Why Choose an Electric Mountain Bike?

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Updated March 7, 2023

Key Takeaways:

  • Electric mountain bikes typically feature powerful motors that excel at handling steep inclines.
  • These mountain bikes also tend to include high-grade suspension systems and fantastic brakes, for steep declines.
  • Some electric mountain bikes may not have been purpose-built to handle paved roads.

There are plenty of different types of electric bikes, including mountain bikes and those intended for off-road use. Consumers may be wondering what the benefits would be of purchasing an electric mountain bike as opposed to an electric road bike. If you are going to be purchasing a new electric bike, you may want to look into electric bike insurance as well to help protect you in case of an accident or theft.

Why Should You Choose a Mountain Electric Bike?

Mountain electric bikes can be a must-have if you plan on traveling to remote locations for bicycle rides. One of their main features is wheels of different sizes. The wheels usually come in pairs, with one larger rear wheel and one smaller front wheel. This setup allows for better balance and improved traction over various terrains. Furthermore, certain models feature a combination of mixed wheel sizes for added balance and stability.

Insider Tip

  • The motors typically included with electric mountain bikes significantly add to your pedaling power, allowing for an enjoyable experience in the outdoors.
  • Most electric mountain bikes include superior suspension systems to standard road eBikes.

If you already own a standard mountain bike and don’t mind some DIY, you can read our guide on how to turn a mountain bike into an electric bike. This type of eBike offers key advantages in a number of scenarios.

Learn the Benefits of Electric Mountain Bikes

There are a number of key benefits of deciding to purchase an electric mountain bike instead of purchasing an electric road bike or even a traditional bicycle. For one, frame sizes for electric mountain bikes tend to be larger than the sizes of other types of bikes. This allows the rider to have more control over the frame when going up and down steep slopes. Additionally, most electric mountain bikes come with an internal battery which makes it easier to recharge without having to disassemble the frame completely.

Increased Motor Performance

If you have ever tried to figure out how to choose a motor for an electric bike, you know that the motor is a very important part of a great experience. Generally speaking, electric mountain bikes feature powerful motors made with high-grade components. This allows these bikes to excel on rough terrain and allows them to easily ascend steep inclines, such as those found while exploring nature paths. The motors typically included with electric mountain bikes significantly add to your pedaling power, allowing for an enjoyable experience in the outdoors. These motors may not be purpose-built for concrete roads, however, so be sure to read the fine print. In fact, the Shimano EP8 motor is designed to be lighter, quieter, and more efficient than its predecessors. It even offers a range of power modes to tailor your ride.

Warning

  • These motors may not be purpose-built for concrete roads, however, so be sure to read the fine print.

Better Suspension Systems

Most electric mountain bikes include superior suspension systems to standard road eBikes. These suspension systems are built to absorb massive amounts of shock, so as to allow for a smooth feeling even while riding over particularly rough terrain. These bikes are designed to excel in off-roading scenarios in which riding over a tree branch or a related obstacle is a norm and not just an occasional occurrence. The natural ride offered by these bikes is further enhanced by the rear suspension, which makes sure that even while riders are being briefed with plenty of power to ensure a thrilling ride, they also remain in total control.

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High-grade Brakes

Electric mountain bikes, by necessity, tend to include high-quality braking systems. These brakes are built to withstand sudden and steep declines, so as to better match the powerful motors that allow for the climbing of steep inclines. The same can be said of the frames and related components. Such brakes are typically four-piston brakes, or hydraulic disc brakes, which offer superior control and modulation when compared to other braking systems.

Reliable Battery Packs

These mountain eBikes usually include reliable and efficient lithium-ion battery packs that are built to allow for a decent maximum range per charge. You can expect anywhere from 30 to 75 miles of use on a single charge and an overall charging time of three to six hours. Though it must be noted, electric road bikes also tend to include high-grade lithium battery packs, as these batteries have become cheaper to manufacture in recent years, as well as becoming lighter in weight. Even though the batteries are getting cheaper it is still a good idea to protect them as much as you can. Moreover, you can get an electric bike battery rain cover for some added protection.

STATS:

  • If you’re not planning on riding for a while, remove the battery from the bike, and store it in the house with around 60 percent charge (the exact amount varies between brands). (Source)

Sources:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electric_bicycle
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mountain_bike
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedelec
https://link.springer.com/article/10.1007/s11332-019-00555-z

*https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-rQmnj8IeBw

Why Should You Choose a Mountain Electric Bike FAQ

Which e-bike is right for you?

This depends on where you plan on primarily using the electric bike. If you will be using it to commute to work, a road bike might be the right fit. If you are planning on nature treks, a mountain bike could work best.

Should I charge my e-bike outdoors?

If you come across a power outlet outdoors that is accessible for public use, by all means, charge your bike. You may want to keep an eye on it as it charges.

Why is my motor noisy?

While tangentially louder than traditional bikes, e-bikes are not too noisy. If your motor is creating a lot of noise, it may need to be maintained.
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