I recently became the proud owner of an E-bike. Like any new car owner, I now see them everywhere. It’s a fantastic alternative for those quick trips to the store or when I need to pick up the latest issue of the Independent. E-biking in Santa Barbara offers a refreshing and exhilarating way to explore our beautiful city.
To my surprise, I’m using my E-bike far more than I anticipated. My old pedal-only bike had been gathering dust, but the E-bike has reignited my passion for biking. This new mode of transportation has seamlessly become a regular part of my routine, allowing me to enjoy the outdoors once again.
I recently spoke with Dominic Mancuso of Cuso’s Cyclery in Santa Barbara. He rents both E-bikes and regular bikes, mak- ing it easy to explore the town for a few hours or a couple of days. Mancuso recommends renting an E-bike before purchasing one, which I found to be excellent advice.
Initially, I wasn’t sure if I would use an E-bike enough to justify the investment. However, once I had access to one, I quickly realized how different and enjoyable the experi- ence was compared to my old pedal bike. This shift has made E-biking a regular part of my life.
Santa Barbara’s extensive network of bike paths and lanes makes it easy to navigate the city for riders of all skill levels. Popular routes include the scenic Cabrillo Bike Path along the waterfront and the Obern Trail,which offers a beautiful inland route to Goleta Beach and UCSB. As nice as the bike paths are, I enjoy biking on the streets.
A common misconception is that E-bikes don’t provide exercise, but that’s simply not true. You’re still pedaling, just with some added assis- tance. According to Mancuso, E-bikes are suitable for all ages and abilities, extending how long you can enjoy biking. I see myself riding well into my 80s. Hills, like those on the Riviera, are no longer daunting, just turn up the power and glide right up.
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