The Ultimate Electric Mountain Bike Buying Guide

When shopping for an electric mountain bike, there are several factors to consider. Firstly, you'll want to look for a high-power motor and a long-life battery, as these will ensure you get the most out of your ride. It's also important to think about the bike's suspension travel, especially if you're planning on tackling hilly trails or winding gravel roads. Hydraulic disc brakes are another key feature, as they offer lots of stopping power and modulation, keeping you in control regardless of your bike's weight or speed. Finally, you'll want to consider the bike's price and ensure it fits within your budget.

Motor power and range

When it comes to motor power and range, you'll want to look for an electric mountain bike with a high-power motor and a long-lasting battery. This will ensure you can get the most out of your ride and tackle any trail. The best models will have enough power and range to let you do this, while also remaining stable.

The weight of the bike is an important factor to consider when it comes to motor power and range. Electric mountain bikes are heavier than non-motorised bikes, so you'll want to make sure yours is equipped with hydraulic disc brakes, as most are. These brakes offer lots of stopping power and modulation, ensuring you remain in control regardless of your bike's weight or speed. Several brands offer hydraulic disc brakes, with Shimano and SRAM usually leading the way. For additional power, look for bikes featuring four-piston brakes.

If you're planning on riding steep and chunky trails, you'll want a rugged eMTB with full suspension and more extreme geometry to remain stable when things get fast and loose. These models usually feature 150-180mm of travel to help you float over hard-hitting terrain. If you're riding hilly trails and winding gravel roads, a front suspension fork is a must to absorb the bumpy terrain. Look for fork suspension with at least 120mm of travel from manufacturers like SR Suntour, RockShox, or FOX.

Battery life

When shopping for an electric mountain bike, one of the most important things to consider is the battery life. You'll want to look for a bike with a long-lasting battery so you can get the most out of your ride. Some bikes even offer the option to add a backup battery, which can be a great feature if you plan on taking longer rides or tackling more challenging trails.

The battery life of an electric mountain bike can vary depending on several factors, including the type of battery, the power of the motor, and how you use the bike. For example, if you're riding on hilly terrain or carrying extra weight, you'll likely drain the battery faster.

To get the most out of your battery, consider the following:

• Look for a battery with a high capacity: This will give you more range and allow you to ride for longer periods without needing to recharge.
• Consider the type of battery: Different types of batteries, such as lithium-ion or lead-acid, can offer varying levels of performance and longevity. Research the pros and cons of each type to determine which is best for your needs.
• Pay attention to the motor's power: A more powerful motor will drain the battery faster, so consider your riding style and the type of terrain you'll be tackling. If you plan on riding on flatter terrain or don't need as much power, you may be able to conserve battery life.
• Think about your riding habits: How often will you be riding, and for how long? If you plan on taking longer rides or using the bike frequently, you'll want to ensure the battery has enough capacity to last.

By considering these factors and choosing an electric mountain bike with a long-lasting battery, you can ensure you have a reliable and enjoyable riding experience.

Suspension travel

When shopping for an electric mountain bike, it's important to consider suspension travel. This is because the added weight of the motor means you'll need more suspension travel than on a non-motorised bike. The longer the travel, the more cushion you'll get when you encounter obstacles.

Full-suspension models are designed for steep and rugged terrain, with 150-180mm of travel and extreme geometry to float over hard-hitting terrain and remain stable at high speeds. If you're riding on hilly trails and winding gravel roads, a front suspension fork is a must to absorb the bumpy terrain. While a rear-suspension eMTB bike can perform well on gravel backroads, it's not necessary. Look for fork suspension with at least 120mm of travel from manufacturers like SR Suntour, RockShox, or FOX.

Price

Electric mountain bikes come in a wide range of price points, but they are generally more expensive than non-electric bikes. The price of an electric mountain bike will depend on the components you choose, such as the frame material and suspension.

When it comes to the frame, you will usually have the option of aluminium or carbon. Carbon frames can be hundreds of dollars more expensive than aluminium, but they are lighter and offer a wider range of designs. However, the benefits of a carbon frame are often more aesthetic than performance-based.

If you want a durable electric mountain bike, you may need to spend more money. A durable electric mountain bike will be able to withstand the trials of enduro and downhill riding. It will have a long-lasting battery and a powerful motor, which will allow you to get the most out of your ride.

You can also find electric mountain bikes at lower price points. Some companies offer 0% APR financing, making these bikes more affordable. When shopping for an electric mountain bike, it is important to consider your budget and what features are most important to you.

Brakes

Hydraulic disc brakes are self-adjusting, which means they require less maintenance than other types of brakes. They are also more durable and provide better performance in wet conditions. This is because the braking force is applied directly to the rotor, which is attached to the wheel hub, rather than the rim, as with other types of brakes. This means that the braking surface stays drier in wet conditions, providing better performance.

Another advantage of hydraulic disc brakes is that they offer more precise modulation, which means you can control your speed more effectively, especially when riding downhill. This is because the fluid in the system transmits the force from your lever to the calliper more smoothly and progressively than with other types of brakes. This gives you a better feel for the brakes and allows you to adjust your speed more precisely.

Finally, hydraulic disc brakes offer more consistent performance over time. This is because the fluid in the system is less susceptible to heat-related changes in viscosity than other types of brake fluids. This means that the braking performance remains more consistent, even during long descents or when riding in hot conditions. Overall, hydraulic disc brakes are a key feature to look for when choosing an electric mountain bike, as they provide superior stopping power, modulation, and durability compared to other types of brakes.

Frequently asked questions