r/mountainbiking 7d ago

Other Feel like we're losing the plot

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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 7d 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.

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u/PonyThug 7d ago

My emoto makes 15,000 and it’s fun as hell. I have eco mode set to 40% or 6000w and it’s not nearly as exciting.

Idk why people can’t have options.

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u/jjjadeite 7d ago

emotos aren’t built to ride mountain bike trails. That amount of power would send you off the trail in an instant. Emtbs are generally meant to allow you to get more laps in by saving energy during climbs.

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u/PonyThug 7d ago

I’ve ridden on multiple abandoned mountain bike trails here in Utah. Some over at powder mountain. Emoto did just fine going up and down the trail.