HULL, Iowa (STPNS) -- The high cost of filling our vehicles with gasoline has led some people to look for alternative methods of transportation.  A Hull man found a cheaper way to get around but he?s also receiving extra benefits.

Russ Vander Schaaf purchased a bicycle engine, which is mounted on his bicycle and helps him get around in all sorts of weather and windy conditions.  He tries to leave his car in the garage as much as possible.

He discovered bicycle engines on the Internet and ordered one made by a company called Golden Eagle Bike Engines.



?When I was younger I rode my bike a lot,? explained Vander Schaaf.  ?But now I?m 60 and I can?t peddle near as good, so I got one of these to help me get around.?

The 35cc Robin/Subaru 4-stroke engine reaches a top speed of 28 MPH and gets about 130 miles per gallon.  Last week he filled up the .17 gallon gas tank for 17 cents.  It?s a geared belt-drive bicycle assist engine.

Vander Schaaf built a small trailer for the bike and uses it to carry his groceries or other purchases.  He rides in sunshine and rain and he?s even ridden the bike to Sioux Center and Rock Valley.

?Now I peddle for the sheer enjoyment of it because it always feels like you?re peddling downhill, even on windy days,? he said.  ?I get the exercise that my doctor is always telling me I need and this is a lot more fun than walking.?

The bike engine came with a mounting kit, which took about 45 minutes to put on the bike, reported Vander Schaaf.  The engine and kit, including a belt and pulley, added about 14 pounds to the bike.

The engine starts with a simple pull start and runs quietly.

?My wife, Bonnie, wants one now after she?s seen how much I enjoy my bike,? said Vander Schaaf.

He?s gotten a lot of second looks from people who see him riding past.  ?High school kids are especially interested and they want to look at the bike,? he laughed.

?I?m definitely using my car a lot less this spring.  And, even though we like to camp, the camper probably won?t get out as much this summer either.  But, when it costs 80 dollars to fill your car, you have to look for other ways to get around.?