Four e-bikes you should know about

CHICAGO - In the same way that fitness watches are getting smarter by the second, bikes are getting a high-tech boost too. E-bikes are bicycles that feature a discreet, pedal-assist technology, which adds power only when you turn the pedals over and when you need it most.

And although it may seem confusing to mess with the simplicity of a bicycle, e-bikes are actually the perfect fit for a variety of circumstances, including living in a hilly area, looking for a greener transportation alternative, wanting to ride with more experienced friends, commuting without getting sweaty or just to make riding a bike a lot less intimidating and hell of a lot more fun.

"People want to experience the freedom of riding a bike," says James LaLonde, senior brand manager for Cannondale. "There's that nostalgic feeling that kicks in whenever you're on one, that feeling you got when you started riding as a kid. Plus, the e-bike offers more confidence. You can go further, and it's easier to go over hills than on a pedal bike." It's true. We've watched everyone from newbie riders to old pros get on these things and actually whoop with excitement - no exaggeration.