Nothing unusual about a bicyclist riding around San Diego’s busy city streets.  Wel . . . maybe.

This particular rider happens to be Ivan Stewart, off-road’s ironman who conquered the Baja wilds for many years.  Those past days were behind the wheel of a bucking, strong-running Toyota truck.

His trips now are eZee.  That’s the name plate on the swift electric-powered two-wheeler he sells with his son, Gary. Price tags range from $2,000 to $2,700 for six different models.

The eZee motto is silent, green and clean. 

We caught up with Ivan recently doing double duty at the San Diego International Auto Show. Part of the time he was by the Toyota 4Runner display, and other times with the bikes.

He’s not hard to miss.  That’s obviously why Toyota has signed him to his 27th contract as its ambassador at shows and other events.

Jokingly, he said he’s after Jackie Stewart’s record. The Formula One champion has been with Ford for 34 years.

As for the bike, it can be called America’s best secret since only six of America’s 4,500 bike dealers have had access to them. Globally, that’s a different story. 

“In Europe, there is more interest in electric bicycles,” said Ivan  “For me, there’s a lot of excitement and fun  with the wind in your face.  You can get some exercise if you want to . . . slowly.  If you get too tired, just turn on the electricity.  Battery charge needs four to five hours.

“Going  up a hill, I use the electric, and then its back to pedaling.” For someone  who still spends time in a gym, you wouldn’t believe he needs added exercise.

“Technology (with these bikes) has come a long way with much better batteries.   You’re guaranteed 20 miles, at 20 mph if you weigh 178 pounds.  That’s a long way.  

Naturally, if you weigh more, you’re not going to go as far.

“I live downtown and ride all over the city and go almost as fast as the speed limit.”  Ivan’s condo has a beautiful view of the cruise ship terminal and San Diego Bay.

As for off-road competition, he never said he has retired. “I’m just awaiting the next opportunity,” he said.

Meanwhile, he’ll stick to the eZee way of life.

For more info, http://iselectricbikecenter.com/