This electric bike hire scheme has been set up by Aberdeenshire Council in partnership with each of the bike hire locations. The assets for this project has been majority funded by LEADER funding, with support from Aberdeenshire Council. Aberdeenshire Council staff time has been funded by Civitas Portis.
What is an electric bicycle?
An electric bicycle is a bike fitted with an electric motor and a battery. They work by giving you assistance as you pedal, meaning you can for example cycle uphill as if it were flat, or cycle further distances before getting tired.
There is a common misconception that they are the lazy option – this is not true! Being pedal assist, the motor only helps if you are cycling – so you need to put in some effort, and the bike will put in the rest. You can choose how much help they give you, with 5 levels of assistance – from no help up to Turbo mode!
E-bikes are brilliant for:
- If your health or fitness are holding you back from riding a bike
- If you want to be able to travel further distances or cycle for longer before getting tired
- If you want to use cycle paths to avoid car traffic in town
- If you want a sustainable alternative to a motorised vehicle
- If hills are putting you off cycling
Our e-bikes
The bikes we have are Raleigh Motus Grand Tours, which have step through frames making them easy to mount. They are easy to use, with integrated lights, and an integrated rear wheel lock. The seat position is adjustable to suit your size.
The 500WH semi-integrated Bosch battery will allow you to ride for up to 135 miles on a single charge – this is of course dependent on what level of assistance you use and the terrain you are on. The bikes motor is almost completely noise free, with a higher level of pedal rate detection to improve cycling efficiency so you can get the maximum enjoyment out of your journey.
Health benefits (from NHS Inform)
With all the benefits of outdoors physical activity, regular cycling can reduce the risk of a number of serious illnesses such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. It can also boost your mood, improving the symptoms of some mental health conditions such as depression and anxiety. Cycling can also help you maintain a healthy weight.
Cycling is a low-impact exercise, meaning it’s easier on your joints compared to high-impact aerobic activities like running
Safe Cycling
- While a helmet is not required by law, we recommend wearing one – these are provided with every hire.
- There is off-road cycling on either the Formartine & Buchan Way or a shared use path (for both walkers and cyclists) close to each location. This is a great way to get your confidence up without worrying about traffic.
- Be alert of traffic and other road or path users.
- If you are going to be cycling outwith daylight hours, you must switch on the bike lights – this is the law. We also recommend you dress appropriately with something bright/reflective.
- Follow the Highway Code
- Use appropriate arm signals when cycling on roads
If you’d like a one-to-one session to improve your confidence on a bike, check out the Aberdeenshire Bothy
