Ambassador James Day - Commuting from Lynn Valley to UBC
Recent purchaser of an OHM Sport, James Day, shares his experience of e-biking to work.
1) Tell us about yourself: What keeps you bustling at work? what's your life like outside from work?
2) Where do you live/work?
3) How have you traditionally commuted to work?
4) What were your reasons for wanting to try an E-Bike for your commute?
I had started suffering some physical symptoms from spending so much time in the car daily: sore lower back, stiff shoulders, and achy hips. Being stuck in traffic and not knowing when I might get to my destination would cause mild stress. I needed a healthier way to get to and from work, and biking was an obvious option. I did the math and convinced myself that e-biking would additionally reduce my commute time.
5) Does your commute affect your performance/mental state at the office and/or at home?
Without a doubt, my e-bike commute has had a positive effect in my life. My mind is clearer when I get to the lab and I have been working more productively. A few friends have commented that I appear a bit trimmer and I have noticed an improvement in my cardiovascular fitness. Additionally, my sleep has been the best it has ever been; I fall asleep quickly, sleep soundly, and wake feeling well-rested on a daily basis.
6) What were the biggest obstacles to cycle commuting, and how have those changed?
For a number of years my primary obstacle was probably the inertia I had developed with driving. I was used to it, plain and simple, and making a change can be difficult. Friends and family had suggested I try biking but I was wary of the infrastructure in and about the city, especially given the distance I needed to cover. Biking from Lynn Valley to UBC was always possible, obviously, but it didn’t always seem straightforwardly easy or particularly safe. I think that the city and surrounding communities have done an admirable job in making Vancouver much more bike-friendly. There is still lots of room for improvement, but I am happy with the changes that have happened and that are planned to come.
7) Any particular thoughts/revelations you'd like to share?
E-bikes are surprisingly fun to ride: I still crack a smile every time the assist kicks in to help me up a hill or to start from stopped. Also, a good workout can still be had, even with 500W at your feet. My ride to work is easier on an e-bike, but I still arrive with sweat on my brow.
