Electric bike share programs are popping up in urban areas across the United States. Omaha’s bike share system, Heartland B-cycle, includes 70 stations across the metro area and more than 150 pedal assist bikes. It’s easy to see why e-bikes are so popular: They are accessible, easy to ride and good for people’s health.
With an e-bike, those who are unable to ride long distances or tackle big hills on a standard bike still can benefit from cycling. The battery-powered motor of an e-bike provides the rider with a boost, similar to an invisible hand pushing them forward. Especially in the hilly areas of Omaha, e-bikes can be a game-changer for people who did not see biking as a realistic activity or method of commuting. Because they are so simple to use, bike share programs can encourage new demographics to start cycling, which will help reduce the reliance on cars and other motorized forms of transportation that are less environmentally friendly.
E-bikes are designed to make cycling less taxing on people’s hearts and bodies. A recent study found that with an e-bike, an average person can complete a three-mile commute faster and with less sweat than with a standard bike — while still elevating their breathing and heart rate enough to achieve a meaningful workout. Growing scientific research suggests that riding an e-bike represents physical activity of at least moderate intensity, which is critical for long-term cardiovascular health.
Riding an e-bike helps maintain a healthy lifestyle, strengthen hearts and bodies and reduce the environmental impact. With six stations available across campus, UNMC faculty, staff and students have many opportunities to utilize Heartland B-cycle e-bikes for their commute or even just for fun.
With his B-cycle membership, UNMC staff member Peter Pellerito regularly picks up a bike on campus and rides the Field Club Trail, to Aksarben Village or across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge to the trails in Iowa. Pellerito is one of thousands of Omahans riding e-bikes, and the opportunity is open to the med center community.
A limited number of Heartland B-cycle annual memberships are available through the UNMC TravelSmart program — register today for an access code.