Why I Chose an E-Bike for My Commute and My Super73 Adventure So Far
Deciding on an E-Bike: A New Beginning After a Tough Loss
Living and working in the industrial suburbs of Los Angeles, traffic has always been a constant in my daily commute. My office is just a quick two miles away, but anyone who's driven here knows that even a short drive can be extended by clogged intersections. Recently, after my car was stolen—a hit to both my wallet and my confidence in car ownership—I decided to take a new approach. I’ve always loved vehicles and modifying them, and the idea of an e-bike intrigued me. With gas prices continually climbing and the low-maintenance appeal of e-bikes, I figured this was my chance to try something different. E-bikes offer a fun combination of power and agility with slower speeds than motorcycles, which felt safer to me for my commute.
First Impressions and the Super73 Build Process
I went with a Super73 model that required a bit of assembly when it arrived, which made it feel like my own right from the start. Thankfully, Super73 provides great installation videos that make the setup straightforward. My advice to any new Super73 owner: really torque down those handlebars. When I first tightened mine, I thought they were secure, but when I went to brake, they shifted under pressure. After that experience, I contacted Super73 suggesting they include a specific torque spec in the instructions for safety. I weigh about 135 pounds, so torque levels might vary, but definitely test it out at low speeds to ensure everything feels solid.
Lessons Learned After 725 Miles
Over the last few months, I’ve learned a lot about riding and maintaining this bike. Here are a few key takeaways:
1. Avoid Wet Weather: E-bikes, including the Super73, are not waterproof. I’ve ridden in misty conditions and noticed the LED screen dimming and glitching slightly. If you do get caught in rain or fog, it’s best to turn off the bike and let it dry to protect the electrical components.
2. Use a Chain Guard: Chain oil can mess up your pants, so a chain guard is a smart addition. I actually found a 3D-printed guard specifically designed for the Super73 Adventure series, and it’s been a game-changer. Purchase Chain Guard here
3. Visibility is Key: As a former motorcycle rider, I know that staying visible is crucial for safety. Riding with my lights on has become a habit, and I even added a yellow tint to my headlights. This makes the bike stand out among the sea of car headlights, similar to how GT3 cars use yellow lights for better visibility in low-light conditions.
4. Plan for Battery Life: When you’re close to running out of battery (around 10 miles of range left), the bike’s power reduces significantly to preserve battery health. This can turn an easy ride into a real workout. I learned to keep an eye on the charge and plan accordingly to avoid unexpectedly pushing a heavy bike.
5. Spare Tire Tubes are Essential: Given LA’s rough roads, I’ve hit plenty of debris in the bike lane. I’ve gone through three rear tires already due to punctures. I keep a couple of extra tubes on hand now, as they can be hard to find locally.
6. Battery Maintenance: To preserve battery health, I try not to let it run too low and charge it once a week, as I ride about 20 miles weekly. If I’m not planning to use it for an extended period, I charge it fully and store it that way.
Future Upgrades for Comfort and Safety
With the winter months coming, I’m planning a few upgrades to make my ride more comfortable and safe:
Gloves: As a rider, gloves are essential. In case of a fall, hands are often the first point of contact with the ground, so I’m looking at motorcycle-style gloves designed to protect hands on impact.
Helmet: Right now, I use a standard bike helmet, but a full motorcycle helmet might be a worthwhile upgrade, especially for windy days when debris can fly into my eyes.
Visibility Jacket: A high-visibility jacket not only makes me more noticeable in LA traffic but also keeps me warm in the colder weather.
Seat Upgrade: While the current seat is functional, I wouldn’t mind a bit more cushion for longer rides. This is a potential future upgrade for added comfort.
Would I Recommend the Super73 Adventure?
Owning this e-bike has been a rewarding experience so far. One of the standout features that drew me to the Super73 was the full suspension in the front forks and rear. This feature not only makes for a smooth ride but also gives me a chance to experiment with suspension tuning down the line if I choose. For now, though, I’ve kept it at the factory settings since it feels predictable and comfortable for my weight.
Overall, the low maintenance costs are a huge plus, and I’ve saved a lot of time and money compared to commuting by car. It’s also been a surprisingly meditative experience; I get a bit of exercise, which is low-impact on my knees, and I enjoy feeling more connected to my surroundings. E-bikes feel like a great middle ground between walking and driving, giving me the best of both worlds.
I believe e-bikes are at the start of a renaissance, especially in busy cities where bike lanes are an untapped resource for a smoother commute. I’m excited to see how my Super73 holds up through the winter and how e-bikes continue to gain traction as a commuting option. Overall, I’d absolutely recommend this e-bike to anyone considering a more sustainable, enjoyable way to get around the city.