In an effort to spread the word about motor-assisted cycling, several shops lent their wheels and expertise Saturday to the East Bay’s first e-bike test and ride.
The free community event, in the parking lot of the Coliseum BART Station, connected cyclists with instructors to create a safe, enclosed circuit for riding. Representatives of about eight East Bay bike shops provided hands-on experience for the mix of children and adults curious about shifting to electric cycling.
About 600 people RSVP’d to learn about e-bike options and benefits at the test and ride, which was hosted by advocacy group Bike East Bay and Ava Community Energy, an Oakland nonprofit that delivers energy generated from renewable sources such as solar and wind.
E-bikes, which are environmentally friendly, have a battery-powered electric motor that assists the rider while pedaling or provides energy through a throttle. Riders can pedal on their own or with assistance, or rely on the throttle when encountering wind or hills…