As you get older, cycling can become difficult. We’re speaking with Pascale and Jean-Marc, a retired couple from France, to find out how e-cycling allows them to have adventures on two-wheels.
Shortly after their retirement, Pascale and Jean-Marc decided it was time to purchase e-bikes. This wise choice has allowed them to continue going on the long trips they enjoy the most. As we’re about to learn, age doesn’t need to mean it’s time to slow down!
“As far back as we can remember,” Pascale says, “we have always loved cycling. When we met in the '70s, we were already biking on most of our trips. Every weekend we used to meet at the seashore for cycling. Whether to go to work or to take our children to school, this passion has always adapted to the evolution of our lives but has never died away. Cycling has always been a way for us to get together and share quality time. The years have passed, but we have always found time to cycle as a couple and with our three children.”
Winning your twilight years
Jean-Marc continues: “Our retirement has turned our lives upside down. After many years of work, we had to keep busy. Day by day, we rediscovered our love of cycling. However, we quickly realized that our physical conditions were no longer the same as they used to be. We experienced shortness of breath, body aches, difficulties on climbing hills. We both had trouble covering kilometers the way we used to. The conclusion was simple: we no longer had the strength and stamina of our youth! It was during a family meal with our three children that the solution to purchase an electric bike was mentioned. It was clear to them that the pedal assistance of an e-bike would enable us to take full advantage of our passion.
“Our son, who already had an e-bike to go to work, offered to give it a try. We loved it! A few days later, we searched to purchase the right e-bikes. Since then, we have been cycling again. Every day, we go to school to get our grandkids. Even if they think it's cheating for us to use an electric assist when we are faster than them!”
Cycling without limits
“We ride at least 70 km per week,” Pascale says. “We can plan long rides again, without worrying about the number of kilometres to be covered. We are no longer afraid of climbs thanks to the support of the drive unit. When we planning our routes, we have the freedom to go wherever we want. The assistance provided by our e-cycles allows us to go further and faster than we can on our own. Even though our grandkids say we are cheating, we know our electric bikes are helping to keep us fit.
“We’re planning our first long bicycle tour this summer: The Véloscénie. It’s a cycling adventure across northwest France, from Paris to the Mont St-Michel. We never thought we could do this kind of thing at our age. We still have great adventures to live, thanks to our e-bikes!”
Never too old to e-cycle
Why leave adventure to the younger generation? The extra time and freedom that come with retirement makes it the perfect opportunity to plan longer trips and explore new activities, and e-cycling makes it easier than ever to do so. Even if you weren’t a regular cyclist in your younger days, with the smooth, reliable support of the pedal-assist you will surprise yourself with how far and fast you can cycle. And regular e-bike rides are a great way to improve your health and fitness.
Find the right e-bike for you and get ready to have the time of your life!
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