The founders of Swindon-based E-Motion Electric Vehicle Co. recognised the benefits of electric cycling back in 2009, and were one of the first specialist e-bike retailers to open up shop in the UK.
Partner Mark Butler told us “At the time we were one of very few shops nationwide that stocked e-bikes, and far fewer people knew about the benefits of electric vehicles than today. E-bike technology was in its infancy – steel bike frames were necessary to carry the lead acid batteries, making early electric bikes rather heavy – and the batteries took a long time to charge too. Now things are quite different, lithium batteries are light-weight and charge within hours.” There’s more choice for cyclists: commuter bikes, folding bikes, mountain and hybrid bikes, tourers, shoppers and tricycles are all available as electric-powered bikes.
More people have discovered their love of cycling since the first lockdown. A quarter of people surveyed by Mintel said they became first-time cyclists, or had started cycling again during the pandemic. The benefits of cycling, and of simply being outdoors, on our health and well-being are clear. Equally important is the positive impact on our environment.
The executive director of the UK’s Bicycle Association said in June: “It’s brilliant that the UK has been out buying and repairing their bikes under lockdown. Especially for commuters, every journey made by bike frees up space for those who have no alternative to using public transport. E-bikes have the potential to make even longer or more hilly cycling commutes practical and enjoyable”.
E-Motion regularly hold e-cycling events for the public, and at local businesses, to demonstrate the benefits of electric cycling for leisure and commuting. “We also promote the Government’s Cycle to Work scheme which can subsidise the cost of a bike to you by 40% and, through the Cycle Association, we can finance your purchase too”.
“A number of our early customers love the solid, early e-bikes they bought from us and we help keep them on the road. We’re members of the Association of Cycle Traders and always try to find the right part to keep a bike running smoothly.” E-Motion recently opened its new, purpose-built and fully-equipped bike repair workshop. Its technicians are fully trained to work on Bosch, Yamaha and Shimano electric-bike systems and, as enthusiastic cyclists, have the skills to service ‘traditional’ push-bikes, keeping more cyclists safely on the road.
To celebrate the opening of its workshop, E-Motion are offering free local collection and delivery for ANY traditional or electric bike serviced until 30th September 2021 AND a 25% discount.
In Swindon and beyond, the E-Motion team definitely keep the wheels turning. They’ll answer any query you might have on starting your e-bike journey, converting your existing push-bike to electric, styles and manufactures of electric bikes, cycling clothing and accessories, and servicing – pop into their shop at 373 Cricklade Road, SN2 1AQ
01793 251200 / email@e-motionevc.co.uk