The Verge argues eMTBs enhance skill development, not cheating
A recent review suggests electric mountain bikes act as a force multiplier for rider confidence and trail enjoyment, with pricing ranging from $4,000 to $10,000.
The Verge has published an opinion piece titled "Fine, electric mountain bikes don’t suck," challenging the long-standing narrative that pedal-assist technology constitutes cheating in mountain biking. The article argues that electric mountain bikes (eMTBs) serve as a force multiplier, enhancing trail enjoyment and potentially aiding skill development by allowing riders to maintain momentum on technical ascents and recover from errors without compromising technique.
The review centres on the Amflow PX Carbon Pro, equipped with the Avinox M2S motor, a new product from DJI’s offshoot. The Avinox M2S motor delivers up to 150Nm of torque and a temporary boost of 1,500W, helping riders maintain momentum on technical ascents and recover from errors without compromising technique. The article highlights a distinction between European eMTBs, which are limited to 250W continuous output and a 25km/h (15.5mph) pedal-assist top speed, and higher-powered Class 1 and Class 3 variants sold in the US.
Pricing examples range from the premium Amflow PX Carbon Pro at approximately $10,000 to budget options like the CRUSSIS e-Hard 11.11 at roughly $4,000, with other brands such as Ride1Up and Aventon also mentioned. Avinox now has over 60 bike brand partners globally.
Mountain biking has a history of gatekeeping new technologies, with purists previously complaining about the introduction of full-suspension frames, disc brakes, dropper posts, and 29-inch wheels. The author is a novice rider who began cycling during the pandemic and suffered a shoulder injury, noting that the eMTB provided a greater sense of control and safety.
Traditional mountain biking culture often involves gatekeeping attitudes towards new technology, though many past innovations are now standard. The article is a personal opinion piece rather than a scientific study; claims regarding skill improvement are anecdotal. The assertion that eMTBs make riders faster is contested by the author based on European trail conditions, whereas other regions may have different dynamics. The long-term impact on rider skill development is presented as a possibility (might make you want to become one) rather than a guaranteed outcome.
