Our Terrain

Our Terrain

West Linn isn't flat California. It's steep grades, mixed surfaces, and real-world conditions that expose whether an e-bike's specs translate to actual performance.

20%
Maximum Grade (Hidden Springs)
411km
Bike Path Network
25+
Historic Sites to Explore
3
Distinct Surface Types

Our Test Routes

Hidden Springs Climb

The ultimate hill test. This 20% grade separates bikes that claim hill performance from bikes that actually deliver it. Every motor, battery, and assist system gets pushed to its limits here.

Grade: 20% max
Distance: 0.8 miles
Surface: Paved
Tests: Motor power, heat management, assist response

Sunset Avenue Loop

A sustained climb with varied grades, perfect for testing real-world range and battery performance. This route shows how bikes handle extended moderate climbs—the kind you'll actually ride daily.

Grade: 8-15% varied
Distance: 3.2 miles
Surface: Paved
Tests: Range accuracy, sustained performance, comfort

Willamette River Path

Flat and scenic, but essential for verifying manufacturer range claims under ideal conditions. If a bike can't hit its advertised range here, it definitely won't on hills.

Grade: Flat
Distance: 12+ miles
Surface: Paved path
Tests: Maximum range, cruising comfort, baseline performance

Mixed Surface Circuit

Gravel, packed dirt, and pavement transitions. Shows how suspension, tire choice, and frame geometry handle real trail conditions—not just smooth bike paths.

Grade: Rolling
Distance: 5.5 miles
Surface: Mixed
Tests: Suspension, traction, versatility