A fascinating question, one that warrants a nuanced exploration. Firstly, let's address the notion of physical challenges and health benefits. It's undeniable that traditional cycling offers a robust aerobic workout, but does that make ebikes any less legitimate? Consider this: for someone who has been sedentary for years, the physical challenge of pedaling a traditional bike up a steep hill might be insurmountable, potentially leading to injury or frustration. An ebike, however, could provide the necessary assistance to make that hill manageable, thereby enabling that individual to experience the joy of cycling and reap the health benefits associated with it.
As for the essence of cycling, I posit that it's not about pushing oneself to the brink of exhaustion, but rather about the freedom of movement, the wind in your face, and the sense of accomplishment that comes from propelling yourself forward. Ebikes offer this same experience, albeit with a little assisted boost.
Lastly, the question of what constitutes a 'real' cyclist is a subjective one. Personally, I'd argue that any individual who embraces the cycling culture, respects the rules of the road, and enjoys the art of cycling, regardless of the bike they choose to ride, is indeed a real cyclist.
Intriguing, isn't it, how a single technology can spark such a thoughtful debate?