This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2015, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

Have you ever wanted to cycle to work, but didn't want to arrive sweaty and out of breath? Or perhaps you've wanted to enjoy a long bike ride, but didn't have the stamina to make it as far as you thought. Today, electric bikes are making it possible for anyone to enjoy the cycling experience.

An electric bike, also known as an ebike, is a bicycle that has been enhanced with battery power to assist the cyclist. It is an ideal solution for individuals who have difficulty cycling due to age, a medical condition or any other factor. Ebikes make riding up a hill or cycling for long distances easier than ever before, while still providing the enjoyment of riding a traditional bike.

David Rasmussen, owner of eSpokes, Utah's largest full-service ebike store, says that ebikes have transformed the bike riding experience for many. "Ebikes expand the potential use of traditional bikes," he says. "They bring cycling to an entire population—nearly anyone can use one."

Rasmussen was first introduced to ebikes during a cycling convention. He quickly recognized that ebikes could be a game-changer for many individuals who struggled with traditional bikes or for those who wanted an enhanced cycling experience. In 2012, Rasmussen opened eSpokes in St. George. The store quickly became a homegrown favorite for both beginner and expert cyclists. Beyond offering a wide variety of ebikes, eSpokes provides traditional bikes, accessories and service. In 2014, Rasmussen opened the second eSpokes store in South Jordan at Daybreak.

"Ebikes are becoming more and more popular because people see that they don't take away from the experience, they just add to it," says Rasmussen. "The ebike is perfect for lots of people, from cancer survivors who don't have the stamina to ride, or someone who has had knee surgery or another medical issue, to someone who simply wants a little help enjoying a bike again. It bridges the gap for those who want to ride, but who can't for one reason or another."

Ebikes are also beneficial to the commuter and experienced cyclist. "Ebikes allow someone to commute to work, and then they don't have to change or shower. And, because they have a little help from the motor, they can carry more things with them."

Rasmussen notes that there is a huge variety of ebikes available, ranging from full suspension mountain bikes to hybrid road bikes to beach cruisers. "We can get you just about anything that you're looking for," he says, adding that ebikes are not considered to be motorized vehicles—like a moped or motorcycle—and, therefore, do not require registration. It is important to note, he adds, that a driver's license is required and the rider must adhere to existing bicycle laws.

While there are obvious benefits to riding an ebike, Rasmussen says one of the most common questions raised is, isn't the ebike a way to "cheat" the traditional cycling experience? Rasmussen explains: "So many people think that they're cheating—that they're not actually exercising or able to enjoy the experience. We've found that people who buy an ebike actually get more exercise. How is that? It's because they enjoy riding so much that they're out five days a week instead of just two times a week.

"Ebikes make riding a bike fun again—regardless of age or physical condition, he adds. "There are ebikes that can help get you wherever you want to go. It's a blast."