E-bikes open up new adventures for Laura in Elgin
When Elgin resident Laura Sutherland took part in our Connecting Communities programme - delivered locally by our Development Officer Paula Campbell and the team, with funding from HITRANS and support from Moray Council—she hoped to find a more sustainable, healthy and cost-effective way to get around.
Having recently semi-retired, Laura was keen to cut down her reliance on the car while enjoying more time outdoors exploring the Moray countryside.
The chance to trial an e-bike was, in her words, “a game changer”.
Although I cycled before, I was a fair-weather cyclist and wouldn’t have tried strenuous routes. The e-bike just gave me a boost and took away barriers like hills, long distances or worrying about being out of puff or lagging behind. I now see cycling as part of my daily routine and a genuine alternative to driving
With the e-bike, Laura and her husband found themselves choosing cycling for trips they once thought required a car or even public transport.
Shopping runs became easier with waterproof panniers, and longer journeys suddenly felt within reach.
We certainly reduced the number of times we took the car. In fact, having the bike allowed us to explore new routes and access places that would have taken a couple of buses or a long car journey. We did coastal journeys, visited Pluscarden Abbey and went up the hills at Monaughty. We stopped off at local cafés for coffee and cake. It really changed the way we felt about cycling
The physical and mental benefits were clear. Laura noticed her fitness improve, felt more toned and even experienced better sleep. Time outdoors became a joy in itself rather than something to endure.
Taking part has had so many benefits. Physically I felt fitter, my sleep patterns improved immensely, and the impact on my wellbeing was great. It was fun too – sparking a zest for adventure I thought I’d lost
Paula’s support in suggesting routes and providing practical kit such as panniers, a lock and even a seat cover boosted Laura’s confidence further. Getting to know National Cycle Network Route 1 was another highlight.
Laura’s enthusiasm quickly spread. Friends, neighbours and colleagues wanted to hear about her experiences and learn more about electric bikes.
I never knew I could talk so much about cycling and its benefits – not just for me but for the environment. People were genuinely interested
The trial didn’t just inspire Laura and her husband to consider e-bikes – it gave them the confidence to take the plunge.
After the loan scheme, we had no hesitation in buying our own Cube Tourers – something we’d normally procrastinate over. Now we’re hooked, averaging 25 miles a ride, feeling fitter and loving the freedom to explore new routes with café stops along the way. It’s improved our health and wellbeing, cut down car use and even supports the local economy
For Laura, the scheme wasn’t just about trying something new – it was about changing the way they live.
What a fabulous scheme – thank you. We’re really looking forward to integrating cycling into our routines long term and reaping the rewards of getting out in the fresh air
Laura’s journey is just one example of how e-bikes can break down the barriers that often hold people back from cycling. By making hills manageable, journeys quicker and everyday travel less daunting, electric bikes open the door to healthier, more affordable and more sustainable choices.
Thanks to funding from HITRANS and support from Moray Council, Connecting Communities is helping more people like Laura find practical solutions to transport challenges - and discover the joy of cycling.
