By Lindsay Peyton

Most mornings, David “DJ” Johnson can be found riding his electric bike to work. He travels the 13 miles trek in about 45 minutes and says it’s often the best part of his day.

“It’s meditative, just being able to ride and embrace the day,” he said.

And biking home is an ideal way to decompress. “After a long day at work and a long ride home, I still have energy to help with the dishes,’” he said.

That’s because the electric bike gives him a boost when he wants one, making the ride less exhausting. Riders still pedal, Johnson explains, but the motor augments the effort, making Seattle’s hills less daunting.

Commuting on his electric bike has been a game-changer, Johnson said. He’s been hooked on the mode of transportation since he started working at Electric and Folding Bikes Northwest, 4810 17th Ave NW in Ballard, in 2009.

Now, Johnson is preparing to celebrate with live music and an open house at the shop from noon to 6 p.m. on Saturday, July 14. The event is free and open to the public.

Johnson took over the shop in 2012, when the previous owner was ready to retire and looking to sell.

He spent 15 years as an auto-mechanic before starting to work on bikes. He said that seeing the way customers changed after riding around town on electric bikes is what hooked him on the business.

“There’s a real joy in helping people,” he said. “People come back and say, ‘It’s the best decision I’ve ever made.’”

Some customers have not been on a bike in a while, Johnson said. Others are tired of driving and traffic.

“Getting out in the fresh air, you see things and hear things that you otherwise wouldn’t,” Johnson said. “It’s really enjoyable.”

Also, promoting cycling helps get cars off the road and cuts down on pollution, he said.

Electric and Folding Bikes Northwest sells a variety of models of electric bikes. The shop also offers folding bikes, which Johnson said are a popular option for boat and RV owners, those living in small apartments or condos or anyone looking to save space.