I am not sure exactly what type of bicycle you are talking about.

My SO has a TREK e-assist bike. It only assists when you pedal it. He is 83 years old and could not possible go riding without the help. We participated in a 25 mile tour fundraiser last week. Even with the e-assist, he had to stop quite a few times to rest. But he was riding.

I guess if I were a nay-sayer to this type of bicycle, he would never go riding (even if he does upset me with his riding habits). MY SO also enjoys riding with a group I go with . . . something that would be impossible without the e-assist. I guess you have to evaluate what the battery powered bicycles are used for and if you can accept that.

I am 20 years younger than my SO so I ride on my own. But maybe one day if it is between riding and no riding. . . .