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Electric bikes Bike Buying Guides

Introduction

Electric mountain bikes have become increasingly popular in recent years as a way to be able to tackle harder trails, ride faster, cover more ground, or still have the energy to hit the trail on a "rest" day.

Typical Battery Size and Range

All electric mountain bikes are essentially designed to get a rider through a long day on the trails on one charge. Since the motor is intended for assistance to make pedaling a little easier, how long the battery lasts will really depend on how hard you lean on the motor. Some bikes only offer very light assistance mode that helps make climbs feel less steep, but still requires putting in sweat equity to make it up the hill.

The size of an ebike battery is measured in watt-hours (Wh), and the range of an ebike depends on the battery capacity, the level of motor assistance, and the terrain. Most high-end electric mountain bikes have batteries in the range of 400-900 Wh.  For a bigger range look for a larger battery on the bike.

How common are electric mountain bikes?

Ebikes have become increasingly popular in the mountain biking world, with more and more riders embracing the unique experience they offer. While there is still some controversy surrounding the use of ebikes on trails, many riders appreciate the added boost that electric assist provides, allowing them to tackle steeper climbs and longer rides than they would be able to on a non-electric bike.

The eMTB cost premium

Ebikes are generally more expensive than their basic brothers, with the price difference versus non-electric similar models ranging from $1,000 to $4,000+ or more. The electric build kits of mountain bike might also have some different component choices versus the non electric version.

eMTB Weight

Ebikes of course have the added weight of the motor and battery to contend with. However, when you're looking at high end bikes they're still typically quite lightweights. For example, in the R build kit, the Santa Cruz Heckler SL weighs in at about 12 pounds more versus the similar 150mm Hightower in the same build kit.

  • Heckler SL: 43.11 lbs / 19.55 kg
  • Hightower: 31.75 lbs / 14.4 kg

With a well-designed and well-tuned bike, you shouldn't even notice that it's electric except when you're being amazed at how easy it is to get up the hill!

Riding Experience

Riding an ebike is a different experience than riding a non-electric bike, with the added power and speed providing a unique sensation. Some riders appreciate the added challenge that non-electric bikes provide, while others enjoy the freedom and versatility that electric assist offers.

Model Guides - Electric bikes Bikes

2022 Niner Rip e9

2022 Niner Rip e9

A quick and efficient electric trail bike for all excursions.
2022 Niner RLT e9 RDO

2022 Niner RLT e9 RDO

Ride further and longer with electric power.
2022 Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay

2022 Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay

The eMTB of your dreams.
2022 Rocky Mountain Instinct Powerplay

2022 Rocky Mountain Instinct Powerplay

A dream electric trail bike.
2022 Santa Cruz Heckler 9

2022 Santa Cruz Heckler 9

Ride on and on and on.
2022 SCOR 4060 Z LT

2022 SCOR 4060 Z LT

Play hard and repeat with electric assist.
2022 SCOR 4060 Z ST

2022 SCOR 4060 Z ST

An e-bike for miles and miles of adventure.
2022 Yeti 160E

2022 Yeti 160E

Yeti's most ambitious project yet.
2023 Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay

2023 Rocky Mountain Altitude Powerplay

The Altitude Powerplay is made for aggressive enduro e-biking.
2023 Rocky Mountain Instinct Powerplay

2023 Rocky Mountain Instinct Powerplay

The best electric trail bike on the market.
2023 Santa Cruz Bullit

2023 Santa Cruz Bullit

The nearest thing to owning a downhill bike and a chairlift.
2023 Yeti 160E

2023 Yeti 160E

Your dream 29er electric riding companion.
2024 Santa Cruz Heckler SL

2024 Santa Cruz Heckler SL

Enough power to tackle the whole mountain.
2025 Orbea Rise

2025 Orbea Rise

Ride With Confidence With the Rise

Classes of ebikes

In the United States, electric bikes are categorized into three classes based on their maximum assisted speed and whether they have a throttle:

  1. Class 1 e-MTBs: These bikes provide assistance only while the rider is pedaling and have a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph (32 km/h). They do not have a throttle. Class 1 e-MTBs are the most common type and the most widely allowed on trails.
  2. Class 2 e-MTBs: These bikes also provide assistance while pedaling, and they're also equipped with a throttle that activates the motor without pedaling. Like Class 1, their maximum assisted speed is 20 mph (32 km/h). Class 2 e-MTBs are less common than Class 1 but still have a presence in the market.
  3. Class 3 e-MTBs: These bikes provide assistance only while pedaling, similar to Class 1, but they have a higher maximum assisted speed of 28 mph (45 km/h). They're somewhat more restricted in access to trails in some areas.

Where can I ride an electric mountain bike?

Regulations vary a lot across federal, state, county, and local trails. Typically, any natural surface trail where mixed motorized and non-motorized use is allowed permits eMTBs. However, trails managed exclusively for non-motorized activities may prohibit eMTBs. Furthermore, access to singletrack trails differs from access to bike lanes and paths. It's important to note that eMTBs may not be permitted everywhere traditional mountain bikes are allowed. You'll want to check the details on your local trail from the land manager (agency, state, county, etc). You can also use resources like the People for Bikes eMTB map as a starting point.

There's no denying that ebikes have opened up new possibilities for riders of all skill levels and abilities. So if you're looking for a new way to experience the trails, consider giving an electric mountain bike a try. Who knows, you might just find your new favorite way to ride.