eMTBs’ ‘go anywhere’ ability open up a whole new world of fun
Rather than call this ‘A Complete Guide’, as EBR did in its articles on mid-drives and hub motors, we figured there couldn’t really be a ‘complete’ article to electric mountain bikes. The choice today in terms of different designs of e-mtb and the ever developing technology is wider than ever, so no guide is ever going to cover all the brands and options out there. Instead we take a look at the main areas potential e-mtb buyers might want to think about.
This article aims to demystify the jargon and leave you with a clear picture of all the e-mtb options out there. If you feel like you are missing out on the fun by not exploring the world of e-mtbs you probably are, so read on to get better acquainted with it!
The Basics
Like traditional mountain bikes, e-MTBSs come in three main types based on suspension:
Hardtails
Hardtail e-mtbs from Focus tackling a European classic, the Transalp. Hardtails are good for longer rides over less rough terrain.
Electric bikes are in the 2016 Rio Olympics!
There is something new on the horizon for downhill and Freeride mountain bikes: electric motors! Typically recreational downhillers shuttle their heavy bikes up the hill in a truck and enjoy the gravity ride down. Now with an electric assist they can reasonable pedal these typically inefficient bikes up the hill without having to use 2 vehicles to shuttle them.