E-Bikes and the Wild: Navigating the Balance Between Access and Preservation
As outdoor enthusiasts, we cherish the beauty and tranquility of our natural spaces. Bragg Creek Wild advocates for the harmonious coexistence of wildlife and humans – and as such, visitors must ensure that all wilderness activities in these areas are respectful and sustainable. The rising use of e-bikes has opened up new opportunities for exploration – and new challenges that we must address thoughtfully.
E-bikes have seen a remarkable increase in popularity over the past decade. From 2014 to 2024, global e-bike sales have surged, reflecting a growing trend in both urban commuting and recreational use. In Calgary, this trend is particularly noticeable as more people are using e-bikes to explore nearby wilderness areas, including the beautiful trails in the Kananaskis and West Bragg Creek.
While e-bikes offer accessibility to those who may lack the fitness level to tackle challenging terrains on a traditional bike, they also enable all users deeper penetration into wilderness areas. Trails that were once the domain of only the most fit and experienced individuals are now accessible to a broad range of users. This increased accessibility is a double- edged sword. The Kananaskis region, for example, has long been a sanctuary for wildlife. However, as human activity encroaches deeper into this area, wildlife is becoming increasingly displaced. The rise in e-bike use is exacerbating this issue, as more people are venturing into previously undisturbed habitats.
E-bikes, while convenient, are not without their risks. A significant concern is the potential for mechanical failure. Like any complex machinery, e-bikes can break down. According to recent statistics, e-bikes experience a breakdown rate of about 20-30% annually, with issues ranging from battery failures to motor malfunctions. If you’re deep in the wilderness and your e-bike stops working, you could find yourself in a precarious situation. It is never advisable to venture further into the wilderness than you can safely exit under your own power. If your e-bike breaks down and you’re far from help, you must rely on your own physical fitness to get back. This is a critical consideration before setting out on any trip. Just because we have the technology to go further doesn’t mean we always should!
Whenever we enter the wilderness, we must be mindful of the ever-present risk of human-wildlife conflict – and disruption to the resident wildlife.
The Bragg Creek Wild message is simple: Enjoy your wilderness visits, but be a responsible visitor. Consider the distance you’re travelling, the terrain you’re in, and the potential for mechanical issues. And importantly, think about the impact to wildlife that call these areas home.
We hope this article helps you to make informed decisions about using e-bikes in the wilderness. Let’s all ensure that our love for the outdoors does not come at the expense of our wild neighbors – or our own safety.
Bragg Creek Wild
www.braggcreekwild.ca
braggcreekwild@gmail.com – 403 200 9961
People and wildlife living in community
