Martin’s got the power – thanks to Ardrishaig Bothy
Modern e-bikes the way forward says Lochgilphead PC
A Mid Argyll man has spoken of his experience as a bornagain cyclist, just in time for Bike Week.
But his epiphany would never have happened without the help of the Ardrishaig Bothy and Cycling UK’s Alec Ohnstad.
Lochgilphead-based police officer Martin Balkeen gave up on e-bikes 15 years ago after arriving at work sweaty and exhausted one time too many, thanks to a dead battery.
When the Ardrishaig Bothy let him try out a modern e-bike, it was a revelation which got him pedalling again for good.
Having used a bike on patrol around Lochgilphead, the 45-year-old is no stranger to the benefits of cycling.
‘When you’re on patrol in a car you’re in a bubble,’ he said.
‘Cycling around is better as people want to talk to you and you can get places quickly.’
Around 15 years ago Martin bought an e-bike with the intention of cycling to work. Hoping for a peaceful and enjoyable commute through four miles of Glashan Forest from Lochgair to the town, it didn’t quite work out that way.
Poor battery life and power combined with a two-milelong uphill section of forest track meant the bike wasn’t up to the job.
‘It was one of the first generation of e-bikes and I made a mistake and bought a cheap one.
‘The battery only lasted one trip and it didn’t have enough power so I was arriving knackered and really sweaty.’
He considered buying a replacement, but his experience and the cost put him off, not to mention the two-hour journey each way to Glasgow and the nearest e-bike shop.
‘Going to Glasgow is no good as I needed to try it out on the hills here as that’s where I’d be using it.
‘I heard about the Ardrishaig Bothy and that was the ideal way to give it another go.’
Ardrishaig Bothy, set up by Cycling UK in partnership with Scottish Canals and funded by Smarter Choices Smarter Places, supports people to experience better health and reduced car dependence by walking and cycling.
When Alec offered Martin a free loan of a modern e-bike, the difference was huge.
Gone was the huge battery pack and heavy frame.
In its place was a smaller but more efficient battery and a more powerful motor and he arrived at work feeling energised rather than exhausted. With confidence it was worth the investment, he bought a new e-bike and now enjoys his commute through the forest with wildlife for company.
‘It’s gi-normous fun riding the forest tracks.
‘The other day I had to slow down for a herd of deer, but sometimes I meet other cyclists and walkers.
‘When I was trialling the e-bike I passed someone riding a conventional bike who had sweat pouring off him.
‘I’m using the car a lot less, which is helping to cut emissions and pollution.
‘I feel much fitter than before, which is important as I wanted to be in better condition in case I get Covid-19. I want to have some protection.’
He added: ‘It really helps to think about the working day ahead, then to debrief on the way home.
‘Any tension or stress can be worked out.’
And more exploration is definitely on the cards for Martin.
‘I’d like to use the bike to explore the area a bit more.
‘I moved here 20 years ago from East Kilbride as I didn’t want to live in the city any more, but I haven’t explored a hundredth of the area yet.’
Bike Week, organised by Cycling UK, runs until June 5 and focuses on cycling’s benefits to physical, mental and emotional well-being.
‘I heard about the Ardrishaig Bothy and that was the ideal way to give it another go’