With e-bikes now an established part of our sport, nearly all the major bike manufacturers on board and brands from outside the industry joining the e-MTB party – such as Husqvarna and Porsche (who are reportedly looking to bring out their own e-bike motor) – riders who need or fancy pedalling assistance are spoiled for choice.
‘Full-power’ bikes can be pedalled further than ever before, thanks to higher-capacity and more technologically-advanced batteries. Many have a more natural ride feel, too, due to improvements in motor and software design, along with geometry. And while a couple of years back, only a handful of companies offered lower-powered, lighter-weight ‘SL’ models, there are now dozens to choose from.
Add different design intentions – with some bikes being pitched as an alternative to uplifts and optimised for bashing out the downhill laps, while others are built with all-day rides in mind – and varying spec levels, and it can be tricky figuring out the best buys.
