I have now been the proud owner of an Avatar ST for 5 months. I already have a Roodog Striker and have enjoyed some amazing rides with it. However, on returning from a ride across Brading Marshes at the beginning of the year, despite wearing appropriate clothing, the wind chill factor caused my leg muscles to seize up and at the end of the cycle path I had the unfortunate experience of not being able to get off my bike! Fortunately a kind passer by came to the rescue and held my Striker so I could undertake an ungainly dismounting process.

I decided I really needed a Step Through and the Avatar ST seemed the obvious choice. I took delivery in February – it was a birthday present to myself and Espokes kindly delivered it to the Red Funnel terminal complete with a large bow! Since then, with the lovely weather we have been enjoying, I have been out and about on it almost every day. I have discovered new off-road trails to avoid the roads on the IOW as well as enjoying some old favourites again – such as the Cuckoo Trail in East Sussex. I found that the last time I rode the Cuckoo Trail I did it over two days. This time I did the complete trail – approx 30 miles- in about 4 hours (allowing time for a nice lunch).

I decided to invest in an upgraded battery – and that means I can do 50 miles rather than 40. I tend to keep it at power level 4 as I find the faster momentum seems to put less strain on the motor. I can easily get to Newport and back from where I live in the East of the Island – and we have some very steep hills.

The Avatar is heavier than the Striker. However, on a ride round the harbour road when a strong wind is blowing the extra weight at the bottom of the bike helps you feel very stable.

I have only one criticism – and that is the little cap that fits the battery charging opening does not fit well. I hoped it would loosen up but that has not happened yet. My husband has fitted an adjustable stem so that I have adjustable handlebars which makes holding them more comfortable. Arthritis in my hands means that any pressure leads to numb hands quite quickly even in warm weather.

Espokes is always a pleasure to deal with. Nothing is too much trouble. My brother accepted my advice and bought an ebike from them this year – he is loving it too.

As a result of all my cycling, together with some healthy eating, I have dropped 3 dress sizes. I feel fitter too. I think the best thing is discovering a form of exercise that is really enjoyable and where you can have as much or as little help from the e-bike’s motor as you need that day.

Just off for another ride …