Best Electric Mountain Bikes: Enjoy an Easier Riding Experience
Consider these electric mountain bikes to safely take you from a simple city commute to soaring mountain trails.
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BY Zach Faulds / LAST UPDATED ON July 27, 2021
If you enjoy the great outdoors or simply desire to make your work commute more efficient, electric bicycles can offer a plethora of options for all terrains, needs, and skill sets. Cycling is great exercise, but sometimes you need an extra boost to get you to the top of a steep incline, or you may desire a relaxing and effortless commute home after a long day of work. There are several variables to consider when choosing your new mountain bike, including battery life, display style, motor, speeds and assist levels, brakes, and comfort.
Whether you are looking for great value, superior functionality, durability, or trying to dip your toes into the world of electric biking, we have compiled a list of our best electric bikes. Read on to find the electric mountain bike to best fit your lifestyle and needs.
Includes a powerful 350-watt brushless motor with a 36-volt lithium battery that can reach speeds of 20 miles per hour.
- Can travel up to 30 miles of travel on a full battery
- Works well on hills
- Easy to use
- Comes with a five-speed LCD display screen, mileage tracker, and light signal
- May require a tune-up to get the best performance.
- Doesn’t come fully assembled
- Pedals aren’t the highest quality
Features superior breaking, pedal-assist and a convenient monitor to provide information during your ride.
- Strong aluminum frame, alloy wheels, and three-piece crank
- LED display for battery power and speed
- Front suspension fork and front/rear V-brakes
- 36V brushless motor with six shiftable speeds
- 26V/7.8 AH integrated flush-mount battery that runs for 20 miles
- May be difficult to get in touch with customer service
- Motor shuts off at 20 miles per hour and you must slow down for it to start up again
Well constructed electric mountain bike that boasts several speed gears and assist levels to fit any biker’s lifestyle and needs.
- Made of a strong aluminum alloy frame
- 350W brushless motor reaches 20 miles per hour
- Features 21-speed gears and five levels of pedal assist
- 375Wh battery takes three hours to fully charge and lasts for 30 hours of complete electric riding
- Requires assembly, which may be difficult for some
- Battery may not be as functional and long-lasting as advertised
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Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.
Benefits of Electric Mountain Bikes
- Improved mobility. Electric mountain bikes give you the freedom to get around easily and quickly. Depending on the type of e-bike, you aren’t burdened by using pedals and can focus on your surroundings instead. Riding through a trail can be difficult, but with the power of a motor, you can tackle hills without issue.
- Stay active. An electric mountain bike also gives you the opportunity to get outside and exercise more. This can be a great way to lose weight and stay healthy and fit.
- They’re fun. Exploring new trails is exciting, and electric bikes allow you to get out and see new places. You can form new friendships with other riders and bond over mountain bikes or your favorite trail.
Types of Electric Mountain Bikes
Pedal Assist
As the name implies, pedal-assisted e-mountain bikes run by pedaling. However, pedaling requires far less effort than it does with a normal mountain bike because it powers the motor. Whether you’re running on high gears or low gears, you will have a much easier time riding an electric bike. You will typically be able to travel around 15 to 20 miles per hour with a pedal assist bike.
Throttle
An e-mtb powered by a throttle runs like a motorcycle or a scooter. You will not have to use the pedals at all while the motor is running. You control how fast the bike goes by pressing and holding the throttle. These types of e-bikes generally reach the same speeds as pedal assisted bikes.
Top Brands
Ancheer
Headquartered in Los Angeles, Calif., Ancheer is one of the premier designers of high-quality health and fitness products. Aside from making some of the best electric bikes, the company also designs parts for bikes, exercise bikes, and scooters. Ancheer makes the Ancheer New Electric Mountain Bike, our choice for best overall mountain bike, as well as the Ancheer 350/500W Electric Bike, one of our picks for best electric mountain bike honorable mention.
Kent
With its home base in West Fairfield, N.J., Kent produces high-quality bikes and related accessories. Apart from constructing some of the best electric bikes on the market, Kent makes and sells all different types of bicycles to fit any lifestyle. You can feel confident that they have a bike for you, whether you’re riding the beach, city, trails, or neighborhood. Kent makes the Kent Electric Pedal Assist Step-Through Bike, one of our picks for best electric mountain bike honorable mention.
Electric Mountain Bike Pricing
- $600 to $900: If you want a solid and sturdy electric mountain bike, this is the starting price range. They are robust, durable, and travel around 20 miles per hour.
- $900 and up: This price point will include a wider selection of premium e-bikes. They will feature large batteries that last longer, and they may come with a bit more power output. They also feature higher performance capabilities. The frames of these bikes will be steel or carbon fiber.
Key Features
Weight Capacity
Electric mountain bikes are designed to travel over difficult terrain quickly and efficiently. This means they all feature a maximum weight capacity. You can find it inside of the owner’s manual. Many e-bikes are rated to carry up to 200 pounds, but some might have a lower carrying capacity and more expensive options may come with a higher amount.
Motor Size
The size of the bike’s motor dictates how many miles it can travel and how fast it can go. Typically, an electric mountain bike can reach speeds of 20 miles per hour and travel between 15 to 30 miles. However, this will depend on the type of terrain you are riding through. More strenuous trails with hills and inclines will reduce the speed and distance of the bike.
Wheel Size
The size of an electric mountain bike’s wheels is perhaps one of the most important things you should keep in mind. Since you will be riding through mud, dirt, and water, you should consider a mountain bike with larger wheels. They will provide the bike with more grip and better traction control.
Other Considerations
- Design. Get an electric mountain bike that is constructed out of strong parts. Since you will be riding through trees, over rocks, and around rivers, the bike needs to be durable. You can find bikes with either aluminum, steel, or carbon fiber frames. Carbon fiber is the lightest choice.
- Battery Life. The majority of electric mountain bikes come with a lithium-ion battery or a lead-acid battery. Both can be recharged once they run out of juice so you can continue to ride. Their charging times can vary by a few hours, and they both generally last around 60 minutes per charge.
- Handlebars. Find an electric mountain bike that has adjustable handlebars. The handlebars should be easy to move up and down and shouldn’t require a lot of muscle to manipulate.
Best Electric Mountain Bikes Reviews & Recommendations 2021
This stylish blue electric mountain bike comes with a powerful 350-watt brushless motor. The little engine can run for hours to get you through both off-road trails or your commute to work. It also comes equipped with a 36-volt lithium battery that is capable of reaching speeds of up to 20 miles per hour.
The lightweight and rechargeable battery allows the bike to travel up to 30 miles on a single charge. One big benefit of this particular e-mountain bike is that it works well on hills and inclines. Plus, it comes with a five-speed LCD display screen, mileage tracker, and light signal on the handlebars.
There are a few minor downsides you should be aware of if you are looking to purchase this electric bike, however. It may require a tune up to get the best performance. You can take it to a bike shop and they should be able to get it done without a large bill. Plus, it doesn’t come fully assembled and the pedals aren’t the highest quality.
If you’ve been searching for a great value and high-performing electric mountain bike, look no further than the Hyper Bicycles E-Ride Electric Pedal Assist Mountain Bike. This affordable bike features front suspension forks for ideal comfort while riding, as well as front and rear V-brakes for superior stopping power. The aluminum 26-inch frame, alloy wheels and three-piece crank can easily accommodate riders with heights of 5 feet 2 inches to 5 feet 10 inches tall and a maximum weight of 275 pounds.
This electric mountain bike boasts an integrated flush-mount 26V/7.8 AH battery that can run for up to 20 miles when fully charged for four hours. The 36V brushless motor features six speeds that assists with varying terrain and skill levels. When you are faced with steep inclines or you just need a rest, turn on the pedal assist, which can help you cruise at a smooth 20 miles per hour. A high-tech LED display indicates remaining battery power and current speed, keeping you well-informed throughout your ride.
Keep in mind that there are a few reported downsides of this bicycle. Hyper’s customer service can be difficult to deal with when faced with product defects or needed replacements. Additionally, the pedal-assist motor shuts off at 20 miles per hour and you must slow down and wait for it to re-engage.
The Metakoo Electric Mountain Bike boasts a durable aluminum alloy frame and superior front suspension fork to provide a smooth and bump free ride. Regardless of weather conditions, the mechanical disc brakes provide safe, reliable, and strong stopping abilities. Five levels of pedal assist allow the rider to adjust the support needed during their ride as necessary. This bike is ideal for any terrain with a 21-speed gear system.
This electric mountain bike features a quick charge battery that lasts more than 30 hours in an all-electric mode, and much longer if only using pedal-assist. This 375Wh battery can be fully recharged in no time, only requiring three hours of charge time. Fully equipped with a Bafang 350W brushless motor, you can reach up to 20 miles per hour while cruising on the Metakoo Electric Mountain Bike.
There are a few downsides to take note of before purchasing this bike. The bike arrives in pieces and requires assembly that may be difficult for those not versed in bike building. Additionally, the battery life may be inconsistent and not as advertised.
The Ancheer 350/500W electric mountain bike is a great choice for anyone looking to invest in a high-quality bike for all occasions. This bike boasts high-strength carbon steel forks and premium tires to provide a comfortable and bump-free ride. Front and back rear mechanic disc brakes offer advanced braking in all conditions, rain or shine. Make sure you know all your ride statistics with the high-tech LCD display that tracks speed, power usage, remaining battery, and mileage.
Ancheer’s superior electric bike includes a 500W brushless motor that reaches a speed of 22 miles per hour. It includes two levels of pedal assist that complement riders of all skill sets, across all terrains. The 48V/10AH battery can carry you 22 miles on throttle mode and 38 miles when only utilizing the pedal assist. This bike requires a charge time of six hours to reach full battery capacity. Suitable for city commuting to full-on mountain biking, this eclectic bike features 21-speed gears to keep you prepared for all terrains. Ancheer’s bike arrives 85 percent assembled with a video assembly guide, or you can opt for third party assembly.
While this bike is a great purchase, a few issues do exist. This bike is on the pricier end and is definitely an investment. There are some difficulties with adjusting the LCD screen, specifically switching the display from KPH to MPH. This well-made bike is also on the heavier side, weighing about 53 pounds.
Look no further than Kent’s Electric Pedal Assist Step-Through Bike to get you to and from work, or take you soaring through the mountain trails. This sleek and stylish model features an ultra-low aluminum comfort frame that comprises an attractive gray and aqua color scheme. The frame includes a semi-integrated battery design. An LED digital control panel allows you to track important metrics throughout your ride to easily stay informed.
Kent’s electric bike has a 36V/350W electric motor that lasts about one hour and 20 minutes of riding, or 20-25 miles, depending on style of usage, terrain, and other variables. This bike boasts an eight-speed pedal assist with three different assist modes. The 10.4-amp Samsung Lithium Ion battery takes five hours to fully charge before taking off on your next adventure.
Although this electric bike is one of our top products, be aware of a few downsides before completing your purchase. Some customers have experienced delivery issues, including missing and broken parts, as well as tattered boxes upon arrival. The owner’s manual can also appear outdated and overwhelming compared to other options.
Tips
- To avoid running out of power, plug in your bike to charge at the end of each day. You may want to carry an extra charger in case the battery runs low during the day.
- Buy an extra battery for your bike. It will come in handy for when you go for long trips and may not have access to a power outlet for charging the battery.
- Store the battery at full charge when it’s not in use. Be sure to top it off after a few weeks when the charge goes down. Avoid leaving it on the bike when the temperatures are too hot or cold, as it may get damaged.
- Keep your chain well-lubricated to improve your pedaling efficiency. A well-oiled chain also improves the cranking efficiency of the motor. Also, lubricate joints such as the handlebars and saddle seat joint to reduce friction between the metal parts.
- Consider switching to tubeless tires. They can adapt to any terrain and are better at absorbing the shocks of bumps, potholes, and rugged terrain compared to conventional tube tires. They also have a lower chance of puncturing.
FAQs
Q: How can I improve the bike range when the battery is low?
Switch to pedaling to conserve the bike's energy. Lower the assist setting, and pedal faster when climbing a slope. Alternatively, you could ride slower to reduce the wind resistance that typically puts a strain on the battery.
Q: Can an electric bike ride well with low tire pressure?
Low tire pressure makes the bike sluggish and harder to move. It gets harder for you to pedal and increases strain on the battery since the electric system is being overworked. Maintain your tire pressure at around 60 psi for a smooth ride. Overinflating them also makes the ride feel rougher.
Q: How often should I replace an e-bike’s battery?
Your battery’s ability to hold energy will reduce significantly with time. You can, therefore, replace your battery pack every year, or when you feel that the bike range is intolerable. Be sure to replace it with the same model or one that’s compatible with your e-bike.
Final Thoughts
Our pick for the best electric bike is the Ancheer New Electric Mountain Bike. It’s a versatile choice for anyone who wants to go on off-road rides or daily commutes. If you’re a cyclist looking for something that fits better within your tight budget, consider the Hyper Bicycles E-Ride Electric Pedal Assist Mountain Bike.