Physical Therapist: Why are ebikes important?

“Maybe you should just get a rascal” was the comment I heard while riding uphill on my ebike. I slowed down to ask him what he meant, and he indicated that I was “not even biking”. I mentioned that I am still pedaling and he said “just nominally. It is not really biking.”


As a Physical Therapist who has been mountain biking for most of my life, I have been helping other mountain bikers get back to riding after an injury has occurred. Most of the time they are able to get back to their prior status of riding, but sometimes we don’t get that lucky.

When the injury prevents the athlete from being able to ride, there is a loss of doing what they love. No matter if it is a concussion or a broken leg, every injury has a consequence. Ebikes may be the best thing available to help an injured athlete get back out on the trail.


Ebikes are also very effective in allowing an athlete to have a “rest” day. Recovery rides on ebikes can help give the athlete one more tool to train.

Before calling out someone on an ebike and potentially shaming them, consider the reasons why someone is needing that bike. Ebikes are such a benefit for the injured athlete or someone that needs a little extra assistance.


Rajesh Khemraj, PT, OCS, COMT, FAAOMT
Board Certified Orthopedic Physical Therapist
MTB Enthusiast


Learn more at www.pdxphysicaltherapy.com