Family-run Lincolnshire firm 'pedalling' its range of carbon-cutting electric bikes
ZIPPING about at 15mph on a bike might sound like a lot of effort.
But thanks to a family-run company, a quick commute to work is very much on the cards.
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Batribike director Steve Coulson rides one of the bikes.
Batribike, owned and run by the Coulson family near Sturton by Stow, provides a range of electric bikes and trikes.
Director of Batribike Sue Coulson said: "People sometimes think that it is cheating or lazy to have an electric bike but that is not the case at all.
"A lot of people like to use them on their commute so they don't end up tired and sweaty at work.
"You can adjust the level of assistance you are given to make it easier or harder for yourself, depending on where you are. It is also good for people who maybe wouldn't have even considered cycling otherwise.
"It is a very good way to get moderate exercise if you are trying to improve your health.
"Also, our trikes are very popular with people who may have balance issues or who don't want to use a mobility scooter."
The team recently went down to London to promote the inclusion of electric bikes in future highways or carbon cutting plans.
There, MP and minister for health Simon Burns tried out the bikes in Black Rod's Gardens at Westminster.
Mrs Coulson said: "There is an important move towards reducing emissions in city centres and promoting healthier lifestyles.
"The British Electric Bicycle Association (BEBA) event showed that electric bikes can really make a difference.
"All our bikes are under £1,000 and so they are eligible for the bike to work scheme."
Batribike was formed in 2007 and is run by brothers Steve and Ralph Coulson, alongside their wives Sue and Jackie.
Sue's brother, John, also joined the team as it expanded.
The company originally used a frame that was bought off the shelf, but quickly developed its own ideas as far as the best design was concerned.
Steve Coulson said: "We started off with the stock frame but, after listening to customers and developing our own opinions, we developed a new product that seemed to meet our customers needs much better.
"We distribute all over the country now.
"This model will probably be the one that is available for the next two or three years, and during that time we will continue to test products and try to improve our design."
Call the company on 01427 787774 or visit www.batribike.com for more information on Batribikes.
7 Comments
by Steve, Lincoln
Tuesday, May 17 2011, 10:27AM
“Why not just buy a bike from Halfords for £100 and pedal it? Much healthier and no environmental issues with having to charge the batteries up from coal fired power stations, and indeed, disposing of spent batteries.”
by ray43, Lincoln
Monday, May 16 2011, 6:24PM
“Great way to get about, but the batteries only last 18-24 monthsish generally. The replacement battery for mine is £330”
by Malcolm, Lincoln
Monday, May 16 2011, 8:58AM
“Well said Gordon. But is even cheaper when you consider the cost of the bus or that of owning a car. Plus the whole family would be able to use it, thus your 150 days looks like 6-9 months. Finally if you did not like it you could probably sell it for a good price.
Regards
Regards”
by Gordon, Grantham
Monday, May 16 2011, 8:32AM
“"Now if only they weren't so expensive. £750+ for a bike, no thanks.
Zachary, Lincoln". Grab yourself a calculator, Zachary. £750 divided by £5 per day to park, 150 days, bike paid for, job done!”
by lynn, lincoln
Monday, May 16 2011, 8:08AM
“They look great fun, I wouldn't mind one.
If you commute into Lincoln every day and pay parking fees, this bike should soon pay for itself. I suppose it wouldn't be sensible during the winter months.”
by Malcolm, Lincoln
Monday, May 16 2011, 7:48AM
“Great news that some one has a good idea that should make money and bring jobs to the area.
Also they may not be cheap but a lot better than an electric invalid vehicle to get around on.”
by Zachary, Lincoln
Monday, May 16 2011, 7:05AM
“Now if only they weren't so expensive. £750+ for a bike, no thanks.”