Fast. Fun. Cheap. The joy of e-biking on the North Shore
Photo: Trek Bikes
For a lot of us, getting around on the North Shore by car—to get to work, to shop, to drop the kids at activities—is a necessary hassle. The daily grind of traffic, rising gas prices, and the constant possibility of unexpected, expensive car repairs can weigh on you. For me, all of that changed when I started using an e-bike for short trips. Since February 2021, I’ve put 16,453 kilometres on my e-bike, and it’s been a game-changer in ways I never expected.
Let’s talk money. That’s over 16,000 kilometres that I didn’t put on my car, which means I’ve saved around $6,000 in vehicle maintenance and operating costs (calculate the costs of running your car with CAA’s Driving Costs Calculator) in less than four years. And it’s not just the big expenses—even small savings, like avoiding parking fees, add up quickly. The financial payoff was almost immediate, and it’s one of the easiest benefits to appreciate.
Then there’s the cost of keeping the bike running. Charging my e-bike costs next to nothing and gives me enough range for days of riding. Maintenance is simple and inexpensive—things like keeping the belt clean and occasionally replacing brake pads. Annual tune-ups usually cost under $200 bucks. If you’re used to paying car expenses, the difference is night and day.
But saving money is just the start. Riding an e-bike has completely changed how I get around. For one, it’s fun. There’s nothing quite like cruising past traffic, feeling the motor kick in as you tackle a hill without breaking a sweat. It’s smooth, quiet, and surprisingly relaxing. If you dread commuting, an e-bike turns that chore into one of the best parts of your day. Even running errands feels different. Need groceries? A few small things from the hardware store? No problem. With a sturdy rack and a couple of panniers, I can carry everything I need. What used to feel like a hassle is now another great reason to get outside.
Convenience is another big win. I’ve stopped worrying about parking. No more circling the block or squeezing into tight spots—I just roll up, lock my bike, and I’m done. Traffic jams? They’re a thing of the past. I've discovered lots of shortcuts through beautiful wooded trails, bike paths, and side streets, sometimes cutting my travel time in half. I’m never stuck idling in a sea of cars.
Health wasn’t something I initially thought about, but it’s been an unexpected bonus. Riding an e-bike gets your body moving but without feeling like a workout. You’re pedalling, but the electric assist takes the edge off. Over time, I’ve noticed I have more energy and feel generally better. It’s low-effort exercise that fits seamlessly into my day.
One thing I’ll admit: weather can be tricky. Rainy days used to be a deal-breaker, but I’ve learned to adapt. A good rain jacket, gloves, and some fenders make a huge difference and make it easy to ride year-round. And honestly, on those rare occasions when the weather is REALLY bad, I just don't ride. I drive or take transit instead. For me, having options is the key.
Switching to an e-bike has also helped me see the North Shore in a whole new way. Riding at a slower pace than driving, I’ve stumbled across parks, coffee shops, and shortcuts I never noticed before. I’ve started to appreciate the little things—the quiet of a tree-lined street, the sounds of birds in the morning, and even the satisfaction of a well-planned route. Neighbours wave and say hello. It’s a perspective you just don’t get behind the wheel.
If you’ve never considered a bike for transportation, I get it. I used to think biking was only for "roadies" or people with short commutes. But an e-bike changes everything. It’s not about pushing yourself to the limit—it’s about making your life easier. You don’t have to give up your car entirely; you just use it less. Start small—try commuting one day a week or running a few errands. The more you ride, the more you’ll realize how easy and enjoyable it can be.
Looking back, I’m amazed at how much an e-bike has improved my day-to-day life. It’s saved me money, simplified my routine, and made getting around the North Shore something I look forward to. If you’ve ever felt frustrated by the grind of driving everywhere you might just find, as I did, that it’s the best way to turn your commute into something you enjoy.
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