EV Adventure Takeaways

After two episodes experimenting with electric-powered adventures on the Oregon coast, it's time to look at what worked, what could use some improvement, and what these experiences might mean for future ebike adventures.

Live Show - Friday 11/20 5pm PT, 8pm ET

Quick housekeeping before we get going - we had so much fun in the last one it's time we did it again… a special Thanksgiving LIVE show Friday November 20 5pm PT, 8pm ET. It'll be the episode that drops on US Thanksgiving day so we'll definitely have some themage on that. Plus special returning guests… chat room… the works. Let's get ready for the holidays together!

The Pedalshift Project 455: EV Adventure Takeaways

1. The EV and e-bike combination opens up new possibilities

Using a plug-in hybrid as a mobile base camp and an e-bike for exploring creates a flexible way to travel.

Drive somewhere interesting, find a place to camp, ride a loop or out-and-back, and move on to the next destination.

It's a model that could work well beyond the Oregon coast.

Discussion points:

• The RAV4 Prime as transportation, sleeping quarters, and potential charging station.
• The e-bike as a way to explore an area without moving the car.
• The flexibility to change locations without committing to a continuous cycling route.
• How this combination could work for longer adventures.

2. Climate-controlled car camping is a game changer

The ability to run air conditioning overnight makes camping in warmer conditions much more appealing.

The RAV4's sleeping platform, battery capacity, and climate control offer a comfortable alternative to tent camping.

Interestingly, the cool weather at Beaver Falls meant none of that electric capacity was necessary this time, but having the option remains valuable.

Discussion points:

• The sleeping platform and quick conversion from driving to camping.
• Preserving battery capacity for overnight climate control.
• The advantages of sleeping with the windows closed in hot or smoky conditions.
• Previous experiences using climate control during cross-country travel.
• Potential for camping in places where summer temperatures would otherwise be prohibitive.

3. Finding overnight parking requires research and flexibility

The iOverlander app helped identify a free overnight spot at Beaver Falls Trailhead.

It worked out well, but the experience also highlighted the importance of checking parking restrictions, considering security, and having backup options.

A little more preparation before arriving after midnight would have made the setup easier.

Discussion points:

• Using iOverlander to identify potential overnight locations.
• Rest areas versus dispersed overnight parking.
• The Beaver Falls experience: quiet, comfortable, free.
• Security considerations, including evidence of previous break-ins.
• Preparing the sleeping setup before arriving at the overnight location.
• The importance of backup options.

4. E-bikes fundamentally change the Oregon coast riding experience

The climbs around Neahkahnie Mountain and the Arch Cape Tunnel became substantially easier with electric assistance.

Maintaining speed uphill and through the tunnel made familiar terrain feel different.

The northbound headwinds were also much less consequential.

Electric assistance could make challenging coastal routes more accessible and enjoyable.

Discussion points:

• Climbing hills at speeds that would be difficult on an acoustic bike.
• The Arch Cape Tunnel experience and the advantages of maintaining speed.
• How electric assistance changes the experience of coastal headwinds.
• The difference between knowing an e-bik