Electric bike race billed as first

What is hailed as probably the first electric bike race in New Zealand is included in the Counties Cycle Classic on November 19.

The Counties Power Electric Bike Race is over 32km.

Funds raised go charities such as the Auckland Cancer Society Research Centre.

The Rotary Club of Pukekohe is running the event which starts and finishes at the Pukekohe Intermediate School.

The e-bike race starts at 10am, just after the 42km road bike race begins.

There’s also a 32km fun ride for conventional bikes and an 88km ride for experienced cyclists.

Prizegiving is at 2pm.

The classic precedes the 41st Lake Taupo Cycle Challenge on November 25, where e-bikes are also welcome.

E-riders can choose from the Lakesider, Bookaback Quarter Lake, Half the Lake, Bike Barn Round The Lake or the Huka Teaser rides. They will be timed separately from non-assisted bikes.

The Taupo event is run by the Rotary Club of Lake Taupo.

Visit countiescycleclassic.co.nz orcyclechallenge.com for more information.