Electric Mountain Bikes
E-mountain bikes are a relatively new addition to the mountain biking scene, and have quickly become popular with riders of all skill levels. With the help of an electric motor and a battery, e-mountain bikes provide an extra boost of power to tackle challenging terrain and make the ride easier and more enjoyable.
Some key benefits of e-mountain biking:
Accessibility: it’s easier for riders of all skill levels and ages to enjoy the sport. The electric assist allows you to tackle steep climbs, challenging terrain, and longer rides without feeling exhausted. This makes mountain biking more inclusive, accessible and enjoyable for those who might otherwise struggle with the physical demands of traditional mountain biking.
Versatility: they can be used for a variety of riding styles, including cross-country, trail riding, and even enduro and downhill. With the right setup, e-mountain bikes can handle challenging terrain and still provide a smooth and enjoyable ride.
Longer Rides: you can tackle longer rides and explore more trails in a single day. The electric assist provides an extra boost of energy, allowing riders to ride further and longer without feeling exhausted.
Sustainability: an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional mountain biking. With the electric assist, riders can use less energy and reduce their carbon footprint, making it a sustainable way to enjoy the outdoors. Ok, that’s a stretch…
It's important to choose a bike that fits your riding style and the type of terrain you'll be riding on. There are several factors to consider, including the motor and battery system, suspension, frame material, and wheel size. A good bike shop can help you find the right e-mountain bike and ensure that it’s set up properly.
Whether you're a seasoned mountain biker or a beginner, an e-mountain bike is a great investment that can provide many years of fun and adventure on the trails.
Battery Size
Electric bikes (ebikes) rely on a battery to power their electric motor and provide a boost of assistance to the rider. The battery size is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing an ebike, as it directly affects the bike's range and performance.
Key considerations:
Capacity: is measured in kilowatt-hours (kWh) and indicates how much energy the battery can store. The larger the capacity, the longer the range of the bike. For example, a battery with a capacity of 500Wh can provide a range of up to 50 miles, while a battery with a capacity of 750Wh can provide a range of up to 75 miles.
Watt-hours (Wh) per pound: The weight of an ebike battery is also an important consideration, as a heavier battery will affect the handling and performance of the bike. The watt-hours per pound (Wh/lb) is a useful measure of the weight-to-capacity ratio of an ebike battery. A higher Wh/lb ratio indicates a lighter and more efficient battery.
Voltage: affects the speed and power of the electric assist. A higher voltage battery provides a stronger and more responsive assist, but also reduces the range. The standard voltage for ebike batteries is 36V or 48V.
Amperage: the amperage of an ebike battery is measured in amperes (A) and indicates the rate at which the battery can deliver its energy. The higher the amperage, the faster the bike can accelerate and the more power it can deliver.
Charging time: depends on the capacity of the battery and the charging rate of the charger. A battery with a larger capacity will take longer to charge, but also provides a longer range. A fast charger can reduce the charging time, but it may also reduce the lifespan of the battery.
When choosing an ebike, the capacity, weight, voltage, amperage, and charging time of the battery are important considerations that will affect the range and performance of your bike. Choose an ebike battery that fits your needs and riding style, and keep it properly maintained and stored to extend its lifespan.
