Electric mountain bikes have gained massive popularity over the last few years, especially when covid hit and people yearned for some healthy activity. It is a daunting task when considering your first electric MTB, as there are many factors you need to consider. While many experts might recommend a full suspenion electric mountain bike, why shouldn’t you go for a hardtail electric mountain bike?
These are the aspects we will discuss in this article what factors you should look out for. So, if you are ready, let’s begin.
What is an Electric MTB?
In the simplest of terms, an electric MTB is a mountain bike that is supported or assisted by the use of a motor electrically. Most of these bikes, like regular bicycles, have a front suspension system. The more advanced form of an ebike is a full suspension electric mountain bike with rear suspension installed.
Older models of electric MTBs usually came with bulky and heavy motors, but now, based on your choice or preference, they can be lighter. Nowadays, every major bicycle manufacturer has an ebike for mountain biking.
What are the Different Classes of Electric Mountain Bikes?
These three classes of mountain bikes:
Class 1 – The motor supports only when you are pedaling and cuts off as soon as you reach 20mph
Class 2 – While it is the same as class 1 bikes, there is an added feature of a purely throttle-powered mode
Class 3 – The same as Class 1, but the cutting is at 28 mph
Class 1 bikes are the most universally accepted and also the most affordable than their counterparts. They can ride in most bike lanes and even on mountain tracks. The same is the case for Class 2 electric MTB.
Finally, the Class 3 MTBs are popular with delivery guys as they run faster though costing more.
Furthermore, there are hardtail categories of EMTBs as they have light weigh and are efficient for an uphill drive. In addition, there are also full suspension electric mountain bikes, sometimes called the softail electric mountain bikes, which are pretty popular because of their performance and fantastic suspension.
How Many Gear Should eMTB have?
The era of typical mountain bikes with 27 or 30 gears is long gone. Equip yourself with a modern electric mountain bike that supports only one chainring up front and depends on the drive train having 5 to 12 gears. This is the best gear range which makes shifting better, efficient, and reliable.
Anyhow, if you find the cassette too small, you might be missing convenient gear on steep climbs. The range of about 50% is more than enough.
Aluminum or Carbon Frame – What Type is Safer and Better?
The choice of frame material primarily depends on your budget. The carbon frame of the electric mountain bike is more expensive as compared to aluminum models. The upper hand that carbon frames offer in terms of riding performance is minimal.
An excellent quality carbon frame can be stiffer and save 500 to 600 g in weight. However, weight is not a problem for electric mountain bikes as it is a considerable aspect of conventional bikes.
The carbon material offers manufacturers more freedom in terms of design and shape. They can develop more beautiful and integrated bikes. On the contrary, aluminum frames are versatile and gracefully endure jerks on the mountain. It maintains good shape and ensures longer life of the bike. So, if you are getting an electric bike for the longer run, an aluminum frame is a better option.
What Battery Capacity Should I Go for My Electric MTB?
A bigger battery always helps, as the more power you require during climbing or trekking on the electric moutain bike, the battery will drain faster. This is especially true for hardtail electric mountain bikes. So if you have the same battery of 500 Wh, your battery will drain faster if you use a 500-watt motor instead of a 250-watt motor. So you can utilize the range vs. battery from the manufacturer’s website for which battery you need.
Most batteries will take up to 3-4 hours for a full recharge, and larger batteries will take longer. You can carry an extra battery if you plan to commute longer.
Many manufacturers have installed more than one battery so that you can travel for longer without recharge. You can also buy one more to swap when needed, and the main battery is charging.
What are Important Pointers When Considering Brakes and Suspension for E-Bike?
Now you know that any electric MTB you choose is bulky to traverse tracks and carries a heavier battery. So these brakes will need additional components such as suspensions and brakes to support the weight. Strong brakes are essential when traveling downhill, as a lot more mass is traveling with you. In these cases, mountain ebikes are equipped with disc brakes.
Furthermore, the suspension should be firm and agile as you traverse the highly uneven terrain. You don’t want any force to mess up your back and need a smooth ride.
Are There Any Local Restrictions That I Need to Understand?
Different locations, counties, and regions have different legislations that you must follow that pertain to MTBs, especially e-bikes. You should look for online instructions on where you can drive these bikes and where you should lower your speed and only pedal.
Ending Comments
We have made a complex situation easier for you by reviewing the typical aspects of an e mountain bike. You can choose, as per your choice, whether you like a full suspension electric mountain bike or something else you fancy. Based on the track you will be adventuring, you never know that you might even like a hardtail electric mountain bike. When buying an MTB for yourself, remember to consult with different professionals and come to the best conclusion by following our points.
