chain) check

Before you go out for a ride, always remember your ABC’s

A is for air – check the tire pressure regularly

B is for brakes – are they soft have them adjusted

C is for Cranks, Chain, and Cassette – make sure they are clean and lubed.

Check = take a quick ride to check it all before you go on your next e-bike adventure!

Schedule a tune-up

Having an e-bike in good working order is a pleasure to ride

On average, you should schedule a tune-up with your local bike shop every six months or every 1,000 miles you have ridden. To protect your warranty, check their recommendations for service as they may differ.

A savings $$$ hint – bringing your e-bike in for a tune-up in the winter months is a good time to visit, learn, and get a good repair rate.

Other Maintainance costs

These tune-ups can range in cost depending on each e-bike’s condition, from $70 up to $250. This price can increase if they need to replace any worn components.

Having said that, maintenance costs don’t just stop there. A flat tire could cost you between $10 and $20. A tire replacement can cost up to $80 per tire. New tire tubes cost between $5 and $20.

Another maintenance factor worth considering is brake adjustments. Your brakes are likely to get misaligned from constant use. This repair can cost between $20 and $35. However, if you have a good relationship with a bike shop, some of the smaller charges may be waived, especially if you bought your bike from their shop.

What if my e-bike needs any major repairs?

First, if you have a warranty, it may cover those repairs. Then schedule a time to take it into your local shop.

If you’re buying an e-bike online, see what sort of repair service or online support the company provides. Then make sure your local or favorite bike shop can fix the electrical components of the e-bike you are selecting.

What is the e-bike weight limit, and what do they weigh?

The e-bike weight most manufacturers recommend is a maximum combined weight of around 275 pounds for a rider, gear, or cargo on the bike. Though cargo bikes are meant to carry people and big loads these bikes can accommodate riders + gear up to 400 pounds or more. Typically, e-bikes can handle total weights more than described by manufacturers’ specs. However, it may result in reduced range or increased maintenance and might require more repairs on bike parts like wheel spokes.

What is the e-bike weight?

A Specialized Creo SL is a lightweight e-bike

There are not many truly light electric bikes around, and those that usually sacrifice power and range. This will probably change as battery technology improves. Full-sized electric bikes currently weigh in the order of 50 to 60 pounds (about 22-25 kg). That is with the weight of the battery and motor included. If weight is a concern, you may want to consider a smaller style of electric bike like an e-folding bike.

A Gocycle G4 white 01 is a folding bike.

The weight of the battery goes up as the voltage goes up, but the capacity (range of the battery) goes up, too.

How much weight can an e-bike bear?

It’s not just about how much weight your electric bike can carry it is also about how you use that weight. If you plan on riding with your significant other on a double-seat model, make sure your battery’s volt to amperage ratio can accommodate both of you.

The good news is that many models are dual-suspension or have shock absorbers built into their frames, so bumps and potholes won’t cause as much damage if you go over them at high speeds. Plus, there are plenty of ways to make sure you stay safe while riding an e-bike: wear a helmet, avoid busy streets and never ride one when it’s dark out without proper lighting.