THIS week, Cyclox interviews a retired doctor who owns an electric bike to find out why she loves her e-bike, and why she would recommend it to others: Q: Why did you switch from a pedal to an e-bike?

A: I switched to an e-bike following an illness, which allowed me to continue to cycle to work at the John Radcliffe Hospital. Another important factor was that there were no showers at work so even when I recovered I realised that I could arrive without being too hot and sticky.

Q: What journeys do you do?

A: Most of my journeys in Oxford are on my e-bike. I used it daily when I worked up at the hospital. Now I’m retired I use it for visiting the allotment, local shops, town, seeing friends.

Q: Do you ever use a pedal bike now?

A: I do when my husband complains once too often that he can’t keep up, and asks me to swap to a pedal bike. I also cycle on holiday.

Q: Does your bike allow you to pedal under your own steam?

A: I always pedal, though I don’t have to as there are three throttle settings, two levels of effort and no effort, just relying on the motor. I like to pedal as it means I am getting some exercise.

Q: How many miles can you go without charging your bike?

A: I don’t really know, I think it has a range of 20 miles but I always charge it up at the end of every journey, so the most I do is 10 miles and usually five to six miles.

Q: How does the cost compare with a pedal bike?

A: An e-bike is more expensive than a good quality town bike. Running costs include replacing the battery every three to four years, which is about £300, and getting it serviced every two years. The cost in electricity use is minimal.

Q: What is it about your e-bike that you love?

A: I like going fast and it gets me to places quicker. I particularly like overtaking young men and seeing the surprise on their faces! I also enjoy the smugness of passing a traffic jam. I love being able to go on bike paths and going through quiet back routes in Oxford. And it is so comfortable to ride.

Q: Are there any drawbacks?

A: There are. When the battery runs out it is very difficult to cycle as it is so heavy. This has happened to me about five times. The other thing is that I don’t get as much exercise as on a pedal bike, but I do more journeys which definitely compensates.

Q: Do you think e-bikes will get people out of cars?

A: Yes. An e-bike is a great alternative to commuting by car, as it avoids the jams and is easy to park. E-bikes are also excellent mobility aids for people with disabilities, who don’t want to drive.