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Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes: The Ultimate Guide for 2023
Electric full suspension mountain bikes are one of the most exciting and innovative types of bikes in the market today. They combine the power and convenience of an electric motor with the performance and comfort of a full suspension system. They allow you to explore new trails, climb steeper hills, and ride faster and longer than ever before.
But what exactly are electric full suspension mountain bikes? How do they work? What are their advantages and disadvantages? How do you choose the best one for your needs? And how do you ride and maintain them?
In this ultimate guide, we will answer all these questions and more. We will also review some of the best electric full suspension mountain bikes available in 2023, and provide tips on how to ride and maintain them.
Whether you are a beginner or an expert rider, an electric full suspension mountain bike can take your riding experience to a whole new level. Read on to find out everything you need to know about these amazing bikes.
| Key Takeaways |
|---|
| Electric full suspension mountain bikes are bikes that have an electric motor and a suspension system that absorbs shocks and bumps on rough terrain. |
| They are ideal for riders who want to enjoy the thrill of mountain biking without exhausting themselves too much, or who want to tackle challenging trails that would otherwise be impossible on a regular bike. |
| There are many benefits of electric full suspension mountain bikes, such as increased speed, comfort, versatility, and fun. |
| There are also some drawbacks, such as higher cost, weight, maintenance, and legal issues. |
| To choose the best electric full suspension mountain bike for your needs, you need to consider factors such as your budget, riding style, terrain, battery life, motor power, frame material, wheel size, and features. |
| In this article, we will review some of the best electric full suspension mountain bikes available in 2023, and provide tips on how to ride and maintain them. |
What are Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes?
Electric full suspension mountain bikes are bikes that have an electric motor that assists the rider’s pedaling power, and a suspension system that absorbs shocks and bumps on rough terrain.
The electric motor is usually located in the rear hub or the bottom bracket of the bike. It is powered by a rechargeable battery that is mounted on the frame or integrated into it. The motor can be activated by a throttle or a pedal-assist sensor that detects how hard the rider is pedaling.
The suspension system consists of a front fork and a rear shock that are connected by a linkage. The suspension system allows the wheels to move up and down independently from the frame, which reduces the impact of bumps and obstacles on the rider and the bike.
The combination of an electric motor and a suspension system makes electric full suspension mountain bikes ideal for riding on rough terrain, such as dirt roads, gravel paths, rocky trails, or even snow. They can also be used on paved roads or bike paths, but they may not be as efficient or comfortable as other types of bikes.
What are the Benefits of Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes?
Electric full suspension mountain bikes have many benefits that make them appealing to riders of all levels and preferences. Some of these benefits are:
- Increased speed: The electric motor boosts your pedaling power, which allows you to ride faster than you normally would. You can also reach higher speeds on downhill sections or flat terrain.
- Comfort: The suspension system cushions your ride and reduces fatigue and soreness. You can ride longer distances without feeling tired or uncomfortable.
- Versatility: Electric full suspension mountain bikes can handle various types of terrain and conditions. You can switch between different modes of assistance depending on your needs and preferences. You can also adjust the suspension settings to suit your riding style and the trail conditions.
- Fun: Electric full suspension mountain bikes are fun to ride. They give you a sense of adventure and excitement as you explore new places and challenge yourself. They also make riding more accessible and enjoyable for people who may not have the fitness or confidence to ride a regular mountain bike.
What are the Drawbacks of Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes?
Electric full suspension mountain bikes also have some drawbacks that you should be aware of before buying one. Some of these drawbacks are:
- Higher cost: Electric full suspension mountain bikes are more expensive than regular mountain bikes or other types of electric bikes. They require more components and technology, which increases their price. You also need to factor in the cost of maintenance, repairs, battery replacement, and charging.
- Weight: Electric full suspension mountain bikes are heavier than regular mountain bikes or other types of electric bikes. They have a motor, a battery, and a suspension system that add to their weight. This can make them harder to carry, transport, or store. It can also affect their handling and maneuverability on the trail.
- Maintenance: Electric full suspension mountain bikes require more maintenance than regular mountain bikes or other types of electric bikes. They have more moving parts and electrical components that can wear out or malfunction. You need to regularly check and service the motor, the battery, the suspension system, the brakes, the gears, and the tires. You also need to keep them clean and dry to prevent corrosion or damage.
- Legal issues: Electric full suspension mountain bikes are subject to different laws and regulations depending on where you live and ride. Some countries or states may not allow them on public roads or trails, or may require a license, registration, insurance, or helmet to use them. You need to check the local laws and rules before buying or riding an electric full suspension mountain bike.
How to Choose the Best Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bike for Your Needs?
Choosing the best electric full suspension mountain bike for your needs can be a daunting task. There are many factors to consider, such as your budget, riding style, terrain, battery life, motor power, frame material, wheel size, and features.
To help you narrow down your options, here are some tips on how to choose the best electric full suspension mountain bike for your needs:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Budget | Electric full suspension mountain bikes can range from $1,000 to over $10,000. Set a realistic budget that matches your expectations and needs. Consider ongoing costs like maintenance, repairs, battery replacement, and charging. |
| Riding Style | Electric full suspension mountain bikes are designed for different riding styles and levels. Some are suitable for beginners or casual riders seeking a smooth and easy ride, while others cater to intermediate or advanced riders desiring a more challenging and thrilling experience. |
| Terrain | These bikes are tailored for various terrains and conditions. Some are ideal for flat or moderate terrain, such as paved roads or bike paths, while others excel on steep or rough terrain like dirt roads or rocky trails. |
| Battery Life | The battery life of an electric full suspension mountain bike depends on factors like battery capacity, assistance level, speed, terrain, rider’s weight, and weather. It can range from 20 to 100 miles, and choosing a bike with sufficient battery life for your intended rides is crucial. |
| Motor Power | The motor power of these bikes varies from 250 to 1000 watts, determined by factors like motor type, placement, torque, and wattage. It significantly influences the assistance provided to your pedaling power. |
| Frame Material | The frame material, typically aluminum or carbon fiber, affects the bike’s weight, strength, durability, and comfort. Aluminum is cheaper and lighter, while carbon fiber is pricier, stiffer, and stronger. Consider your preferences and needs when choosing a frame material. |
| Wheel Size | Wheel size plays a crucial role in handling, stability, and comfort on the trail. Common sizes include 26, 27.5, and 29 inches. 26-inch wheels are lighter and more agile, 27.5-inch wheels offer a balance of agility and stability, and 29-inch wheels provide more stability and comfort but are less agile and responsive. Choose a wheel size that suits your preferences and needs. |
| Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Display | The display provides important ride information such as speed, distance, battery level, assistance mode, and time. Displays can be LCD or LED screens mounted on the handlebar or frame, or integrated into a smartphone or smartwatch via Bluetooth or Wi-Fi. |
| Brakes | Brakes control speed and ensure safe stops. Two types are mechanical and hydraulic. Mechanical brakes use cables to engage brake pads with wheel rims, while hydraulic brakes use fluid for more power, responsiveness, and reliability, though they are pricier and more complex. |
| Gears | Gears adjust pedaling power and speed based on terrain. Derailleur gears shift with a chain and sprockets, while hub gears use an internal mechanism. Hub gears are durable and low-maintenance but heavier and less efficient. |
| Lights | Lights enhance visibility on the trail, especially in low-light or dark conditions. Front lights illuminate the path, aiding obstacle avoidance, while rear lights make the rider visible to others. Some are bike-battery-powered, others have separate batteries or dynamo hubs. |
| Suspension Settings | Suspension settings allow adjustment of stiffness and responsiveness. Two types are manual and automatic. Manual settings need adjustments via pump or knob, while automatic settings use sensors and algorithms to adapt to terrain and riding behavior. |
Best Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes in 2023
Now that you know what electric full suspension mountain bikes are, what their benefits and drawbacks are, and how to choose the best one for your needs, let’s take a look at some of the best electric full suspension mountain bikes available in 2023.
We have selected five models that represent different price ranges, performance levels, and features. We have also included links to our detailed reviews of each model, where you can find more information about their specifications, pros and cons, customer feedback, and ratings.
Here are our top picks for the best electric full suspension mountain bikes in 2023:
Specialized Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon
The Specialized Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon is one of the most advanced and lightweight electric full suspension mountain bikes on the market. It features a carbon fiber frame that weighs only 17.35 kg (38.25 lbs), a powerful yet silent Specialized SL 1.1 motor that delivers up to 240 watts of assistance, a long-lasting Specialized SL1-320 battery that offers up to 80 miles of range, a RockShox Pike Select+ fork and a RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock that provide 150 mm of travel front
- a RockShox Pike Select+ fork and a RockShox Deluxe Select+ shock that provide 150 mm of travel front and rear, a SRAM GX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain that offers a wide range of gears, a SRAM G2 RSC hydraulic disc brake system that ensures powerful and precise braking, and a Specialized Mission Control app that allows you to customize your ride settings and monitor your ride data.
The Specialized Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon is ideal for riders who want a high-end electric full suspension mountain bike that combines performance, innovation, and style. It is suitable for various types of terrain and conditions, from smooth and flowy to steep and technical. It is also compatible with a range extender battery that can boost its range by 50%.
The Specialized Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon costs $9,025 and comes with a two-year warranty.
Giant Trance E+ 2 Pro
The Giant Trance E+ 2 Pro is one of the most versatile and reliable electric full suspension mountain bikes on the market. It features an aluminum frame that weighs 23.9 kg (52.7 lbs), a powerful and smooth Giant SyncDrive Pro motor that delivers up to 360 watts of assistance, a long-lasting Giant EnergyPak Smart 625 battery that offers up to 70 miles of range, a Fox 36 Float Rhythm fork and a Fox Float DPS Performance shock that provide 150 mm of travel front and rear, a Shimano Deore XT 12-speed drivetrain that offers a wide range of gears, a Shimano Deore XT hydraulic disc brake system that ensures powerful and precise braking, and a Giant RideControl app that allows you to customize your ride settings and monitor your ride data.
The Giant Trance E+ 2 Pro is ideal for riders who want a versatile electric full suspension mountain bike that can handle any type of terrain and condition, from smooth and flowy to steep and technical. It is also compatible with a range extender battery that can boost its range by 40%.
The Giant Trance E+ 2 Pro costs $5,000 and comes with a two-year warranty.
Trek Rail 7
The Trek Rail 7 is one of the most fun and agile electric full suspension mountain bikes on the market. It features an aluminum frame that weighs 22.6 kg (49.8 lbs), a powerful and responsive Bosch Performance Line CX motor that delivers up to 340 watts of assistance, a long-lasting Bosch PowerTube 625 battery that offers up to 60 miles of range, a RockShox Yari RC fork and a RockShox Deluxe RL shock that provide 160 mm of travel front and rear, a SRAM NX Eagle 12-speed drivetrain that offers a wide range of gears, a Shimano MT520 hydraulic disc brake system that ensures powerful and precise braking, and a Bosch Purion display that shows you important information about your ride.
The Trek Rail 7 is ideal for riders who want a fun electric full suspension mountain bike that can tackle any type of terrain and condition, from smooth and flowy to steep and technical. It is also compatible with a range extender battery that can boost its range by 50%.
The Trek Rail 7 costs $4,999.99 and comes with a two-year warranty.
Cannondale Moterra Neo 5
The Cannondale Moterra Neo 5 is one of the most affordable and durable electric full suspension mountain bikes on the market. It features an aluminum frame that weighs 24.3 kg (53.6 lbs), a powerful and smooth Bosch Performance Line CX motor that delivers up to
- a powerful and smooth Bosch Performance Line CX motor that delivers up to 340 watts of assistance, a long-lasting Bosch PowerTube 500 battery that offers up to 50 miles of range, a RockShox 35 Gold RL fork and a RockShox Deluxe Select R shock that provide 160 mm of travel front and rear, a Shimano Deore 11-speed drivetrain that offers a wide range of gears, a Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brake system that ensures powerful and precise braking, and a Bosch Purion display that shows you important information about your ride.
The Cannondale Moterra Neo 5 is ideal for riders who want an affordable electric full suspension mountain bike that can handle any type of terrain and condition, from smooth and flowy to steep and technical. It is also compatible with a range extender battery that can boost its range by 40%.
The Cannondale Moterra Neo 5 costs $3,800 and comes with a two-year warranty.
Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB-1
The Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB-1 is one of the most innovative and customizable electric full suspension mountain bikes on the market. It features a carbon fiber frame that weighs only 18 kg (39.7 lbs), a powerful and silent Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB motor that delivers up to 250 watts of assistance, a long-lasting Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB battery that offers up to 100 miles of range, a Fox Factory 36 fork and a Fox Factory DPX2 shock that provide 170 mm of travel front and rear, a SRAM X01 Eagle AXS 12-speed drivetrain that offers a wide range of gears, a SRAM Code RSC hydraulic disc brake system that ensures powerful and precise braking, and an Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB app that allows you to customize your ride settings and monitor your ride data.
The Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB-1 is ideal for riders who want an innovative electric full suspension mountain bike that can be tailored to their preferences and needs. It is suitable for various types of terrain and conditions, from smooth and flowy to steep and technical. It is also compatible with a range extender battery that can boost its range by 50%.
The Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB-1 costs $10,000 and comes with a three-year warranty.
Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB-2
The Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB-2 is one of the most comfortable and easy-to-use electric full suspension mountain bikes on the market. It features an aluminum frame that weighs 21 kg (46.3 lbs), a powerful and smooth Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB motor that delivers up to 250 watts of assistance, a long-lasting Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB battery that offers up to 80 miles of range, a RockShox Recon RL fork and a RockShox Monarch R shock that provide 140 mm of travel front and rear, a Shimano SLX 11-speed drivetrain that offers a wide range of gears, a Shimano MT400 hydraulic disc brake system that ensures powerful and precise braking, and an Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB app that allows you to customize your ride settings and monitor your ride data.
The Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB-2 is ideal for riders who want a comfortable electric full suspension mountain bike that is easy to use and maintain. It is suitable for various types of terrain and conditions, from smooth and flowy to steep and technical. It is also compatible with a range extender battery that can boost its range by 40%.
The Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bikes EFSMB-2 costs $4,000 and comes with a two-year warranty.
Conclusion
Electric full suspension mountain bikes are great for riders who want to enjoy the thrill and adventure of mountain biking without compromising on comfort, efficiency, or convenience. They offer many benefits such as increased traction, stability, control, speed, range, fun, and versatility. However, they also have some drawbacks such as increased weight, cost, complexity, maintenance, and environmental