390: eBike Range Test Preview

On this episode we turn the page back to last fall when I did a secret mini tour with a big purpose… to test the range of my eBike battery on the C&O trail! Can I stretch one full charge enough to get a full day's ride in with all of the pedal assist I want? Let's find out the hard way! eBike Range Test Preview The ride Cabin to Cumberland, road and trail 1 day, 1 charge* eBike! The idea Can I stretch the battery enough to get me 75.1 miles from cabin to Cumberland? Learning about range Learning about methods to conserve power Can I pedal this bike comfortably without pedal assist? Will I have to? The weather We haven't had rain in the region for a month, so of course we are forecast for rain the night before the ride BUT it should be dry day of, with a cold start and low 60s as a high The gear No camping this trip… doing a hotel in Cumberland and taking the train back No camping? A lot less gear! Bringing two emptyish panniers Charger Clothes for next day May bring my sleeping bag for emergency's sake Extra chain and tools The plan A chilly start after sunrise Ride to Hancock Hour break to get a few more miles of charge Pedal assist level 1 or maybe level 2 on the C&O to keep pace up but conserve battery Assessing battery in Paw Paw (may have an opportunity to top up) Will turn off pedal assist as necessary… or keep it up to improve pace What is success? 2x speed 1/2 effort! Knowing the range in real world conditions Giving the bike its longest test yet Feeling out the comfort situation - do I need to do more? Next week… the ride!