While at the LBS this past weekend I was offered a free demo of an e-mountain bike. I declined the offer as it seemed a slippery slope that would end up with me spending more $$$ on a mtn bike. Will the prices come down soon?
We made the mistake of taking one of those demos on a Pivot Shuttle and I will go back the the title here, WOW. The Pivot uses a Shimano motor and was very easy to use, mechanically the drive train is a "one by" with the electric motor feeling like a multiplier for that additional power. Just riding it around the parking lot was intoxicating and I look forward to taking one out on the trails. Will these replace traditional mountain bikes? I don't know...will those new fanlged "shape" or cheater skis replace straight skis? Will high speed uphill capacity lifts replace fixed frip chairs? With the automobile replace the horse & buggy? The list goes on. Yes, it is a bit tongue in cheek but burning 2,000 calories on a ride is not the goal for every rider, some just want to get out and enjoy the outdoors. These designs are an
assist, not a
replace.
Will the prices come down? I am sure there will be less expensive options coming down the trail, just as there are less expensive options now but like with most bikes, you pretty much get what you pay for. The more you spend the more (performance & quality) and less (weight) you get. Would I condsider one? Absolutely. I am...now to find a company who wants us to do an extended test.