Mid-power vs full-power e-bikes
Stuck on whether to get on a mid-power or full-power eMTB? Here are a few things to consider.
Just a decade ago I questioned whether the eMTBs that were available should have a place in Australian Mountain Bike magazine. And a few years later I was at a launch for a new Bosch-equipped Lapierre eMTB that was one of many bikes that wrenched eMTBs from awkward designs and geometry into being fun mountain bikes to ride, that also were a bit of a leveller on the uphills. The biggest revelation I had at that launch was how having everyone on an eMTB on a ride meant everyone just about stayed together on the climbs, chatting, laughing and having fun. This made sense. This was mountain biking, and fun is at the heart of it.
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Since then the range of e-bikes has expanded more than many would have thought. For those who are looking at an eMTB, there is now a big question: do I go for a mid power eMTB with 40-65Nm of torque, or something around the 85Nm? Here's my take on how to decide.
How do you climb?
Let's remember, an eMTB is about making the climbs better. I find most mid-power eMTBs benefit from geometry, weight and ride feel that is closer to that of an unassisted bike – but with the benefit of extra support. So if you want to find the singletrack climbs to get to fun descents, and enjoy up as much as down, then you'll likely prefer a mid-power eMTB.
That said, have you always hunted out the big, technical climbs that need plenty of high power input to master the features? If that's you, you'll love what is possible on a full-power eMTB once you master your balance and technique. If you have seen the EDR-E power stages, you'll know exactly how a full-power eMTB can be used. What you can climb with all that torque is incredible!
What is trail time to you?
If you want to smash the pedal ups and send the descents, you really should err towards a full-power eMTB. Running in the dynamic modes like eMTB on the Bosch Smart System, having a full range of power that reacts to the amount of effort you're putting in is a surefire way to put a smile on your face up a climb. And if you just want to get to the top with the least effort, and to be fresh for the descent, this is the best option.
Given the speed limits on eMTBs it is not about how fast you can get up the hill, but more about the effort from you to spur on the assistance. Having done a few matched rides on a 50Nm and 85Nm bike, the energy saving on the Bosch equipped 85Nm bike is about 20%, plus some slightly faster descending times given I was a little fresher.
What are your friends riding?
It seems like a small deal, but for just about any bike purchase you are best to match it to the kind of riding you and your mates do, and the bikes they ride. If you have your social network already, why change? This will mostly dictate how long you're out, and how the rides pan out. Almost all full-power eMTBs will come with larger batteries than mid-power eMTBs. Although using the modes means you can eek out long ride times on either type – mostly people run on the mid to higher assist modes. So consult a friend, and match their advice to what you know you want to do.
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How do you ride?
Do you like a bike that is a little more nimble? Something you can get moving with a pedal kick and a weight shift? Or do you want the stability of a gravity bike for steep descents and planted landings? There is a fine difference between mid and full-power eMTBs for these traits, and likely more in the bike's geometry than the support system. But smaller motors and batteries will weigh less when built into an equivalent bike. You may prefer the lighter system weight to get the handling dynamics you want for a playful bike – or the full-power option for endless self-shuttling on steep fire trails
Why do you ride?
There's a bit to think about here. Do you ride to get outside? To unwind? For some thrills? Or for social time with mates? This takes into account all of the above, but also how you want your bike to react. Most of the mid-power systems are very quiet and nearly blend into the background for both the ride dynamics and assistance.
For some, a full-power eMTB feels like a totally different sport – and a very fun one at that. Thankfully the range of eMTBs is nothing like they were a decade ago, and they're a very important part of mountain biking, helping get more people on the trails. Choose one that suits you and you'll have a blast.
