Electric bikes at Kennys For Bikes

The bicycle trade has seen many technological advances since Kennys For Bikes opened 100 years ago in Enniscorthy. And the latest craze to hit the world of bikes – the electric bike – looks set to be a momentous one, according to Paul Nolan of Kennys For Bikes.

The electric bike, or E-bike, has come a long way since they first hit the market almost 17 years ago, and advances in technology means the E-bike is now more appealing than ever for cyclists.

With many ‘engine’ bikes now deemed illegal due to a new EU law passed in April, bicycle companies are now pushing their pedal assist electric bikes as the way forward for cyclists who want an extra push on the roads.

Bosch and Yamaha have become market leaders in E-bikes. All their models are fully legal and need no insurance as they help cyclists only where needed on inclines. As the rider pushes on the pedals the bike assists the cyclists making it easy going up hill.

With new advances in technology the new batteries can get up to 180kms on a full charge, The bikes are restricted not to exceed 25kmh which makes them legal on our roads.

Paul Nolan of Kennys For Bikes has been involved in the bike trade for more than 30 years and this year has been trained by Giant UK in the legality of electric bikes and by Bosch and Yamaha on the workings of the motors.

‘We now provide full back-up and service with our electric bikes,’ said Paul. ‘Electric bikes have come along way since the first ones were seen almost 17 years ago. They now look like an ordinary bike and the motors have moved from the rear to the chainset. The battery life is much better now too.

‘For the sceptics out there you have to try one out before you make up your mind. At Kenny for Bikes we can help you out as we have demo models available for you to ride,’ added Paul, who estimates that within 10 years, E-bikes will account for 50% of bikes on Irish roads, similar to what has already happened in some mainland European countries.