Electric Mountain Bikes: The Complete Guide to Riding the Trails With Power Assist

Electric mountain bikes (eMTBs) are revolutionizing mountain biking. These technically advanced bikes have an integrated electric motor and battery to provide pedal assistance and help propel you up climbs and over challenging terrain.

eMTBs are surging in popularity as they open up mountain biking to new riders who need help with the physical demands. But they also allow experienced riders to push their limits and access more remote backcountry trails.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about the world of electric mountain bikes.

A Closer Look: How Do Electric Mountain Bikes Work?

At first glance, most eMTBs look almost identical to standard mountain bikes. But inside the frame is a rechargeable lithium ion battery that powers a small electric motor to assist your pedaling.

Here’s a more in-depth look at the key components that make eMTBs work:

Rechargeable Battery

• Stores electrical energy to power the motor
• Usually integrated into the downtube for optimal weight distribution
• Capacity ranges from 300 watt hours up to 700+ watt hours
• Higher capacity batteries provide more range but add cost and weight
• Average power output is 10-25 watts per hour depending on conditions
• Charge time is 2-6 hours from empty to full battery

Electric Motor

• Provides extra power measured in watts as you pedal
• Located around the bottom bracket (mid-drive) or in the rear hub
• Common options are 250 watt, 500 watt, and 750 watt motors
• More powerful motors add weight but give bigger power boost
• Governed to stop propelling past 20-28 mph

Control Unit

• The “brain” that varies the motor’s power output
• Uses cadence and torque sensor data to determine assistance needed
• Lets you manually select between different assist modes
• Provides a natural cycling feel as motor integrates with your pedaling

Sensors

• Cadence sensor measures how fast you are pedaling
• Torque sensor detects how much force you are applying
• Data is sent to the control unit to tailor the motor output
• More pedal force means less motor assist needed

So in summary, you still pedal an eMTB like a normal bike, but get some extra assistance when traversing climbs, headwinds, and technical features. This gives a natural riding sensation while opening up mountain biking to more riders.

A Brief History of Electric Mountain Bikes

Electric bikes first emerged in the 1990s, but the technology was still in its infancy. The bikes were clunky with lead acid batteries that added a lot of weight and provided limited range.

Mountain bike manufacturers started experimenting with integrating electric motors and lithium ion batteries in the early 2000s. But the first electric mountain bikes still looked quite rudimentary and homebrewed.

Advances in lithium battery capacities and motor technologies revolutionized electric mountain bikes in the late 2000s. Lighter, more compact batteries with 2-3 times the range finally made eMTBs into a practical product with mass appeal.

Major cycling brands like Giant, Trek, Specialized and others launched their first electric mountain bike model lines around 2015. Enthusiast adoption boomed rapidly as people realized the benefits of the extra assist on climbs.

eMTBs quickly became one of the fast growing segments in the bike industry. Practically every mountain bike manufacturer now offers electric models equipped with high-capacity lithium ion batteries, sophisticated electronics, and performance focused designs.

In just over a decade, electric mountain bikes have gone from DIY tinkering experiments to refined, trail-taming machines that are reaching mass market appeal. The eMTB revolution is in full swing!

Reasons to Buy an Electric Mountain Bike

With the surge in eMTB popularity, should you buy one? Here are some of the benefits of electric mountain bikes:

Tackle Longer Distances

The pedal assist from an eMTB allows you to ride much further than what would be possible on a manual mountain bike before hitting fatigue.

On a traditional mountain bike, your distance or elevation is often limited by your fitness and endurance. But an eMTB provides a boost to keep pushing on beyond those limits.

Access More Challenging Trails

Similarly, the motor assistance opens up trails that would be too difficult on a normal mountain bike. Very steep, technical climbs become rideable when you’ve got an eMTB helping propel you along.

Riders who want to challenge themselves on hardcore mountain trails but currently lack the fitness and skill can benefit greatly from an eMTB.

Maintain Speed and Momentum Uphill

Trying to pedal uphill on a manual mountain bike often means rapidly losing momentum and speed with every incline. But an eMTB helps you maintain consistent speed up the climb rather than slowing to a crawl.

This lets you focus on tackling the technical aspects of the trail rather than being demoralized by a brutal slog uphill.

Ride for Longer Before Fatiguing

Riding a mountain bike is a tough workout. Your legs usually fatigue well before you’ve had your fill of hitting the trails. Electric assist extends your time in the saddle before complete exhaustion sets in.

Riders can enjoy more downhill runs per outing and spend more time actually riding the trails rather than recovering.

Conserve Energy for Downhills

Pedaling uphill on a mountain bike leaves your legs feeling rubbery when it’s time to bomb back down the descent. With an eMTB providing uphill assistance, you conserve energy and maximize enjoyment for the payoff – the downhill sections!

Get a Workout But With Less Exertion

You can still get a quality workout on an eMTB. The electric assist supplements your effort, but you are still pedaling and exercising. There’s just less strain and impact on your body, especially for newer riders.

For fitter riders, an eMTB allows targeting cardio, strength, and endurance goals through adjusting power modes and exertion accordingly.

Ride at a More Relaxed Pace

Electric mountain bikes allow you to tackle trails at whatever pace you desire rather than being forced into maximum exertion.

Feel like a leisurely ride through the woods? Dial down the power and cruise along smoothly on an eMTB. Want to set Strava PRs and speed uphill? Crank the power for a intense workout. An eMTB puts you in control.

Potential Drawbacks of Electric Mountain Bikes

While eMTBs provide some great benefits, there are also a few potential downsides to consider:

More Expensive Upfront Cost

Electric mountain bikes are more costly than comparable regular mountain bike models. The MSRP premium is usually $1000-$4000 more for an eMTB once you factor in the added motor, battery, and electronics.

Heavier Overall Weight

Lugging a big battery and motor up the trail adds several pounds to the bike. eMTBs weigh around 45-55lb on average compared to 30-40lb for a non-electric mountain bike. You feel the difference when lifting or maneuvering the eMTB.

Limited Range Per Charge

Most eMTBs need to be recharged after each ride. Average distance per charge is 15-50 miles depending on conditions. Cold weather and challenging terrain reduces range as more battery power is consumed.

Less Fitness Training Benefits

Riding a manual mountain bike provides a bigger fitness boost and workout than an eMTB where pedal effort is lower. But eMTBs still elevate heart rate and you can focus on aerobic training by adjusting assist modes.

Access Restrictions on Some Trails

Usage policies for eMTBs are still evolving. They are prohibited on many non-motorized mountain bike singletrack trails. But land access advocacy continues to open up more options.

Technical Maintenance Required

The electronic components like the motor and battery require specialized service and maintenance that traditional mountain bikes don’t need.

So while very appealing in many regards, eMTBs do come with some compromises. Evaluate whether the pros outweigh the cons based on how you plan to ride.

Overview of eMTB Categories

There is now an array of eMTB styles and configurations to choose from. Here is an overview of the main categories of electric mountain bikes:

Hardtail Electric Mountain Bikes

Hardtail eMTBs have front suspension in the fork just like a regular mountain bike frame. But the rear triangle is completely rigid without any suspension.

Pros:

• More affordable price point
• Lighter overall weight
• Efficient power transfer when pedaling

Best Suited For:

• Cross country trails
• Smooth flowy singletrack
• Less technical terrain

Full Suspension Electric Mountain Bikes

Full suspension eMTBs have suspension front and rear via a fork and rear shock. This provides increased comfort and traction control when riding over rocks, roots and other obstacles.

Pros:

• Improved handling and control on descents
• Increased grip and stability
• Can run lower tire pressure

Best Suited For:

• Downhill/gravity oriented riding
• Rougher terrain and big impacts
• Aggressive trail, enduro, all-mountain

XC/Marathon Electric Mountain Bikes

Designed with lighter, less powerful motors and smaller batteries to keep pedal effort and training intensity higher. These are more like a traditional mountain bike with some extra assistance.

Pros:

• Closer to a normal MTB feel
• Focuses more on fitness
• Excellent range from smaller battery

Best Suited For:

• Cross country loops and marathon rides
• Long distance backcountry trips
• Maintaining/improving fitness

Trail/All-Mountain Electric Mountain Bikes

Offer balanced power, weight and geometry to create an adaptable “quiver killer” eMTB for varied conditions. Trail bikes have moderate motor power and battery capacity.

Pros:

• Blends pedal power with electric assist
• Versatile for diverse trails and terrain
• Fun handling and playful character

Best For:

• Riders who like a bit of everything
• Combining fitness and easier riding
• Jumping between technical and smooth sections

Downhill/Enduro Electric Mountain Bikes

These eMTBs are all about maximum power and rugged frames for aggressive riding. Large battery capacity allows running higher assist levels at all times.

Pros:

• Conquer the steepest, gnarliest terrain
• Higher speeds and bigger hits
• Get up to the top faster on gravity trails

Best For:

• Bike parks and lift served trails
• Focus on descents over climbs
• Launching big jumps and drops
• Highly advanced riders

There are also electric fat bikes, electric cargo bikes, urban commuter eMTBs, and folding eMTBs. Consider how you’ll ride most to choose the ideal eMTB category.

Top Electric Mountain Bike Models for 2023

The surge in eMTB popularity has led to an explosion of models on the market. Here are some of the most popular and highest performing electric mountain bikes across a range of budgets:

Entry Level Electric Mountain Bikes

Entry level eMTBs keep the price lower by using more affordable components. But quality and reliability has improved drastically even at lower price points compared to just a few years ago.

Rad Power Bikes RadRunner 2

• Price: $1399
• Motor: 750W geared rear hub motor
• Battery: 48V 14Ah 672Wh
• Range: Around 75km / 45mi
• Drive: Single speed
• Brakes: Mechanical disc brakes

Great value full sized electric mountain bike option perfect for gravel, greenway and easier singletrack use. Brakes and drivetrain are basic but very reliable from a top e-bike brand.

Ancheer Electric Mountain Bike

• Price: $839
• Motor: 250W geared rear hub brushless motor
• Battery: 36V 10Ah lithium ion
• Range: 55km / 35mi
• Drive: 21 speed Shimano gearing
• Brakes: Disc brakes

Feature packed foldable eMTB at an budget price point. Best for smooth trails and paths rather than aggressive mountain biking. Easy storage and transport.

Merida eBig Seven 40-E

• Price: $2799
• Motor: 250W Shimano mid-drive motor
• Battery: 361Wh Shimano Steps
• Range: 80km / 50mi
• Drive: 10 speed Shimano Deore
• Brakes: Hydraulic disc brakes

Quality electric mountain bike hardtail from a major mainstream brand. Durable aluminum frame and reliable components make it a great entry level trail and cross country eMTB with excellent range.

Mid-Range Electric Mountain Bikes

Mid-range eMTBs offer excellent performance and features while keeping the price under $5000. This range hits the sweet spot for many enthusiasts looking for great bang-for-buck.

Specialized Turbo Levo Comp

• Price: $5500
• Motor: Custom Rx Trail-tuned motor, 240W nominal
• Battery: 700 Wh
• Range: 60 – 120km / 40 – 80 mi
• Drive: SRAM NX Eagle 12 speed
• Brakes: 4-piston hydraulic disc

Capable trail, all-mountain bike from the iconic brand. Great balance of power, weight distribution and geometry. Responsive handling suits single track and technical riding.

Giant Trance X E+ 2 Pro

• Price: $5699
• Motor: Yamaha SyncDrive Pro 80Nm
• Battery: EnergyPak 500
• Range: 80km / 50mi
• Drive: Shimano Deore 12 speed
• Brakes: Shimano four piston hydraulic disc

Provides excellent power delivery and terrain response from Giant’s highly refined mid-drive motor system. Lightweight yet durable aluminum frame soaks up bumps.

Trek Rail 5

• Price: $5899
• Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX, 85Nm
• Battery: 500Wh integrated
• Range: 45 – 90km / 30 – 60mi
• Drive: SRAM SX Eagle 12 speed
• Brakes: Shimano hydraulic disc brakes

Fun, lively ride quality with 140mm of rear wheel travel. Includes helpful rider aids like tire pressure monitoring. Excellent value Trail Pistol geometry feels balanced climbing and descending.

High-End Electric Mountain Bikes

Money no object? Here are some of the top premium electric mountain bikes showcasing cutting edge technology.

Orbea Rise M-LTD

• Price: $9999
• Motor: Custom High-Torque Orbea 250W mid-drive
• Battery: 250 Wh (additional range extender battery available)
• Range: 40 – 80 km / 25 – 50 mi
• Drive: Shimano XTR 12 speed
• Brakes: Shimano XTR hydraulic disc

Incredibly lightweight at just 35.5 lb with 160mm of suspension travel front and rear. Advanced hydroformed aluminum frame provides precision handling and power transfer. Top shelf components complete the package.

Scott Ransom Tuned

• Price: $10,699
• Motor: SyncDrive Pro, 85Nm torque
• Battery: 700Wh integrated downtube
• Range: 45 – 120km / 30 – 80mi
• Drive: SRAM X01 Eagle AXS wireless electronic shifting
• Brakes: SRAM Code RS hydraulic disc brakes

Integrates storage space inside the downtube for tools and snacks. TwinLoc suspension system lets you optimize settings for the terrain. Powerful brakes and dropper post for aggressive riders.

Yeti 160E

• Price: $11,799
• Motor: Custom Yeti 250W mid-drive, 60Nm torque
• Battery: 700 Wh integrated downtube
• Range: 56 – 112 km / 35 – 70 mi
• Drive: Shimano XT 12 speed
• Brakes: 4 piston Shimano XT hydraulic disc brakes

Serious equipment aimed at the aggressive trail, enduro rider with 160mm of front and 155mm rear suspension travel. Highly advanced Turq carbon frame is beautifully crafted and optimized for stiffness and compliance.

Buying Considerations for an Electric Mountain Bike

With so many eMTB choices now available, it can feel overwhelming deciding where to start. Here are the most important factors to keep in mind:

Where and how you will ride

• What types of terrain? Hardcore downhill, flowy singletrack, long backcountry adventures?
• What distance and elevation? Shorter local loops or all-day epics?
• Will you shuttle/lift access bike parks or earn your turns?

Budget

• Entry around $1500 to $3000
• Mid-range $3000 to $6000
• High-end $6000 to $12,000
• Some unique builds can run even higher

Power and support required

• Lower power for:
  • Cross country
  • Smooth flowing trails
  • Long rides
  • Maintaining fitness
• Higher power for:
  • Steep climbs
  • Technical terrain
  • Carrying gear
  • Focus on descents over climbs

Weight

• Hardtails are lighter than full suspension
• More battery capacity and more powerful motors add weight
• Consider portability if loading into a vehicle regularly

Intended use

• All-around trail riding?
  • Trail or all-mountain eMTB
• Flowy cross country?
  • Hardtail or XC eMTB
• Downhill focus?
  • Full suspension gravity eMTB

Speak with eMTB dealers about how and where you plan to ride. Many shops also offer test rides so you can experience the feel and handling of different eMTB models before purchasing.