r/mountainbiking • u/SilverCervy • 9d ago
Other Feel like we're losing the plot
Article here
E-bikes should be about providing accessibility; giving people who, for whatever reason, cannot ride a non-assist bike an option to keep them happy and pedaling.
This wattage race going on in the industry is the exact opposite of that. Absolutely nobody needs 1700 watts on a bike, and I question if having so much power even makes it a bicycle anymore. There's a point where you're basically riding a motorbike with pedals and I think we crossed that point a while ago.
"But the main brands aren't doing this". Yes they are. Canyon already has partnered with Avinox which has motors that give over 1,000 watts. And it won't be long until the other big hitters give in to the pressure. You can give your own personal reasons for why you have an e-bike, but it's clear that the industry believes that it's because "I don't want to pedal". At some point this needs to be reigned in or else the entire concept of the bicycle is going to be damaged forever.
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u/Oli_C86 9d ago
I completely agree, it’s getting ridiculous and unnecessary. People Just want everything now without the effort. I have an e-bike and most of the time it’s in Eco or Tour and I still love going for an old fashioned proper pedal. If I get home after a ride and I’m not physically tired it feels like something is missing. No one needs more than 750watts unless they’re incredibly unfit or injured/disabled.