Show off your Mountain Bike!!!

What’s different from an ebike to a dirt bike? I mean ones electric and ones gas but basically the same thing, no?

 

I was looking into an ebike awhile back, and was surprised to find out the number of places that do not allow them. At first I was a bit shocked and thought it stupid, but after seeing how far ebikes have progressed I understand it. Some ebikes are able to do A LOT more than add a little assistance. I've watched some videos of people doing donuts in gravel lots or roosting up a hill just like you would on a dirtbike, no peddling necessary. Obviously not all can do this, but some definitely can. So yeah, I understand the need to differentiate from a standard bicycle and where you can ride them.

 

Yea I’m new to this world but I just don’t see the difference. Like I thought we do pedal bikes because you have to work for it and all that. A ebike just seems like an electric dirt bike.

 

I've demo'd a few e-bikes just to have an educated opinion. To compare them to a proper dirt bike is pretty insane (for the types of E-bikes we're talking about). Are they fun? Sure!

Mtn biking to me is all about fun fitness and having a motor assist isn't helping that purpose. I get someone like my dad not being able to keep up with us whippersnappers, but people in their 20s on one can...nevermind.

Here's my take on why E-bikes aren't "real" bikes: If you tried to explain to someone from the 1930's that you had a bike, that you pedal, but it also has a motor on it...they would think you were legit insane and demand to see your motorcycle. QED

 

I do pedal bikes for exercise, to get out in nature, and to hang with friends. Growing up it was dirtbikes and ATVs for the most part for me. I lived in a much more rural area back then. Biking is a good option up here in King County, Washington, as motorized vehicle trails don't really exist here.

I doubt it'll happen, but a part of me is hoping with the growing number of ebikes, we might see a resurgence in motorized vehicle trails. I like variety. Lets give everyone a place to ride!

 

Straight up, If someone rides by me on a E-Bike on the trail, and they aren't old, I assume they're either very lazy or have a disability.

 

Awesome...good strong opinions and controversy and again
"to each its own"
E-assits gives you the help when you want it or when I feel lazy, yes lazy, since you guys are looking it that way.
You still have to pedal and even work harder because of the weight factor when it's turned off or if you run out of battery juice.
A motorcycle you don't pedal anything, there's the difference!
It's so funny how people can have strong negative opinions of something that some haven't even tried. Best example I can give is, over 40yrs ago when I was on a Snurffer other kids thought I was nuts...today snowboarding is in the Olympics.
We now have E-Indy races, and the evolution of E motors are here. I consider myself open minded and open to growth, so at 62 yrs young I'll keep trying new stuff and I won't like everything, but I'll respect the innovation and the will to dream.
I was totally against ebikes at first, but after conquering very technical uphill climbs that on my Stumpjumper Carbon hardtail I would have to carry up, it brings a smile to my face and gives ME that "holy shit, I can't believe I made that" feeling.
It's not for everyone, but please don't feel angry when I'd pass you PEDALING up an uphill grade.

My hardtail 29er


and lazy, cheat'n EBike

 

This is why 99% of people that despise e-bikes despise e-bikes.

I'm glad you like your e-bike though. If that's what it takes to keep getting you out there and taking in the view, so be it.

 

Just sounds like a dirt bike to me lol

 

I have not tried an e-bike and don't particularly have anything against them as city transportation. But, I draw the line if their usage on trails starts affecting my access, and I think that is a real concern. I think it is selfish for someone to say, "I want to enjoy this sport, but I can't really do it, so I need some help" and threaten access for people that have been riding and enjoying the sport for years. It's about infringing on others' freedoms. Riding a normal MTB does not affect access for e-bike users, but e-bike usage might affect normal MTB users. You don't have the "right" to do a 30-mile MTB ride everywhere normal riders ride, you have or develop the ability.

Should there be trails that allow e-bike usage? Sure, why not. Just don't get upset when your e-bike access to MTB trails is blocked because you aren't really doing the same sport.

 

True Gunshot

Jealousy is the root of evil and hatred...

but you now what, it's good to have choices and freedom. I've served for that freedom and I choose to enjoy life and not to stress or worry about the things I can't control and enjoy the ones I can...so I've chosen to be lazy with a smile

 

Regardless, we are both a fan of two wheel sports, and while we may disagree on methods of propulsion, I'd be happy to share a round of beers with you at Monkish next time I'm in your hood.

 

Bingo. I'm cool with ebikes, but they should stick to where they are allowed. I'm also into UTVs, which here in WA can now be made street legal in a limited sense. I'm quite annoyed with the folks who know the rules and decide to go flying down the freeway making all UTV owners look bad.

 

Oh man, Utah went that route a few years ago, and the guy who lobbied for the legislation said that was his biggest regret to date. He was trying to expand the 4wd crowd in UT, and it def backfired on him. He's a well meaning guy, just didn't pan out.

Then again, I don't know a single SxS owner that DOESN"T act like a complete twat at the helm of one.

 

NICE! On Western
1st rounds on me!

 

Well, you sorta know me now. I do not act that way. I was even able to join a local SAR unit that specializes in UTVs and ATVS that has been a great way for me to get out and drive, AND I get to help people in the process.

 

Thank you for your service. I must assume that if you knew they were considering eliminating trail access for all bikes due to e-bike usage on a trail you held dear, you would stop riding your e-bike there -- because you were affecting another person's freedoms.

I don't think any real MTBers would be jealous of someone being able to climb a hill on an e-bike, and I don't think jealousy is the issue here. It's more about it threatening their own freedoms. I have no problem with people enjoying an e-bike -- until it affects my enjoyment of riding a normal MTB.

 

Solid point. Kinda like the recent overlanding trend and geotagging stuff and people doing it for the gram. Brought too much attention to our hobby

 

I miss that place. Used to be on my way home from work. The Dudes' as well!

 

Def speaking in generalities, which wasn't aimed at you. But you should see the lot of asshats around here with them. Then again, that was the price I paid for going to visit some friends in an established campground. #BLMLandAlways4Me