Bike aficionado gets an e

LOCAL artist and everything–with–two–wheels lover Bruce Hargrave has recently purchased an electric bike and to him, it's the best decision ever. Mr Hargrave, owner of two spectacular Penny –farthing bikes, which are a popular type of bicycle that was most used in the second half of the 19th century, at the time of the introduction of the French mass produced chain–driven bicycle Boneshaker and the English safety bicycle, didn't let his love for vintage old school bikes prevent him to invest in modernity by purchasing an e–bike. "People had been saying, Bruce, get yourself an e bike," Mr Hargrave said. "So as a bit of a gift to myself I thought, why not– so what to get? "I have always loved , and still do love riding my ancient, well tried and true Avanti Ventura mountain bike and I come from a strong background of enthusiasm for vintage cycling– owning three Penny–farthings and a hobby horse, all of which have seen plenty of adventure and misadventure. "Then I kind of stumbled on the vintage e bike concept, a kind of oxymoronic mix of ancient style with modern technology and I was instantly in harmony with this concept." Mr Hargrave had never seen, let alone ridden a Valkree Scrambler, but somehow, living in Euroa in central Victoria, he was able to link up with Jill Crossland at Electric Bikes Brisbane. "Now I am the excited owner of the Valkree Terremotto Scrambler e bike, and what enormous fun to ride, as well as pure street theatre," he said. "The bike is an aesthetic delight with build and finish to match. "To glide along quiet country lanes in the evening, alone, or with chums is a joy. "The power, gears and lights for night riding, as well as riding position all make for a top cycling experience and no licence or registration to bother with and all completely street legal which makes it all so easy. "Electric Bikes Brisbane were wonderful to deal with, very good communication at all times, so I knew exactly what I would get and when it would arrive."