The 10 Best Electric Mountain Bikes
The electric mountain bike, often referred to as an e-MTB, is equipped with a battery-powered motor that provides an extra boost, empowering riders to tackle steeper inclines, longer distances, and more technical trails with ease. This added power not only expands your horizons but also invites a broader range of individuals to experience the joy of off-road adventures, including those who may have been deterred by physical limitations or fitness concerns. But the benefits don’t stop there! Electric mountain biking also promotes a more eco-friendly approach to outdoor recreation, as the electric assistance encourages riders to opt for cycling over gas-guzzling alternatives, reducing their carbon footprint.
As pioneers in the realm of high-performance electric mountain bikes, our expert evaluation team at “The 10 Best Electric Mountain Bike” is dedicated to fueling your passion for off-road escapades. We understand the allure of the great outdoors and the exhilaration of conquering challenging terrains. This is why we’re committed to unearthing the crème de la crème of e-bikes to elevate your riding experience to unparalleled heights. In this blog, we’ll delve into the heart of the electric mountain bike revolution, examining the game-changing technology that powers these incredible machines, and ultimately revealing our top picks to propel you on your most thrilling adventures yet. As you prepare to immerse yourself in the exhilarating world of electric mountain biking, it’s essential to understand the unique benefits and features that set these e-bikes apart from their traditional counterparts.
As we delve deeper into the electric mountain biking universe, we’ll explore the various factors to consider when selecting the perfect e-MTB, share tips for trail etiquette and responsible riding, and showcase the latest innovations shaping the future of this exhilarating sport. So, gear up and get ready to unleash your inner trailblazer as we embark on this electrifying journey together!
How do we test these electric mountain bikes?
At “The 10 Best Electric Mountain Bikes,” our evaluation team is dedicated to providing you with comprehensive and accurate assessments of the latest e-MTBs on the market. Our rigorous testing process is designed to examine every aspect of these bikes, ensuring that our recommendations are both trustworthy and reliable.
VELOWAVE Electric Mountain Bike for Adults
Price: $1,199.00
Pros:
- Hidden Battery and Light Frame Design: Our team appreciates the sleek look and lightweight frame of the e-bike, which enhances the overall aesthetic and riding experience. The hidden battery design adds to the visual appeal and ensures that the bike doesn’t look too bulky.
- Powerful Motor and Good Range: The motor provides a good power range and excellent power assist, making uphill rides and tough terrains much more manageable. The battery performance is also commendable, especially when charged daily, providing a reliable range for your adventures.
- Bright LED Front Light: We were impressed with the brightness of the LED front light, which greatly enhances visibility and safety during nighttime rides. Although it consumes more battery power, the trade-off for increased visibility is worth it.
- Excellent Customer Service: The quick response and willingness to help from the customer service team is a significant advantage when it comes to addressing any concerns or issues you may have with your e-bike.
Cons:
- Poor Quality Brakes: The bike’s disc brakes are noisy, have uneven force, and the disc screws loosen easily. Poor quality brake calipers and pads are a major concern as they directly impact safety while riding.
- Cheap Components: Some components, such as the seat, foot pedals, and handlebar grips, are of cheap quality and not comfortable to use. Upgrading these components is necessary for a better riding experience, adding to the overall cost.
- Lack of Rear Suspension: The absence of rear suspension can make riding on bumpy trails more challenging, as the bike’s back end tends to bounce around. This may not be a concern for road riding but could impact the experience for off-road adventurers.
Personal view:
Our team believes that this e-bike is a fantastic starter option for those looking to enter the world of electric mountain biking without breaking the bank. It offers a solid foundation for customization, allowing you to tailor the bike to your preferences and requirements. While there are some drawbacks, such as the brakes and certain components, with a little investment in upgrades, this e-bike can become a reliable and enjoyable companion for your outdoor escapades. If you’re a hands-on person who enjoys personalizing your ride, this e-bike is an excellent starting point, offering a balance of performance.
FREESKY Electric Mountain Bike for Adults
Price: $2,399.00
Pros:
- Impressive Battery Life: The Alaska e-bikes offer great battery life on both on-road and off-road excursions, allowing you to cover significant distances without worrying about running out of power. This feature is particularly useful if you’re looking to explore and exercise simultaneously, as it ensures you’ll have enough battery life to make it back home.
- High-Quality Components and Build: The bikes are well-built, with sturdy aluminum frames and high-quality parts from known brands. This ensures a smooth and comfortable ride, as well as reliable durability, making it a solid investment for your outdoor adventures.
- Full Suspension and Hydraulic Disc Brakes: The full suspension system, which includes a lockable and adjustable front suspension hydraulic downhill fork and rear suspension, effectively reduces unnecessary bumps and vibrations during the ride. Additionally, the hydraulic disc brakes offer excellent stopping power in various conditions, ensuring a safer and more comfortable riding experience.
- Multiple Riding Modes and Adjustable Settings: With five riding modes (Electric Mode, Pedal-assist Mode, Cruise Mode, Manual Mode, Walk Mode) and five levels of pedal assist, the e-bike provides a customizable experience tailored to your preferences and needs. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of riders and situations.
Cons:
- Limited Gear Range: With only 7 gears, the bike might not offer the ideal range for all riders and terrains, potentially limiting its versatility.
- Not Ideal for Minimal Effort Riding: If you’re looking for an e-bike that requires minimal pedaling effort, the Alaska e-bike may not be the best choice. The bike is designed for riders who want to put in medium effort while still benefiting from the motor and battery assistance.
Personal view:
Our expert team at XYZ Reviews proudly presents the FREESKY Alaska M520E, a high-performance electric mountain bike that shines in both design and functionality. Powered by a potent 1600W peak BAFANG motor, this bike effortlessly climbs diverse terrains at impressive speeds of up to 35+MPH. The standout feature, however, is the dual lithium battery system, ensuring long-lasting rides spanning 60-110 miles on a single charge.
Constructed from robust 6061 aluminum alloy, this e-bike offers durability without compromising on comfort. The full suspension system, paired with hydraulic disc brakes, ensures a smooth, safe ride even in challenging conditions. The professional SHIMANO 7-speed shift gear adds to its versatility, conquering steep inclines with ease.
A significant concern is the lack of a key-start mechanism. This, coupled with the rampant bike theft reported in places like Las Vegas, could present a security issue. Thieves could potentially operate the bike without needing a key, making it an easy target despite the use of chain locks, which can unfortunately be compromised.
Moreover, the bike lacks a rear light, a feature that enhances visibility and safety, particularly during night rides. Given the price point of over $2000, one might expect this to be a standard inclusion.
Although it might be slightly heavier and comes with a reminder to keep the original package for potential returns, it is a worthwhile investment for those seeking a dependable, high-quality e-bike that can tackle diverse riding conditions.
Young 750W Mountain Ebike
Price: $1,899.00
Pros:
- High-Quality Components and Low Maintenance: The bike features a hydro-formed 6061 aluminum frame that reduces up to 98% of common mechanical failures. It also boasts premium components like a lockable fork suspension, 3.5″ colored LCD display, sensitive hydraulic disc brakes, bright headlight and taillight, and a thumb throttle, ensuring a superior riding experience with minimal maintenance.
- Easy Assembly and Customer Support: The e-bike comes 95% pre-assembled, and a helpful assembly video is provided. In case of any issues, the technical and service team offers one-to-one support, giving you confidence in your purchase.
- Versatile Riding Modes and Excellent Performance: With three riding modes (pure pedal mode, pedal + electric mode, and pure electric mode), 7-speed gears, and 5-level pedal assist, the e-bike is perfect for various terrains and riding styles. It has a max speed of 28 MPH by pedal and 20 MPH by throttle, with a range of up to 80 miles by pedal and 40 miles by throttle.
Cons:
- Heavy Bike: The e-bike is quite large and heavy, which could make it challenging for some riders to maneuver or transport.
- Not Suitable for High-Speed Off-Road Riding: Although the bike can handle various terrains, it may not be ideal for high-speed riding on rough trails due to its weight and design.
- Limited Accessories Included: While the bike comes with some accessories like fenders and a rear rack, buyers might need to invest in additional accessories to customize their riding experience further.
Personal view:
Our team is genuinely impressed with the Young E-Scout Pro e-bike. Its advanced battery design, high-quality components, and ease of assembly make it an excellent option for those looking for a reliable and low-maintenance e-bike. We appreciate the versatile riding modes, which allow riders to enjoy various terrains and cater to different preferences.
The bike’s weight may be a drawback for some, but the superior performance and features it offers more than make up for it. We believe that this e-bike is an outstanding choice for anyone seeking a durable, powerful, and versatile e-bike without breaking the bank. Whether you’re a seasoned rider or just starting, the Young E-Scout Pro promises to enhance your riding experience and make every ride a memorable adventure.
Vivi Foldable 500W Electric Mountain Bike
Price: $499.99
Pros:
- Comfortable Riding Experience: The double shock absorption system provides a smooth and comfortable ride, ensuring you can easily navigate bumpy roads or uneven terrain without compromising comfort. The front and rear disc brake design offers sensitive braking and quick heat dissipation for added safety.
- Foldable & Lightweight Design: VIVI’s folding electric bike features a lightweight aluminum alloy collapsible frame, allowing for quick folding and easy storage. The double-walled aluminum alloy rims offer greater durability and a faster ride with less drag. Its detachable waterproof line design also makes it easy to replace accessories.
- Strong Anti-Slip Tires & Convenient Thumb Throttle: The 26″ strong anti-slip tires provide excellent traction on various surfaces, including gravel, rain, dirt, and sand. The thumb throttle allows for effortless acceleration, making it a user-friendly option for riders.
- Versatile Riding Modes: This bike offers three working modes – Ebike, Assisted Bicycle, and Normal Bike – providing flexibility for different riding preferences. With the LED smart meter button, you can choose between 3-speed modes for assisted bicycles and ebikes, promising a range of 44-50 miles in assisted mode or 22-25 miles in full power mode.
Cons:
- Bulkiness When Folded: Although the bike is foldable, the handle and pedals do not fold, making it bulky and heavy when trying to fit it into a vehicle’s cargo area. A sturdy bike rack may be necessary for transportation.
- Battery & Wiring: The battery is large and heavy, with two cords for charging and connecting to the bike. Threading the connection cord through the small hole at the bottom of the bag can be challenging and time-consuming.
- Accessories & Instructions: The bike’s default seat is narrow and uncomfortable, requiring an upgrade for added comfort. The included bell has a weak sound, and the instruction manual is poorly written, which may cause confusion during assembly.
Personal view:
Our team has been thoroughly impressed by the VIVI folding electric bike’s performance and versatility. Its double shock absorption system and anti-slip tires make it a joy to ride on various terrains, and the foldable design allows for easy storage. The LED smart meter and multiple riding modes cater to various preferences, making it suitable for a wide range of users. However, we do believe that there is room for improvement, particularly in the accessory and instruction department. We would recommend upgrading the seat and bell for a more comfortable and safe riding experience. Overall, we believe this electric bike is an excellent investment, especially given its competitive price point and solid performance.
ET.Cycle T720 Electric Fat Tire Bike
Price: $1,299.00
Pros:
- Heavy-Duty Racks: This e-bike comes with front and rear racks that are sturdy and durable, providing ample space for carrying cargo during rides. These high-quality racks add significant value to the bike and make it a great choice for those who need extra storage capacity.
- Top-Notch Body Structure & Comfort: The ergonomic handlebar grips, extra-wide saddle, and well-placed handlebars offer a comfortable riding experience, while the mechanical disc brake system with left brake sensor ensures safety. The bike also comes with removable, lockable batteries and a built-in USB port for phone charging during rides.
- Excellent Value & Features: The bike comes with numerous features, such as fenders, racks, and handlebars, offering great value at its price point. Its durable construction and performance make it an excellent investment for those considering an e-bike.
Cons:
- Road-Focused Tires: The tires are more suited for road driving, which may not be ideal for riders who frequently venture onto snow, dirt, or off-road trails. Upgrading to knobby tires may be necessary for optimal performance on these surfaces.
- Battery Shipment: Although the battery is included with the purchase, it is shipped separately, which may cause initial confusion or delays. However, the company has shown promptness in providing tracking information upon request.
- Initial Shipping Error: There have been instances where the bike arrived without a battery, causing inconvenience to the customer. Leon Cycle’s customer service, however, has been responsive and efficient in resolving the issue.
Personal view:
The heavy-duty racks, long-lasting battery, and comfortable body structure make it an excellent choice for both casual riders and daily commuters. While the road-focused tires may not suit everyone’s needs, a simple tire upgrade can resolve this issue for off-road enthusiasts. The minor shipping concerns were easily addressed by the company’s responsive customer service. Overall, we highly recommend this e-bike for its outstanding features, performance, and value, making it a solid investment for anyone considering an electric bicycle.
PASELEC Electric Mountain Bike
Price: $1,499.00
Pros:
- Reliable Range: The PASELEC GS9 e-bike features a 48V 13Ah LG cell battery that provides a range of up to 45 miles, allowing for worry-free trips. The battery also includes eight safety protections, ensuring reliability and eliminating concerns about fires.
- Safety Assurance: The bike’s front and rear hydraulic disc brakes respond quickly and offer shorter braking distances, enhancing rider safety. This quick response is essential for high-speed riding and emergency stops.
- Versatility: The GS9 e-bike is suitable for various use scenarios, including mountain biking, commuting, leisure, retirement living, camping, hunting, exercise, and physical rehabilitation, making it an adaptable choice for many riders.
Cons:
- Limited Brake Power: The 160mm brake discs may not provide sufficient stopping power on steep slopes, potentially causing accidents. Some riders have recommended upgrading to 180mm discs for better performance.
- Weak and Incompatible Lights: The front light is not very bright, and the rear light does not fit well on the bike, requiring additional modifications or replacements to ensure adequate visibility and safety during night rides.
Personal view:
The impressive range and safety features are definite advantages, but certain issues like poor shock performance and weak lights may require upgrades for optimal use. The bike’s adaptability and strong after-sales support, coupled with its numerous positive reviews, make it an appealing choice for riders seeking a dependable e-bike for different purposes. With some minor modifications and improvements, the GS9 could provide an even more enjoyable and safe riding experience.
Vivi Electric Mountain Bike
Price: $799.99
Pros:
- Smooth and Fast Ride: Users have reported that the bike provides a smooth and fast ride experience, making it enjoyable to use for both exercise and leisure.
- Versatility in Modes: The fat tire electric bike offers three working modes (E-bike, Assisted Bicycle, and Normal Bike), which cater to different user preferences and needs. This versatility allows users to choose the mode that best suits their riding style and requirements.
- Comprehensive LCD Display: The LCD display shows crucial information such as support modes, current driving speed, battery level, and mileage indicator, making it easy for users to monitor their ride statistics.
Cons:
- Assembly Issues: Some users have reported that the bike was assembled incorrectly (front fork facing the wrong way) or that the bike seat’s color did not match the rest of the bike. These issues may require further adjustments or replacements to ensure the bike is aesthetically pleasing and functional.
- Seat Comfort: The original bike seat has been described as uncomfortable, prompting some users to purchase a different seat to improve their riding experience.
- Customer Service Concerns: Although some users have praised the customer service, others have experienced difficulty getting prompt responses or satisfactory solutions to their issues.
Personal view:
We appreciate the versatility of the three working modes and find the LCD display extremely helpful in keeping track of our ride statistics. However, we are disappointed by the assembly issues and seat comfort, which may require additional adjustments or purchases. While customer service experiences seem to vary, we believe this bike is still a great value for the price, and we look forward to taking it out for more rides on various terrains.
HAPPYRUN Fat Tire Electric Mountain Bike for Adults
Price: $1,299.00
Pros:
- Easy Assembly: The electric bike comes 90% pre-assembled, which means less time and effort is required to set up the bike, allowing users to start riding almost immediately.
- Commendable Customer Service: Users have praised the customer service provided by the company, with quick responses to questions and concerns, ensuring a satisfactory experience.
- Sturdy Design: The reinforced metal bars strategically placed in the bike’s design make it feel solid and durable, allowing users to ride on various terrains, such as steep hills and damaged roads, with ease.
Cons:
- Limited Speed Settings: The panel on the bike offers only three speed options, which might be limiting for some users who prefer more varied speed settings.
- Battery Installation: Some users have experienced difficulties when inserting the battery, making it necessary to ensure the battery is fully seated before use.
Personal view:
We appreciate the easy assembly process, which allows us to get on the road quickly, and the responsive customer service provided by the company. However, we acknowledge that the bike’s weight might be a concern for those who need to lift or carry it frequently. Additionally, we’d prefer more varied speed settings for a personalized riding experience. Despite these drawbacks, we believe this bike is a fantastic choice for those looking for a durable, high-quality electric bike that can handle various terrains with ease. We can’t wait to explore new routes and enjoy the smooth ride this bike offers.
PHILODO Electric Mountain Bike for Adults
Price: $1,299.00
Pros:
- Safety and Comfort Features: The bike is equipped with front and rear hydraulic disc brakes for quick stopping, a lockable suspension fork for smoother rides on different terrains, and an easy-to-read LCD screen.
- Versatile Riding Modes: The electric bike offers three different modes – pure electric, pedal-assist, and classic bike mode –The bike offers flexibility for various riding preferences and situations, such as commuting to work or exploring trails on weekends.
- Colourful: It has three colors to choose from, blue, red, and green, all of which are very beautiful and atmospheric, and have a shiny paint feel, which is very eye-catching
Cons:
- Security Concerns: The key only locks the battery to the bike, but does not control power, meaning anyone could potentially turn on the bike and ride away. A lock is recommended for added security.
- Battery Installation: Some users have found it challenging to install the battery due to the tight fit and the need to move the controller bag out of the way.
- Motor Disengagement: The motor’s time to disengage has been reported to be slow, although some users have learned to adapt their riding style to compensate for this.
Personal view:
We appreciate the safety and comfort features, which make riding a more enjoyable experience. However, we are concerned about the security issue with the key only locking the battery and not controlling power, so we recommend investing in a good lock for added protection. The battery installation process could be improved, and the motor disengagement time may take some getting used to, but these are not deal-breakers for us. Overall, we believe this electric bike is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and versatile option at an affordable price. We look forward to experiencing the flexibility and freedom it offers while riding through city streets or off-road trails.
TotGuard Electric Mountain Bike
Price: $629.99
Pros:
- Excellent value for money: The bike offers great features and performance at a relatively low price, making it a fantastic option for those not wanting to spend thousands on a high-end bike. The numerous compliments and people’s surprise at the low cost show that it’s a steal for the price.
- Customization potential: The bike offers ample opportunities for personalization and upgrades, such as adding a phone holder, rear light module, trailer for a child, and more. This makes the bike adaptable to individual needs and preferences.
- Robust packaging and easy assembly: The bike arrives well-protected in sturdy packaging, ensuring that it’s unlikely to be damaged in transit. The assembly process is straightforward, with gears and brakes set up almost perfectly out of the box, allowing riders to hit the road quickly.
Cons:
- Potential safety hazard: The brake/shift lines near the main upper shock mount may wear through quickly, posing a safety risk. While this issue can be addressed with rerouting and monitoring, it’s essential to be aware of this potential hazard and take necessary precautions.
- Limited suitability for extreme conditions: Although the bike performs well on hills and hardpacked off-road conditions, it is not suitable for extremely challenging mountain biking or riding through beach sand. This limitation may affect those looking for a more rugged and versatile bike.
Personal view:
We were initially skeptical about the large diameter fat tires, but they’ve proven to be a pleasant surprise in terms of performance. The bike’s customization potential made us feel like we could truly make it our own, tailoring it to our unique needs and preferences. On a more whimsical note, we found the bike’s original name, “Totguard,” quite amusing, and appreciated the opportunity to rechristen it to something more fitting. While the folding inconvenience and potential safety hazard are concerns, being aware of these issues and addressing them proactively can still make this bike a great choice for those who are handy and vigilant.
The range of an e-MTB depends on various factors, including battery capacity, motor efficiency, rider weight, terrain, and the level of pedal-assist used. On average, most electric mountain bikes offer a range of 20-50 miles (32-80 km). However, higher-capacity batteries and more efficient motor systems can extend the range up to 60-100 miles (97-161 km) under ideal conditions.
Charging times vary depending on the battery capacity and the charger used. On average, a typical e-MTB battery takes 4-6 hours to charge fully using a standard charger. Some e-bikes offer fast-charging options, which can reduce charging times to 2-3 hours. If it’s the first time, then the charging time may take longer. Read our first-time charge guide for e-bikes.
Most e-MTBs are designed to withstand light rain and wet conditions. However, it’s crucial to check the bike’s IP (Ingress Protection) rating, which indicates the level of protection against water and dust. An IP rating of IP65 or higher should provide adequate protection for riding in the rain. Keep in mind that submerging an e-bike in water or exposing it to high-pressure water jets is not recommended, as it may cause damage to the electrical components.
Laws and regulations regarding e-bikes vary by country and region. In most cases, Class 1 e-MTBs do not require a special license or registration, as they are treated similarly to traditional bicycles. However, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with your local e-bike laws to ensure compliance. Read more about the license guide for e-bikes.
E-MTBs are generally classified as Class 1 e-bikes, which are limited to a maximum assisted speed of 20 mph (32 km/h) in most jurisdictions. Some e-MTBs may reach slightly higher speeds, but it’s essential to comply with local laws and regulations regarding e-bike speed limits.
Yes, it’s possible to convert a traditional mountain bike into an e-MTB using conversion kits available on the market. These kits typically include a motor, battery, and controller, which can be installed on your existing bike. While conversion kits can be a cost-effective option, it’s important to consider factors such as compatibility, weight distribution, and warranty implications before making the decision to convert your mountain bike.
E-MTBs are generally heavier than traditional mountain bikes due to the added weight of the motor, battery, and other electrical components. The average weight of an e-MTB is around 45-55 lbs (20-25 kg), while a regular mountain bike typically weighs between 25-35 lbs (11-16 kg). Despite
Conclusion
As we reach the finish line of our electrifying journey through the world of electric mountain bikes, it’s clear that the e-MTB revolution is here to stay, and for good reason. These powerful, versatile machines have opened up a realm of possibilities for both seasoned mountain bikers and newcomers alike, conquering trails and elevating the outdoor experience in ways we could have only imagined a few years ago.
We hope that our comprehensive reviews, expert insights, and helpful tips have armed you with the knowledge and confidence to embark on your own electric-powered adventures. Whether you’re looking to conquer steep inclines, explore undiscovered trails, or simply enjoy the great outdoors with a little extra boost, there’s an e-MTB out there that’s perfect for you.
So go ahead, strap on your helmet, and get ready to experience the exhilarating fusion of nature, technology, and human spirit. Embrace the thrill of the ride and join the electric mountain bike movement, as you redefine your relationship with the trails and discover the boundless potential that lies within you. Happy trails, and may the electric force be with you!
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