The first time I was overtaken by an e-bike I was jealous and frustrated, now I recognise they belong, even in racing

www.cyclingweekly.com

5 comments

What a strange, strange perspective.
E-bikes can help equalize the effort level within group rides, making it possible for mixed-ability groups to ride together without the pressure of keeping pace, or fear of holding others back.
I mean, yeah, in a casual group ride setting, this is cool.
But in a race? It makes no sense.
Many of the points about accessibility are completely valid. But mixing "parents carrying kids on a cargo bike" with competitive sport is just... odd.
Sure, make an e-bike category for the next Olympics. But don't mix e-bikes and analogue riders in the same race.
- The article is actually advocating for segregated E-bike categories that more people could have a go at, since it would be more about technique and less about raw stamina.
  
  Most races already aren't about raw stamina.
  
  Yes, that's the way it should be, if it happens.
  But the article jumps between too many things to be coherent.
Interesting take. I think ebikes are great, but I've never once thought they should be raced. At that point it would be better to just do motorcycle racing so you can be properly equipped for crashes occurring at high speeds. Cycling races already have enough crashes as it is, and that is before you take an equalizer that allows less experienced riders to ride faster and in situations where they need to be able to ride in a pack without overlapping wheels and occasionally rubbing shoulders/ elbows.
Otoh, if the horse scene has room for hobby horses who am i to say cycling races can't have ebike categories? (I'm joking, hobby horses doesn't hurt anyone and ebike racing would have higher % chance of accidents than traditional races. Guaranteed).