Top 10 Tips for Riding an Electric MTB

Written by: Rémy Rossi | November 18, 2024 | Time to read 6 min

Here at Upway, we are big fans of electric mountain biking and it shows. We’ve got everything from fast-paced XC bikes to long-travel enduro machines that provide a powerful boost up the climbs. No matter which e-MTB you love to ride, I’ve curated a list of the top 10 riding tips for when you’re hitting the trails.

Even with the added power of an e-MTB, you’ll still have to shift into the right gear on the climbs. I learned this the hard way when riding my first full-suspension e-MTB— I thought the motor would simply brute-force me up the hill then I ran out of momentum and simply stopped. Pedaling in the right cadence allows the motor to deliver the right amount of power and operate efficiently within its ideal rpm window. Don’t be afraid to shift frequently, as you would on an acoustic MTB when the trail points uphill.

Consider battery life as you ride to extend your range and avoid trudging back to the trailhead on a heavy e-MTB that’s out of juice. E-Bike range won’t be the same every time you ride because it depends on a variety of factors, including rider weight, assistance mode, tire pressure, battery capacity, and ground conditions. Feel free to bump up the assistance on the climbs and tone it down when descending to save energy. Upway stocks tons of long-range electric bikes for riders who need nonstop power on their extended adventures.

Electric mountain bikes can transform riders into Energizer Bunnies who want to just keep going and going. If you embark on longer, more remote rides on your adventure e-Bike, remember to pack enough hydration and nutrition goodies to ensure you can keep up with your boosted bike. Riding an electric off-road bike is still a huge workout and it’s crucial to maintain your energy levels.

Riders who are new to e-MTB riding may notice that the engagement and acceleration of the motor affect how they ride. Pedaling through corners will trigger the motor to deliver some assistance which, if you’re not expecting it, can catch you off guard. You may want to start the pedal stroke slightly later than you’re used to in order to ensure the rear wheel has the grip it needs before accelerating out of the turn. As you get a feel for your bike’s motor and acceleration, you’ll hit the sweet spot of power and traction.

Keep your head up high and look down the trail about three to four bike lengths when riding. Starting at your front wheel means you’ll notice obstacles and trail changes when it’s too late. Instead, anticipate the trail by looking far enough ahead, thinking out other trail users, and analyzing ground conditions. Adjust to changes in slope before you get there so you’re already in the appropriate pedal assist mode or gear. And if you’re wondering if you can ride electric bikes on the road— you totally can, but these e-MTBs are built for off-road trail shredding.

Another tip that applies to both acoustic and electric mountain biking is choosing good lines. Riding the right line on the trail is part of the fun challenge of mountain biking and helps you ride as efficiently as possible. When going uphill, avoid wet mud, pedal strokes, slippy roots, and loose rocks that can slow down your climb. On the way down, seek out clean lines and link trail features to put together the flowiest route possible.

One quirk about electric mountain biking is climbing while sitting down. It’s the opposite of what’s recommended for going uphill on a standard mountain bike or road bike, but there’s a reason behind it. Pedaling in a seated position maintains grip and a more constant drive when climbing. Standing up and really cranking on the pedals can lead to powerful spurts and even wheelies if not controlled. That said, climbing while standing on the pedals is still totally fine and can be the preferred method on sudden steep bits or technical terrain.

Electric bikes are impressively water-resistant (nearly completely waterproof), but there’s still no reason to search for water features to submerge your e-MTB. The robust seals and coverings on your bike’s electric components will protect them from heavy rain and water crossings, but try to avoid fully dunking the motor below the water line. Feel free to wash your bike frequently; just take several steps back if you use a power washer.

Riding an electric MTB can feel more different than you may expect compared to a standard mountain bike, but the tips mentioned above ensure you’re ready to rip. It’s just a handful of pointers and quick advice, but remember that the best way to develop your skills on your e-MTB is by getting out there and riding the trails!