Welcome. We're your premier source for fun places to explore by bicycle or on foot. Offering guides, maps and articles on road and trail riding for the novice to seasoned cyclist - helping you find your #NextBikeAdventure
It’s a hot bike pic Tuesday, and this biker chick is having fun checking out the latest e-bikes in the Eco-Building at the MN State Fair. If you are going to the Great Minnesota Get Together, consider using one of the three free bike parking corrals to get there.
So, adjust to warm steamy temps today, drink lots of water, and get into the zone when continuing your time outdoors on that #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, and check out more stories at Let’s Do MN.
Thanks for viewing our daily bike pic
As we pedal forward in our 21st year as an outdoor media, enjoy!
We aim to encourage more people to bike and have fun while highlighting all the unforgettable places you can ride. While continuing 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 for the image, who shot it, and where. To be considered, the photo(s) sent to us should be a minimum of 1,000 pixels wide. 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 our 15th annual mobile-friendly MN Bike Guide, a handy booklet full of maps of fun places to bike and hike.
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. With one of our cameras ready to document your next cameo appearance while you are riding and having fun, we may be around the corner. You could be in one of our Pic of the Day stars.
Have fun as we pedal through a summer of fond memories!
It is going to be a hot bike pic Sunday today and this smiling biker dude is checking out the latest e-bikes in the Eco-Building at the MN State Fair. If you are going to the Great Minnesota Get Together, consider using one of the three free bike parking corrals to get there.
So, adjust to warmer temps today, drink lots of water, and get into the zone when continuing your time outdoors on that #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, and check out more stories at Let’s Do MN.
Thanks for viewing our daily bike pic
As we pedal forward in our 21st year as an outdoor media, enjoy!
We aim to encourage more people to bike and have fun while highlighting all the unforgettable places you can ride. While continuing 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 for the image, who shot it, and where. To be considered, the photo(s) sent to us should be a minimum of 1,000 pixels wide. 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 our 15th annual mobile-friendly MN Bike Guide, a handy booklet full of maps of fun places to bike and hike.
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. With one of our cameras ready to document your next cameo appearance while you are riding and having fun, we may be around the corner. You could be in one of our Pic of the Day stars.
Have fun as we pedal through a summer of fond memories!
The natural advantages of an electric bike include its climbing efficiency, taking a bite out of wind resistance, and the ability to expand your range of travel. Before purchasing an e-bike, knowing how far you want to go and what type of terrain you will be riding it on is essential.
For those who have experienced a medical issue or sports injury, an e-bike can breathe new life into staying active while having fun. With some assistance, you may again want to reconnect with your cycling buddies or add that #NextBikeAdventure to your list. Plus, if you are planning on commuting to work by bike, you will arrive feeling fresh.
Now that you have a reason to consider an electric bike, it’s time to choose the right one! With thousands of electric bike models on the market, several things must be considered. The last item on our list here at HaveFunBiking is to test-ride the e-bike you want. Consider visiting several bike shops to compare.
First, when buying an electric bike, know your style of riding
With hundreds of e-bikes on the market today, design options will vary to fit people differently and their preferred use. It’s up to you to decide what is most important. With so many to choose from, first, you should figure out where you will be riding your e-bike.
Geared to accommodate different activities (cargo-hauling; relaxed cruising; trail riding; mountain biking; child transportation; road biking; fat bike riding; touring; and urban commuting), compile a list of questions. The first one, ask yourself before entering a store, what will be my preferred bicycling activity with a new electric bike?
The electric bike drive
There are two main types of e-bikes. The most common is what has come to be called the “pedal assist.” This system monitors the rider’s pedaling and automatically adds a certain amount of motor assistance, usually depending on the rate, force, and speed.
In most places, the motor’s output is regulated and limited to no more than 750 watts, and the maximum speed is up to 20 mph or 32 km/h. When you reach this speed, the motor automatically disengages. A few models in this category also offer the twist-n-go option. A switch on the handlebar, like a throttle on a motorbike, is used by the rider to trigger assistance from the motor.
The second drive train system is set for high-performance electric bikes that can quickly achieve faster speeds. Riders with these faster drive train systems must have a particular driver’s license, plates, and insurance. The regulations differ in every state and country, so it’s essential to ask your local bike shop for details.
The e-bike motor and its location
There are two main types of motors and where they are located. The most common, the hub motor assist is situated in one of the wheels. Hub motors are the most common, which place the electric motor in the center of a bicycle wheel. This e-bike power source tends to be quieter but often doesn’t handle hills, as well as a crank assist center mount system.
Rear motor system for an electric bike
Located over the center mount in the crank and pedal area, the crank motor assist is at the bottom of the frame, transferring the motor’s power to the rear wheel via the bicycle’s chain. That means the electronic controls can include a sensor that detects how hard you’re pedaling and can measure the assistance accordingly. Typically, crank-assisted bikes have become much more common over the last couple of years and have a reputation for doing well on steep hills.
Center motor system for an electric bike
Both have unique advantages and disadvantages, so choosing the correct motor depends on your requirements and which benefits seem more practical. Generally, looking for a brand with a good reputation would be best, such as Bosch, Brose, Panasonic, Shimano, and Yamaha.
Battery storage
One of the most expensive components of your new e-bike is the battery. The bike’s lithium-ion battery pack size is most of the price involved in buying a ready-to-go e-bike. These batteries are everywhere, so it’s no surprise to find them powering e-bikes.
More expensive e-bikes have higher-tech batteries that are lighter, charge quickly, and last longer. Batteries degrade over time, holding less charge as they age. The quality of the battery makes a difference, 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 complete charge cycles. That’s about three years of weekday commuting. They survive longer with careful use, so you should get at least 2,000 half-charge bikes. In practice, several years’ battery life is easily achievable depending on how often you charge and store the battery.
The distance an electric bike can travel.
The distance an e-bike will go on one battery charge is called range. It’s probably the most important specification. For example, if your commute involves a big hill, you don’t want to run out of juice halfway up. Without power, an e-bike is just a heavy bike.
The range depends on the battery capacity, the speed, weight, profile of the commuting tour, the assistance level you choose, and the percentage of the given pedaling power. If you’re only going to do six to ten miles of daily commuting, you don’t need a battery and motor set for a 50 to 70-mile range. However, it would be best to buy a bike with a higher range than you necessarily need because the range will drop as the battery ages and loses capacity.
Cost is another factor.
Good e-bikes are not cheap, as I mentioned above. You can pick up a basic model, but how long will you be happy with it? An average bike with a quality frame, functional brakes, suspension, and other components is expensive. Now, when buying an e-bike, you have to add the cost of the motor and battery. With a reputable warranty, the battery’s cost can run from $500 to $1,000, so don’t be surprised by the higher price; a better bike lasts much longer.
Test ride before you make a final commitment.
Perhaps the most important (and fun) part of buying an electric bike is test-riding it. Trying an electric bike allows you to put aside skeptics, reviews, and research and answer the most basic question: Do you love this bike?
If so, here are a few other questions to ask: Does it climb hills easily? Does the bike fit me in the way I would like it too? And does it have the quality and functionality I would like?
So make it fun, ask many questions, and test-ride that new bike!
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 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!
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.
It’s Saturday and the Electric Bike Expo or E-bike Challenge Minneapolis begins today, Have fun and ride the wide selection of electric-assist bikes, on the mammoth indoor test track this weekend.
Thanks for viewing our electric bike expo pictures
From a recent article at HaveFunBiking, the E-bike Challenge will again be at the Minneapolis Convention Center, on April 2 & 3. Here consumers can test and compare electric-assist bicycles on the mammoth indoor cycle track. In its inaugural year, 2019, it was deemed a success with attendees of all ages and abilities test riding e-bikes, while having fun.
So, what exactly is a pedal-assist bike or e-bike?
Hint – An e-bike is a bicycle that has a battery and electric motor to allow a cyclist to ride farther and with greater ease. However, the bicycle doesn’t do all the work by itself, it only assists! The bicyclist must be pedaled for the motor to engage, enabling an easier ride.
Start your E-bike Challenge visit with a 2022 Bike Guide and the daily E-bike parade
As you enter the bike expo hall and test track pick up your copy of the HaveFunBiking 2022 Bike/Hike Guide, hot off the press. Then, look at all the latest models of e-bikes you can ride, on the runway. Dozens of bicycle exhibitors, to name a few like Tern Bicycles, Riese & Müller, Yuba, GoCycle, and Serial 1 from Harley Davidson will be there. With more brands signing up each day, you are sure to see the latest and greatest in electric bike innovations.
Find your next adventure in the Hike & Bike Xperience court area
When not test riding all the fun e-bikes, explore the Hike & Bike Camp area in the center of the exhibition hall. Here find information on tourism destinations, trekking, mountain biking, and fun activities.
Plus you will find an interactive Kid’s Area at the bike expo
This family-friendly event will also have an interactive kids’ bike test track for ages 16 and
under, a children’s scavenger hunt daily, a bicycle playground with activities, and more!
Mark your calendar, then go online at E-bike Challenge to register and save!
It’s no April Fool’s, this Friday it’s the start of 30-Days of Biking and 1-days until the electric bike expo countdown or E-bike Challenge Minneapolis. Mark your calendar and ride the wide selection of electric-assist bikes, on the mammoth indoor test track.
Thanks for viewing our electric bike expo countdown picture
From a recent article at HaveFunBiking, the E-bike Challenge will again be at the Minneapolis Convention Center, on April 2 & 3. Here consumers can test and compare electric-assist bicycles on the mammoth indoor cycle track. In its inaugural year, 2019, it was deemed a success with attendees of all ages and abilities test riding e-bikes, while having fun.
So, what exactly is a pedal-assist bike or e-bike?
Hint – An e-bike is a bicycle that has a battery and electric motor to allow a cyclist to ride farther and with greater ease. However, the bicycle doesn’t do all the work by itself, it only assists! The bicyclist must be pedaled for the motor to engage, enabling an easier ride.
Start your E-bike Challenge visit with a 2022 Bike Guide and the daily E-bike parade
As you enter the bike expo hall and test track pick up your copy of the HaveFunBiking 2022 Bike/Hike Guide, hot off the press. Then, look at all the latest models of e-bikes you can ride, on the runway. Dozens of bicycle exhibitors, to name a few like Tern Bicycles, Riese & Müller, Yuba, GoCycle, and Serial 1 from Harley Davidson will be there. With more brands signing up each day, you are sure to see the latest and greatest in electric bike innovations.
Find your next adventure in the Hike & Bike Xperience court area
When not test riding all the fun e-bikes, explore the Hike & Bike Camp area in the center of the exhibition hall. Here find information on tourism destinations, trekking, mountain biking, and fun activities.
Plus you will find an interactive Kid’s Area at the bike expo
This family-friendly event will also have an interactive kids’ bike test track for ages 16 and
under, a children’s scavenger hunt daily, a bicycle playground with activities, and more!
Mark your calendar, then go online at E-bike Challenge to register and save!
This Thursday, 2-days until the electric bike expo countdown or E-bike Challenge Minneapolis. Mark your calendar and ride the wide selection of electric-assist bikes, on the mammoth indoor test track.
Thanks for viewing our electric bike expo countdown picture
From a recent article at HaveFunBiking, the E-bike Challenge will again be at the Minneapolis Convention Center, on April 2 & 3. Here consumers can test and compare electric-assist bicycles on the mammoth indoor cycle track. In its inaugural year, 2019, it was deemed a success with attendees of all ages and abilities test riding e-bikes, while having fun.
So, what exactly is a pedal-assist bike or e-bike?
Hint – An e-bike is a bicycle that has a battery and electric motor to allow a cyclist to ride farther and with greater ease. However, the bicycle doesn’t do all the work by itself, it only assists! The bicyclist must be pedaled for the motor to engage, enabling an easier ride.
Start your E-bike Challenge visit with a 2022 Bike Guide and the daily E-bike parade
As you enter the bike expo hall and test track pick up your copy of the HaveFunBiking 2022 Bike/Hike Guide, hot off the press. Then, look at all the latest models of e-bikes you can ride, on the runway. Dozens of bicycle exhibitors, to name a few like Tern Bicycles, Riese & Müller, Yuba, GoCycle, and Serial 1 from Harley Davidson will be there. With more brands signing up each day, you are sure to see the latest and greatest in electric bike innovations.
Find your next adventure in the Hike & Bike Xperience court area
When not test riding all the fun e-bikes, explore the Hike & Bike Camp area in the center of the exhibition hall. Here find information on tourism destinations, trekking, mountain biking, and fun activities.
Plus you will find an interactive Kid’s Area at the bike expo
This family-friendly event will also have an interactive kids’ bike test track for ages 16 and
under, a children’s scavenger hunt daily, a bicycle playground with activities, and more!
Mark your calendar, then go online at E-bike Challenge to register and save!
This Wednesday, 3-days until the electric bike expo countdown or E-bike Challenge Minneapolis. Mark your calendar and ride the wide selection of electric-assist bikes, on the mammoth indoor test track.
Thanks for viewing our electric bike expo countdown picture
From a recent article at HaveFunBiking, the E-bike Challenge will again be at the Minneapolis Convention Center, on April 2 & 3. Here consumers can test and compare electric-assist bicycles on the mammoth indoor cycle track. In its inaugural year, 2019, it was deemed a success with attendees of all ages and abilities test riding e-bikes, while having fun.
So, what exactly is a pedal-assist bike or e-bike?
Hint – An e-bike is a bicycle that has a battery and electric motor to allow a cyclist to ride farther and with greater ease. However, the bicycle doesn’t do all the work by itself, it only assists! The bicyclist must be pedaled for the motor to engage, enabling an easier ride.
Start your E-bike Challenge visit with a 2022 Bike Guide and the daily E-bike parade
As you enter the bike expo hall and test track pick up your copy of the HaveFunBiking 2022 Bike/Hike Guide, hot off the press. Then, look at all the latest models of e-bikes you can ride, on the runway. Dozens of bicycle exhibitors, to name a few like Tern Bicycles, Riese & Müller, Yuba, GoCycle, and Serial 1 from Harley Davidson will be there. With more brands signing up each day, you are sure to see the latest and greatest in electric bike innovations.
Find your next adventure in the Hike & Bike Xperience court area
When not test riding all the fun e-bikes, explore the Hike & Bike Camp area in the center of the exhibition hall. Here find information on tourism destinations, trekking, mountain biking, and fun activities.
Plus you will find an interactive Kid’s Area at the bike expo
This family-friendly event will also have an interactive kids’ bike test track for ages 16 and
under, a children’s scavenger hunt daily, a bicycle playground with activities, and more!
Mark your calendar, then go online at E-bike Challenge to register and save!
This Monday, 5-days until the electric bike expo countdown or E-bike Challenge Minneapolis. Mark your calendar and ride the wide selection of electric-assist bikes, on the mammoth indoor test track.
Thanks for viewing our electric bike expo countdown picture
From a recent article at HaveFunBiking, the E-bike Challenge will again be at the Minneapolis Convention Center, on April 2 & 3. Here consumers can test and compare electric-assist bicycles on the mammoth indoor cycle track. In its inaugural year, 2019, it was deemed a success with attendees of all ages and abilities test riding e-bikes, while having fun.
So, what exactly is a pedal-assist bike or e-bike?
Hint – An e-bike is a bicycle that has a battery and electric motor to allow a cyclist to ride farther and with greater ease. However, the bicycle doesn’t do all the work by itself, it only assists! The bicyclist must be pedaled for the motor to engage, enabling an easier ride.
Start your E-bike Challenge visit with a 2022 Bike Guide and the daily E-bike parade
As you enter the bike expo hall and test track pick up your copy of the HaveFunBiking 2022 Bike/Hike Guide, hot off the press. Then, look at all the latest models of e-bikes you can ride, on the runway. Dozens of bicycle exhibitors, to name a few like Tern Bicycles, Riese & Müller, Yuba, GoCycle, and Serial 1 from Harley Davidson will be there. With more brands signing up each day, you are sure to see the latest and greatest in electric bike innovations.
Find your next adventure in the Hike & Bike Xperience court area
When not test riding all the fun e-bikes, explore the Hike & Bike Camp area in the center of the exhibition hall. Here find information on tourism destinations, trekking, mountain biking, and fun activities.
Plus you will find an interactive Kid’s Area at the bike expo
This family-friendly event will also have an interactive kids’ bike test track for ages 16 and
under, a children’s scavenger hunt daily, a bicycle playground with activities, and more!
Mark your calendar, then go online at E-bike Challenge to register and save!
