Not content with their eco-friendly courtesy car and equally planet-saving earthworm farm, the Mount Nelson hotel has another climate-change-reversing offering for Cape Town visitors and locals alike – electric bicycle rentals!

I visited the Mount Nelson hotel to test drive one of these ‘A2B Metro’ bicycles and was very impressed. I went straight out the Kloof Street exit for the all-important Cape Town City Bowl hill test. I’m happy to report that I sailed up Kloof Street in a smooth, quick, silent whisper. “This is how Jesus would ride a bike,” I thought to myself.

Now I’m sure you want to know how long they ride on one charge and how fast they go, right?

Some research on the A2B Octave bicycle available for rental reveals the following:

The Octave (formerly known as the Metro) made history as the first model ever to be purpose designed and built as an electric bike – rather than a bike with added electrics or motor. The Octave’s smooth, clean lines and deliberately robust, industrial design make sure you stand out in a crowd. While minimal external components ensure that the model’s frame does the talking.

Taking its cue from popular scooters, the Octave’s handle bar-based throttle grip gives power on demand, with a maximum speed of 25km/h (15.5mph)*. The model’s more upright seating position ensures comfort, while the option of a second, integrated battery (to complement the ebike’s removable battery), extends its range to a possible 70km (40 miles)*.

They cost R350 to rent for a half day, which is pretty good going. Remember, you’re on an electric bike – you can fit in quite a lot more than usual in a half-day! A full day costs R750 and you can also enjoy one of three daily bicycle tours of Cape Town. Find out more about all of that here.

HOW TO BOOK

Book with the Mount Nelson Concierge (+27214831000)

Or book via email: mtnelson@cycology.biz

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