#electric cycle

December 17th 2017

You could soon see Bollywood superstar Salman Khan pedalling on the newly-built cycle track on the Delhi-Meerut Expressway, promoting a healthy lifestyle as the brand ambassador of the government's initiative to popularise e-cycles. PM Modi cabinet's 'go-getter' minister Nitin Gadkari, a passionate advocate for electric vehicles, said the government wants to encourage cycling as a healthy mode of transportation.

An e-cycle, which comes equipped with a small electric motor, can be used to cover greater distances than plain bicycles.

"Salman Khan has discussed the issue with me. He is also looking into the aspects of manufacturing e-cycles. It will create huge awareness among the masses," the road transport and highways minister told PTI.

The 'Being Human Foundation' of Salman Khan, an avid cycler himself, is in talks with e-cycle manufacturers for a tie-up, sources said.

The minister said some two to three years back when he started talking about environment-friendly fuel, people thought he was nuts, but now they are beginning to realise its advantages. "Bringing e-vehicles besides other environment-friendly fuel is my dream," the minister said.

Gadkari said the first leg of the Delhi-Meerut Expressway, which includes India's first 14-lane highway, has a 2.5-metre wide cycle track and is set for launch any day now after being completed in record 14 months as against the scheduled 30 months.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on December 31, 2015 had laid the foundation stone of the Rs 7,566 crore expressway, saying it will bring people "freedom from pollution", the way Meerut showed the way towards freedom in 1857.

The minister said almost all new highways and expressways will have separate cycle tracks and people will be encouraged to use those for last mile connectivity, thereby benefiting them health-wise as well. "I appeal to the countrymen to use bicycles as much as possible. It has huge health benefits and will go a long way in minimising vehicular pollution.

"We have already proposed to make cycle tracks on all major roads across the country, including on highways. I am doing this in my constituency Nagpur also," Gadkari said.

He said cycling is the best form of transport to curb vehicular pollution and the government will not lag behind in creating world-class infrastructure for it, matching advanced countries.

"In five years, I think we will be at par with advanced nations," he said, adding when people in countries like Netherlands could do this, why not those in India.

The image of a smiling Prime Minister Modi sitting on a bicycle, an unusual gift from his Dutch counterpart Mark Rutte, in June this year is still fresh in public memory.

Rutte, 50, who usually pedals to work, had praised Modi for sustainable initiatives like 'Clean India' and 'Make in India'. In Netherlands, known as the the flower shop of the world, cycling is a way of life with 18 million bicycles for just 16 million inhabitants, as per the Dutch government.

★ RIDING On.…. More pix of Salman Khan and his siblings launching Being Human E Cycles (June 5th 2017) !

In today’s fast-changing world, the way we move is undergoing a remarkable transformation. Among the most impactful trends shaping personal transportation are the growing popularity of the bicycle and the electric bicycle. These two modes of travel one powered by human strength and the other supported by electric assistance are reshaping urban commuting, fitness habits, and even recreational lifestyles. What makes them so influential today is not just their simplicity, but their ability to empower riders with freedom, efficiency, and sustainability.

The bicycle has long been a universal symbol of healthy living and practical commuting. Its appeal lies in its straightforward design, minimal maintenance needs, and low operating cost. With no fuel, no complex machinery, and very little upkeep, a bicycle is accessible to practically everyone. But beyond convenience, cycling promotes fitness in a way few other activities can. It strengthens muscles, improves heart health, builds stamina, and supports better mental well-being. Every ride, whether short or long, doubles as a workout that enhances physical vitality. Modern bicycles have evolved far beyond basic frames, offering improved gearing, advanced suspension options, lightweight materials, and ergonomic designs every element crafted to enhance comfort and performance.

Yet, alongside the timeless appeal of the bicycle, a powerful alternative has emerged: the electric bicycle. This innovation blends traditional cycling mechanics with the intelligence of an electric motor and battery system. For many riders, it represents the perfect solution to everyday mobility challenges. An electric bicycle reduces physical strain, makes steep climbs manageable, and allows longer commutes without fatigue. Urban riders especially value the effortless speed and efficiency it offers, enabling them to bypass traffic, cut travel time, and arrive at their destination fresh and energized.

Electric bicycles also encourage more people to ride individuals who may have hesitated due to distance, terrain, or fitness limitations. By allowing riders to control the level of assistance, e-bikes make cycling inclusive for commuters, seniors, beginners, and even those resuming fitness after long breaks. This flexibility explains why e-bikes have grown into one of the most popular mobility upgrades globally.

The environmental benefits of both the bicycle and electric bicycle are undeniable. With increasing concern over pollution, fuel dependency, and traffic congestion, these eco-friendly alternatives offer a cleaner way to travel. Bicycles produce zero emissions and use no non-renewable resources, while electric bicycles generate significantly lower carbon output compared to motor vehicles. As governments and city planners invest more in cycling lanes and green transportation policies, the future of two-wheeled mobility looks brighter than ever.

Beyond commuting, bicycles and electric bicycles have also reshaped the culture of recreation. Weekend rides, long-distance touring, adventure cycling, and fitness challenges are all more accessible with today’s diverse models. Mountain bicycles cater to rough terrains, hybrid bicycles provide urban versatility, and electric bicycles enhance endurance for extended outdoor trips. The range of choices gives riders the freedom to pick exactly what suits their lifestyle.

A noteworthy shift is also happening in the mindset of riders. People are increasingly choosing quality over convenience, sustainability over speed, and long-term value over short-term savings. Both bicycles and electric bicycles align perfectly with these evolving values. They are cost-effective, environmentally responsible, and contribute positively to personal health and productivity.