It seems that most people who buy Ebikes don't actually need them. They can pedal, and they want something to go superfast on while not pedaling very much. I am a disabled person. I am 62, on SS disability, have a disabled license plate, have serious hip and knee joint problems, a degenerative muscle condition, severe arthritis, and a few other things. I can walk slowly for maybe 50-60 feet with the aid of a cane. I have a mobility scooter. I have to either use an electric shopping cart or my mobility scooter. I used to ride a bicycle a lot (NOT part of the Spandex crowd) and really enjoyed it.
But since winding up in this condition, that put a stop to my bicycle riding. I now sit home in front of a computer instead. I could ride a bicycle IF I didn't have to pedal, and the bicycle had a step through frame. I have been considering an Ebike for some time, but all the information I can find about them seems aimed at the Spandex crowd and their "pedal assist" I just want to go on slow, leisurely rides around my neighborhood, and ride on a bike path that runs along a canal bank. Something enjoyable that will get me out of the house.
A couple of weeks ago, I paid a visit to my local Pedego store. I was treated very nicely despite my condition. Most people tend to look down on, or completely ignore someone in my condition. I rented a NON Platinum step through bike and took it out for a ride of about an hour, at around 7-8 mph (normal pedal bike speed for commuters and recreational riders) WOW. I loved it. It showed over half the battery life left when I got back. I was told that at 7-8 mph it should easily go 20+ miles without pedaling (I would be stranded if the battery went dead away from home). I thought about it for a week, then went back and ordered a NON Platinum 26" step through model in Mineral Blue with the alloy wheel option (I weigh 240 pounds) and the 48V 15 amp hour battery. I can't wait for it to show up. If this bike will get me out of the house for a couple hours a day, it will completely change my life. Probably even extend it quite a bit.
I highly recommend Pedego. Their people are very friendly and helpful, they don't push the "sport" aspect of cycling, the bikes are excellent quality, they have a 5 year warranty. Yes, $4K OTD seems like a lot, but that will only get you a middle of the road Tour de France style pedal only road or mountain bike. I expect to ride it for at least 10 years. That's only $400 a year or $35 a month. And they have very low interest financing.