Is using a e-bike really cheating? (Getting older)

Warning - Non work related article.....

I have been a dedicated mountain biker since the age of 14, starting with a non-suspension bike and eventually progressing to front suspension and full suspension models as biking advanced. Despite my friends switching to e-bikes many years ago, I stuck to my self-propelled bike, believing I was fit enough to keep up. Regularly, I ride a trail with a friend who uses an e-bike, and I pride myself on matching his pace up a particularly challenging hill. However, after a recent fall that dislocated my shoulder and sidelined me from riding for a long time, I began reconsidering my stance. However, I have recfently taken the plunge and purchased an e-bike, and I am eager to enjoy rides with my kids this weekend.

Like you, while out on the trails and in the cafe's drinking coffee and eating cake, I often hear comments from non-e-bikers claiming, "Oh, he's on an e-bike; that's cheating." These comments make me wonder if they simply haven't experienced riding one. Is there really a stigma against e-bikes or a misunderstanding that they are a great way to provide more options for those who are older, facing fitness challenges, or seeking different riding experiences? To me, embracing e-bikes feels like progress, enhancing accessibility and enjoyment for a wider range of riders. I know I expect to be able to ride longer and enjoy the experiences and trails more, which will allow me to build my skills and fitness back up.

Reasons for moving to the dark side!

My current view nowadays is that using an e-bike (MTB) is not considered cheating, especially for older riders like myself (40-50) compared to younger riders (20-40), for several reasons:

1. Adaptation to Physical Changes: As people age, physical capabilities naturally decline. E-bikes help older riders compensate for reduced stamina, strength, and endurance, allowing them to continue enjoying mountain biking.
2. Injury Prevention and Recovery: E-bikes provide adjustable levels of assistance, which can be crucial for older riders who might be recovering from injuries or are more susceptible to overexertion and joint strain.
3. Sustaining Participation: E-bikes enable older riders to keep up with younger, fitter companions. This helps maintain social connections and the enjoyment of group rides, which can be motivating and fulfilling.
4. Extended Riding Enjoyment: E-bikes allow older riders to tackle longer and more challenging trails without excessive fatigue. This extends the enjoyment and exploration of new terrains, keeping the biking experience fresh and exciting.
5. Encouraging Regular Exercise: The pedal-assist feature of e-bikes helps older riders engage in regular physical activity without the risk of overexertion. This promotes a healthier lifestyle and maintains fitness levels.
6. Mental Well-Being: The sense of freedom and adventure provided by mountain biking is beneficial for mental health. E-bikes ensure that aging riders can continue to experience these benefits, reducing stress and enhancing overall well-being.
7. Sustainable Mobility: E-bikes offer a sustainable transportation option for older adults who might prefer biking over driving for short distances, contributing to environmental conservation efforts.

Overall, e-bikes enhance the mountain biking experience for older riders like myself by adapting to our changing physical needs, preventing injuries, sustaining participation, promoting regular exercise, and ensuring continued enjoyment and mental well-being. This inclusive approach ensures that mountain biking remains a lifelong activity.

To summarise

Exercise and biking are powerful tools for maintaining mental health, especially for those with demanding jobs. Engaging in regular physical activity like biking helps release endorphins, the body's natural mood enhancers, which significantly reduce stress and anxiety.

Cycling promotes mindfulness, encouraging focus on the present moment and providing a necessary mental break from work-related pressures. Outdoor biking adds the benefits of fresh air and exposure to nature, which further enhance mental well-being. Regular exercise also improves sleep quality, boosts self-esteem, and fosters a sense of accomplishment.

By incorporating biking into your daily/weekly/monthly routine, you gain a constructive outlet for stress, leading to a more balanced and resilient mind, better equipped to handle the challenges of a high-stress job.

Let me know your thoughts, for those of you who are avid bikers, and also those who just want to have a voice :)

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this LinkedIn article are solely my own and do not necessarily reflect the views, opinions, or policies of my current or any previous employer, organisation, or any other entity I may be associated with.

#MountainBiking #EBikes #Fitness #MentalHealth #OutdoorLife #CyclingCommunity #HealthyLiving #WorkLifeBalance #InjuryRecovery #Mindfulness #NatureTherapy