Before spending a lot of money on electric mountain bikes, which are becoming almost as popular as traditional mountain bikes, consider a few points. After learning the basics, check out our best electric mountain bike guide for our favorite picks.
- The motor
Electric mountain bikes differ from typical mountain bikes due to their engine and battery. Most electric mountain bikes (e-mtbs) put their motors in the middle of the frame at the bottom bracket for control and comfort. Shimano, Bosch, Fazua, Yamaha, and Specialized make bicycle motors. There isn’t enough space to explain how their power output (in watts), torque (in Newton-meters), and weight (in pounds) differ, but it’s in your best advantage to learn as much as possible before buying. Watts measures the motor’s boost, while torque measures acceleration/pulling power when cycling away from a stop or up a steep slope. Remember that you need a license to ride a bike with a motor rated at more than 250W or an assisted speed with the engine exceeding 15 mph/24kph. Any e-bike you buy from a reputable bike shop will almost certainly be restricted to 15 mph, but they can be re-tuned to exceed this, but doing so may void the motor warranty.
The engine drags, and regulated motors cease at 15 mph, so you’ll have to use your legs after that (although this may vary by type). Of course, riding an e-mtb makes it easier to climb hills and cross rough terrain, and few people ride flat, cruising territory.
- Battery
The sleekest electric mountain bikes have integrated batteries. These are easier to attach and detach from the bike, but they can be charged with either the external or internal battery. A bike with a smaller motor and a bigger battery will have more range, and the bigger the storm, the longer the ride on one charge, independent of engine size. Batteries usually are available in 400 Wh, 500 Wh, or 625 Wh. Terrain and riding mode affect battery life the most. Riders select methods using a handlebar display. Bosch’s Eco, Tour, E-MTB, and Turbo modes use the most battery from least to most hands-off. Turbo mode’s steep ascents drain the battery faster than Eco mode’s flat bridleway trip. You’ll see your speed, distance, and, most crucially, battery life. You must monitor these to avoid running out of juice before the ride is over. Experience helps you optimize battery life by adapting your riding style to different modes and terrain.
- The weight
The electric mountain bike’s weight is immediately noticeable. The Cube Stereo Hybrid 120 e-Mtb weighs 24 kilos, although the “standard” configuration weighs 14.5 kilograms. Due to the motor’s assistance and the fact that e-Mtb frames are designed to behave like regular mtbs, you may be surprised at how little the extra weight bothers you. Only lifting the bike over a stile, onto a bike rack, or into and out of a car or van causes this.
- Extra features
An e-mountain bike without rear suspension will be lighter, but e-mtbs are already heavy, and the motor more than makes up for it. If you ride technical downhill, a dropper post is worth the weight, and the motor can handle it. Consider tubeless tires. You don’t need to remove the wheel to fix a flat. The motor also overcomes larger tire rolling resistance.
- COST
A new full-Susser with quality components that are reliable and strong enough for severe off-road riding costs at least $4000. E-mountain bikes for easy bridleways, forest fire roads, and trail center courses cost much less. Notably, Before buying a secondhand mountain bike on eBay, have a professional check the frame, motor, battery, and components.
In conclusion, the above are the significant considerations when buying an electric mountain bike.
