I think the mid-drive ebikes are cool. I am contemplating getting an e-fat-bike (that's a word now) for winter. It would be nice to be able to go a little further/longer but the snow and cold really takes it out of you.
Great Video! I'm sending all my riding friends to this, since we've been having this argument ourselves. You've explained it so well! keep up the great work!
If you think there is outrage over "e-bikes" in bicycling that's nothing once you get into the World of Motorcycling. I currently trying out a one hundred and 80 buck 2 step scooter that uses front wheel drive and braking with skateboard rear wheel trike set up and the thing is a total blast as well as very simple engineering wise. As someone who likes zero suspension in a bike back when I rode many years ago I've heard this type of "twin frame geometry" with the center sprung load below and in front of the rider is the "it thing" but I'm no expert so look forward to your ride tests. As far as sprung load on the front fork the purpose from a control surface point of view is to keep the tire on the level at all times meaning "not dive into the hole when you go over one" and "not throw the rider off" when hitting a jam. I'll leave it to you and your camera work to explain how well you think that solution has in fact been solved (my favorite example is the UA-cam site Camera Conspiracies for that one if you're looking for inspiration). Like I said tho "zero suspension period" was always my preference when I could in fact ride. Certainly times have changed tho! I know I've now progressed to basically an all electric skateboard with (drum roll please)... Zero suspension!
I love that you guys are open to EBikes and are doing a review of the new technology. I was a roadie for many years and did not appreciate EBikes until a recent skiing injury sidelined me for the season. Thanks to my new EBike (BH Yamaha PW-X 27.5) I am back on the mountain and riding again! If you don't want to the assist just turn off the drive motor.
It seems those who are hating on ebikes are those that have fragile egos and just don’t like the fact that someone who’s not as physically fit can ride the same trails as they can and reach similar distances as they can. The term “it’s cheating” comment is widely used among ebike haters and what those haters can’t seem to grasp is that NO ONE IS RACING THEM...THERE IS NO TROPHY AT THE END OF THE RIDE. It’s not cheating, just like it’s ok to throw your bike in the back of a truck and get shuttled to the top of a mountain. People are just out to have a good time and it shouldn’t matter what they choose to ride as long as they are following the rules just like the rest of the trail users. It’s like someone on a rigid singlespeed complaining about another rider on a full suspension enduro bike with 12 speeds...Get over yourself and ride what you like!
It's not cheating someone out of a better workout if they could have never been able to ride a MTB without the assist. I know from experience. Sure I can ride my non EMTB on flat non agressive trails but the workout I get on it is minimal. I ride much more aggressive trails on my class 1 EMTB and get a way better workout than the flat trails I ride on my non EMTB. At 54 years old EMTB's work for me. Except on pump tracks. My NS cromo hardtail is way more fun on pump tracks😉
@@BahWeepGranahWeepNiniBong I've ridden one and climbed hills that I could never think about climbing with ease. Not saying people shouldn't ride them, i am saying riding a reg bike v ebike is more of a workout.
E-Bikes are Awesome I’m 65 and when I ride my MTB on a big day in the NC mountains I’m beat, but I can get my E-Bike out and get a great ride the next day and have a blast and recover !
I'm so happy you posted this video! For me my eMTB has been a life saver! I deal with anemia from cancer. My eBike allows me to ride with others and still enjoy the trails. You hit on all the right points too! Thank you! I hope more places allow eBikes since they are so impactful.
Honestly, I love seeing ebikes out on the trails, more people means a greater community, plus it gives me someone to try and catch when I'm doing xc intervals😁😵
I am slow so it sucks to see them easily climb a hill I am struggling on but I don't know there situation so I curse them under my breath (heavy breathing). 😉
I wish I had known Niner would be releasing and eMTB. Just picked up a Levo 3 weeks ago. eMTB are a great way for us older people to keep up with our teenagers! We still have some skills but the legs welcome the help. Thanks for all the great episodes, reviews, entertainment and views of the Land of Enchantment.
Hey guys great video, I just got a Giant Stance pro E 29, I'm loving this bike like I knew I would! I'm 55 yrs old and used to race mx and bmx growing up, so my pre conceived notions where all positive and correct I might add. I lost over 50 lbs on my GT 29nr and am no longer diabetic, so now I have a little extra juice and though I'm jumping curbs and curb sized bumps, in my mind I'm Marty Smith or Ricky Charmicheal flying with the greatest of ease!...Who cares what anyone thinks when you can fly!!!
Wow, I'm sooooooooooo excited! Age and injuries with their related limitations, have pulled me off a lot of the trails. I didn't even start mountain biking until I was 57, an older woman who hadn't ridden a bike in 30 years. I totally love mountain biking, but get very bored on the easier trails. I see this as getting me back out on the trails, I love. I have a Niner Jet 9 that I've ridden for years, I prefer the trail bike geometry, so am excited to check out the e-Rip 9. I also have an Ibis Ripley, which I enjoy up in the mountains, but for the desert riding around here, it's the Jet 9 all the way. I think the e-Rip 9 may really make this 63 year olds day!
Guy taking a shuttle, a helicopter, and a ski lift and tells a ebiker their cheating.....hmmm. Guy says “youll tear up the trail!” Because its to heavy? So lets ban large people from the trail then right? Lol oh no i meant because their to powerful. Class ones are the equivalent to perhaps a really strong mountain biker, so lets ban really strong people from mountain bike trails then? Well its just not fair! Lol the problem with ebike shaming is it has become a stigma in the u.s., a group mentality if you will. People that have been legit mountain bikers for a long time are part of a private club and if you say anything positive about emtb its like you can be disowned from that club. People fear even the thought of speaking up about emtb because of fear of scrutiny. Ive been scrutinized so many times, it makes me nervous to even talk to other mountain bikers for fear of being mocked or told to get out. I love my emtb and ride because i am not strong enough to handle the full trails with out the help, it gets me out and active and is pretty much the only form of exercise i enjoy. Its not like traditional exercise where to have to force me to do it. But when it comes to emtb its like being a kid again. Only people that ride emtb truly understand the joy it brings and to try to take that away from people makes zero sense. Theres no reason to ban emtb from any trail other then some ones selfish agenda. Stay awesome yall and thanks for helping to bring emtb mainstream in the u.s.! This video means so much to me you have no idea.
I like the discussion. I purchased a Trek Rail 7 late January. 52 lbs. I am someone who bikes 6-7 days a week and put several thousand miles on my MTB a year. my standard MTB is a SC Hightower fully carbon. Ebike is the most fun I have ever had on a bike. climbing is a blast. Since time to ride is always a concern ebikes allow me to get in long rides in way less time. more miles and smiles. I have a hard time going back to the hightower now. It feels so slow and so much drag riding it. keeping it for bike park laps. Riding for me is all about having fun. Demo and ebike and see for your self.
So glad to see you two talking e-bikes. I live in a heavy biking town (Durango, CO) where there is a surprising amount of resistance. I know a lot of people talk about making the ride available to people with injury or fitness issues (which they do), but I ride one simply because it is a lot of fun. Trails become more engaging and instead of 10 miles after work I get 20 or more!
What a great video! I was a hardcore MTBer from the late 80s and 90s. I’m 50 Now. I think Ebikes are awesome. I converted my Trek Farley fat bike last November to an e-bike. It’s freaking awesome. It got me back into riding. And now one bike allows me to commute 16 miles one way, do fun country rides. Hit local single-track, ride snow with studded tires, and in the beach. It’s just awesome. If it gets you out pedaling it’s a good thing.
I KNEW IT!!!! Was talking at the LBS the last week and we was discussing which brands haven't ventured to the EMTB world yet and Niner was one of our top picks to come out with one this year!!!
I got into mountain biking about 3 years ago riding my normal mountain bike and on steep climbs when I would put a ton of power to the wheel i would get really bad back pain from a previous injury. My specialized levo allows me to go further, climb higher and explore places I would of never been able to before. I also have a haibike so my dad can ride with me and enjoy the trails. I love my e-bike and the places iv been able to ride because of it.
4:08 Note: The damper side on a 34, 36, 38 is the same regardless of e-bike specific fork or normal fox. It's the air shaft side that is one series smaller, ie 36e-bike fork has 34 air shaft.
This is a good thing as one can now finally put a Volsprung Smashpot or Push coil in a 38 efork. Since weight is less of an issue, adding a coil is wonderful. I have had air forks tuned and all that and they still do not match the suppleness of a coil.
With my local bike park (pajarito) not running lifts this summer but still allowing people to ride the trails, I could see an e-bike being a lot of fun there. It would certainly make more than two to three laps a lot more doable. That said, I would have some apprehension about being able to stop a heavier bike on a lot of the steeper trails like dogpatch, braking bad, bonecrusher, etc.
People always seem to suggest that ebikes are for the more unfit or injured or older people and yes i agree that ebikes provide a platform for those categories. Im a mountain biker, I ride dirtbikes, I run and I ride an ebike. I consider myself fairly fit and healthy. The benefit of the ebike for me is that I would typically do way more riding on the ebike than on my non ebike. I can do twice as many loops of the trail as I would on my normal bike giving me potentially twice the amount of fun but with the same level of workout. I dont have to push my bike up hills, i dont need a shuttle and I can spend more time in the saddle. In Europe (im in the UK) the ebikes (class 1) are limited to 15mph which is possibly too slow. on flat ground I can go faster on my normal bike so the speed thing is a non argument. I dont understand why so many people are against them. Each to thier own but they are here to stay.
When E-bikes first came on the scene I was curious to see how the sector would grow. During a mountainbike lesson with Lee from Lee likes bikes we discussed the topic. He made a great point that e-bikes allowed him to ride one of his favorite trails that required a great deal of climbing. The e-bike enabled him to go from 3 runs of the trail to 5 runs of the trail - very cool! These days as I ride with the gentleman who got me into mountainbiking (he’s 77 years old) to consider purchasing an e-bike so he can enjoy trails he used to but can no longer do so due to the natural declination of his endurance. I for one support e-bikes in that capacity. As you stated it’s a hotly debated topic! Great video!
My girlfriend just got a trail ebike. Before she Was on a xc Hardtail and even given she has decent Fitness she enjoys it so much more. Putted around 500 miles on it in the first month.... When I am going with her on my xc bike it's now fair game. And when we ride trails and I am with my enduro... She can pull me up
I see that SRAM eagle chainring! I can't wait to see you guys pull off some impossible climbs. I rode with a good rider who was on an e-mtb (decoy) and it was insane what he was climbing. Lines I've never seen anyone attempt. Personally I'd be tempted by a low power e-mtb. When you're gassed on a climb a few extra watts means clearing stuff vs dismounting. That means longer days or fitting in one more lunchtime lap.
I would make the additional statement that horses weigh around 1200 lbs. to compare the damage to trails. I enjoy your videos, keep it up. Hope to see SYD back on the bike as soon as she can. Maybe the ebike will make that happen.
EMTB’s are the best thing had happened to mountain biking for this century ,my wife and I love it, we’re not kids anymore but the assist on these new machines let us go farther and for longer rides. All fun less suffering yuhuu! Welcome aboard guy’s
I met you last week on the trail to Pajarito. You were carrying an E chainsaw. I was super impressed and would love to help with trail maintenance on your next ride!! I love your view on ebikes;) I can’t wait to ride with my Dad … on an Ebike as well, when he visits Los Alamos from Kentucky. Thanks for your awesome channel and everything you do for mountain biking; especially ebikes around Los Alamos!!
Great to meet you and hope you had a good rest of your ride! If you haven't joined the Tuff Riders FB group yet, that's generally the best place to hear about trail work days!
Since turning 70 this past September, and also being encouraged by Macky's Dad who is even got more experience on this planet that I have, and after not getting anything new in over 20 years, decided on getting an eBike....Only have 85 miles on it but simply love how it can take you you more miles than without some assistance. My bike weighs in at 58 lbs but it's battery is 1100 WH and should be able to take me quite a ways!
I love E Bikes! I'm lucky enough to have 3 bikes at the moment. One cross country race whip, one trail bike, and a brand new E bike that I just got about ago. Although for now, I won't sell my traditional bikes, I can see the E Bike getting a lot more use. I'm in AZ and in the summer it gets hot. Really really hot. The EBike allows me to get a couple laps in before work and just have fun! When my buddy asked me about why I like them so much I surmised that when you climb on a regular bike, it's just not fun. It's definitely rewarding, but I wouldn't say fun. So if you spend about 60-70% of your time climbing, that 60-70% of your ride that isn't really fun. E-bikes make climbing fun! That means that my entire ride is 100% fun! For people that hate on e-bikes, I say go demo one. I guarantee it'll put a smile on your face. I've been riding mtb for about 12 years and I've never had so much fun! Great video guys!
If i had enough money and time i would get an e bike. But i want and need the mtb to stay fit. I have time to ride maybe twice aweek so i have to make them count. It is not economical for me to own 2 bikes and ride each one once a week. Other then that i like climbing. Improving getting fitter
I just had my first ride on an E-bike in Durango CO and I loved it! And that Bosch 4-gen is the best. The EMTB mode is the only way to go on the trail!
I have one, a specialized Levo SL. I got it for a few reasons but the main reason is because my wife and riding friends train 4 to 5 days week, race, and just live to ride bikes of all kinds. I just want to have fun and having the ebike (even the one with a smaller motor than only doubles output at the highest setting) allows me to ride with them. It doesn't make it easier, it just gives me the ability to put out my effort but ride with the them.
We’ve had them for a while now. Ebikes just increase ride time sesh. Plus they make climbing funner. PS and we just bought new Analogs too for the Snooty places:) You’re gonna love!
As we get older (60+), we still like to do the trails. Love this idea, some trails in South Florida will not let you ride. Would love to have some conversion kit to upgrade an existing bike, love your channel. Need to find a shop to do a demo ride.
Yay!!! Niner make ebikes. I'm so checking them out. I actually own a 2014 WFO so if I were to buy one, it would be the e-equivalent. Thanks for the vid Syd & Macky and cant wait for this Friday to see your ride footage.
+infinity: An addition consideration is the force applied per unit area. Horses are ~2,000 lbs spread across 4 narrow and rigid hooves vs 180 lb MTB+person over 2 soft rubber tires. Also, they get to $hit all over the trail, that never made sense to me.
Ebikes will be like snowboards. 30 years ago, most ski resorts didn’t allow them. As more people tried/adopted them (and many preferred to skis), more slopes opened up.
1.Horses destroy trails. 2. They should not be allowed on public lands due to the fact that it's a non-native species that can impact the native species in the area.
@@roberts7000 or at least be more involved in trail maintenance... I think is all my years of trail work I maybe have seen 4-5 equestrians helping. PA, WV, NJ
I’m 68 with a very technical inside mechanical ankle replacement (last year). I’ve been on my Levo Expert 29/27.5” for 4 years. At 220lbs, and obviously OG, not many people give me attitude. However, the various regulations in California keep us off some great trails (Laguna for one). From my experience, the only difference in speed is uphill when a normal biker might be on a hike-a-bike and I’m peddling through at 3-5 mph. I love ebikes. Oh, now that Santa Cruz has finally rolled over, everyone will eventually realize it’s not a big deal. I think, if you ride one for 30 seconds, you’ll get it. I keep adding, even speed derestricted, you can only peddle as fast as your top gear allows (about 22). On a flat road, the competent roadies peddle faster than I can.
My mama always says that e bikes are the devil like my girl Vicki Vallencourt. But my mama don't know I play foosball and what mama don't know won't hurt her.
Great to see you guys checking these out, and an awesome video as always. I've been riding my Haibike electric fatbike for nearly 4 years now here in the UK with the 16mph limit and love it. I use it for touring / bikepacking, and there is no way in my mid 50s that I'd be able to do the 5 day / 250 mile trips on a non e-bike. It allows me to ride further and to get to places I wouldn't have ridden otherwise. I would highly recommend e-bikes to anyone, and for those that want to race there are e-bike categories in almost all disciplines these days so everyone is on an even playing field. Great fun.
63 I’ve been hitting the trails since April.I have a bone on bone right hip, I try to ride My ebike on off days. I’m still putting the metal to the pedal for the cardio.
Love my eBike - cleaned out my quiver. Now have a 160mm ebike and a rigid singlespeed. I really enjoy to ride both on different kinds of trails. Always made sense to me to add a motor when going suspension and gears ;-)
I was somewhat skeptical about ebikes and as they passed me on climbs, I sort of felt like they were cheating. About a month ago I had the opportunity to go on a demo ebike group ride. What a blast! From a group ride perspective, it completely changed the dynamic of the ride. The ride became more about bike skills than the brute force needed on tough climbs. I was able to keep up with a couple of very good riders on rolling terrain with some tough climbs. The other thing was that it was just fun. Tight switchback climbs became more about bike control than sucking air at the top completely wiped out. I found myself hitting log rolls, jumps and other obstacles that I'll often pass by out of the need to conserve energy on a long ride. We also hit portions of the trail system that I often miss because the climb to get there is so hard. I'm not ready to make the switch and am still sticking with my hardtail for now but I get it. I'm pretty much a one bike rider but when/if I ever decide to add another bike, I will be taking a hard look at ebikes. So much fun.
Great perspective! Most haters have never ridden one, those that have are like you and go looking for new challenges to climb etc and normally have a huge grin haha
I am 45 years old and just discovered Mountain Biking this year thanks to my ebike. I am new to this mountain bike world and really don’t understand the animosity. You’ll only find me on green and blue trails and I’m slowly improving thanks to great coaches in my local club. My ebike isn’t taking anything away from anyone it’s fun and allows me access to a sport I would have never thought I would do. All I can say to naysayers is to try it and if it’s not for you then don’t get one.
Bought my wife a Trek PowerFly and once you start riding it on long climbing XC rides and don't get tired, the fun factor goes through the roof and it's so hard to hand it back.
We just bought a Trek Raul for the wife. She always struggled with rough terrain and fitness and cycling wasn’t as enjoyable as it was for me. She now has confidence that longer travel suspension provides and she outclimbs me. Which was previously her biggest frustration. She would get to the top and need a break and self conscious that others were ready to go now that we all grouped up and she still needed recovery. She can no keep pace with me and we can ride the same duration. Little more technical skills and we are in business. The biggest benefit? She’s now eager to go riding. That’s a huge win in my book and well worth the price of admission!!!
in my opinion Ebikes are great for all the reasons you mention. I bought my first and only mountain bike in 2017. A GT Pantera Comp. Im going to be 49 this year.I struggle riding off road.Im a heavy rider 265lbs.I have a bad back.I WISH my GT had a motor. It would allow me to get out there and enjoy more often.I ride 99% on the road but would love to enjoy the trails more..Ebikes give people options they would never have otherwise. Cyclists "MANY" are just a snobby finicky people sadly. Look down on people for their bikes.Look down on people who dont fit the mold dress wise. Look down on people if they dont spend thousands on bikes..Ive never understood it..Ebikes are a win win for everyone..Enjoy guys!!
I have had my Haibike Xduro Allmtn 2.0 for 4 months now and it has been life-changing for me. I am 69 years old. I have had a shoulder replacement and have chronic pain in my back and various parts of my body. I rode motocross when 3-inch travel shocks and 4-inch travel forks were the norms. Big crashes occurred often to me back then. 50 years later and my body was so broken from that abuse, that I would not have been able to start mountain biking 6 months ago if it wasn't for e-bikes.. 6 months later and I am in the best shape that I have been in 30 years. I am having more fun than I ever had. Everyone who can do so should own both an e-bike and a mechanical bike. Due to spousal objection, I can only own one bike so it will be an e-bike. An e-bike can do anything regular mtb can do and much more. Some things it does better and some not as good as a normal bike. Overall the e-bike's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
So cool to see your promo eNiner video come out the same day as the promo email from Niner I received. Looks like cool stuff that will help more people enjoy mountain biking
Thanks for another great video! I'm 74 YO and I am having problems going up hill as well as endurance issues. I guess the old body get a little worn out! I'm looking to buy an Ebike to help me with these problems so that I can better keep up with my younger friends. You know kids that are only 50 or 60, Ha Ha!😃
I grew up on 2 wheels. I had my 1st minibike when I was 4. 4 decades later I still ride. I was into the mtb scene hard for years. Owned many. Gary Fishers, Trek Top Fuels, blah blah blah. Then back in 2016 a freak accident on a jobsite took out my achilles. After surgery to try and repair it I went through a year of physical therapy. Sadly the tendon still healed wrong and they had to remove it. They then performed a fhl transfer. So, enter emtbs. These give me the opportunity to get back on the trails without fear of totally wrecking my leg. I have a Rip e9(green.) Being back out there makes me very happy. I am not disrespectful nor do I ride like a lunatic. Same as I am on any streetbike. I keep that on the track. Do I get a little air between my tires and the terra firma? Sure but there are times for that. I don't know. I don't care what you ride as long as you do it right and smile. Same approach I have with motorcycles. We all share a love for the same thing. Approaches vary. There is no right or wrong way. Just your way. Keep on keepin on.
Great vid Guys. Over here in the UK Ebikes are allowed anywhere that regular bikes are allowed. They are limited to 15mph (25kmh) over here. Some bike parks charge a little more for Ebikes but other than that there are no restrictions.
I don't have one yet, opted for a 29r+ rigid bike. My local city, Nelson bc ,is very hilly and steep and ebikes are getting very popular, es especially cargo ebikes for families. Our rail trail allow them with a speed limit of 20kph. Our local trails are pretty resistant so far but i think that will change. Most of the people i see with ebikes are families or older folks, like me. Started mtn biking this year with a 29r plus rigid. Turned 69 a month ago.
There has been a pretty positive movement in the moto community toward trials tires on dirtbikes. Low pressure, great grip, less spin. More grace and technique, less mashing on the throttle and tearing up trails. Better for everyone involved, I think.
Love the new ebikes !! I am looking into getting an ebike in the near future. I love the thought of being able to ride longer distances and/or just being able to ride uphills and not be totally exhausted. Plus, the quicker you get up the hills, the more time spent on the down hills !! I am really looking forward to seeing your ride video and hearing your thoughts on these bikes. More ebike content..woohoo !! Thanks Syd & Macky for being more awesome !
I really think Ebikes are the future, there will always a place for “analog” bikes but the possibilities Ebikes open up is huge. Seriously considering taking the E-leap😎
Do it!! I say if you love cycling go for it. I've been riding Mtb for a very long time and recently got into riding road and found it to be a blast. Now I'm going old school so to speak by converting the bike into a flat bar gravel bike.
Ohh it's so beautiful to see the logo of your channel on the tools wall. Hopefully one day it will be a neon one at the shelter entrance. That would be so cool.
I've Absolutely no issues with ebikes at all. Did a 45 mile trip today on my Fatty & happened across 2 folk on ebikes at a ford crossing. Both had ditched their full sus for ebikes. As the lass said to me they let them go further, higher, faster. Let's them get back to their family & grand kids faster. I've a torn shoulder tendon & nerve damage in my lower spine. I'll be on an ebike sooner or later if it keeps me on the trails.
To add to this I was at the Glenlivet mtb centre in the Scottish Cairngorms yesterday. Met a 71 year old guy blasting the red trail on his Merida full sus ebike. I'll be surprised if I make it to 71, let alone still be biking 🤣🤣
I think ebike are cool haven't ridden one. My thoughts are you get more runs at trail park and get people off the couch that my have an injury knees etc in short I like them
Great stuff Syd& Macky must say I have .a Ebike 🚴 and love it's best fun going Up 👌 I'm nearly 50, have anxiety and depression for many years and the best thing I did was buy a Ebike 🚴 and get my fitness back I have a Lapierre Am400 Overvolt, must say it's has got me back on track with my life 💪🚴👌👌👌
E-bikes absolutely have a place in our community. I've seen ppl out on them enjoying the the trails that otherwise wouldn't be able to. I hate to see the negative comments on UA-cam and Facebook towards the ppl that ride them. I think it really drives a wedge between "normal" riders and those that ride e-bikes. It's almost like bike shaming someone. It's hard to be "more awesome" when you're not allowing the privileges to someone who may need the pedal assist just to be able to get out. Let's face it. We are all getting older and will probably be faced with a choice one day. Give up mountain biking or drop the coin on an e-bike. When that day come, just grab my seat post and I'll tow you up the hill. LOL!
They are a blast to ride and offer a wider range of utility, for sure. I don’t think I would give up owning a trail bike until I need to due to age or injury, but if I could add a bike to my quiver it would be a tough call between an e-bike or downhill rig. Thanks for pointing out that they, as well as any bike, need to be used respectfully in regards to the safety and well-being of other trail users. And oh yah, those are sweet rides!
Ebike definitely benefits expansion of mtb. Rented on for my Wife and she went with me and my son for the first time. We did a mellow trail but still. Also I used it a climbed a hill I could never do on a reg bike. ebikes are good on our trails.
yeah, the limit of 20mph is an issue with many ebikes, the smooth transition from 32+kph in an Brose motor of an Specialized Levo is the best one, you do not feel it until you see the display go beyond 40kph and realizing your are going faster and unassisted, on your own power, cheers
This is the first time I’ve seen you guys and I quickly SUBSCRIBED! You both did a really honest preview of E BIKES considering your riding experience... I think because you both ride dirt bikes helps you both “GET” the idea of riding a pedal assist bike without your egos getting in the way. I’ve been riding a Specialized KENEVO for about a year and it’s the most FUN I’ve ever had on a bike ever and I’ve had many bikes! I’m healthy with no physical issues, been riding for over 25 years and I’ve found that riding my E BIKE has kept me very fit. It’s made me a better mountain biker and if I have a choice I’d prefer to ride E because it’s such a blast! I’m looking forward to seeing your opinions after a few rides and your thoughts on the next BIG thing in cycling! If you guys find that the higher speeds, extra weight get you in a little more trouble or you simply want to protect your HANDS, BIKE and CONTROLS because you ride dense trails you may want to check out www.geohandguards.com/ it’s a “HELMET FOR YOUR HANDS” and a the perfect addition to any forward thinking E BIKER. RIDE SAFE...”GEO”
I have an E-Bike, I ride mostly undulating singletrack without a lot of elevation. I've found that I'm not substantially faster on my E-bike than on my trail bike, but I do tend to have a lot more fun and I can ride longer without feeling like I'm going to die. Surprisingly I find myself being more playful and nimble, able to throw my e-bike around more than my trail bike despite the fact that it weighs twice as much, mainly because I'm not as tired when I come across features on the trail.
Soooo, I have been that one who believed riding an ebike was not "real" mountain biking so I never participated. Then at my local trail system, PIVOT has a full selection of the ebike Shuttle MTN bikes for demo. Mt girlfriend and I said what the heck so we tried them. Let me say in all honesty, I have changed my view 180 degrees!. We had such a blast and I was shocked how stable the bike was in the air and I could see us riding many more hours. My girlfriend states "I would ride a lot more with you if I had one of these". Thank God we ride the same size bike so ... guess what I am buying!! I am all for ebikes and holy hell they are a blast ... made me feel like a solid climber.
I demoed one a couple of years ago at Outerbike Bentonville and I was sold!. I have a YT Decoy and its a blast. I just love to listen to the haters because honestly they don't know how much fun they are missing out on. I still have acoustic bikes and love them too. But ebikes for the win.
I have not long gotten into mountain biking after a 20 year break, but I have some health concerns now and realistically only have a few years of riding standard bikes ahead of me, when the time comes, Ebikes will be how I stay on the trails. Better that than stuck on the couch 😁🤙
I'm 51 and people have told me 'since I'm old I need an E-bike'. The way I see it, since I'm 51, I need to work harder to stay in shape. I WILL ride my full suspension mountain bike (non-exec) as long as I can. I don't want the 'help' of the 'e-bike', I want the workout of the non-e-bike!!!
I think E-bikes are great!! If my generation listen to the haters in my day. There would be no mountain bikes today. So be open minded, be an innovator not a hater.
I've was getting excited about getting an e-Mtb to keep riding at retirement age and then I found out they aren't allowed on a lot of the trails where I live yet. I hope progress is made soon, I would really like to be able to launch on an e-MTB from home and ride the local trails.
That Fox 38 just screams jump me, stair set of doom, and generally all types of horrible abuse. I'm really looking forward to seeing you jumping over the van on Friday.
I think for Strava users that work themselves hard to get KOMs or top 10s it would suck to work that hard for someone to come and take it on a e bike. Other than that I don’t personally have a issue with them
You can mark rides as ebike rides on strava which removes you from leaderboards. But yes, hard agree that it is annoying when people forget or choose not to do that 😭
At 68 , I’d really like to get an electric mtn bike. I sold my bike 3 years ago as my fitness was fading and honestly it had become more of a chore and the fun factor had faded . I do miss it though. So I’d like to try it . There is a company in the Phoenix area that rents all styles of mtn bikes including mountain bikes . I’ll have to try one soon .
Although like many of the other commenters, I have mixed feelings about mtb ebikes; great to make trails more accessibility, but bad for crowding. Whatever, it's good for the industry as a whole and glad to see Niner finally getting on the ebike train!
Ebikes, you love or hate them? I told myself I would never get one. But after demoing all different Ebikes I have made up my mind to get a whyte E150rs. The wife's riding has dropped off a lot from 40 / 50k down to 15 / 20k everytime we go out so getting an Ebike will really help out & when the wife is working weekends I will use it to find new trails. Living in the UK most of our trails are one way so no worries about running head on with other riders but we do get some people walking on the bike trails so still need to ride safe. Looks like a nice bike
Ikm totally in agreement with you on eBikes. Whether due to age, power, or injury the eBike has it’s place. And I also believe that class 1 is the more appropriate trail option between pedal assisted models. It’s great to see some professionals step up to support eBikes. I think that’s what was missing. Thanks for doing your bit!
Absolutely love my E-MTB...I ride so much more than I would otherwise. It also makes me safer on the downhill because I am not so tired. I am in NC and state parks allow them and VA allows if local authority allows them. Love E-MTB!
Check out Niner's new ebike line: bit.ly/ninerebikes
I think the mid-drive ebikes are cool. I am contemplating getting an e-fat-bike (that's a word now) for winter. It would be nice to be able to go a little further/longer but the snow and cold really takes it out of you.
Great Video! I'm sending all my riding friends to this, since we've been having this argument ourselves. You've explained it so well!
keep up the great work!
@@AGKRex I've been riding one for 4 years now and highly recommend them. Makes the snow and sand riding much more manageable.
If you think there is outrage over "e-bikes" in bicycling that's nothing once you get into the World of Motorcycling. I currently trying out a one hundred and 80 buck 2 step scooter that uses front wheel drive and braking with skateboard rear wheel trike set up and the thing is a total blast as well as very simple engineering wise. As someone who likes zero suspension in a bike back when I rode many years ago I've heard this type of "twin frame geometry" with the center sprung load below and in front of the rider is the "it thing" but I'm no expert so look forward to your ride tests. As far as sprung load on the front fork the purpose from a control surface point of view is to keep the tire on the level at all times meaning "not dive into the hole when you go over one" and "not throw the rider off" when hitting a jam. I'll leave it to you and your camera work to explain how well you think that solution has in fact been solved (my favorite example is the UA-cam site Camera Conspiracies for that one if you're looking for inspiration). Like I said tho "zero suspension period" was always my preference when I could in fact ride. Certainly times have changed tho! I know I've now progressed to basically an all electric skateboard with (drum roll please)...
Zero suspension!
I love that you guys are open to EBikes and are doing a review of the new technology. I was a roadie for many years and did not appreciate EBikes until a recent skiing injury sidelined me for the season. Thanks to my new EBike (BH Yamaha PW-X 27.5) I am back on the mountain and riding again! If you don't want to the assist just turn off the drive motor.
It seems those who are hating on ebikes are those that have fragile egos and just don’t like the fact that someone who’s not as physically fit can ride the same trails as they can and reach similar distances as they can. The term “it’s cheating” comment is widely used among ebike haters and what those haters can’t seem to grasp is that NO ONE IS RACING THEM...THERE IS NO TROPHY AT THE END OF THE RIDE. It’s not cheating, just like it’s ok to throw your bike in the back of a truck and get shuttled to the top of a mountain. People are just out to have a good time and it shouldn’t matter what they choose to ride as long as they are following the rules just like the rest of the trail users. It’s like someone on a rigid singlespeed complaining about another rider on a full suspension enduro bike with 12 speeds...Get over yourself and ride what you like!
It's still cheating themselves out of a better workout but I am ok with it. To each his own. If they are having fun and promoting sport, fine with me.
It's not cheating someone out of a better workout if they could have never been able to ride a MTB without the assist. I know from experience. Sure I can ride my non EMTB on flat non agressive trails but the workout I get on it is minimal. I ride much more aggressive trails on my class 1 EMTB and get a way better workout than the flat trails I ride on my non EMTB. At 54 years old EMTB's work for me. Except on pump tracks. My NS cromo hardtail is way more fun on pump tracks😉
@@talkmauro Those that say ebikes don't / can't give you a good workout have obviously never ridden a good one hard...
@@BahWeepGranahWeepNiniBong I've ridden one and climbed hills that I could never think about climbing with ease. Not saying people shouldn't ride them, i am saying riding a reg bike v ebike is more of a workout.
I don’t know which is more exciting, seeing the e-bikes out on the trails, or seeing Syd finally back out riding! Keep doing what you do!
E-Bikes are Awesome I’m 65 and when I ride my MTB on a big day in the NC mountains I’m beat, but I can get my E-Bike out and get a great ride the next day and have a blast and recover !
I’m 29 and I much prefer ebikes. Don’t care if people think it’s “lazy.” I have way more fun and can do way more laps on an ebike.
I'm so happy you posted this video! For me my eMTB has been a life saver! I deal with anemia from cancer. My eBike allows me to ride with others and still enjoy the trails. You hit on all the right points too! Thank you! I hope more places allow eBikes since they are so impactful.
Honestly, I love seeing ebikes out on the trails, more people means a greater community, plus it gives me someone to try and catch when I'm doing xc intervals😁😵
Haha you sound like me
I am slow so it sucks to see them easily climb a hill I am struggling on but I don't know there situation so I curse them under my breath (heavy breathing). 😉
I wish I had known Niner would be releasing and eMTB. Just picked up a Levo 3 weeks ago.
eMTB are a great way for us older people to keep up with our teenagers! We still have some skills but the legs welcome the help.
Thanks for all the great episodes, reviews, entertainment and views of the Land of Enchantment.
Hey guys great video, I just got a Giant Stance pro E 29, I'm loving this bike like I knew I would! I'm 55 yrs old and used to race mx and bmx growing up, so my pre conceived notions where all positive and correct I might add. I lost over 50 lbs on my GT 29nr and am no longer diabetic,
so now I have a little extra juice and though I'm jumping curbs and curb sized bumps, in my mind I'm Marty Smith or Ricky Charmicheal flying with the greatest of ease!...Who cares what anyone thinks when you can fly!!!
Wow, I'm sooooooooooo excited! Age and injuries with their related limitations, have pulled me off a lot of the trails. I didn't even start mountain biking until I was 57, an older woman who hadn't ridden a bike in 30 years. I totally love mountain biking, but get very bored on the easier trails. I see this as getting me back out on the trails, I love. I have a Niner Jet 9 that I've ridden for years, I prefer the trail bike geometry, so am excited to check out the e-Rip 9. I also have an Ibis Ripley, which I enjoy up in the mountains, but for the desert riding around here, it's the Jet 9 all the way. I think the e-Rip 9 may really make this 63 year olds day!
Guy taking a shuttle, a helicopter, and a ski lift and tells a ebiker their cheating.....hmmm. Guy says “youll tear up the trail!” Because its to heavy? So lets ban large people from the trail then right? Lol oh no i meant because their to powerful. Class ones are the equivalent to perhaps a really strong mountain biker, so lets ban really strong people from mountain bike trails then? Well its just not fair! Lol the problem with ebike shaming is it has become a stigma in the u.s., a group mentality if you will. People that have been legit mountain bikers for a long time are part of a private club and if you say anything positive about emtb its like you can be disowned from that club. People fear even the thought of speaking up about emtb because of fear of scrutiny. Ive been scrutinized so many times, it makes me nervous to even talk to other mountain bikers for fear of being mocked or told to get out. I love my emtb and ride because i am not strong enough to handle the full trails with out the help, it gets me out and active and is pretty much the only form of exercise i enjoy. Its not like traditional exercise where to have to force me to do it. But when it comes to emtb its like being a kid again. Only people that ride emtb truly understand the joy it brings and to try to take that away from people makes zero sense. Theres no reason to ban emtb from any trail other then some ones selfish agenda. Stay awesome yall and thanks for helping to bring emtb mainstream in the u.s.! This video means so much to me you have no idea.
I like the discussion. I purchased a Trek Rail 7 late January. 52 lbs. I am someone who bikes 6-7 days a week and put several thousand miles on my MTB a year. my standard MTB is a SC Hightower fully carbon. Ebike is the most fun I have ever had on a bike. climbing is a blast. Since time to ride is always a concern ebikes allow me to get in long rides in way less time. more miles and smiles. I have a hard time going back to the hightower now. It feels so slow and so much drag riding it. keeping it for bike park laps. Riding for me is all about having fun. Demo and ebike and see for your self.
So glad to see you two talking e-bikes. I live in a heavy biking town (Durango, CO) where there is a surprising amount of resistance. I know a lot of people talk about making the ride available to people with injury or fitness issues (which they do), but I ride one simply because it is a lot of fun. Trails become more engaging and instead of 10 miles after work I get 20 or more!
The problem I have with eMTBs is that i dont have one :C
What a great video! I was a hardcore MTBer from the late 80s and 90s. I’m 50
Now. I think Ebikes are awesome. I converted my Trek Farley fat bike last November to an e-bike. It’s freaking awesome. It got me back into riding. And now one bike allows me to commute 16 miles one way, do fun country rides. Hit local single-track, ride snow with studded tires, and in the beach. It’s just awesome. If it gets you out pedaling it’s a good thing.
I KNEW IT!!!! Was talking at the LBS the last week and we was discussing which brands haven't ventured to the EMTB world yet and Niner was one of our top picks to come out with one this year!!!
Good prediction!
I got into mountain biking about 3 years ago riding my normal mountain bike and on steep climbs when I would put a ton of power to the wheel i would get really bad back pain from a previous injury. My specialized levo allows me to go further, climb higher and explore places I would of never been able to before. I also have a haibike so my dad can ride with me and enjoy the trails. I love my e-bike and the places iv been able to ride because of it.
Now if only more places would be welcoming to E bikes. I love any bike that gets people outdoors and enjoying this great hobby. Keep riding🤙
I'm 54 and am still not ready for an ebike. When the time comes, I'm just glad I won't have to give up cycling completely and get an ebike.
4:08 Note: The damper side on a 34, 36, 38 is the same regardless of e-bike specific fork or normal fox. It's the air shaft side that is one series smaller, ie 36e-bike fork has 34 air shaft.
Ah, good call. I misspoke.
This is a good thing as one can now finally put a Volsprung Smashpot or Push coil in a 38 efork. Since weight is less of an issue, adding a coil is wonderful. I have had air forks tuned and all that and they still do not match the suppleness of a coil.
Those have me wanting to try an e-bike! They look really good!
These e-bikes seem great but the thing I like best about regular biking is being able to eat anything I want afterwards
True. With an ebike, you just gave to ride FARTHER to eat the same amount 😉
Looking forward to see how dad's face looks like. After riding with his kid.
I’m on board with ebikes. I don’t use one but I’m riding with my wife and my uncle for the first time ever. Priceless.
With my local bike park (pajarito) not running lifts this summer but still allowing people to ride the trails, I could see an e-bike being a lot of fun there. It would certainly make more than two to three laps a lot more doable. That said, I would have some apprehension about being able to stop a heavier bike on a lot of the steeper trails like dogpatch, braking bad, bonecrusher, etc.
Haha! That's where we went for our first ride! It was AWESOME! Video coming Friday!
@@sydandmacky I thought I recognized those trees in that little sneak peek at the end lol 😂
Well spotted 😁
People always seem to suggest that ebikes are for the more unfit or injured or older people and yes i agree that ebikes provide a platform for those categories. Im a mountain biker, I ride dirtbikes, I run and I ride an ebike. I consider myself fairly fit and healthy. The benefit of the ebike for me is that I would typically do way more riding on the ebike than on my non ebike. I can do twice as many loops of the trail as I would on my normal bike giving me potentially twice the amount of fun but with the same level of workout. I dont have to push my bike up hills, i dont need a shuttle and I can spend more time in the saddle. In Europe (im in the UK) the ebikes (class 1) are limited to 15mph which is possibly too slow. on flat ground I can go faster on my normal bike so the speed thing is a non argument. I dont understand why so many people are against them. Each to thier own but they are here to stay.
Im the same way. Perfectly fit enough to shred on my Stumpjumper (not genuinely fast, but above average), and I still do. But I LOVE my eMTB!
When E-bikes first came on the scene I was curious to see how the sector would grow. During a mountainbike lesson with Lee from Lee likes bikes we discussed the topic. He made a great point that e-bikes allowed him to ride one of his favorite trails that required a great deal of climbing. The e-bike enabled him to go from 3 runs of the trail to 5 runs of the trail - very cool! These days as I ride with the gentleman who got me into mountainbiking (he’s 77 years old) to consider purchasing an e-bike so he can enjoy trails he used to but can no longer do so due to the natural declination of his endurance. I for one support e-bikes in that capacity. As you stated it’s a hotly debated topic! Great video!
My girlfriend just got a trail ebike. Before she Was on a xc Hardtail and even given she has decent Fitness she enjoys it so much more. Putted around 500 miles on it in the first month.... When I am going with her on my xc bike it's now fair game. And when we ride trails and I am with my enduro... She can pull me up
I see that SRAM eagle chainring! I can't wait to see you guys pull off some impossible climbs. I rode with a good rider who was on an e-mtb (decoy) and it was insane what he was climbing. Lines I've never seen anyone attempt.
Personally I'd be tempted by a low power e-mtb. When you're gassed on a climb a few extra watts means clearing stuff vs dismounting. That means longer days or fitting in one more lunchtime lap.
I would make the additional statement that horses weigh around 1200 lbs. to compare the damage to trails. I enjoy your videos, keep it up. Hope to see SYD back on the bike as soon as she can. Maybe the ebike will make that happen.
I'll just say they look AMAZING, let's embrace innovation and welcome a greater diversity of riders to our mtb-family!
EMTB’s are the best thing had happened to mountain biking for this century ,my wife and I love it, we’re not kids anymore but the assist on these new machines let us go farther and for longer rides. All fun less suffering yuhuu! Welcome aboard guy’s
Ya man , my sister just bought 2 e bikes for her and her husband. Ive ridden them on a couple 10 mi rides now and i want one !
I met you last week on the trail to Pajarito. You were carrying an E chainsaw. I was super impressed and would love to help with trail maintenance on your next ride!! I love your view on ebikes;) I can’t wait to ride with my Dad … on an Ebike as well, when he visits Los Alamos from Kentucky. Thanks for your awesome channel and everything you do for mountain biking; especially ebikes around Los Alamos!!
Great to meet you and hope you had a good rest of your ride! If you haven't joined the Tuff Riders FB group yet, that's generally the best place to hear about trail work days!
Since turning 70 this past September, and also being encouraged by Macky's Dad who is even got more experience on this planet that I have, and after not getting anything new in over 20 years, decided on getting an eBike....Only have 85 miles on it but simply love how it can take you you more miles than without some assistance. My bike weighs in at 58 lbs but it's battery is 1100 WH and should be able to take me quite a ways!
As long as they are willing to tow us up the bigger hills let’em ride !
I love E Bikes! I'm lucky enough to have 3 bikes at the moment. One cross country race whip, one trail bike, and a brand new E bike that I just got about ago. Although for now, I won't sell my traditional bikes, I can see the E Bike getting a lot more use. I'm in AZ and in the summer it gets hot. Really really hot. The EBike allows me to get a couple laps in before work and just have fun! When my buddy asked me about why I like them so much I surmised that when you climb on a regular bike, it's just not fun. It's definitely rewarding, but I wouldn't say fun. So if you spend about 60-70% of your time climbing, that 60-70% of your ride that isn't really fun. E-bikes make climbing fun! That means that my entire ride is 100% fun! For people that hate on e-bikes, I say go demo one. I guarantee it'll put a smile on your face. I've been riding mtb for about 12 years and I've never had so much fun! Great video guys!
It's not that hot dude. I ride all the time till winter comes. Love summer, always start my rides around 11am.
If i had enough money and time i would get an e bike. But i want and need the mtb to stay fit. I have time to ride maybe twice aweek so i have to make them count. It is not economical for me to own 2 bikes and ride each one once a week.
Other then that i like climbing. Improving getting fitter
What a wuss ... Drink some Gatorade!
eBikes can be so much fun! Looking forward to the next video with a ride review. Lovin' the content lately guys. Keep it comin'.
I just had my first ride on an E-bike in Durango CO and I loved it! And that Bosch 4-gen is the best. The EMTB mode is the only way to go on the trail!
I went from a Scott spark 750 to a Giant Trance e Pro ...never looked back...Mountain biking got so much better..must have😀
I have one, a specialized Levo SL. I got it for a few reasons but the main reason is because my wife and riding friends train 4 to 5 days week, race, and just live to ride bikes of all kinds. I just want to have fun and having the ebike (even the one with a smaller motor than only doubles output at the highest setting) allows me to ride with them. It doesn't make it easier, it just gives me the ability to put out my effort but ride with the them.
We’ve had them for a while now. Ebikes just increase ride time sesh. Plus they make climbing funner. PS and we just bought new Analogs too for the Snooty places:) You’re gonna love!
As we get older (60+), we still like to do the trails. Love this idea, some trails in South Florida will not let you ride. Would love to have some conversion kit to upgrade an existing bike, love your channel. Need to find a shop to do a demo ride.
Yay!!! Niner make ebikes. I'm so checking them out. I actually own a 2014 WFO so if I were to buy one, it would be the e-equivalent. Thanks for the vid Syd & Macky and cant wait for this Friday to see your ride footage.
If weight is really a sticking point for allowing ebikes on all trails let's talk about horses.
+infinity: An addition consideration is the force applied per unit area. Horses are ~2,000 lbs spread across 4 narrow and rigid hooves vs 180 lb MTB+person over 2 soft rubber tires. Also, they get to $hit all over the trail, that never made sense to me.
Ebikes will be like snowboards. 30 years ago, most ski resorts didn’t allow them. As more people tried/adopted them (and many preferred to skis), more slopes opened up.
1.Horses destroy trails.
2. They should not be allowed on public lands due to the fact that it's a non-native species that can impact the native species in the area.
@@roberts7000 or at least be more involved in trail maintenance... I think is all my years of trail work I maybe have seen 4-5 equestrians helping. PA, WV, NJ
Like she said, a 230 lb guy riding a 35lb full suspension bike, weighs more than a 180 lb guy on a 55 lb e-bike. Weight argument is out the window!
I ❤️ ebikes. So much fun. Riding regular bikes for 20 years (still do) but so much more fun
I’m 68 with a very technical inside mechanical ankle replacement (last year). I’ve been on my Levo Expert 29/27.5” for 4 years. At 220lbs, and obviously OG, not many people give me attitude. However, the various regulations in California keep us off some great trails (Laguna for one). From my experience, the only difference in speed is uphill when a normal biker might be on a hike-a-bike and I’m peddling through at 3-5 mph. I love ebikes. Oh, now that Santa Cruz has finally rolled over, everyone will eventually realize it’s not a big deal. I think, if you ride one for 30 seconds, you’ll get it. I keep adding, even speed derestricted, you can only peddle as fast as your top gear allows (about 22). On a flat road, the competent roadies peddle faster than I can.
My mama always says that e bikes are the devil like my girl Vicki Vallencourt. But my mama don't know I play foosball and what mama don't know won't hurt her.
Great to see you guys checking these out, and an awesome video as always. I've been riding my Haibike electric fatbike for nearly 4 years now here in the UK with the 16mph limit and love it. I use it for touring / bikepacking, and there is no way in my mid 50s that I'd be able to do the 5 day / 250 mile trips on a non e-bike. It allows me to ride further and to get to places I wouldn't have ridden otherwise. I would highly recommend e-bikes to anyone, and for those that want to race there are e-bike categories in almost all disciplines these days so everyone is on an even playing field. Great fun.
63 I’ve been hitting the trails since April.I have a bone on bone right hip, I try to ride My ebike on off days. I’m still putting the metal to the pedal for the cardio.
Love my eBike - cleaned out my quiver. Now have a 160mm ebike and a rigid singlespeed. I really enjoy to ride both on different kinds of trails. Always made sense to me to add a motor when going suspension and gears ;-)
I was somewhat skeptical about ebikes and as they passed me on climbs, I sort of felt like they were cheating. About a month ago I had the opportunity to go on a demo ebike group ride. What a blast! From a group ride perspective, it completely changed the dynamic of the ride. The ride became more about bike skills than the brute force needed on tough climbs. I was able to keep up with a couple of very good riders on rolling terrain with some tough climbs.
The other thing was that it was just fun. Tight switchback climbs became more about bike control than sucking air at the top completely wiped out. I found myself hitting log rolls, jumps and other obstacles that I'll often pass by out of the need to conserve energy on a long ride. We also hit portions of the trail system that I often miss because the climb to get there is so hard.
I'm not ready to make the switch and am still sticking with my hardtail for now but I get it. I'm pretty much a one bike rider but when/if I ever decide to add another bike, I will be taking a hard look at ebikes. So much fun.
And for the record, I was sore the next day. Found a number of new muscles I normally don't use when riding. It was definitely a workout.
Great perspective! Most haters have never ridden one, those that have are like you and go looking for new challenges to climb etc and normally have a huge grin haha
@@roadracer42 And yes, that grin. I still have it.
I am 45 years old and just discovered Mountain Biking this year thanks to my ebike. I am new to this mountain bike world and really don’t understand the animosity. You’ll only find me on green and blue trails and I’m slowly improving thanks to great coaches in my local club. My ebike isn’t taking anything away from anyone it’s fun and allows me access to a sport I would have never thought I would do. All I can say to naysayers is to try it and if it’s not for you then don’t get one.
Bought my wife a Trek PowerFly and once you start riding it on long climbing XC rides and don't get tired, the fun factor goes through the roof and it's so hard to hand it back.
We just bought a Trek Raul for the wife. She always struggled with rough terrain and fitness and cycling wasn’t as enjoyable as it was for me. She now has confidence that longer travel suspension provides and she outclimbs me. Which was previously her biggest frustration. She would get to the top and need a break and self conscious that others were ready to go now that we all grouped up and she still needed recovery. She can no keep pace with me and we can ride the same duration. Little more technical skills and we are in business. The biggest benefit? She’s now eager to go riding. That’s a huge win in my book and well worth the price of admission!!!
in my opinion Ebikes are great for all the reasons you mention. I bought my first and only mountain bike in 2017. A GT Pantera Comp. Im going to be 49 this year.I struggle riding off road.Im a heavy rider 265lbs.I have a bad back.I WISH my GT had a motor. It would allow me to get out there and enjoy more often.I ride 99% on the road but would love to enjoy the trails more..Ebikes give people options they would never have otherwise. Cyclists "MANY" are just a snobby finicky people sadly. Look down on people for their bikes.Look down on people who dont fit the mold dress wise. Look down on people if they dont spend thousands on bikes..Ive never understood it..Ebikes are a win win for everyone..Enjoy guys!!
Yeah, we have a hard time when people exclude instead of include! We just want more people riding bikes and having fun!!!
I bought my first E-Bike a few weeks ago and had so much fun, I traveled 150km in the first 10 days! Now I want to ride everywhere :)
I like your really honest reviews on bikes, I’m starting get into MTB and I have learned a lot from you
That'll make your Everest attempt a bit easier ;-)
Haha, I wish (although I am considering a second Everesting on the ebike if I'm successful on the first one).
Second one on an e-bike with the motor turned off
wondering if the battery will last that long, might end up more difficult lol
I have had my Haibike Xduro Allmtn 2.0 for 4 months now and it has been life-changing for me. I am 69 years old. I have had a shoulder replacement and have chronic pain in my back and various parts of my body. I rode motocross when 3-inch travel shocks and 4-inch travel forks were the norms. Big crashes occurred often to me back then. 50 years later and my body was so broken from that abuse, that I would not have been able to start mountain biking 6 months ago if it wasn't for e-bikes.. 6 months later and I am in the best shape that I have been in 30 years.
I am having more fun than I ever had.
Everyone who can do so should own both an e-bike and a mechanical bike. Due to spousal objection, I can only own one bike so it will be an e-bike. An e-bike can do anything regular mtb can do and much more. Some things it does better and some not as good as a normal bike. Overall the e-bike's strengths far outweigh its weaknesses.
So cool to see your promo eNiner video come out the same day as the promo email from Niner I received. Looks like cool stuff that will help more people enjoy mountain biking
Niner will be my next ebike. My 2018 Focus is getting long in the tooth and this looks like just what I need. Can't wait for the ride report!
Love your guy’s description of ebikes versus moto. Totally agree with you!
I'm 50 and I can still ride a normal MTB, maybe if I reach 60 or older then I can consider it.
Thanks for another great video! I'm 74 YO and I am having problems going up hill as well as endurance issues. I guess the old body get a little worn out! I'm looking to buy an Ebike to help me with these problems so that I can better keep up with my younger friends. You know kids that are only 50 or 60, Ha Ha!😃
I grew up on 2 wheels. I had my 1st minibike when I was 4. 4 decades later I still ride.
I was into the mtb scene hard for years. Owned many. Gary Fishers, Trek Top Fuels, blah blah blah.
Then back in 2016 a freak accident on a jobsite took out my achilles. After surgery to try and repair it I went through a year of physical therapy.
Sadly the tendon still healed wrong and they had to remove it. They then performed a fhl transfer.
So, enter emtbs.
These give me the opportunity to get back on the trails without fear of totally wrecking my leg.
I have a Rip e9(green.)
Being back out there makes me very happy.
I am not disrespectful nor do I ride like a lunatic. Same as I am on any streetbike.
I keep that on the track.
Do I get a little air between my tires and the terra firma?
Sure but there are times for that.
I don't know. I don't care what you ride as long as you do it right and smile. Same approach I have with motorcycles.
We all share a love for the same thing. Approaches vary.
There is no right or wrong way. Just your way.
Keep on keepin on.
Great vid Guys. Over here in the UK Ebikes are allowed anywhere that regular bikes are allowed. They are limited to 15mph (25kmh) over here. Some bike parks charge a little more for Ebikes but other than that there are no restrictions.
Just subscribed because you are covering e-mtb now too! Found you with the bike shed build.
I don't have one yet, opted for a 29r+ rigid bike. My local city, Nelson bc ,is very hilly and steep and ebikes are getting very popular, es especially cargo ebikes for families. Our rail trail allow them with a speed limit of 20kph. Our local trails are pretty resistant so far but i think that will change. Most of the people i see with ebikes are families or older folks, like me. Started mtn biking this year with a 29r plus rigid. Turned 69 a month ago.
There has been a pretty positive movement in the moto community toward trials tires on dirtbikes. Low pressure, great grip, less spin. More grace and technique, less mashing on the throttle and tearing up trails. Better for everyone involved, I think.
Love the new ebikes !! I am looking into getting an ebike in the near future. I love the thought of being able to ride longer distances and/or just being able to ride uphills and not be totally exhausted. Plus, the quicker you get up the hills, the more time spent on the down hills !! I am really looking forward to seeing your ride video and hearing your thoughts on these bikes. More ebike content..woohoo !! Thanks Syd & Macky for being more awesome !
I really think Ebikes are the future, there will always a place for “analog” bikes but the possibilities Ebikes open up is huge. Seriously considering taking the E-leap😎
Do it!! I say if you love cycling go for it. I've been riding Mtb for a very long time and recently got into riding road and found it to be a blast. Now I'm going old school so to speak by converting the bike into a flat bar gravel bike.
Ohh it's so beautiful to see the logo of your channel on the tools wall. Hopefully one day it will be a neon one at the shelter entrance. That would be so cool.
I've Absolutely no issues with ebikes at all. Did a 45 mile trip today on my Fatty & happened across 2 folk on ebikes at a ford crossing. Both had ditched their full sus for ebikes. As the lass said to me they let them go further, higher, faster. Let's them get back to their family & grand kids faster.
I've a torn shoulder tendon & nerve damage in my lower spine. I'll be on an ebike sooner or later if it keeps me on the trails.
To add to this I was at the Glenlivet mtb centre in the Scottish Cairngorms yesterday. Met a 71 year old guy blasting the red trail on his Merida full sus ebike. I'll be surprised if I make it to 71, let alone still be biking 🤣🤣
I think ebike are cool haven't ridden one. My thoughts are you get more runs at trail park and get people off the couch that my have an injury knees etc in short I like them
Great stuff Syd& Macky must say I have .a Ebike 🚴 and love it's best fun going Up 👌 I'm nearly 50, have anxiety and depression for many years and the best thing I did was buy a Ebike 🚴 and get my fitness back I have a Lapierre Am400 Overvolt, must say it's has got me back on track with my life 💪🚴👌👌👌
E-bikes absolutely have a place in our community. I've seen ppl out on them enjoying the the trails that otherwise wouldn't be able to. I hate to see the negative comments on UA-cam and Facebook towards the ppl that ride them. I think it really drives a wedge between "normal" riders and those that ride e-bikes. It's almost like bike shaming someone. It's hard to be "more awesome" when you're not allowing the privileges to someone who may need the pedal assist just to be able to get out. Let's face it. We are all getting older and will probably be faced with a choice one day. Give up mountain biking or drop the coin on an e-bike. When that day come, just grab my seat post and I'll tow you up the hill. LOL!
Yes, this is the attitude we wish more people would adopt! Let's SUPPORT other riders instead of shaming them!
They are a blast to ride and offer a wider range of utility, for sure. I don’t think I would give up owning a trail bike until I need to due to age or injury, but if I could add a bike to my quiver it would be a tough call between an e-bike or downhill rig. Thanks for pointing out that they, as well as any bike, need to be used respectfully in regards to the safety and well-being of other trail users. And oh yah, those are sweet rides!
Ebike definitely benefits expansion of mtb. Rented on for my Wife and she went with me and my son for the first time. We did a mellow trail but still. Also I used it a climbed a hill I could never do on a reg bike. ebikes are good on our trails.
Excellent commentary. I agree with your views.
yeah, the limit of 20mph is an issue with many ebikes, the smooth transition from 32+kph in an Brose motor of an Specialized Levo is the best one, you do not feel it until you see the display go beyond 40kph and realizing your are going faster and unassisted, on your own power, cheers
This is the first time I’ve seen you guys and I quickly SUBSCRIBED! You both did a really honest preview of E BIKES considering your riding experience... I think because you both ride dirt bikes helps you both “GET” the idea of riding a pedal assist bike without your egos getting in the way. I’ve been riding a Specialized KENEVO for about a year and it’s the most FUN I’ve ever had on a bike ever and I’ve had many bikes! I’m healthy with no physical issues, been riding for over 25 years and I’ve found that riding my E BIKE has kept me very fit. It’s made me a better mountain biker and if I have a choice I’d prefer to ride E because it’s such a blast! I’m looking forward to seeing your opinions after a few rides and your thoughts on the next BIG thing in cycling! If you guys find that the higher speeds, extra weight get you in a little more trouble or you simply want to protect your HANDS, BIKE and CONTROLS because you ride dense trails you may want to check out www.geohandguards.com/ it’s a “HELMET FOR YOUR HANDS” and a the perfect addition to any forward thinking E BIKER. RIDE SAFE...”GEO”
Well said guys. Great video!
I have an E-Bike, I ride mostly undulating singletrack without a lot of elevation. I've found that I'm not substantially faster on my E-bike than on my trail bike, but I do tend to have a lot more fun and I can ride longer without feeling like I'm going to die. Surprisingly I find myself being more playful and nimble, able to throw my e-bike around more than my trail bike despite the fact that it weighs twice as much, mainly because I'm not as tired when I come across features on the trail.
That's an interesting point that I hadn't considered... Very cool!
Soooo, I have been that one who believed riding an ebike was not "real" mountain biking so I never participated. Then at my local trail system, PIVOT has a full selection of the ebike Shuttle MTN bikes for demo. Mt girlfriend and I said what the heck so we tried them. Let me say in all honesty, I have changed my view 180 degrees!. We had such a blast and I was shocked how stable the bike was in the air and I could see us riding many more hours. My girlfriend states "I would ride a lot more with you if I had one of these". Thank God we ride the same size bike so ... guess what I am buying!! I am all for ebikes and holy hell they are a blast ... made me feel like a solid climber.
So glad you got to try them out and enjoyed them. Definitely a blast, aren't they?!
I demoed one a couple of years ago at Outerbike Bentonville and I was sold!. I have a YT Decoy and its a blast. I just love to listen to the haters because honestly they don't know how much fun they are missing out on. I still have acoustic bikes and love them too. But ebikes for the win.
Ignore the haters! Ebike are awesome, I love mine just as much as my normal bike. Different horses for different course as the saying goes :)
i agree! don't knock it till you try it! i haven't tried one but i'd love to give one a shot as i like the sound of going for longer.
@@bananasstuff3344 Check your LBS, chances are you will be able to demo one :)
@@Duncan23 trying to minimise contact with people but i'd really love to demo some bikes this holiday.
I have not long gotten into mountain biking after a 20 year break, but I have some health concerns now and realistically only have a few years of riding standard bikes ahead of me, when the time comes, Ebikes will be how I stay on the trails. Better that than stuck on the couch 😁🤙
I'm 51 and people have told me 'since I'm old I need an E-bike'. The way I see it, since I'm 51, I need to work
harder to stay in shape. I WILL ride my full suspension mountain bike (non-exec) as long as I can. I don't
want the 'help' of the 'e-bike', I want the workout of the non-e-bike!!!
Turbo levo ,I love it most fun I have had with my clothes on😝😝😝👍👍😁never ride regular mtb again too slow and climbing is so boring
I think E-bikes are great!! If my generation listen to the haters in my day. There would be no mountain bikes today. So be open minded, be an innovator not a hater.
I remember BMX hating moutain bikes, Skiers hating snowboards, the list goes on and on. It always takes a few years for new things to catch on.
I've was getting excited about getting an e-Mtb to keep riding at retirement age and then I found out they aren't allowed on a lot of the trails where I live yet. I hope progress is made soon, I would really like to be able to launch on an e-MTB from home and ride the local trails.
Really curious on your opinion on the mullet set up
That Fox 38 just screams jump me, stair set of doom, and generally all types of horrible abuse. I'm really looking forward to seeing you jumping over the van on Friday.
I think for Strava users that work themselves hard to get KOMs or top 10s it would suck to work that hard for someone to come and take it on a e bike. Other than that I don’t personally have a issue with them
You can mark rides as ebike rides on strava which removes you from leaderboards. But yes, hard agree that it is annoying when people forget or choose not to do that 😭
dang, they look super clean, and i love the look of the new fox stuff!
Syd’s gonna ride! Woohoo!
I think they’re great. I want one. I don’t have time to train and get faster. But I’m poor
At 68 , I’d really like to get an electric mtn bike. I sold my bike 3 years ago as my fitness was fading and honestly it had become more of a chore and the fun factor had faded . I do miss it though. So I’d like to try it . There is a company in the Phoenix area that rents all styles of mtn bikes including mountain bikes . I’ll have to try one soon .
Although like many of the other commenters, I have mixed feelings about mtb ebikes; great to make trails more accessibility, but bad for crowding. Whatever, it's good for the industry as a whole and glad to see Niner finally getting on the ebike train!
Ebikes, you love or hate them?
I told myself I would never get one.
But after demoing all different Ebikes I have made up my mind to get a whyte E150rs. The wife's riding has dropped off a lot from 40 / 50k down to 15 / 20k everytime we go out so getting an Ebike will really help out & when the wife is working weekends I will use it to find new trails.
Living in the UK most of our trails are one way so no worries about running head on with other riders but we do get some people walking on the bike trails so still need to ride safe.
Looks like a nice bike
Ikm totally in agreement with you on eBikes. Whether due to age, power, or injury the eBike has it’s place. And I also believe that class 1 is the more appropriate trail option between pedal assisted models. It’s great to see some professionals step up to support eBikes. I think that’s what was missing. Thanks for doing your bit!
Absolutely love my E-MTB...I ride so much more than I would otherwise. It also makes me safer on the downhill because I am not so tired. I am in NC and state parks allow them and VA allows if local authority allows them. Love E-MTB!