Two Main Easy Entry Ways to the City
Travel faster from Northern Virginia to the Tidal Basin or DC through the scenic route.
That’s right, driving around the gridlock traffic and impossible parking around the Tidal Basin during peak bloom is a recipe for disaster. The best way is to ride your bike. Yes, strange, I know. A website that sells e-bikes and is a fan of biking wants you to ride your bike. What a world we live in.
But seriously, if you’re coming from Arlington, look for the Key Bridge. If you’re coming from Alexandria (Pentagon) then take the Case Bridge and avoid the lines and stupid parking apps that promise you a coupon code, but there is no code. That silly code just removes the already exhausting fees they throw on top, at best, it’s 5 bucks. You’re better off using that time and dumb coupon on a Capital Bike Share.
I have to throw this in, if you’re traveling further out and you’re taking the W&OD Trail straight into DC, you’ll do well with our 52V triangle pack (if that fits your frame) otherwise the jumbo shark 52V will also work well to get you there and back safely! If you’re riding in from Reston or Herndon, you’re looking at a 20+ mile journey one-way. While a standard 36V or 48V battery might get you there, the “voltage sag” can become real when you’re hitting those slight inclines near Falls Church or heading up toward Rosslyn. This is where an extra 52V Samsung 50S packs shines and will definitely help you out. By running a higher voltage, your motor runs cooler and more efficiently, ensuring that when you finally reach the Tidal Basin, you still have plenty of “juice” to navigate the crowds and head back home without pedaling a 60lb bike manually.
If you need more help getting around the DMV area, especially during this gorgeous season, feel free to reach out and we’ll get you on the right path. Also, Google Maps exists too. The National Parks Services has a great reference here for more information and a handy map on their front page if you’re nerdy like we are and want to plot your entire travel route.
And if you’re looking for an extra battery, we’re here as well. Don’t let a dead battery or a weak motor ruin your ride to the blossoms. Check out our Samsung-powered 52V batteries to ensure you have the range for the whole loop. Definitely plan your route and don’t let distance stand in your way of enjoying the view and spectacle.
Sure, navigating through a bunch of people is going to be crowded. But you’re on a bike! At least we hope so and are able to encourage at least 1 person to do so. Not only will you not have to deal with the parking situation like we mentioned earlier, but you’ll avoid traffic, and it’s the best way to see the city and take in the views. Really, there is no better way to feel like a part of a city than traveling on bike.
Oh, and once you arrive, avoid the chaotic center of the Tidal Basin for parking. Instead, look for the bike racks near the Jefferson Memorial or the MLK Jr. Memorial. These areas usually have more space and are slightly removed from the densest foot traffic. We always recommend a high-quality U-lock combined with a cable for your front wheel—especially if you’ve got a flashy new motor kit. Remember: an e-bike is a vehicle, so park it like one!
Take lots of photos, enjoy the weather, and of course, be safe! Happy riding.
