TRIED & TESTED
An electric folding bike and a game-changing VHF radio
Your yacht is home when cruising new waters. But ashore, when provisioning or exploring, you’re back on foot, dependant on public transport, bicycle, or scooting – but with limitations when carrying shopping, or arriving at the local yacht club a little dishevelled. Imagine if you could fit a Vespa on board...
Well, the Volt Metro LS folding electric bike has stowable dimensions of 838 x 457 x 762mm. You can use it on cycle paths and yet cover up to 40 miles without breaking a sweat, unless you wish to – by increasing exertion or turning the power off (0 mode). It has a comfortable seat plus suspension in the seat post, making it easy to travel over gravel tracks or grassy fields if anchored remotely. The bike can be fitted with a basket or storage bag.
The electric propulsion kicks in when you push the pedal; it’s a joy to ride and simple too. Press the power button on the battery; tap the keycard on the handlebar’s display, toggle through the five different pedal-assist levels – and off you go. There are 8 speed gears and a smooth braking system. For front and rear lights, long press the ‘+’.
VERDICT
I loved this bike. The only downside was the weight. Made from lightweight aluminium, it folds easily but at 22.7kg, it’s comparable to an inflatable tender or an aeroplane hold bag. A conventional folding bike would be a lot lighter and cheaper but wouldn’t expand your shore-side horizons as far or be so much fun. LH. voltbikes.co.uk