Why eMountain Biking?
We’ve heard it many times –
Do you even need to pedal on an e-bike? E-biking must be so easy!
Yes, pedaling is required for e-biking. Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are bicycles that are equipped with a motor to provide pedaling assistance. Based on individual bike settings, the motor can be set to provide a range of 20 - 100% propulsion assistance to each pedal strike. While this may make pedaling easier for some riders, the more the motor is used, the faster the battery is depleted.
A better question is –
How can I benefit from the use of an e-bike according to my fitness and skill level? Can I use e-bikes to have the best adventure possible for my fitness and skill level?
For both intermediate and advanced riders, e-bikes can facilitate longer days and more intense, sustained climbing. The e-bike allows for more manageable passage over difficult terrain, therefore as much as doubling the capacity to cover the maximum planned distance per day of adventure.
For those new to mountain biking, e-bikes can offer a great introduction to the sport, because they are heavy but have excellent suspension, making them grounded on varied terrain. This often gives novice riders a feeling of greater confidence.
For riders with past injuries or ailments that might otherwise prevent them from getting into the mountains, e-bikes can provide an adjustable level of assistance, creating a customized experience for each individual.
A common misperception about e-bikes is that they are “cheating.” This is not true. The rider still has to pedal over varying terrain, and must possess an adequate level of fitness to sustain a difficult effort for an entire day’s ride. While the e-bike provides flexibility, it does not replace the hard work of a solid day of biking in a mountainous setting.