Bopomofo wrote:I was having a think about e-bikes and I have decided that with a little bit more technology (which may already have been invented, I need to do some research) would have me at the bike shop shouting "Take my money!"
Here's the pitch:
I like to do structured workouts, like Sufferfest. Very specific, customised interval sessions with very precise goals and defined outcomes. I also like riding my bike outside because it is wonderful.
The two things don't go together very easily and a lack of time means I often have to choose one or the other: riding outside doesn't hit my specific workout / fitness goals; riding inside doesn't give me lovely views of the South Downs or the feeling of the wind in my scalp.
If I try to take my structured workout outdoors it quickly goes wrong: I could be on a rest interval asking for just 100W at 90rpm as I arrive at the bottom of a hill. I don't have a gear for that. Or I could crest the top of the same hill just as I'm required to produce 230W @ 60rpm on the descent. Again, no gear for that.
But if I had an e-bike that I could load my workout file into, that could provide me with the assistance to ensure I'm putting the right power into the pedals on that uphill and could use regenerative braking to make me work my backside off on that downhill (while usefully recharging my battery) then I can really have the best of both worlds.
I'd buy it.
This could be your Dragons Den moment
E bikes are limited to power output of 250w, but, you can get delimiters ( illegal ).
However, the problem is the programmable interface. I have not seen one that has a display that shows the power output the rider is putting in. The alternate option being to go old Skool and use HR. If the schedule shows the need to do a rest interval of 90bpm and you hit the steepest hill on the ride then the bike is put into max assist, but it is not an ideal solution.
If I come across any other solutions I will post.
Extinction is the rule. Survival is the exception.