You never forget how to ride a bike, and many seniors are re-finding the joy and healthy exercise that riding can bring. This is particularly true with ebikes which can take some of the stress off of the joints and muscles. However, for those who are getting older, a different type of bike and frame may be needed as well.
As we grow older, declining strength and ability, as well as reduced mobility, can make tasks such as mounting and dismounting particularly difficult. This can, in turn, result in a loss of independence and lead to a greater loss of ability and capacity to get around without assistance.
This is where e-bikes come in. An electric bike with the correct frame can help seniors to get around while offering a healthy amount of exercise. There are, of course, alternatives such as cars and scooters that many seniors may still be able to use, but many seniors feel comfortable with the familiar feel and handling of a bicycle, and it will also provide exercise.
Plus, electric bicycles are a highly effective way for seniors to get around for short to medium distances without the dangers of driving. It helps seniors to keep active and in good physical shape without putting a harsh strain on the body. With an ebike like the Espin Nesta, seniors can adjust the pedal assistance or even use the throttle, meaning they only need to put in as much effort as they can handle. The throttle is especially handy when going from stop to start, such as at a light or stop sign, or when checking for traffic.
However, another key part of choosing the right ebike is picking a frame they can handle. Seniors often struggle to lift their legs over traditional step-over bikes with high frames. Instead, most seniors will benefit from choosing a step-through frame.
Step-Through Frames
A step-through frame is one of the most important design characteristics to make an ebike senior-friendly. In contrast to traditional bike frames, which feature a high frame bar that forces the rider to swing their leg over the top of the bike to mount and dismount, a step-through bike makes it easy. The rider only needs to slightly lift their leg off the ground in order to pass it through the center of the frame and mount the ebike.
This makes a step-through e-bike frame ideal for seniors who may have hip or lower back issues which could make it difficult or impossible to mount a traditional frame. This is also the stage in which most accidents happen, making step-through ebike frames much safer for seniors as well. Many seniors may remember these step-through electric bike frames as being “girls” bikes, but this is not the truth nowadays. These bikes have become gender-neutral and are ideal for senior men and women alike.
Plus, ebike designers have realized the value that this frame design has, and high-quality step-through Ebikes like the Nesta can support up to 275 pounds, greatly exceeding the weight limitations which plagued older designs. Despite this greater strength, modern materials have kept this from increasing the weight of the ebike itself, allowing senior riders to easily lift and operate the bike free of difficulty.
A final advantage to this frame design is that it offers a “pedal forward” design in which the pedals are located forward of the seat instead of in line with it. This means that senior riders can adopt a more natural sitting posture which is easier on the back and joints. It is also safer because it means that while properly seated, the rider can still place their feet securely on the ground keeping the ebike stable at a stop.
Best Step-Through Ebike for Seniors: The Espin Nesta
Now that you know the advantages that a step-through electric bicycle can offer, why not consider one of the best models on the market, the Espin Nesta. Many seniors would like their ebike with them to perform regular chores as well as on trips with family and friends. The Nesta not only features an extremely low step-through frame but a lightweight folding design that makes it ideal for bringing anywhere you need to go.
With up to 40 miles of range and a powerful 750-watt motor, the Espin Nesta will quickly become any senior’s new most trusted traveling companion for all of their daily commutes. Whether it is to get to work, the market, or on the trails, its pedal-assist system can help to handle anything the day brings while offering comfort and convenience for older riders. Plus, the compact folding design offers a small fat wheel design which makes it even easier for seniors to mount and dismount in addition to absorbing more of the force from any impacts making it easier on their joints. Hydraulic front and rear disc brakes offer the stopping power to brake from any speed without excess pressure from weak or arthritic joints.
With the power and tire width to handle trips on any terrain while being compact enough to bring in any car or RV, the Nesta is perfect for every occasion.
Final Thoughts
Ebikes can be a wonderful tool for seniors to commute while offering healthy exercise and comfort. However, traditional bike frames can be difficult for senior riders to mount and lead to a higher risk of accidents and physical strain. For senior riders, a step-through ebike frame offers comfort, safety, and convenience. A step-through frame can allow older riders to mount and dismount without strain on their joints, lifting their leg over traditional high frames.
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