Category Archives: Products

Making yourself heard with a bicycle bell, vs voice command

By Russ Lowthian, HaveFunBiking

With summer riding opportunities here, it may be time to look for a new bicycle bell for added safety. Personally, I prefer using a bell when approaching slower cyclists and people walking on the trail, just ahead of me. Rather than using my voice alone, with a tone that may vary. I find a bell noise from SpurCycle, with a quick statement of “On your left,” when passing, is more effective and appreciated. The Compact Bell is perfect and offers the same high-frequency ping as SpurCycle’s original bell, just smaller with fewer moving parts.

The SpurCycle Compact Bicycle Bell

In a recent test of the SpurCycle Compact Bell, I found the ring lasts longer than most bells. I found the high-frequency ping with a rich aftermath tone helps those, as you approach, of your on-coming presents.

The perfect brass bell housing holds a ring longer, starting with a very hard “ping.”

This compact bell is plenty loud for off-road riding and suburban commuting but won’t win against car horns and heavy street traffic in a metropolitan area. This bell’s true advantage is how long the ring lasts (or “sustains”), ending at the same frequency.

From its package, test out the high-quality ping this bicycle bell makes.

It’s great for commuters or mountain bikers because you can start the ring 10-15 seconds before passing a biker or pedestrian. Letting them know where you are and when you will be approaching. With the SpurCycle Bell, there’s no need to ring your bell 20-times like the inexpensive department store models. The initial ring offers enough of a shrill to get the attention of even the most hardcore earbud rockers, if you do choose to hit it repeatedly.

If your bike has a larger diameter handlebar (22.2 to 31.8 mm), consider the SpurCycle Original.

Mastering the use of your voice or the use of a bicycle bell

In a recent article published by CyclingSavvy, should you use a bicycle bell or your voice? For many, it’s a cultural issue. In this in-depth article, John Brooking discusses how you can use a bell or your voice to alert people and what to check for after sending an audible signal. He also touches on the other sounds bicycles make and how these extend your pre-ride safety check. Making it natural so your bell and voice, when riding, is a call-and-response. Musicians use this so the audience can sing along; you can use it, so your passage is predictable and safe.

Personally, as you can probably tell in this read, I prefer the bell to voice commands. Especially if you are in an urban area with heavy pedestrian foot traffic. Having spent time in Amsterdam on a bicycle made me a true believer that the bell’s sound was mightier than the voice.

With these tips, wood ticks won’t haunt your next outdoor adventure

by Russ Lowthian, HaveFunBiking.com

Unless you enter the annual Woodtick Races in Cuyuna, MN, these bloodthirsty wood ticks are annoying and could be hazardous to your health. Especially if you are biking or hiking on trails through the woods or in tall grass, take note as you enjoy your outdoor adventures! These little critters, especially if they are deer ticks species, can be nasty. Like the wood tick, the deer tick also lurks in any natural wilderness setting. However, they are small as a freckle, have tiny black legs, and you may find them loaded with disease-causing pathogens or Lyme Disease.

Two wood ticks and a deer tick pose with Roosevelt dime for reference. photo by David Bosshart

Two wood ticks on the left pose with a deer tick next to a Roosevelt dime for reference. Photo by David Bosshart

Getting a deer or wood tick in a city park or on a paved bicycle trail, but the probability is very low. Especially on paths with the grass mowed along the edges. Generally, these blood-sucking critters are only a problem if you are off the trail biking or walking through tall grass and brushy wooded areas. Ticks tend to crawl up on vegetation, tall grass, and wood and wait to grab onto a passing animal or human.

Once attached to people or pets, deer ticks can be hard to find. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), their numbers are on the rise and carry harmful pathogens. Thanks to the CDC’s website, there are several things everyone should know about ticks to stay disease-free.

Wood Tick Bite Prevention

Before You Go Outdoors

Know where to expect ticks. Ticks live in grassy, brushy, wooded areas or even on animals. Spending time outside walking your dog, biking, camping, or hiking could bring you close contact with ticks. Many people get ticks in their yards or neighborhood, in rain gardens, and in natural areas
Treat clothing and gear with products containing 0.5% permethrin. Permethrin can be used to treat boots, clothing, and camping gear and remain protective through several cleanings
Use Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)-registered insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, IR3535, Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (OLE), para-menthane-diol (PMD), or 2-undecanoate. EPA’s helpful search tool can help you find the product that best suits your needs. Always follow product instructions
Another option is the Tickless Active we are testing. This rechargeable device emits a series of ultrasonic pulses undetectable to people, pets, or wildlife but interferes with the ability of ticks and fleas to orient themselves
Do not use insect repellent on babies younger than two months old
Do not use products containing OLE or PMD on children under three years old
Avoid contact with ticks, especially in wooded or brushy areas with high grass and leaf litter
Ride and walk in the center of the off-road trail.

After You Come Indoors

Diagram from the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

When out in the wilderness, check your clothing and gear for ticks. They may be carried into the house, your car, or on clothing and gear if not careful. Any ticks that are found should be removed. At home, tumble dry clothes in a dryer on high heat for 10 minutes to kill ticks on dry clothing after you come indoors. If the clothes are damp, they may need additional drying time. If the clothes require washing first, hot water is recommended. Cold and medium-temperature water will not kill ticks
Examine gear and pets. Ticks can ride into the home on clothing and pets, then attach to a person later, so carefully examine pets, coats, hydration saddle packs
Shower soon after being outdoors. Showering within two hours of coming indoors has been shown to reduce your risk of getting Lyme disease and may effectively reduce the risk of other tickborne diseases. Showering may help wash off unattached ticks, and it is an excellent opportunity to do a tick check
Check your body for ticks after being outdoors. Conduct a full-body assessment upon returning from potentially tick-infested areas, including your backyard. Use a hand-held or full-length mirror to view all parts of your body. If you are comfortable, another set of eyes to check is a good idea. Check these parts of your body and your child’s body for ticks:
Under the arms
In and around the ears
Inside belly button
Back of the knees
In and around the hair
Between the legs
Around the waist

Now that you know more about these vampire-like blood-sucking parasites, plan your #NextBikeAdventure and have some fun!

Save Save Save… Get a new e-bike at clearance prices

With the closing of PowerBikes.com, here in the Twin Cities, here is your chance to get a new e-bike at a near-wholesale price. The inventory listed below is being auctioned off. Along with a huge selection of bike accessories, e-bike certified helmets, locks, bags, cell phone mounts, bags, and every imaginable bike part & tool!

You can get the best deal on a new electric assist bike before the spring riding season begins. Select from new in-the-box, new pre-prepped, demo, and used e-bikes. All styles, including deep step-through, eMTB, fat tire, beach cruiser, e-Trike, folding, roadster, touring, and a Harley Davidson Serial 1 eBike. Many bikes listed include a manufactures warranty.

Place your bid for a new e-bike now!

The online Auction is now open for review and bidding starting Saturday, April 22, through Sunday, April 30, 2023, at 4 pm. Go to www.k-bid.com/PowerbikesClearance.

Appointments will be available for an open house preview of these e-bikes, from 9 am to 4 pm, on Saturday 04/29/2023… simply call or text Brad at 612-719-6416 and tell him you want to really Have Fun Biking!

Here are several models of bikes to you can preview on the auction site

BH Evo City Retails at $2,799 1 Available – Black

The Evo City is a large electric bike that works well for taller riders who feel cramped on other models. Perfect for commuting in urban and city environments, rain or shine, night or day, this bike comes with fenders, integrated lights (the front runs off a dynamo), and an oversized rack with reflectors, pannier blockers, and bungee cords. The motor operates smoothly and fairly quietly, with zip and power up to ~20 mph, in assist and throttle mode. The battery is removable and can be charged on or off the bike.

BH Evo Race Retails $2,799 1 Available – Black (in Box)

The lightest weight, most efficient electric bike in the Easy Motion Evo series is the Evo Race MD-T, designed for road cycling on smooth tarmac. This e-bike draws on the 100+ year bicycling heritage of BH, the Race offers 30 speeds on a well-balanced frame that looks beautiful, with aerodynamic mid-dish rims, efficient 700x25c road bike tires, hydraulic disc brakes, and a carbon fork for high-performance riding with a top speed above 20 mph in pedal assist mode.

E-Lux Mailbu Highstep Retails $2,499 1 Available – Black

E-Lux Mailbu Stepthru GT Retails $3,299 8 Available – Gloss white

E-Lux Mailbu Stepthru GT Retails $3,299 4 Available – Matte black

The E-Lux Malibu GT model offers luxury, power, speed, and range with contemporary lines. With a battery-forward design, the frame puts you in an ultra-comfortable upright riding position. As you glide down the road, experience ultimate luxury with a zoom front shock, NCX suspension seat post, and Serfas gel seat. Hills and wind are no problem with the ultimate power, Dapu Motor and Samsung/Panasonic Battery drive train, giving you 48 Volt 750 Watt (1375 Peak Watt), with a top speed of 28 mph.

E-Lux Tahoe Highstep GT Retails $3,299 1 Available – Cherry Red – Fat Tire

E-Lux Tahoe Stepthru GT Retails $3,299 1 Available – Cherry Red – Fat Tire

E-Lux Tahoe Stepthru GT Retails $3,299 2 Available – Gloss White – Fat Tire

E-Lux Tahoe Stepthru GT Retails $3,299 4 Available – Matte Black – Fat Tire

E-Lux Tahoe Stepthru GT Retails $3,299 1 Available – Matte Black/ Red Rims- Fat Tire

The Tahoe GT (formally the Tahoe Sport) also offers luxury, power, speed, and range with contemporary lines. With a battery-forward design, the frame puts you in an ultra-comfortable upright riding position. As you glide down the road, experience ultimate luxury with a zoom front shock, NCX suspension seat post, and Serfas gel seat. Hills and wind are no problem with the ultimate power, Dapu Motor and Samsung/Panasonic Battery drive train, giving you 48 Volt 750 Watt (1375 Peak Watt), with a top speed of 28 mph.

E-Lux Sierra GT (Folding) Retails $2,299 1 Available – Cherry red

E-Lux Sierra GT (Folding) Retails $2,299 1 Available – Cobalt Blue

E-Lux Sierra GT (Folding) Retails $2,299 1 Available – Gloss White

E-Lux Sierra GT (Folding) Retails $2,299 4 Available – Matte Orange

The Sierra GT folding fat tire bikes combine all the great features of the standard Sierra model, brings off-road and folding capabilities to the lineup. Great for the RV, and camping, these bikes go everywhere. With the upgraded Bafang Mag Wheels, a Bafang 750 Watt (950 Peak) Motor, RST guide front shocks, Tektro Auriga E-Comp hydraulic brakes, Bigstone 600E Display, and upgraded Shimano 8-speed Acera derailleur.

Emojo Caddy Pro Trike Retails $3,199 1 Available – White

The Caddy trike, with 4″ fat tires, is paired with a torquey 48 v 500-watt electric motor that provides a quick boost when needed or simply aids in hauling an extra load. With consumer safety a priority, the trike provides a stable and comfortable riding experience with smooth turning capability to make it difficult to tip over.

Emojo Lynx Pro (Folding) Retails $2,099 2 Available – White

Ready for action, the new Lynx Pro Sport, with fat on-road tires, on Bafang® aluminum wheels, connects to a sturdy, foldable alloy frame. The powertrain is torqued with a 48 v 500-watt electric motor that provides a quick boost when needed or simply to aid in tackling steep uphills. The great features, like dual Tektro disc brakes, 7-speed Shimano® gearing, a standard LCD display with 5 PAS levels, a speedometer, odometer, trip time, and several more settings, standard metal fenders, and a rear cargo rack, make the Lynx a foldable e-bike to consider.

Emojo Ram SS (Folding) Retails $2,199 1 Available – Black/Orange

Ready for action and comfort, the RAM features a step-thru frame that makes getting on/off effortless. The foldable, sturdy aluminum frame is paired with a powerful 48 v 750-watt electric motor that gives you a unique kick boost at the command of your thumb to aid in tackling steep uphills. Dual Tektro disc brakes, 7-speed Shimano® gearing, standard LCD display with 5 PAS levels, speedometer, odometer, trip time, and several more settings, standard metal fenders, rear cargo rack, LED lights, and front suspension.

Gocycle G4 (Folding) Retails $3,999 2 Available – Black or, Blue

Gocycle G4 (Folding) Retails $5,999 1 Available – Matte Black

Foldable and portable, the Gocycle packs away perfectly for transit or storage in tight city living spaces, boats, or motorhomes. The streamlined chassis and PitstopWheels® make cleaning the Gocycle fast and easy. Lightweight and stowable, no other e-bike has the versatile dynamics of Gocycle.

iGo Discovery Atwater Retails $2,499 10 Available

iGo Discovery Berri Retails $2,499 10 Available

The Discovery e-bike is the perfect companion for leisure rides, commuting, or exploring the countryside with confidence.

iGo Outland Royal Black Retails $2,299 2 Available

iGo Outland Royal Red Retails $2,299 5 Available

The Outland makes molehills out of mountains and lets the OUTLAND Series boost you across single-track, logging roads, or any path you point it at. With comfortable and confident trail-inspired geometry and premium features – the only question you’ll have at the end of your ride is “Can we go again”?

Magnum Cruiser Retails $2,249 1 Available – Black/Copper

A beautifully designed beach cruiser-style electric bike well suited to urban riding or commuting. Powerful 500-watt motor paired with a large 48-volt 15-amp hour battery pack offers both pedal assist and throttle mode.

Magnum Nomad Snow Retails $2,599 3 Available

The Nomad is a powerful fat tire electric bike with a robust step-through frame that provides excellent standover clearance for riders of varying heights. The Nomad is built for trail riding and weekend adventures.

Magnum Pathfinder 350 Retails $3,198. 2 Available – Ocean

Magnum Pathfinder 350 Retails $3,198. 2 Available – Sand

The 350 is an e-bike that suits your active lifestyle for recreation, exercise, commuting, or the pure joy of power-assisted movement. The unisex step-through frame will match your physique and skills and exceed your expectations.

Magnum Pathfinder T Retails $2,499. 1 Available – Forrest

Magnum Pathfinder T Retails $2,499. 1 Available – Ocean

Magnum Pathfinder T Retails $2,499. 1 Available – FSand

Magnum Pathfinder T Retails $2,499. 1 Available – Slate

A bike for all uses! The Magnum Pathfinder T is a versatile e-bike for commuting, recreation, exercise, and more. The unisex step-through frame accommodates riders of all sizes and abilities. Includes Torque pedal assist for extra control.

Magnum Peak T7 Retails $3,199. 1 Available – Forest

The Peak T7 begins where the road ends! It has a torque pedal assist sensor that combines power from the rider and the motor for the ultimate in smoothness and control. A wide-range drive train and robust power system make the Peak T7 an ideal choice for trail riding.

Magnum Peak T5 MTB Retails $2,799. 2 Available – Gray

Magnum Peak T5 MTB Retails $2,799. 1 Available – Tan

Magnum Peak T7 MTB Retails $3,199. 1 Available – Blue

The T5 and T7 will take you to the end of the road, where the trail begins! It has a torque pedal assist sensor that combines power from the rider and the motor for the ultimate in smoothness and control. A wide-range drive train and a robust power system make the Peak Line an ideal choice for trail riding.

Magnum Pathfinder 350 Retails $2,799. 3 Available – Snow -Fat Tire

Magnum Pathfinder 500 Retails $2,799. 2 Available – Sand -Fat Tire

Magnum Scout 17.5h Retails $2,599. 3 Available – Snow -Fat Tire

Magnum Scout 17.5h Retails $2,599. 3 Available – Sand -Fat Tire

Magnum Voyager Retails $2,349. 1 Available – Black/Blue

For the road or trail the Voyager is a powerful 500W 48V system and a new fully integrated battery design on its elegant high-step frame with relaxed geometry.

Magnum Cosmo X Retails $2,199. 2 Available – Metallic Green

Magnum Cosmo X Retails $1,999. 2 Available – Metallic Gray

This e-bike is a budget-friendly option in the Magnum series. This e-bike a light low step frame with a fully integrated battery. The power system is 48 Volts running on a 500 Watt motor and a 10Ah battery for the range and power you need to run errands or go on a relaxing bike ride.

Magnum Lowrider Cruiser Retails $2,249. 2 Available – Black/Copper

Cruise with comfort and style! The Magnum Lowrider is an easy-to-mount low-step beach cruiser-style electric bike well suited for urban cycling. Magnum Scout

Segway C80 Retails $2,499 1 Available – Aqua/Yellow

Segway C80 Lemon Retails $2,499 1 Available – Yellow

The first-ever smart moped-style e-bikes by Segway is convenient and easy to use. The newly designed 1152 Wh lithium-ion battery lets you enjoy a long journey with a range of up to 52.8 miles on a single charge with a top speed of 20 mph. It features The RideyGo! Intelligent System, which brings an array of new functions such as the Airlock System, NFC Tag, Smart Seat Detection, and Auto-Lock Mode. It also comes with four built-in anti-theft mechanisms when parked and locked, giving you peace of mind where you are.

Serial 1 Rush/Cty Speed Retails $5,999 1 Available – Iris Silver

Serial 1 Rush/Cty Stepthru Retails $4,999 1 Available – Gloss Black

Inspired by the entrepreneurial vision of Harley-Davidson’s founder, the revolutionary impact of their first motorcycle, known as “Serial Number One”, is a smooth ride worth considering. Features include a light and strong hydroformed aluminum frame; sleek, integrated batteries; a Brose mid-mounted motor; integrated LED lighting; a maintenance-free Gates Carbon Drive belt; and an Enviolo AUTOMATiQ intelligent automatic transmission to keep you in the right gear.

Riese & Muller Charger 3 Retails $6,829. 1 Available – White -Stepthru

The Charger3 Mixte is the everyday E-Bike for long-lasting riding enjoyment. The slightly lowered top tube provides for comfortable mounting and dismounting, while the suspension fork and suspension seat post guarantee outstanding riding comfort. Thanks to its fully integrated 750 Wh battery, it comfortably takes you through everyday life and far beyond. With the new Bosch system, you are always one step ahead and constantly retain an overview, thanks to the integrated cockpit with display and LED Remote. And should you ever get lost, the bright light of the daytime running light will show you the way.

For a full list of gear to be auctioned off, go to www.k-bid.com/PowerbikesClearance.

Bike gear closeouts and new products reviews

As the e-transportation industry continues to develop, we occasionally list bicycle inventory closeouts that you will find here next to our product review items. So please bookmark this page and check back often as we refresh this page with new items and deals to enjoy that next adventure.

HandleStash bicycle cup holder

New product reviews on items for that next outdoor adventure

As tree buds appear along the forested trails, finally shedding their winter coat, here is a list of new products we thought you might find interesting for that next outdoor adventure. New products for lovers of bikes.

The Thermacell E55 offers a 20 ft. radius of protection from mosquitos.

Over my 25 years in the cycling industry, I have found that the excitement of a new bike only increases as you get older. Here are a few cycles and gear to check out at your favorite bike shop. Click here to see our full review of fun products for that next bike adventure, and check back often.

Save with these bike gear auction items.

Sorry, this auction has ended!

With the closing of PowerBikes.com here in the Twin Cities, here is your chance to get a new e-bike at a near-wholesale price. The inventory listed below is being auctioned off with a huge selection of bike accessories, e-bike certified helmets, locks, bags, cell phone mounts, bags, and every imaginable bike part & tool.

This 2022 Gocycle G4 is one of many e-bikes on the action.

You can get the best deal on a new electric assist bike before the spring riding season begins. Select from new in-the-box, new pre-prepped, demo, and used e-bikes. Check the full list of e-bikes here.

Tips on charging your electric bike to maximize the batteries life

Having a fully charged battery is important to an electric bike. The most expensive component is the battery and the motor. Today most ready-to-go e-bikes use a lithium-ion battery pack, and the size of the bikes makes a difference in the price you will pay.

These lithium-ion batteries are now used in all types of applications. So it’s no surprise to find them powering electric bikes. What you will discover is that more expensive e-bikes have lighter higher-tech batteries that charge quickly and last longer. Batteries degrade over time, holding less charge as they age.

The quality of an electric bike battery makes a difference

A better battery will help you maximize the distance (range) you expect to achieve, so look for a reputable named battery manufacturer. Then make sure the warranty covers the battery for at least two years. Conservatively lithium-ion batteries are typically said to last for 1,000 full charge cycles. That’s about three years daily with five to seven weekly charging periods. With careful use, the battery can survive longer, so you could possibly double its life with half-charge cycles. In practice, a battery life of several years is quite easy to achieve, depending on how often you charge and store the battery.

A centerpost battery for an electric bike

A center post battery unit for an electric bike

To maximize the life of your electric bike battery

Ride your bike a lot and charge it often
If your bike comes with a smart charger, faithfully disconnect the charger within 24 hours.
When not in use for a week or more, please charge the battery to only 40% to 70% of its capacity
Then store the battery or bike and battery in a cool, dry place, above freezing, Checking the charge every two to three weeks to keep it in that range.

New products for that next outdoor adventure

As tree buds appear along the forested trails, finally shedding their winter coat, here is a list of new products we thought you might find interesting for that next outdoor adventure.

New products for lovers of bikes

Over my 25 years in the cycling industry, I have found that the excitement of a new bike only increases as you get older. Here are a few bikes to check out at your favorite bike shop.

Marin B-17

Marin has packed a ton of value into these bicycles. Their aluminum frame comprises highly manipulated tubing and buttery smooth sealed bearing pivots. Altogether, it’s hard to find a better value. As a 120mm travel trail bike, it is at home on almost any trail. The 27.5” x 3” tires offer unparalleled confidence even when the trails get rough. With models starting at $2100 that sport fully tunable suspension, a 1×11 speed drivetrain, and hydraulic Shimano disc brakes, there’s very little competition.

Tern GSD

“Set Stuff Done” is right! The Tern GSD leaves almost nothing to be desired from a utility bike. It can be easily stored upright and out of the way when not in use, loaded to the gills with cargo, or equipped to carry a passenger. In fact, thanks to the Bosch motor and the ability to run two batteries, the possibilities for this bike are nearly endless. Hop over to the Tern site and see what there is to offer.

Focus Bold2

Simply put, this is the best-looking E-bike I have seen. It uses a smart component selection that compliments the Shimano XT Motor, making the Bold 2 a dream machine. Ample power will lift you up the hills and the bike’s great geometry, Rockshox suspension, and hydraulic disc brakes will allow you to attack the descents with confidence. Buzz over to Focus and read up on this spectacular machine.

Bike Accessories

Lupine SL-A7

For the Commuter, there is no better or safer gift than the Lupine SL-A7. It’s amazing light output and surgically accurate beam pattern are unparalleled in realm of cycling lights. For more info, take a look at our Out of the box article.

Magicshine Genie in Our Gift Guide

Helmets typically do one thing and one thing only – keep your head safe. MagicShine has infused its expertise in lighting into the helmet to create the very best in safety and visibility. The Genie helmet has a surprisingly bright 350-lumen headlamp, a rear blinker, and remote-controlled blinkers. Click here for more info.

Ass Savers fender

I received one of these fenders as a giveaway and never thought about it. That is until one day when I was getting ready to leave for work on my cross bike and it began to rain. Without time to install a complete fender set, I grabbed the “giveaway”, and clipped it to my saddle. While I never thought much about the Ass Saver, the designers sure did. This fender that weighs almost nothing can be installed in seconds and packed away easily was an absolute epiphany. As advertised it kept my rear dry and never moved from its place. Buy one for all your friends, they’re that good.

Manitou suspension

Quietly and persistently, Manitou has been making a name for itself as a sturdy, efficient, tune-able, and high-quality suspension brand. Many don’t consider adjusting their suspension an important feature, and that is because the most suspension is not very tune-able. This is not the case with Manitou. In fact, they offer more range of tuning adjustments than most brands as well as aftermarket kits to make your suspension fit your needs perfectly. They do this while maintaining one of the most precise steering chassis around.

Lintaman shoes

A lifelong cycling and industry veteran, Chris Lintaman, started the shoe company bearing his name in his new home of Taichung, Taiwan. I remember him starting out the brand as a guy with a bag of shoes at Eurobike. Fast forward to today, where you can see his shoes under professional cyclists around the world. The reason so many professional riders buy Lintaman shoes is that they are wildly adjustable for fit, and massively efficient. If you are looking for the most comfortable shoes in the world, look no further than Lintaman.

Sealskinz Socks and gloves

Minnesota is a tough place to bike, to say the least. Happily, Sealskinz has made it easier for me. Starting with their waterproof socks, saving my toes in the fall, and moving into the Halo glove’s remarkable warmth into the Icy low teens, Sealskinz has kept me warm time and time again. Check out a few of our reviews for more info, or click to their site to see the whole line.

Vittoria Bomboloni tires

Over the last 25 years, I’ve repeatedly been impressed with Vittoria tires. That same feeling carries into my most recent test of the Vittoria Bomboloni 27+ tires. For your mountain biking pleasure, these tires are awesome!

Tailwind Nutrition

Anyone on your holiday list that rides needs electrolyte replacement at some point. The supplement I would recommend above all else is Tailwind Nutrition. The light flavor and lack of an aftertaste are reasons enough to use Tailwind. Now when you couple those reasons with the fact that Tailwind will never leave your belly sour like so many other sports drinks, the choice is easy.

Athlos clothing

Athlos is new to the custom clothing game and making serious waves. Custom used to mean you needed to buy huge quantities and settle for low quality. With Athlos, you can buy one jersey, and the quality is on par with the best cycling brands which charge three times the cost. Additionally, Athlos has a team of designers waiting to convert your thoughts and concepts into real-world design.

Rocky mounts Carlito lock

For students, commuters, or riders who just love to have their bicycles well secured, RockMounts locks are a great gift. Over the past few years, RockyMounts invested heavily into their lock designs and developed some really cool products. I love their Carlito lock most of all because it is light, tough, and easy to use.

Darn Tough socks

Why not stuff stocking with stockings? Darn tough is a sock company out of Vermont with a lifetime sock warranty. Yes, you read that correctly. Forget an everlasting gobstopper, you can buy someone socks that will last forever! When I met with the sales group at Darn Tough and pressed them about their warranty, they couldn’t have been any clearer – Lifetime Warranty! “what if I have a pair of 15-year-old socks?” I asked, “Lifetime warranty” they replied. “What if I wear only one pair of socks through a six-month Appalachian Trail hike,” they replied, Sure! After a few months of wearing the Darn Tough Socks, I must say they are super comfortable and as tough as the namesake.

AutoRack Tail light

We all need to get our bikes from point A to point B. What nobody thinks about is the inherent danger of traveling with your bike on the back of your car. Bikes can obscure the tail lights from other drivers and make it difficult to see when you are stopping. Enter AutoRack to the rescue. This light setup weighs almost nothing and mounts to the last bike on your rack by way of a few straps. This gift is perfect for any rider!

Micro-mobility devices to test ride at the E-bike Challenge

by Russ Lowthian, Editor at HaveFunBiking

As consumers gain an ecological awareness of greener transportation, alternatives to electric vehicles (EVs) are becoming more attractive. Especially with battery and solar technologies speeding forward, encouraging micro-mobility. Using a human-powered bike or trike, combined with an electric assist motor, can make for an eco-friendly option when looking at EV’s. Please find a short list below of some of the e-bikes and trikes options you can test ride at the E-bike Challenge Minneapolis.

Find a vast selection of electric-assist EVs at the E-bike Challenge.

Why an e-bike and the advantages when buying your next vehicle

Those who haven’t had the pleasure of test-riding an electric bicycle or e-trike will find they are perfect for many local trips. While not everyone can replace a car entirely, most trips within a 10-mile range can be less expensive with an e-bike. And, in many cases, quicker than a four-wheeled vehicle.

These micro-mobility transportation units make it easy to run errands, meet, or visit the local coffee shop. Also, using an e-bicycle allows you to pedal peacefully and sweat-free to your destination. Then, enjoy a fun cardio workout on your return trip. Below, discover many examples of e-assist bikes around the E-Bike Challenge test track on March 11 & 12, 2023.

Cargo bikes to haul kids and freight.

Also, the perfect rehabilitation tool for riders facing physical limitations or recovering following surgery.

The types of e-bicycles and their movement towards micro-mobility

It’s a vast and diverse industry with something for everyone, from adaptive, cargo, folding, fat, and long-tail bikes and trikes ready for you to test ride. The common thread is that all e-bikes and trikes use an electric motor to assist in human-powered activity or micro-mobility. They are replacing car miles, especially gas-powered ones, to create a cleaner environment.

Shop and compare at E-bike Challenge

Bikes to see at the E-bike Challenge

As we work with the E-bike Challenge team, here are some of the brands to expect at the March 11 & 12 event:

Aventon Aventure (fat tire bike)

Aventon Aventure Step-Thru Electric Fat Bike

This e-bike with four-inch fat tires and front suspension ensures you will be comfortable cruising the pavement or enjoying the challenges on the off-road trail. Especially with the 80mm of travel in the front suspension absorbing all the bumps in your path. Equipped with a powerful 1130W (peak) motor and 720Wh batt, any adventurer can go furthermore. See more on the Aventon line of e-bikes here.

Catrike eCat (recumbent trike)

Catrike eCAT 5.5.9 Recumbent Electric Tadpole

With seventeen years of engineering and experience, Catrike has created the eCat. Go farther, faster with greater ease aboard this recumbent e-trikThethe latest electric assist system from Bosch mot is at the heart of this trike. The result is a recumbent trike offering maximum efficiency, comfort, and riding enjoyment.

Gocycle G4i (folding bike)

Gocycle G4

A folding e-bike perfect for transit and ease of storage in tight city living spaces, on boats, or in motorhomes. With a streamlined chassis, enjoy Gocycle’s all-new G4drive that offers extra torque. And the iconic stowable magnesium frame, with a fast-folding handlebar and carbon wheels, creates a genuinely helpful urban folding bike with a 50-mile range.

IZIP Tristar Plus (trike)

IZIP Tristar Plus

This versatile electric three-wheeler has the power to handle your cargo load with every pedal stroke. With its easy handling and responsive TranzX M16 center motor, it’s easy to run errands, deliver goods, or take your pup for a ride. The easy-entry frame has a 3-speed drivetrain with a large rear cargo basket, offering an average range of 30 miles per charge. Many are finding this electric-assist trike a welcome member to mobility.

Magnum Scout (fat tire bike)

Magnum Scout

An all-terrain fat tire e-bike built for comfort year-round, this large frame model is perfect for five-foot-six and taller riders. Add in the 17.5Ah battery and 750w motor. The Scout will get there within a 35 to 65-mile range per charge. Other features of the Scout include high-tread fat tires, front fork suspension, and hydraulic disc brakes. They make it easy to pedal away on your next remote hunting, ice fishing, or backwoods adventure. See more on the Magnum line of e-bikes.

Pedigo Stretch (long-tail bike)

Pedigo Stretch

This cargo bike is complete with everything you need and more. It is fully loaded with user-friendly features that make riding even more fun and practical for hauling people and cargo of all shapes and sizes. With a premium drivetrain with five levels of pedal assist for full power on demand, the Stretch is a complete package with everything you need and more. See more on the Pedego line of e-bikes here.

Riese & Muller Load 75 (long-tail bike cargo bike)

Riese & Muller Load 75

Its full suspension makes it a noteworthy cargo bike, a comfortable ride when hauling packages or children. The Load 75 may be the ultimate family bike for hauling up to four toddlers. This e-bike now offers a Bosch 4th generation motor system for more get-up-and-go. Now with more torque, it’s lighter and sleeker than ever before. And like the Load 60, the 75 is also highly reliable, thanks to its high-grade components. See more on the Load 75 line of e-bikes here.

Serial 1 E-bike powered by Harley Davidson

Serial 1 power by Harley Davidson

They were inspired by the creation of their first motorcycle, the “Serial Number One,” back in 1903. Today this new line of e-bikes offers fun, freedom, and instant adventure for those looking for a pedal-assist electric bicycle. Powered by the advanced bicycle technology at Harley Davidson, enjoy the freedom of a bike with the effortless joy of electric power to change how the world moves again. See more on the Serial 1 line of e-bikes here.

Specialized Creo SL Electric (Road/Gravel Bike)

Specialized Creo SL Electric

If you are looking for an adventure both on or off-road, the 2021 Specialized Turbo Creo SL Comp Carbon EVO Electric Road Bike is here to assist you. The features of this bike come with the same motor, battery, and frame as the Vado SL. Only this bike is faster! And the cycle allows you to take advantage of the tire clearance with Creo’s adventure-ready components. Now you can go wherever your heart desires. See more on the Specialized line of e-bikes here.

SYKL Xplorer X1000 MD Series (fat tire bike)

SYKL Xplorer X1000 MD

This e-fat bike is designed for rugged terrain and is perfect for climbing hills, long-range hunting trips, and all-terrain exploration. Whether that means getting quickly and quietly to your duck blind; climbing mountains to see what is at the top; or powering along a sandy beach to watch a sunset, the Xplorer bikes will get you where you want to go. See more on the SKYL line of e-bikes here.

Tern GSD S10 LX (long-tail bike cargo bike)

Tern GSD S10 LX

It’s the same length as a regular bike and easy to carry two kids, groceries, or a lot of cargo. And the GSD S10 LX is ready to replace your car. The bike has a handling capacity of 440 lb (200 kg) and a Maximum Gross Vehicle Weight. Plus, the built-in dual-battery technology lets you ride all day. And with space-saving features of the FlatFold and Vertical Parking makes the GSD easy to own and use. See more on the Tern line of e-bikes here.

Urban Arrow Family E-Cargo Bike

2022 Urban Arrow Electric Cargo Bike

This bike is the newest member of the famous European cargo bike family line. The 2022 Urban Arrow Electric Cargo Bike can easily transport you and your children or wherever you want to haul. No more worries about your busy schedule, fetching groceries, shopping trips, or delivering a payload. Now zip through the city effortlessly, or enjoy a trip to the country using trails and roads. See more on the Urban Arrow line of e-bikes here.

Mark your calendar! This is just a sample of some of the bikes you may be able to test ride at the E-bike Challenge coming to the Minneapolis Convention Center on March 11 & 12, 2023. Then, check back often as more e-vehicles signup, and we do total reviews on the models you want to test out.

by Russ Lowthian, the editor at HaveFunBiking

Biking with gaiters may be an added bonus to staying warm

by John Brown,

Cold, snow, sleet, and ice are normal conditions for my winter bike commute to work here in Minnesota. With the elements being so unfriendly, I am excited to try commuting with a pair of gaiters for added warmth. With that direction in mind, I was excited to try the Hillsound Armadillo LT gaiters. For those who aren’t familiar with a pair of gaiters, they cover your shin and calf, below the knee, and above the ankle. Splash-proof protection works in combination with your winter boots to extend your leg. They are designed to keep snow, slush, and debris off your legs and dripping into your boot.

I am wearing the Hillsound Armadillo LT Gaiter for the first time.

A gaiters construction

The Armadillo LT gaiter’s upper is constructed out of Flexia, a three-layer material designed to stretch, be waterproof, conform to your leg and stay in place. The lower section is made of dense nylon, which is extremely tough. The zippers are waterproof, and the straps and clips seem to be more than tough enough for their job. Even though these gaiters exude durability, they are remarkably lightweight.

High-quality buckles, zippers, and straps are standard.

A full-length zipper makes for an easy fit.

I have to admit that I have never tried riding with a gaiter. Whereas my point of reference is small, I spend a lot of time on my bike in the cold. For the frigid weather, my riding boot of choice is the 45NRTH Wölvhammer, built with gaiters in mind. The Hillsound Armadillo LT gaiter paired with them easily. Thanks to the full-length zipper, I got my riding gear and boots on, then fashioned the gaiter into place with relative ease. That ease comes from the stretch that the upper material offers and the easily adjustable lower Velcro strap and upper buckle strap.

Warmth on the bike

The addition of a waterproof layer was immediately apparent when I left my house. We had gotten a fresh coating of wet snow overnight, and the salt trucks were out in force. Thanks to the slush created, my legs were immediately doused in slop but stayed dry and warm. This is a far cry from a week prior when I rode home without the benefit of gaiters. This time, I buzzed along my usual route to work and noticed that my legs were warmer than normal. Also, when looking down at my legs (not something I recommend), I saw all the sludge my tires were kicking up and bouncing off the gaiters. When I reached the office, my legs were dry and comfortable, and the gaiter was still doing a good job repelling moisture.

Snow and slush are no match for the Hillsound Armadillo LT Gaiter.

Moving forward

With my first foray into gaiters, I want to see where they are best used. I know that hikers and snowshoeing fans love them for their warmth and protection; now, after trying them, I am fascinated to see how they will help from a cycling perspective. Right now, I will reach for them whenever the weather is cold and wet. While I am sold on their benefit for wet conditions, I look forward to blocking the wind chill when temps get colder. Stay tuned for more information on my adventures with the Hillsound Armadillo LT gaiter.

Tern’s HSD electric-assist bike, out of the box and on the road

by Russ Lowthian, HaveFunBiking

Every so often, I run across a truly unique bike, and the Tern HSD electric-assist bike is one bike worth checking out. Especially if you are looking for a comfortable ride with options when needing to haul cargo or a child. Looking over some of the latest electric bikes that will be available to test-ride at the E-bike Challenge Minneapolis, I had a chance to take this new Tern cargo e-bike out for a spin

My initial test ride of the Tern HSD electric-assist bike

Using three parallel streets, on a hillside in my neighborhood as my personal test course. I had a chance to experience the pedal-assist-power and comfort of this new e-bike. On my initial ride, with close to 300 pounds of weight between myself and some extra gear, I found the bike had a smooth acceleration with plenty of power to spare. It didn’t matter if I stopped on the flat or on the 12-degree incline of the hill. Each time I started pedaling, which kicked in the motor, there were no irregular jerk movements, it was smooth. Plus, with the Bosch motor set on the Eco mode (the lowest of four e-assist settings) and the 1×9 gear drivetrain, my cadence was comfortable going up all the hills. It was also reassuring that I still had the Tour, Sports, and Turbo motor settings at my fingertips if needed.

About Tern’s HSD electric bike

THE TERN HSD ELECTRIC-ASSIST BIKE IS A COMPACT CARGO BIKE OFFERING A COMFORTABLE RIDE.

The Tern HSD P-9 is a compact cargo bike perfect for commuting, recreational riding, and running errands with some extra space to haul cargo or a child. At 5.5 feet long it is slightly shorter than the average road bike and has a load capacity of 374 pounds.

The HSD P-9 model uses a Bosch Active Line Plus motor and 400Wh battery with a Purion display, with Eco, Tour, Sports, and Turbo power settings. The drivetrain uses a 9-speed Shimano® Alivio Shadow RD cassette/derailleur. So this motor/drivetrain combination was smooth when beginning to accelerate and throughout the ride.

Bonus items that come standard

The HSD comes with a headlight and taillight. A Suntour suspension front fork to help ease bumps, 20″ wheels, an aluminum frame, Shimano hydraulic disc brakes and an integrated Abus frame lock in the rear wheel. Plus, the bike can be stored standing on its rear rack and the handlebar stem folds down flat, making it easy to fit a compact space.

THE HSD EASILY STANDS ON THE BACK RACK FOR CONVENIENT STORAGE.

Accessories

You can buy many accessories online, but Tern’s proprietary ones are fit to the bike and add convenience. Specifically, the Go-To bag that attaches to the front of the bike using a Tern Luggage Truss™ adapter. It was easy to fit my laptop inside this bag, and perfect for commuting to work, school or the library.

THE TERN GO-TO BAG COMES WITH A SPECIAL COVER FOR ADDED WEATHER PROTECTION AND VISIBILITY.

On the rear, Tern’s proprietary cargo hold panniers are weather-resistant and pack down flat. Each pannier can hold up to 60 pounds and closes securely with a magnetic clip. I found I could easily slip in two paper grocery bags on each side, nice!

Need more cargo or kid hauling capacity, test ride all the Tern Bikes

Stop by your local Tern dealer or mark your calendar for the E-bike Challenge Minneapolis, March 11-12, 2023. There you can ride all the Tern Bikes including the GSD on the electric bike expos huge indoor test track. Have Fun!

For added security e-bike insurance is a wise add-on

If you have recently purchased or looking at buying an electric assist bike, e-bike insurance is a wise consideration. First, check your car, renter’s, or homeowners insurance and see if the e-bike can be bundled into your existing policy. If not, look at an insurance company that often covers theft and collision protection, similar to automobile insurance, for your e-bike. Because e-bikes are a relatively new trend, there aren’t many insurance companies on the market. There are a few companies that also offer roadside assistance for bicycles and e-bikes.

The Importance of E-bike Insurance

From an insurance standpoint, electric assist bicycles pose a unique challenge. Most assume their homeowner’s or umbrella insurance policies extend to their e-bikes. As this is true for “human-powered” or pedal bicycles, adding a motor to the bike makes it a “motorized vehicle.” This might exclude it from coverage on standard homeowners, renters, or umbrella policy. Where you might need an insurance policy designed for the e-bike.

A good e-bike insurance policy brings added comfort.

It’s risky for your e-bike to be uninsured, and a stand-alone electric bicycle insurance policy will fit your specific needs. This will not only protect your assets but will protect your e-bike investment if it is damaged or stolen.

A good policy should offer the following protections:

Property coverage to protect your electric bike if it is damaged in an accident or stolen
Medical coverage for the bicyclist (yourself) in case of an accident
A Liability clause covers any injury or property damage that you might cause to another person in case of an accident.
And, Underinsured motorist insurance,

Roadside assistance for your e-bike may be available

What do you do when stranded on the side of the road with a flat bicycle tire and can’t fix it? If you have a roadside assistance policy, they will pick you up and transport you to your home or bike shop. Along with AAA, Velosurance is another company that offers roadside assistance for bicycles and e-bikes.

An added prevention measure to keep your e-bike safe

Bikes, in general, are stolen often, but for a thief, stealing an e-bike is the crown jewel. With e-bikes normally, a more significant investment here is some bicycle theft prevention ideas to consider. To protect your e-bike investment, consider using a U-lock with a cable lock or bike lock alarm. You could also take the bike inside a building with you or use a mobile bike storage locker for storing your e-bike. There are also some modern ways with GPS tracking devices to help you retrieve your bike if stolen.

See more on “What’d the right type of e-bike for me.”