Skip to main content

Electric mountain bikes: the essential info

AMFLOW
-
17/07/2024

Let’s dive into the world of electric mountain biking, or e-MTB. This isn’t just another tech fad—it’s a complete shift in what’s possible with two wheels. Motor-assisted bikes were just a twinkle in the eye of inventors back in the late 1800s. Now, we’ve got electric bikes that blend cutting-edge tech with hardcore trail performance, and we’re proud to say that Amflow has embraced this wave innovation as a way to enhance the experience of mountain bikers everywhere.

Understanding the rise of electric mountain biking

The e-MTB scene has grown significantly in recent years. Just check out the stats—the global market for electric bikes was $24 billion in 2020, and it’s expected to skyrocket to over $46 billion by 2026. It’s undeniable that e-MTBs are taking the biking world by storm, making gnarly trails and steep climbs more accessible to more riders, regardless of fitness level.

What are the advantages of electric mountain bikes over traditional MTBs?

So, why are people so pumped about e-MTBs?

Accessibility: Think of e-MTBs as your ticket to the wildest trails, no matter your skill level. Whether you’re a newbie or a seasoned rider, the electric assist means you can tackle those tough inclines and rugged paths with ease.

Extended Range: Ever wanted to explore those far-off trails but didn’t have the legs for it? E-MTBs let you ride longer and farther without feeling like you’ve been through a marathon.

Climbing Efficiency: Hills? What hills? With an e-MTB, you’ll glide up even super-steep ascents like a pro, conserving your energy for the fun parts—like bombing down the other side.

Reduced Physical Strain: Riding an e-MTB takes the pressure off your joints and muscles. Perfect for older riders, or anyone nursing an injury, who still wants to shred the trails.

Enhanced Ride: Experience E-MTBs let you choose your own adventure. Crank up the motor for an effortless ride or dial it back for a workout that leaves you breathless—it’s your call.

What components are unique on an E-MTB?

Now, let’s take a look at what makes an e-MTB so different from other bikes:

Motor

The beating heart of any e-MTB. These motors are typically located in the rear hub, or right smack in the middle as a mid-drive. Mid-drives are the rockstars here, offering better balance and handling—which is why we deploy DJI’s epic motor unit in that position on our Amflow PL Carbon and Amflow PL Carbon Pro models. We’re honored to be the first e-MTB brand in the world to get this tech, and we (along with our riders) have been completely blown away by its performance.

Battery

Lithium-ion batteries pack a punch and are usually tucked away inside the frame, keeping them safe from the elements. More watt-hours mean more playtime—with most e-bikes on the market today boasting around 600-750Wh capacities. We offer two options on the Amflow PL Carbon Pro, 600Wh or 800Wh. The Amflow PL Carbon features an 800Wh battery. We’re also pleased to say that our 600Wh option weighs just 2.87kg, which is less than the industry average for a battery of that capacity and makes it a more efficient part of a whole bike compared to heavier competitors.

Controller and display unit

The brains of the operation. The controller dishes out power from the battery to the motor, while the built-in display keeps you in the loop with information like speed, distance, battery life, and power level.

Reinforced frame and components

E-MTBs need to be tough. Their frames are built from strong stuff like aluminum or carbon fiber to handle the extra weight and stress from the motor and battery. Likewise, we spec our Amflow PL Carbon and Amflow PL Carbon Pro with tough 29er wheels.

The different types of e-MTB: full-suspension vs. hardtail

E-MTBs come in two flavors: full-suspension and hardtail. The hardtail mountain bike pre-dates full-suspension versions, and they are generally thought of as the ‘simpler’ option, typically costing much less—although these days full-suspension electric mountain bikes are much more accessible than they once were. We’ll jump into the differences below.

Full-suspension electric mountain bike

Full-suspension bikes have suspension on both the front fork and rear frame. These bikes handle bumps like a champ, making them perfect for the more gnarly or technical trails. Downhill runs and rocky paths? Bring it on. Our Amflow PL Carbon and Amflow PL Carbon Pro models are full-suspension electric MTBs, with the Pro model using a FOX36 Factory Grip 2 to deliver 160mm of travel, alongside its FOX Float rear shock.

Hardtail e-MTB

Simplicity rules here—suspension up front, solid in the back. Hardtails are lighter and less complicated, making them great for smoother trails and cross-country rides. They’re also easier on the wallet. But if you’re hitting really rough terrain, they almost certainly won’t be as comfortable.

Advice on choosing the right e-MTB

Choosing your perfect e-MTB is all about matching your style and needs:

Riding style

Think about where you’ll be riding most. Full suspension is awesome for rough, technical trails, while hardtails shine on smoother paths and long climbs.

Motor and battery

Check out the motor power and battery life. Bigger motors (500W or more) handle tough climbs better, and more watt-hours means longer rides.

Frame size and fit

Comfort is key. Make sure the bike fits you well. Most brands have sizing charts to help you pick the right frame.

Weight

If you’re planning on a lot of lifting or transport, consider the weight. Lighter bikes are easier to handle, but might compromise on power or battery life.

Budget

E-MTBs range from a few thousand dollars to well over ten thousand. Set a budget and look for the best bang for your buck. Don’t forget to factor in essential gear like helmets and gloves.

Test ride

If you can, take a few models for a spin. There’s no substitute for firsthand experience when it comes to finding the right ride. You can find an Amflow stockist using our handy tool, and find out more about a test ride today.

Electric mountain biking is more than just a sport

It’s a gateway to adventure, pushing boundaries and redefining what’s possible on two wheels. E-MTBs have made trail riding accessible to more people in more places, from hardcore enthusiasts to casual explorers. With a perfect blend of human and electric power, these bikes open up a new world of possibilities, letting you conquer trails that once seemed out of reach.

As tech keeps advancing, e-MTBs are only going to get better, more efficient, and more fun. So, gear up, hit the trails, and feel the electric buzz of freedom and adventure. Welcome to the future of mountain biking—it’s going to be an awesome ride!

Amflow PL

Amflow PL

The Amflow PL electric mountain bike offers 850 watts of power in an ultra-light sub-20kg build. With an unrivaled combination of power, range, and weight, it delivers the ultimate ride.

Learn more