E-bikes are key to getting older people cycling
Posted on in Cycles News , Outdoor News
The number of older cyclists is growing, thanks to electric bicycles, research suggests.
62% of e-bikes in the UK are sold to people over the age of 55, market research by Halfords has shown.
In a statement, the retailer said that the UK may be "on the cusp of an e-bike boom".
James Arnold of Halfords said people such as actress Goldie Hawn, TV personalities Lorraine Kelly and Fern Britton, and Labour leader Jeremy Corbyn are among those inspiring an increase in cycling. But while older people are looking to take up cycling, traditional bikes can be hard work, making e-bikes the ideal solution.
Halfords' survey reveals that 61% of older e-bike users thought they were a good way to keep fit, but more than a third said they would cycle more if British roads had dedicated cycle lanes.
A Halfords spokeswoman said: "While older cyclists are well catered for in countries like Holland, the needs of older and less able cyclists in the UK need to be addressed.
"Further investments in infrastructure and promotion of safe riding practices will help."
Selling e-bikes
Older cyclists are a new demographic for a lot of bike retailers so educating them on the benefits of cycling and the advantages of an e-bike could be crucial to making the sale.
Don't compare e-bikes to regular bikes, but instead as an alternative to the bus, train or car and highlight the impact it could have on their lifestyle. The ACT's Guide to e-bikes has more advice on how to sell e-bikes, as well as information on regulations, legislations, servicing and repair.