UCC E-Bikes

8 Dec 2020

Between the winding boreens and the coastal highways of Cork, UCC’s Electric Bikes have travelled them all, over the past 6 months and not without the help of our friends at the Cork Bike Shed who serviced and maintained our fleet throughout. Our E-Bike trial has continued to be a resounding success, both in and out of the varying levels of Covid-19 Lockdown. Happy staff have enjoyed the benefits of the E-Bike trial and restricted their excursions in line with the travel limits.

So as they say in Cork………..What’s The (E-Bike) Story…….?

Between the winding boreens and the coastal highways of Cork, UCC’s Electric Bikes have travelled them all, over the past 6 months and not without the help of our friends at the Cork Bike Shed who serviced and maintained our fleet throughout. Our E-Bike trial has continued to be a resounding success, both in and out of the varying levels of Covid-19 Lockdown. Happy staff have enjoyed the benefits of the E-Bike trial and restricted their excursions in line with the travel limits.

How Many?

• 75 trialists of our Raleigh Motus Tour E-Bikes.

How many Invested?

• 6 new E-Bikes bought by staff who deemed the investment worthwhile.

Cycle Loops travelled?

• Fitzgeralds Park & Cork City Mural Tour.
• Carrigrohane – Coachford loop.
• The Waterford Greenway.
• Curraheen Public Walk, Bishopstown.
• Cork city to Crosshaven.
• Wild Atlantic Way – Kinsale to Cork city.

Biggest Questions/Concerns Answered?

Q            Would electric bikes be heavy and noisy?

A             The bike is heavy but there is a push-assist mode. It felt and sounded like a normal pedal bike.

Q            Would Cork hills be a problem?

A             E-Bikes are perfect for Cork Hills, with no struggle to reach the top.

Q            How long will the battery last?

A             The battery is easily detachable lasting many days between charges

Q            Would I need a change of clothes?

A             The ease of cycling means arrival in work clothes i.e. no shower/changing room/clothes storage/drying room required.

Q            Would rainy weather be any more acceptable on an electric bike?

A             In theory, the electric bike would shorten the journey, and a good set of breathable waterproofs will also help.

Verdict

• Fast charging of battery
• Very comfortable seat
• Great suspension offering a smooth cycling experience.
• Very stable on rough road
• Felt very safe at traffic lights as E-Bike had the acceleration to avoid being a hazard
• Super brakes
• Good lights front and back
• Enjoyed coastal routes, riverside trails and abundant wildlife like never before

Conclusion

• Getting people back biking has helped UCC’s bid to support active commuting and sustainable transportation both, of which we’re passionate about.