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Electric mountain bikes continue taking the market by storm.
Many people like using them as they have a motor to provide climbing power up slopes. Furthermore, electric mountain bikes are more eco-friendly than other motorized options.
If you are looking for the best electric mountain bike, you have come to the right place. This article reviews the best ones on the market to help your decision-making process.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Electric Mountain Bikes
- OUR TOP PICK: ECOTRIC 26“ Fat Tire Bike
- RUNNER-UP: Hicient 250W Ebike 21 Speed Gear
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Speedrid Fat Tire Electric Bicycle
Comparison of the Best Electric Mountain Bikes
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What Should I Look for When Buying an Electric Mountain Bike?
You need to know what to look for before making a confident decision. Here are the tips to use in your quest for the best electric mountain bike.
Frame Construction and Speed
While the focus of most e mountain bike buyers is on battery life, it's important not to overlook the frame. Given the added weight of the battery and electric motor, a tough and sturdy frame is even more important than a traditional bike. A good frame will handle the extra weight without breaking on rough terrain.
The right model with good frame construction allows for proper weight distribution so that the bike maintains speed. Modern electronic mountain bikes should have a speed of around 30MPH.
Motor Rating
The motor determines the power performance of your electric mountain bike. The average electric bike motor rating is 250 watts.
Photo credit: Electrek.co
Battery Performance
You need to select a bike with good battery life. Imagine how annoying it would be having to drag your heavy electric bike uphill due to battery failure. We recommend choosing a battery that can last at least 15 miles at 20 MPH.
Style and Design
Some models allow users to switch biking modes. For example, you can change it to electric mode if you want to avoid pedaling for some time. Some come with a foldable design to make them convenient to carry and easy transportation.
Review of the Best E Mountain Bikes
Electric mountain bikes come with convenient features to make riding fun. However, different brands have unique characteristics to meet different preferences. Here are some options for you.
Best Overall:
ECOTRIC 26"Fat Tire Bike
pros
cons
What Recent Buyers Report
Most buyers love the easy setup process. Anyone with an average mechanical ability with minimal knowledge can assemble it effortlessly. The handlebar is comfortable, and most users acknowledge its good braking power for quick stopping.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Ecotric is a 250-pound load capacity bike that can accommodate different sizes of people. One distinctive factor that places it above other models is the use of a powerful motor to attain a maximum speed of 23MPH.
Another outstanding feature about this bike is the use of disk brakes, which provide sufficient braking to stop immediately, even at full speed. The coolest aspect is that it boasts an anti-skidding tire, which is favorable for difficult terrain.
Summing up, the manufacturer used a 26-inch alloy, which lands this bike in the lightweight category.
Bottom Line
Ecotric is a powerful bike that enjoys the service of a high-speed motor. Safety is paramount as the designer mounted it with sufficient brakes to provide adequate stopping power. The versatile tire allows one to cycle on multiple surfaces safely and with ease.
Runner-up:
Hicient 250W Ebike 21 Speed Gear
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
Consumers like this bike because of its durability. They had an easy time climbing mountain slopes without encountering many difficulties. The assembly instructions are straightforward, and any beginner can set it up within minutes. It is a durable product worth your dollar.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This bike has a versatile design. It comes with rugged wheels and tires, which allow you to cruise it on almost any terrain. For instance, you can ride over rocks, sand, snow, and wet surfaces effortlessly.
The bike enjoys the backing of a high-speed motor to provide enough power to climb mountain paths. The attached lithium battery has a range of at least 20 miles.
Interestingly, this bike has three riding modes. One can choose the electric mode to cruise without pedaling.
Bottom Line
The bike is powerful and flexible. It makes mountain biking accessible and fun for anyone who struggles to pedal uphill.
You can choose the suitable biking mode to meet your needs. Not to forget, the designer used a powerful braking system to ensure adequate stopping power to prevent collision with other trail users.
Best for the Money:
Speedrid Fat Tire Electric Bicycle
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
The bike offers great service to any mountain biker. Buyers use less time to set it up since most parts come already assembled. Recent buyers appreciate the fact that it has limitless use. For instance, you could cruise it over sand or rocky terrain easily.
Why it Stands Out to Us
The most notable part of this bike is the 500-watt motor that provides enough power to climb mountains. Beyond that, there is an LCD screen display that shows you all the statistics at a glance. You can use it to know the available power on your battery and make the appropriate decision.
The bikes come with a double layer aluminum rim, which is durable. The front is made of high-strength carbon steel for shock absorption. It uses a disc brake system that is efficient and assures you of enough safety. The bike isn't just suitable for bike path riding and natural surface trails. Its fat tire setup gives it increased traction off-path in sand or gravel.
Bottom Line
The bike has advanced features such as an LCD screen display to indicate the current statistics. The high-capacity battery can serve one for several miles before going for the next charge. Most importantly, the powerful motor combined with fat tires can take you anywhere a traditional mountain bike could.
Best Folding Electric Mountain Bike:
ANCHEER Electric Bike Folding
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
Most recent buyers are impressed by the sturdiness of this product. It has a strong wheel that can ride on various terrain without running the risk of a mechanical breakdown. As such, one can use it over a long period without making any heavily demanding repairs. The attached motor gives the bike a greater climbing ability.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This bike is useful as it has three biking modes. In case you do not want to pedal, you can switch to an electric mode and enjoy the fun. The attached battery serves you well for at least 30 miles before the next recharge.
Assembling this bike is a walkover since it comes 85% assembled. The anti-slip tires allow the user to cruise through various terrains. You don't have to spend a lot of energy while on the mountain as the attached motor can increase your climbing power.
Bottom Line
This bike boasts a robust construction with durable materials that have good shock absorption abilities. Moreover, stronger wheels are convenient when riding over different types of surfaces. Beyond that, the user can change the biking modes to suit the most appropriate one.
Best Full Suspension Electric Mountain Bike:
eAhora AM100
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
Most users like the fact that you can change the biking mode as you find it fit to suit your varying cycling needs. One more interesting factor is that the smart screen display requires a password hence the bike is safe from strangers. Long battery life remains a surety as the designer has used high-density lithium cells that boost cell life.
Why it Stands Out to Us
Eahora enjoys E-pass technology that extends the lifespan of the motor and the battery for better performance. For that matter, the motor can serve you to a tune of between 60 to 80 miles. You can use the smarter tech screen at a glance to understand the current bike parameters.
You will have an easy moment setting up this bike since 85% comes in already installed. The bike has slip-resistant tires to serve you in urban and off-road functions while retaining comfort.
It has a USB port to charge small electronic components like phones.
Bottom Line
This is a 220 capacity bike that accommodates users of different sizes. Versatility is what defines this bike as one can use it on both road and off-road functions. You can navigate in different biking modes as per your preferences. You can still charge your phone, courtesy of the available USB charging port.
Fastest Electric Mountain Bike:
ECOTRIC Powerful Fat Tire Electric Bicycle 26"
pros
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What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers took note of the incredible power that this bike has. They can ride it on sloppy surfaces without using much effort as the activated motor provides sufficient power to aid in the process. They also admire the fact that it withstands different weights without breaking. The load capacity remains a marvel among most users.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This bike comes with an ergonomic design for added comfort. The user can ride it for a longer duration without any discomfort. The anti-slip thick tire can cruise various surfaces without wearing out prematurely.
The manufacturers mounted a disc braking system to improve the braking power. The cool thing is that it has a power lock and battery lock function to limit usage. Typically, it is a 7-speed system that runs at different speeds to match your preferences.
Installation is never a challenge as it takes only a few minutes for any beginner.
Bottom Line
The bike allows the rider to attain a maximum speed of 20MPH. The disc braking system provides adequate stopping power when engaged. The reflector helps minimize accidents, especially when riding at night.
What is an Electric Mountain Bike and How Does it Work?
An electric bike is one that comes with a motor to help the user along the way with less effort required for pedaling. It works when you switch the motor into action as you pedal. The motor senses the amount of power you put into the pedals and responds proportionally. In other words, the harder you pedal, the more assistance you get from the motor.
The electric mountain power bike gives you an option to select the type of power you want. For instance, you can switch the power altogether and ride on non-electric mode.
Photo credit: Ecells.com
Benefits of Investing in a Quality Electric Mountain Bike
The electric bike has excellent benefits to the user as highlighted below:
Fitness-friendly
An electric bike is a great product to cut back on your monthly gym membership. The more you use an electric bike, the more you gain on the physical fitness aspect. As you pedal in fresh air and sun, you improve your mental and physical health. It is a good device to invest in for your overall well-being.
Eco-friendliness
The electric mountain bike is a great investment. It produces clean power you can feel good about. Furthermore, you will be on the safe side of the law as the small size is legal in many places that dirt bikes or ATVs aren't. It doesn't produce harmful chemical compounds to pollute the public lands all mountain bikers share and enjoy. While e-bikes still aren’t allowed on a designated non-motorized trail, recent moves by land managers indicate that may change shortly.
Convenience and Comfort
Electric mountain bikes make your journey a comfortable one, regardless of where you are traveling. It becomes more comfortable when you are crashing the slope with some power behind you. Again, such bikes grant the user the ability to enjoy riding in hostile weather conditions such as snow and ice. The bike assists you in going further beyond your outdoor adventures.
Pros and Cons of Electric Mountain Bikes
Pros
Here are some pros:
Easy and Cheaper Transportation
Electric mountain bikes are cheap to use for your short travel needs. For instance, you do not have to get a registration or a license plate for such bikes. Furthermore, you don't have to pay for parking. The cost of charging a battery is low.
Improved Health
Whenever you use an electric mountain bike in your daily life, it enhances your physical fitness. You will be exercising your muscles, heart, lungs, and other body parts by putting through vigorous physical activity. In the process, you record gains in your general health.
Sweat-free Commutes
The bikes help you get to your destination sweat-free. This is so because you will be using minimal physical effort. They have a mounted motor that provides enough backing to simplify your riding experience.
Cons
Here are some cons:
Extra Weight
Electric bikes are heavier than other conventional bikes. This is due to the presence of extra components, such as motors and batteries.
They can be a bit problematic when you are ferrying them from one spot to the next, especially after they have run out of charge.
Complexity of Parts
Electric bikes have specialized parts that make them more unique. Some of these parts make the bike appear more complicated and may be hard to find for replacements. The cost of repairing such parts is relatively high.
Photo credit: Bicycling.com
Types of Electric Mountain Bikes
There are three types of electric bikes, as discussed in this section.
Type 1 E-Bike
Also known as pedal assist. Such a bike requires the rider to pedal to use the motor. It behaves like a traditional mountain bike except that the attached motor senses how you pedal and comes into action to assist in your peddling efforts. This model may have a throttle or not. It has no age limit and can attain a maximum speed of 20 MPH.
Type 2 E-Bike
It is a throttle-only bike. The throttle controls the motor. The user does not have to pedal to benefit from its motor. You only have to crank the throttle to get the power. It allows one to accelerate when negotiating a corner, thereby increasing traction. When you pedal-less, you run out of battery power.
Photo credit: Electricbikesinc.com
Type 3 E-Bike
You can operate at a maximum speed of 28 MPH when using this option. However, a helmet is a must.
It is the right option for the user who likes hassle-free commuting. The user must be over 17 years old to use it. It is noteworthy that a license is not required.
E-MTB Comparisons
It can be hard to decide with so many variations out there. Here are some comparisons to help.
Hardtail vs Full Suspension
A full-suspension bike is your best choice if you are ready to dig deeper into your pocket. It is a suitable option to ride over rough terrain with roots and rocks. The rear and front suspension provide a smoother ride with good traction.
Such bikes have excellent shock absorption. It reduces fatigue and allows one to ride faster. By absorbing more shock, you can ride at a faster speed over technical sections of the trail.
The hardtail mountain bike is suitable for you if you are running on a budget. It allows the user to apply it over smooth trails to get a fast and fun-filling riding. The front suspension can soak moderate bumps to increase comfort.
The hardtail mountain bike requires little maintenance since it has fewer moving parts, which are less costly. However, it also requires some essential maintenance to keep it in sound form.
This bike weighs less than its full suspension counterpart. Less weight is advantageous when you are covering long distances or climbing.
E MTB vs Road Bike
Manufacturers design road bikes for comfortable riding on pavement. The road bikes have drop handlebars and skinny tires and are preferable for on-road racing. They can be uncomfortable when used on unpaved trails. Typically, they are lighter than E MTB bikes.
Mountain bikes are the best alternative for riding on rough off-road trails. They use either upright or flat handlebars.
Some mountain bikes have shock absorbers for increased comfort. They are suitable for commuting or touring.
Photo credit: Ebike-mtb.com
How to Clean an Electric Mountain Bike
Cleaning your bike helps extend its life. Here's how to keep your bike clean.
Requirements
- Chain lube
- A bucket full of water
- Sponge and brushes
- Disc brake cleaner
- Soap or bike cleaner
- Bike degreaser
- User manual
Photo credit: Mbr.co.uk
Procedure
- Access the user manual to determine the amount of water the bike can withstand. A higher number indicates how more waterproof it is.
- Remove the battery to avoid complications.
- Turn the bike upside down for it to rest on the seat and the handlebar.
- Use a garden hose or a small cup to wet the bike.
- Scrub it with some clothing to eliminate dirt in critical areas like the brakes and tires.
- Clean the drivetrain using a bike degreaser. Allow it to settle for five minutes and wipe it with a wet piece of cloth.
- Clean the brakes with a disk brake cleaner.
- Use dry cloth pieces to wipe adamant water particles on the bike. Do it patiently without leaving any traces of water particles, as they can make it look dirty again.
- Allow the battery compartment to dry off before reinstalling the battery.
View the following video for additional details on the entire process.
Electric Mountain Bike Laws
These types of vehicles are subject to various laws and regulations.
- Twenty-five states in the U.S. require all users of electric mountain bikes to wear helmets. Some of these states include Maine, Florida, Georgia, and Florida.
- Twenty-two states in the U.S. require all-electric bikers to wear helmets ranging from age 12 to 18.
- Electric bike operators in most states should be over 12 years of age.
- Most states do not have a provision for the registration, licensing, and insurance requirements for the motorized electric bikes.
- Hawaii and Wyoming State allow the registration of electric bikes for a one-time fee.
- Most states allow electric bikes with a motor that does not exceed 500 watts, and it should not travel faster than 20 MPH.
- 43 U.S. states, including Minnesota, Washington, and Utah, allow electric bikes to use multiple paths in their operations.
- Some states, such as California, do not allow electric mountain bikes to cruise on natural surface trails.
Photo credit: Bicycling.com
Conclusion
An electric mountain bike is an eco-friendly product to use. The right brand comes with dependable suspension systems for a comfortable ride. More importantly, the bike should have a decent load capacity to accommodate the user. A sturdy frame is a must for better performance.
People Also Ask
In this section, we will answer some of the common questions people ask about electric bikes to enhance your overall understanding of these time-saving personal commuting solutions.
Are Electric Mountain Bikes Worth It?
Electric mountain bikes come with various benefits to the rider. Firstly, the user does not use excess energy to pedal since they provide additional power when pedaling. The rider will also remain physically fit since pedaling causes the rider to stretch the muscle and other body parts and remain in sound health.
How Long Do Electric Mountain Bikes Last?
The average lifespan for an electric bike is ten years with regular maintenance and proper care. If you are neglecting it, then the lifespan can go down. Consult the user manual on how to maintain and take care of it to serve you better and for a longer time.
Can You Ride Electric Bikes in the Rain?
Most electric bikes are water-resistant; hence they can tolerate rain. However, designers recommend that you should not leave the bike in a heavy downpour to prevent condensation in the display and damaging other components like the battery through short-circuiting.
How Long Does the Battery Last on an Electric Bike?
If you subject the battery to proper maintenance procedures, it should last between 2 to 4 years. Remember, the lithium battery is prone to losing its capacity even if you do not use it.
ANCHEER Electric Bike Folding
You can enhance the lifespan of your battery by keeping it cool. Also, store the battery in a fully-charged state and avoid discharging it completely too often.
How Do I Make an Electric Mountain Bike Street Legal?
Ensure that your electric bike has specific requirements so that the state approves it for street use. For instance, some states do not require a motor rating that is beyond 500-watt capacity. It must have a working braking system and a speed limit of 20 MPH.
How to Put a Motor on The Mountain Bike
Prepare the mountain bike and identify the right motor. You should determine if the motor is compatible with your electric bike or not. Assemble the entire bike structure with a motor inclusive. Conduct a short cycling test.
How Fast Are E-mountain Bikes?
Electric mountain bikes can travel at a faster pace depending on your preferences. On average, the speed ranges from 20 MPH to 28 MPH. Ensure that you stick to the limit according to the local laws.
