An electric mountain bike is unbeatable for performance for anyone who loves cycling.
The most outstanding thing about them is that they use powered motors, giving that gentle boost when going uphill on rough trails.
With the e-bike’s configuration, you can climb hills with much more ease compared to when you are using a regular mountain bike.
Since they come with different features, it is essential to be careful when buying to ensure that you have picked the one that will give you the best performance.
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What is New in the Market for e-MTB?
Throughout 2020, there was an interest in improving the quality and design of e-bike motors, but there remains a need to reduce their weight further.
You can see this with the performance of the Specialized Turbo Levo FSR. The Brose motor was built using specific materials to reduce its overall weight.
Another critical component is their responsiveness. Some e-bike motors like Bosch and Yamaha have worked hard to improve the sensor’s sensitivity. For instance, the torque sensor is more accurate at providing power so less energy is used.
The scary part is how complex they are becoming, meaning only authorized dealers will troubleshoot their motors.
Some of the benefits
You may have already had a taste for what kind of adventures you can embark on, but do you know what other pluses they offer?
Higher stability
They are undoubtedly heavier than standard ones. This is, of course, because of the battery and motor addition.
Commonly, the motor and battery weight will be located at the center of the frame, at its lower possible point; this means it will have a lower center of gravity, improving stability.
Fast, but not too fast
Whether climbing hills or riding on flat trails, an e-mountain bike will allow you to do faster rides since the motor enhances the speed.
One thing to add is regarding the maximum speed. The speed registered on high-performance models, like the Giant Trance E+ 3 Pro 2020, is 25 km/h. So far, I haven’t found a model that exceeds this limit by pedaling only.
Versatility
Unlike standard models, these are fun to ride and more versatile. With the added power, you can comfortably use them to navigate challenging trails and travel longer distances with less fatigue.
This also comes to the point of the possibility of riding in city settings, but not recommended since the tires will create a lot of resistance and will wear out fast.
Climbing steep hills
Many people think that having a motor is cheating. Well, have you ever noticed how mountain bikes are often transported to the top of a hill? It is regularly on the back of a UTE.
Having a motor will give you the joy of going longer distances and the ability to get uphill by yourself.
What Are Some of Their Drawbacks?
As with anything in life, there are limitations. For now, these two (2) are the points I consider most relevant.
Their price is high
These are built to provide top performance. The elements included, such as high-rated full suspension or double-piston hydraulic brakes, will boost the price up.
If you care about your safety, you should be comfortable investing in a good model. This way, you will have the peace of mind to invest in quality and reliability.
Overall weight
Many manufacturers have been evolving and testing their materials to lower the weight as much as possible.
A decent, standard mountain bike could weigh around 13 to 15 kg. Adding a motor, battery, and other elements to properly run the system adds approximately 10 kilograms.
That might sound like a lot, but you won’t feel it though; only if you have to load it up onto a car rack.
Buying an Electric Mountain Bike
It is always good to buy the model with the most specifications that appeal to you. There is no exception to this when purchasing the best one. You could consider the following:
Frame material
The frame material is vital for durability and weight. The most common materials used are aluminum, carbon fiber and steel.
Nevertheless, aluminum is the one to forge eMTB frames usually.
The frame size should also be considered, depending on your height. Choose a size that will give easy maneuverability and a comfortable ride when your legs are bent and extended.
Read More: eBike Frame Material Overview: Steel, Aluminum or Carbon?
Suspension quality and classification
It is a good idea to get suspension when cycling off-road. It makes the ride more comfortable, just like it is on the tarmac.
The two (2) versions to find are hardtail or full suspension. Hardtail e-bikes, such as the Trek Powerfly 5, have shocks at their rear, while both front and rear shocks are found in full-suspension ones.
Read More: Electric Bike Suspension – Full, Single or None.
Another difference is the actual traction. You would think it depends entirely on the tire carving, but that is not fully the case. A full-suspension e-bike will let you adjust the compression level, enhancing the traction.
Motor specifications
Many people believe that the motor is the most vital part of the e-bike. You will need to choose between a hub motor and a mid-drive motor.
To give you more context, a hub motor is placed on the rear wheel, which is lightweight and straightforward compared to the mid-drive one, however, it won’t have the same torque as offered in a mid-drive version.
More about the torque, when climbing on gravel, it is good to have a motor with a torque sensor, which I haven’t found in hub motors.
Read More: Electric Motor Bike Guide for Beginners
Braking performance
Safety is something you should never overlook when searching for an e-mountain bike. As a result, you need to ensure that the one you have picked comes with a reliable braking system.
The most common brake types are mechanical, hydraulic, and V-brakes.
Hydraulic disc brakes perform better than mechanical ones because they won’t overheat, and the pressure over the rotor is higher and more precise, which is essential in wet conditions.
Magura, Shimano, and Tektro are considered the best brands for producing reliable brake systems.
V-Brakes, on the other hand, is the old-school version that uses rubber pads against the rim edges. This won’t be used in MTB.
Tire size and carving
The bike’s overall concept is more important than the tires, and you’ll need to set the correct pressure for efficiency.
When determining the best pressure for an e-mountain bike tire, you must find the correct balance of stability and grip.
However, the pressure should not be too high or too low.
When the pressure is higher than recommended, the traction will consequently reduce. On the other hand, when the tire pressure is too low, the rim might get damaged easily (when landing). Again, it leads to unstable rides because the natural spring of the tire will also be reduced.
It is not possible to say what should be the correct tire pressure. It all depends on the brand, tread, and lastly, your weight.
Read More: Electric Bike Tire – Buying Guide for Beginners
Other elements
Seat post and saddle
It would be best to consider a bicycle with a dropper seat post for lowering the saddle on the fly. This is a seat post that can be raised and lowered at any time.
Seat posts with a minimum of 120mm of travel are the best.
Battery chemistry and integration
With the current advanced technology, most of them have batteries integrated on top of the down tubes.
Batteries placed inside the down-tube lower the center of gravity, making the bike look sleeker and more stable.
Their chemistry is also essential. Li-Ion is the most commonly used for high-quality power motors. Besides, these are less heavy than any other batteries in the market.
The gear system
The gear systems are also an important thing to take into consideration. Whether electrical or not, all bikes have one chainring up the front and will adjust between 8 to 12 gears depending on the drive.
In e-MTB, the front sprocket will be smaller than the standard ones; this is because they are not built for high speed; what you need is good torque.
Electric mountain bike maintenance
Like any other equipment, they need proper care. However, since these are ridden farther and faster than regular bikes, they need extra care.
Ensure that you clean it regularly (if possible after every ride) and lubricate all the mechanical elements. It is also advisable not to leave the bike out in the rain or direct sunlight all the time.
The more you ride on it, the more maintenance it requires.
If you need reliable maintenance, we suggest contacting your local bike shop rather than doing it yourself (unless you know what you are doing).
Test-drive is a must
Ensure that you test-drive the one that you are excited about. This will help you make an informed decision fast.
In addition to this, you may be able to find a good deal and learn more cool stuff from your nearest bike shop technicians.
Does brand reputation matter?
If you want to get the best value for your money, you should buy from a well-known brand.
Some of the best brands in this category include Ecotric, Naktto, Ancheer, Canyon, KTM, Moustache, Thok Mig, Merax, Aceshin, Rattan, Scotts, Trek, Giant, and Specialized. There are more, but these are a few.
Warranty, customer service and serviceability
This is an expectation from all buyers to avoid purchasing faulty equipment. Some companies also have after-sales services, like dropping it at your destination. Others have a duration in which you can take it back for service.
Portability and weight
Purchase a bike that you can easily move from one place to another without straining. Consider whether you are comfortable handling the overall weight.
Also, consider how to load it onto the bike’s rack. Most batteries can be removed to reduce the overall weight, but it will be only a 3 to 4 kg reduction.
Terrain
They are made for different terrains. Some do well in hilly terrains, while others are unsuitable for tough ones. Think ahead about how hard you want to go with it!
Final Thoughts
If you have never tried one, you’re missing out! They provide a lot of fun since they are more powerful than ever before.
What you will love about it is that you can use them for long distances and on different terrains. However, it would be good to be careful when investing for the best because not all are effective or can provide a high performance.
If you want an electric mountain bike that will give you the best value for your money, don’t ignore any of our highlighted points.
