We tested a range of bicycles that we think would be handy for canal boaters wanting to get out and about around the UK’s towpaths.

Nipping out to fetch a loaf and a pint (of milk…) is a bit of a trek if you’re on, say, the summit of the Leeds & Liverpool canal (or some of the more remote stretches of the BCN, for that matter) and it’s a heck of a lot easier if you have a bike. Plus, of course, cycling is dead handy if you want to get out and about to see the sights, so we reckoned it was time to have a look at some of the latest bicycles.

Tour de France Lycra specials were out, we wanted straightforward machines that would take a hammering on the towpath, be easy to live with and some that offered an extra bit of oomph when needed.

Islabikes £449.99

For – Great ride

Against – Storage

Raleigh Voyager LX £375

For – Good for travelling

Against – Doesn’t fold

Powabyke X3XLS £1,079

For – Full-size electric bike

Against – Storage

Powabyke Swift-e £1,399

For – Zesty and lightweight

Against – Not the easiest to fold

Dawes Diamond £299

For – Easy to live with

Against – Going the distance

Dynamic Sidekick £645

For – Shaft drive

Against – Not the cheapest

Batribike Dash £999

For – Electric range

Against – Folding

Urbanmover UM30 Elite mover £1,449.99

For – Good looking and fun

Against – Not the greatest range

To read the full versions of the bike reviews, pick up a copy of Canal Boat Magazine’s June issue. You can order it online from Buyamag.co.uk

Image(s) provided by:

Archant