How an electric bike helped me rediscover my love of cycling—and how it might do the same for you.
There’s something magic about being on a bike. The wind in your face, the rhythm of the pedals, the feeling of freedom as you glide down a quiet street or along a leafy bike path—it’s hard to beat. But if I’m honest, that magic had been missing from my life for a little while.
Running Birds on Bikes is a full-time job (and then some). Between designing gear, overseeing manufacturing, connecting with customers, and managing the day-to-day, my own time on the saddle kept getting pushed down the to-do list. And let’s not even talk about those hills. The thought of dragging myself up a long climb after a busy week? No, thank you.
But that all changed when I began my e-bike journey.
And I’m here to tell you: it was the best investment I’ve ever made —not just for my health, but for my happiness, confidence, and overall wellbeing.
Rediscovering Joy: My E-Bike Journey
Let me paint the picture: the first time I got on my e-bike, I felt like a kid again. I took off down the road, and when I hit the first incline, I braced myself for the burn—but it didn’t come. Instead, the motor gently kicked in, smoothing out the hill like a tailwind at just the right moment. I laughed out loud.
I wasn’t cheating. I was riding smarter.
And from that moment, I was hooked.
E-bikes (short for electric bikes) offer pedal-assist technology, which means you’re still pedalling, still moving your body—but with a helpful boost. That extra push means you can go further, ride longer, and tackle terrain that might have felt out of reach. For me, it meant I could actually enjoy the ride, not dread it.
How an E-Bike Changed the Way I Ride
As the founder of Birds on Bikes, I talk a lot about empowerment, confidence, and accessibility in cycling. Our brand is built on the idea that all women deserve to feel strong and supported on the bike , no matter their shape, size, or skill level.
But even with all that passion, I wasn’t riding much myself.
It wasn’t just lack of time—it was the mental load. The logistics. The “will I be able to keep up?” questions. The “am I fit enough?” doubts. And honestly? Sometimes I just didn’t feel like dealing with the hills, the wind, or the pressure.
Getting an e-bike stripped all that away.
It made riding feel joyful again, and that joy has rippled out into other areas of my life. My e-bike journey wasn’t just about riding; it was about reclaiming something I missed.
Tackling Hills with Confidence (and Pedal Assist)
If you live in a hilly area, you know the struggle. One steep hill can be enough to turn a “quick ride” into a full-blown fitness challenge. For a while, I avoided certain routes altogether because I knew they’d take more out of me than I was willing to give.
Now? I don’t think twice.
The e-bike levels the playing field. It gives me confidence to go anywhere—whether I’m on a leisurely ride with friends or out exploring new paths solo. I still get a workout, but it’s my ride, my pace.
And that’s the beauty of it. I don’t feel pressure to “perform” on the bike anymore. I’m not comparing myself to anyone—not even the past version of me. I’m just enjoying the ride. My e-bike journey makes me look forward to getting out the door.
A Shared Ride: Connecting With My Husband
One of the unexpected joys of getting an e-bike? Riding with my husband again.
He’s an avid cyclist—one of those people who doesn’t flinch at a 60km ride with a few hills thrown in. For years, he’d head off on his rides while I stayed behind, telling myself I’d go “next weekend” when I felt fitter, or when things were less hectic.
But now? I’m the one saying, “Let’s go for a bike ride this weekend.”
And he absolutely loves it.
We got out today for a ride along the Brisbane River—a beautiful, breezy loop with plenty of spots to stop and take it all in. We cruised past cyclists of all ages, watched rowers skimming along the water, and enjoyed the kind of easy conversation that only seems to happen when you’re side-by-side on a bike.
This e-bike journey is something we now share.
Riding in Style: Chilled Winter Tights for the Win
It was a lovely day —blue skies, crisp air, and that kind of gentle sunshine Brisbane does so well in the cooler months. I wore my new Chilled Winter Tights from Birds on Bikes, and they did a marvellous job keeping out the chilly winds.
There’s something empowering about being dressed just right for a ride. I didn’t have to think about layers or whether I’d be warm enough—I could just enjoy the ride. The tights moved with me, stayed in place, and kept me cosy the whole way. Functional, flattering, and warm: everything you want when you’re hopping back in the saddle after a while.
Just another perk of this evolving e-bike journey.
Let’s Ditch the Myth: E-Bikes Aren’t Cheating
I can’t tell you how many people have said, “But isn’t riding an e-bike kind of… cheating?”
Here’s the truth: e-bikes don’t replace effort—they redefine it.
You still move your body. You still pedal. But you get to decide when and how much assistance you want. And guess what? That freedom makes you more likely to ride in the first place. It takes away the intimidation and opens the door to consistency, joy, and (yes) fitness too.
In fact, studies have shown that e-bike riders ride more frequently and over longer distances than regular cyclists. Why? Because it’s more accessible. More enjoyable. Less stressful.
So no, it’s not cheating. It’s adapting. And for many women like me, it’s a game-changer—and a major part of why I love my e-bike journey .
Why an E-Bike Fits the Birds on Bikes Ethos
At Birds on Bikes, we’ve always believed that cycling should be inclusive, joyful, and tailored to you. Our cycling apparel is designed for real bodies, made in Australia, and crafted to support women of all sizes on their bike journeys.
My e-bike journey fits right into that mission. It’s not about being the fastest or the fittest. It’s about showing up for yourself. About feeling empowered to ride your way, in your time, with gear that makes you feel good.
And for me, the e-bike has been the missing piece in that puzzle.
Thinking About Starting Your Own E-Bike Journey?
If you’re considering making the leap to an e-bike, here are a few things I’ve learned:
1. Test ride a few models.
Every bike feels different, and what works for one rider may not suit another. Try before you buy to get a feel for the motor, frame, and riding position.
2. Think about your terrain.
If you live in a hilly area, make sure the motor is powerful enough to handle it. Mid-drive motors tend to perform better on climbs than hub motors.
3. Consider battery range.
How far do you want to ride on a single charge? Most e-bikes have a range of 40–100km depending on assist level, terrain, and rider weight.
4. Invest in comfort.
Don’t skimp on a good saddle, quality padded shorts (like our best-selling knicks and bibs), and accessories like mirrors, lights, and panniers.
5. Don’t wait.
Seriously. If cycling brings you joy, and an e-bike could help you get back to it—don’t wait for the perfect moment. The sooner you start, the sooner your own e-bike journey begins.
From the Saddle: Reflections on Riding Again
It’s easy to forget how good riding makes you feel—until you’re doing it again. There’s a sense of freedom that’s hard to explain until you’re back on two wheels, cruising past trees, smiling for no reason, feeling your body move.
That’s what my e-bike gave back to me: the freedom to ride, without all the reasons not to.
And that’s what I want for every woman who’s ever hesitated at the start line, or put the bike away because it just felt too hard. The road is still there. The ride is still waiting. You just need the right tools to say yes—and maybe a little boost from your own e-bike journey .
Ready to Ride Your Way?
Whether you’re zipping around town or cruising country trails, make sure you’ve got gear that supports you. Birds on Bikes offers size-inclusive, ethically made cycling apparel that’s as comfortable as it is confidence-boosting.
🖤 Proudly made in Australia
🧵 Sizes 6–24
🚴♀️ Designed by women, for women
👉 Shop our Chilled Winter Tights and experience the Birds on Bikes difference for yourself.
About the Author: Barbara Spooner
Barbara Spooner is the founder of Birds on Bikes , a brand dedicated to designing high-quality, Australian-made cycling apparel for women—especially those with curves. With a background in graphic design and ethical fashion , Barbara is passionate about creating inclusive, sustainable activewear that empowers women to ride in comfort and confidence. When she's not designing, she’s advocating for ethical manufacturing and supporting women in business.