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26 - The Oakville Beaver, Friday May 18, 2007 www.oakvillebeaver.com Spring HOME & GARDEN New Canadian importer of electric bicycles brings energy-wise models to all riders Young and young-at-heart get a "charge" out of eco-friendly power assisted bikes With gas prices skyrocketing and global calls for environmental responsibility at an all-time high, a Canadian importer is making a big splash with his efficient, safe and stylish power-assisted electric bikes. The import company's CEO says his snazzy e-bikes ­ that give riders an impressive electric-powered boost for just pennies a charge ­ are proving to be a hit with cottage and mobile home owners, as well as recreational riders looking for a fun, alternative mode of eco-friendly transport. Mel Blackburn, CEO of Celebrity Bikes based in Burlington, Ontario says the three models he offers riders are direct from the hub of e-bike mania ...China... and come complete with safety and convenience features that make them instantly road-ready and affordable for cycling enthusiasts of all ages. "Electric bikes are the future for anyone who can ride a traditional bicycle," says Blackburn. "They are economical, an environmentally responsible option to gas-powered vehicles, and offer power-assisted mobility to riders when they need it most such as when negotiating steep inclines or hilly back roads. And with performance rated equivalent to between 800 and 2,000 mpg who wouldn't want to ride one?" Cyclists don't need any special experience to operate or appreciate their Celebrity Bike, Blackburn says. "Our unique battery assisted drive mechanism is 100 per cent controlled by the rider. Pedal when you want - just like a regular bike - and when you feel the need for a rest or help to climb an incline, you let the battery power take you over the top. It's a quiet, clean and fun way to get a charge out of riding again!" The electric bike speeds top out at approximately 2530 km/h and can travel up to 60 km per charge, making them ideal for city and rural settings when running errands, going to and from work, shopping, or just plain exploring. Anyone over the age of 16 can ride an electric bike without a special license, insurance or vehicle registration. Approved bicycle helmets are mandatory. "We believe Canada is poised to quickly catch up to the electric bike market because response to our e-bikes has been very strong," Blackburn says. "We know that thousands of e-bikes have been sold in the United States and projections for the Far East estimate sales at 9 million or so per year. So we are bringing affordable, fun and eco-friendly models to Ontarians who want to get into this positive trend." From its retail outlet on Harvester Road in Burlington, Celebrity Bikes offers three electric bikes at prices ranging between $875 for a basic model up to $1500 for a fully optioned model. Multiple colors are available. Safety tips can help gardeners avoid injury Improper gardening techniques can cause: · Repetitive strain injuries of the wrist and elbow · Sprain/strain injuries to muscles throughout the body, but especially in the lower back · Wear and tear on joints and muscles. The Ontario Chiropractic Association offers a few stretching tips that will help you make your garden the envy of the neighbourhood while helping you to be pain free. Warm-up with a short walk, then gently repeat each of the following stretches five times. Hold all stretches for 15 to 20 seconds. Stop if it is painful. Thigh Stretch: With one hand on the wall or a tree, bend your left knee then reach back and hold your ankle with your right hand. Pull your heel toward your buttocks and hold for 30 seconds. Relax and repeat with the other leg. To stretch the back thigh muscles (hamstrings), with one hand on the wall or a tree put one foot on a chair, stump, or step. Slowly bend forward from the waist until you feel the pull at the back of your thigh. Hold for 30 seconds. Relax and repeat with the other leg. Back Stretch: Sit on a chair and slowly bend your body forward from your hips, putting your head down and resting your hands on the floor. Hold, then relax. Shoulder Rolls: With your arms hanging loosely at your sides, slowly rotate your shoulders in a circular motion forward, then backward. Wrist Extension: Hold one arm straight out as if you were giving a 'stop' signal, use your opposite hand to hold this position. Hold. Repeat with the other hand. 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