“I was a Zygg subscriber during the summer 2022, and then bought a used ebike from the Zygg rental fleet this winter.
I love bike riding and wanted to do more of it, but was often daunted by the hills in Vancouver, and didn't want to feel exhausted when I got to my destination. Translink had removed the requirement to wear masks on transit, so I didn't feel as safe using transit as my primary way to get around. I wanted to find a way to travel with less exposure during this ongoing pandemic.
“I love bike riding and wanted to do more of it, but was often daunted by the hills in Vancouver, and didn’t want to feel exhausted when I got to my destination.”
I had such a good experience with the subscription over the summer that I decided to save up and buy a bike for myself. The Zygg team helped me out finding a great bike from the rental fleet. They answered all my questions and helped me choose the one that was right for me.
I've had it for a couple of months now and it's allowed me to do more frequent trips, and farther. I have even been going out for rides for pleasure and fun, taking advantage of the few sunny days we get in Vancouver during the winter months.
Because of the electrical assist, I can get more errands done with my bike and carry more cargo with me (groceries, donations, recycling, etc.). I'm also more likely to get out in rainy weather than I was before. I'm able to contribute more to my community because I feel I have a reliable way to get around regardless of my energy level day to day, and without adding much exposure risk. And an ebike is a good conversation starter - lots of people have been curious and asked me about it.
A big draw of the Zygg service was the offering to drop off and pick up the bike during the subscription service, and for the bike I purchased. That removed a barrier for me.
One of my favourite features of the bike I have is the throttle that lets you get a quick assist without pedaling. I use this all the time when stopped at a traffic light on a hill - it makes it easier to get moving again after stopping.
I was delighted to find out that my local credit union offers lower-interest loans for green transportation choices, including ebikes. I know the cost of an ebike is a barrier for a lot of people, and I don't think a lot of folks know you can get this type of loan for an ebike the same way you might get a loan to buy a car.”
Sherri (They/Them)
“This is a favourite view from Boundary Road in North Burnaby. Easier to get up the hill for this view with an ebike.”
Photo credit: Sherri M.