Demands of Simulated Commuting Using an Electrically Assisted Bicycle

The American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) recommends adults participate in weekly aerobic activity for a minimum of 30 minutes moderate intensity exercise 5 days per week or 20 minutes of vigorous activity 3 days per week. The electrically assisted bicycle may help individuals achieve the ACSM's aerobic recommendations and introduce inactive individuals to physical activity. To compare the physiological requirements of riding a bicycle with electric pedal assist versus non-assist among healthy active young adults. 6 males and 6 females completed two randomized cycling trials using electric pedal assist (PAB) and non-assist (NON). Cycling trials were completed over a 3.54 km course with varying terrain. Time to completion was faster in the PAB (12.5 ± 0.3 min) than the NON (13.8 ± 0.3 min, p=0.01). Rating of Perceived Exertion (RPE) was lower in the PAB (12.0 ± 0.4) than the NON (14.8 ± 0.5, p < 0.001). There was no difference in mean VO₂ between PAB (2.3 ± 0.1 L·min^-1) and NON (2.5 ± 0.1 L·min^-1, p=0.45). There was no difference in mean power output when comparing PAB (115 ± 11 Watts) to NON (128 ± 11 Watts, p=0.38). There was no difference in heart rate between PAB (147 ± 5 bpm) and NON (149 ± 5 bpm, p=0.77). Recreationally active younger (college age) individuals may self-select a similar physiological intensity of physical activity regardless of mechanical assistance, resulting in quicker completion of a commuting task with PAB. Both the PAB and NON exercise bouts met ACSM criteria for vigorous exercise.