4) Electric (but don't tell anyone!)

After much research and thinking about the idea of 50+ miles per day for three weeks, and wanting to equalise our speeds, the idea of electric "assist" took hold for Ann's new bike search.
As with most things, when you look into it, there are quite a lot of variables. Battery life can range from 10-50 miles, the way the electric helps can vary and how you ask for it (eg: twist throttle handle bar or pedal activated). In the end, and after a trial at a specialist shop in Lichfield, Ann chose the LifeStyle Alpine Sport. On a full charge, you can ride with assist for a full day (c6 hours), the power can be set to simply complement your pedalling ie: the harder you pedal (say, uphill) the more assistance you get.

We have now had a couple of 25 mile bike rides together, and the great news is, we are pretty equal in what we can cover mileage-wise. Here is a photo of the new bike.