Electric bikes...this one looked interesting...

 

Looks like a beauty Brain. Are ya thinking about getting one?
And giant is a very well knowen name in the bike world !
I work with a few fellows how bought some think like that to commute on when the gas was almost five dollars a gallon .

Good health and best wishes 
Nick 

I copied and pasted, but most of the info didn't come up.  The bike has a range of 75 miles (when used the most effective way).  I think they are useing many of these in third world countries.  Like it was said, with $4.50 gas, it makes alot more sense than say $1.50.  I like the idea of pedal, then coast on the battery, then pedal somemore.  If the battery dies...just use your legs...
It seems like mopeds (over the years)  never really got the bike part worked out very well.  This may have the pedal and electric work more hand in hand.  Don't know...Just looked interesting.  Brian

I think Ed Bagley of Living With Ed on the Science Channel has an electric bike for getting around town.  I don't know their web address.  You may want to look there or try DIY.com or FLN..com--Fine Living Network-- for some more possibilities.  I'm usually alert at this time of the night/morning, but I'm a little fuzzy right now.

At first I was wondering why an electric bike but your answer seems logical.  For other than commuting, you may want it to expand the areas where you bike.  I would suggest riding out as far as you want and then taking the electric power back.  Or, you can use it out in ski country to help you do some mild hill workouts.  However, I do know from talking with my bro that the biggest help in pedaling on hills is the proper gearing on your bike.