Mountain biking has become so popular that the number of trails has grown in the last few years. From riding off-road paths to downhill dirt jumping, there are many ways this activity can satiate your need for speed, uplift your mood, and make you feel good.
Sounds like a slice of heaven? It is.
But you don’t have to restrict yourself to the traditional mountain bike!
Read on to discover how an electric mountain bike can enrich your cycling experience. By the end of this article, you’ll be dashing off to our electric bike UK store to buy one.
Can You Use an eBike for Mountain Biking?
Yes, you can use an e-bike for mountain biking. An electric bike has a range of pedal-assist modes that make it suitable for even the trickiest of terrains. It’s packed with a high-performance motor that powers your bike and propels it forward with minimal effort.
Studies also show it can help you travel longer distances than cyclists.
Hence, e-bikes are an exciting way to explore exhilarating routes that are less traveled. Despite its heavier weight, you can expand your horizons and bring more essentials with you.
Advances in tech have given us the luxury of investing in bikes with electric motors for more convenient travel experiences.
With a market valued at USD 283.22 million in 2023, there are plenty of options to choose from. Our fast electric bikes, for instance, keep the extra weight from special components low. This paves the way for an excellent riding experience regardless of your fitness level.
E-Mountain Bike vs Regular Mountain Bike: Which Is the Better Option?
How do electric mountain bikes compare to regular mountain bikes? Here are a few important points to consider:
Cost
Traditional mountain bikes are affordable. Models with good features can cost as little as £500. Buyers looking for the most value can get more high-end features for £999. If you want more sophisticated components, the price can reach £2,000 and higher.
E-mountain bikes (eMTBs) cost more because they have additional parts like suspension systems, electric motors, and batteries.
Bear in mind that you’ll have to replace the battery every 3 to 5 years to extend your vehicle’s lifespan.
Environmental Impact
Mountain bikes are environmentally friendly, but the way you ride can still lead to negative environmental impacts. Riding the same trails increases soil erosion, alters hydrologic functions, and disturbs wildlife, possibly even endangering their health.
Nevertheless, they’re still better for planet Earth than gas-powered vehicles. Instead of using transportation that emits an average of 249 grams of carbon dioxide per kilometer, eMTBs produce zero emissions, making them a more sustainable option.
Maintenance
An eMTB requires more maintenance than conventional bikes because it has additional components like drivetrains and motors. It can also wear out more quickly if it’s frequently ridden on rugged trails. For example, your tires could be more prone to puncturing if they have to traverse unpaved roads with sharp stones and rocky terrains.
You can keep your ride in tip-top condition by performing basic maintenance like:
Washing your bike thoroughly after each major trip
Periodically repairing and replacing the wheels and tires
Cleaning the chain with a degreaser and applying lubricant so it rotates smoothly and maintains proper shifting
Charging and storing the battery according to the manufacturer’s recommendations
There are also a few common issues you can fix on your own; however, it’s best to bring your vehicle in for professional maintenance once you reach 600 to 900 miles. If you like riding rugged terrains, err on the side of caution and take your bike to the shop for monthly check-ups.
Performance
This is where the most notable difference lies. Mountain bikes solely rely on human effort to operate. With sustained exertion and knobby tires, your body is bound to take a beating during long rides, resulting in muscle fatigue.
In contrast, e-MTBs are fitted with top-tier motors and batteries that deliver enhanced torque. The extra power makes riding uphill a breeze and technical trails easier to tackle across people with different fitness levels. When you reach the top of the hill, you’ll have enough energy to focus on the stunning views instead of catching your breath.
Riding Range and Battery
Regular mountain bikes are made to handle a variety of riding activities.
However, because they’re activated by human effort, they can be limiting. Most riders can only cover 15 to 20 miles a day.
An e-MTB, on the other hand, can give you an easier riding experience and a range of over 75 miles. If you’re smart with the pedal assist boost modes, you’ll be able to scale longer distances with less effort.
Just make sure to recharge the battery before you head out. Otherwise, your heavy-duty mountain e bike will transform into a heavy manual bike once the juice dries up.
Speed
The fastest speed reached on a mountain bike is 104 miles per hour, but regular people will be lucky to cross 10 miles an hour.
In this aspect, an electric mountain bike is better than conventional bikes as it supplements human power with top-grade electric power.
Research has shown that the average speed you can reach on an e-MTB is faster by 4.1 miles per hour than ordinary bikes. If you're looking for an adrenaline rush, our electric bike can help you reach speeds of up to 15.5 miles an hour in locked mode. This is made possible by our efficient 250-watt Brushless BAFANG Motor.
Weight
MTBs are heavier than road bikes and can weigh around 30 pounds (sometimes more). e-MTBs are a touch heavier, coming in at a staggering 44 to 55 pounds due to the addition of a motor and battery.
If you don’t want your downhill maneuverability to be affected, invest in an electric hybrid bike. It’s lightweight enough to smoothly slice through the air.
Why an eMTB Reigns Supreme
Mountain biking is tough work, but it’s still an excellent way to explore the world and spend time outdoors. Traversing trails doesn’t just help you blow off steam. It also brings great physical and mental health benefits.
For beginners, however, it can take a while to develop sufficient stamina and muscle. In addition, less proficient riders may need practice maneuvering tight curves and challenging terrains like muddy, rocky trails.
This is where high-tech e-mountain bikes make a huge difference.
An e-MTB is more beginner-friendly. It also allows experienced cyclists to get more out of their rides. Regardless of your fitness level, e-bikes allow you to tackle difficult terrains with less effort, cover more ground, and achieve higher speeds.
Take Home Message
E-bikes have been around since the late 19th century; however, recent advancements have made them more convenient and practical to use. Today’s models offer more durable and efficient batteries, powerful motors, comfortable rides, and greater versatility.
If you’re new to cycling, an e-bike can make up for your limited stamina and make navigation easier. If you’re an experienced cyclist, an eMTB can enhance your riding experience and renew your appreciation for biking.
E-bikes may require more care and maintenance but all the benefits they offer make the extra effort worth it.
Find out what you’ve been missing by booking a free ride with Gin e-bikes. You can also visit our blog section for more helpful articles like this.