Having not been on a bike for for more than 10 years, the prospect of riding an electric one seemed a little daunting .
Nevertheless, on went my winter garments (even though it's only just turned autumn), and I reluctantly inserted the key to power the NG-18 mountain bike's 200-watt motor.
And that was my first mistake: I hadn't quite got the bike in position when I unintentionally twisted the throttle before I'd engaged my brain.
My reaction, once I'd begun pedalling and twisted the throttle, was a fit of the giggles.
I must admit, I felt like I was too old to be doing this sort of thing.
But I soon forgot about the people staring at me and took great pleasure in overtaking the cyclists who pedalled frantically in a vain attempt to catch up with my 15mph mean machine.
I couldn't help feeling smug.
The NG-18 was also great for passing city centre traffic and my journey took me the same amount of time on the bike as it does when I drive and walk to work.
I had fully charged the battery for eight hours (at a cost of around 8p) and I had just enough power to get me to work and back and still have a bit left over for peace of mind.
Assisted
The last thing I wanted was to conk out at the bottom of a hill because I can imagine it's quite heavy to peddle without the assisted power.
If you do wish to pedal, then the intelligent electronic management system extends the battery's life, increasing the assisted travel distance.
On this little commuter type of electric bike, with its 16-inch wheels, you feel every bump.
It's also better on the flat, with climbing kerbs representing quite a challenge.
But my electric bike was foldable and can be stored under the stairs, or even put in a car.
However, be warned, it is heavy with its steel frame, battery and motor.
So, what is my overall verdict on it?
Well, it costs £545, which isn't so much when you consider that you have to tax, insure and MoT a car.
It is virtually maintenance-free and you get a battery-charger with it.
Would I permanently leave the car at home in favour of an electric bike?
On a bright, sunny day, with a following wind, I think that the answer would be yes.
Beckie Best was loaned her NG-18 electric bike by Hyde-based Motorvation. The company stocks a range of power-assisted pedal cycles to suit all tastes and pockets.
What do you think? Have your say.
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