So, the age old question, (at least since super light e-bikes existed) what is worth sacrificing, weight or power? Well don’t worry, we are going to discuss some of the pros and cons and if you really have to sacrifice it all. So stick around, even if you aren’t looking to purchase a eMTB, this guide can be applied to all sorts of eBikes. eBikes have shown huge growth in the UK. As their benefits and features only keep getting better they will surely be on your radar soon.
Full-fat eMTBs
What does a “full fat” (fully powered) electric bike offer? Well the main thing will be more power. Brands usually pack these bikes with bigger, more robust and powerful motors. This means you will be able to conquer hills you never thought were possible before, while also having high torque when needed. For example the Haibike Allmtn CF 11 i750 can deliver up to 85nm of torque (and is 35% off at the moment). The other biggest thing they offer is a larger battery, this can mean longer ranges when using high torque settings or longer milages when utilising more economic settings.
What about the downsides?
Well, most people would consider the extra weight more cumbersome, most e-bikes average around 20+kg, although some riders find that the extra weight lowers the centre of gravity on the bikes enough to make them feel more planted over rougher or faster terrain.
Super-light eMTBs
Super-light E-MTBs have their key benefit in the name, they have weights ranging from 17kg to 25kg, comparable to a well equipped hybrid bike. These bikes feel almost like riding an “analogue” (non-electric) bike with the extra benefit of assistance when you please. This allows you to ride for a longer length of time without
burning out.
The lighter weight is achieved by downsizing the motor and battery, effectively giving you less range/milage and less torque from the motor (not in all bikes).
Although lighter weight of the bike and lower torque output from the motor do help reducing the downside of a smaller battery, so you might still find a surprising amount of range being delivered.
A “super-light” E-MTB can feel more in line with what your non-electric counterpart might deliver. So it is a great choice if you aren’t looking for huge amounts of assistance but simply want to ride for a bit longer.
Range Extenders
Range extenders can be a great way to try and counteract the battery disadvantages that are bought on by a super-light bike. They are small dense batteries, usually around 1-2kg and size of a water bottle. For many brands these can hold up to 50% of the total range the bike holds. You can choose (in most cases) wether you want to fully drain the extender first or drain it along with your in-built battery. An advantage to draining it first would be that once exhausted you can leave the extender behind and reclaim your bottle holder. They usually cost around £300/£450 although sometimes, when purchased with a new bike you can grab them for free. For example we are currently running a promotion on any Giant Trance E+ Elite or Liv Intrigue E+ Elite where you can claim a free range extender (usually worth £430).
Key considerations
By just looking at the pros and cons it may be hard to make a final choice. So consider these crucial questions to guide your decision-making process.
How do you want it to feel?
There are differences between how both bikes feel and behave. Are you looking for something light and playful that will quickly reacts to your inputs? Then a super-light eMTB is a clear choice. Whereas if you like a planted, stuck to the ground bike, then a full-fat bike is a better choice to consider.
Who will you be riding along?
When going out for rides, your riding partners matter. Especially when riding an eBike. If all of the people you ride with are using full-fat eBikes then is a lightweight bike worth it? You may have to sacrifice your battery charge just to keep up with them. Or you could also be pushing yourself more, leaving you feeling more tired outweighing the benefit of an eBike altogether.
How do you plan to transport the bike?
The difference between 7kg and 20kg is quite clear. Do you plan to load the bike on a car rack? If so, most have limits, will that be able to support the weight? And are you happy for the challenge of lifting one up whenever transporting it?
At the end of the day, the choice is yours. Theres a lot of choices, with different brand, motor, capacity and much more. All of them will handle differently from each other, but they will all be a great, fun experience to ride. Do you have specific eMTB questions, or general questions about electric bikes? Get in touch with our support team of any of our stores by clicking here. Alternatively why not click the button below and explore our range of eMTBs?
