II am 61 years old – and in my (better) days (pride comes before a fall), I thought an e-mountain bike would only be relevant when I am very old, practically when I can hardly ride a bike anymore. Well, times change, and so do the possibilities. Recently, my colleague Michael, who is the same age as me, showed up with his e-bike: a “Superlight” that has only a small battery and a small motor but is only slightly heavier than a regular bike. It provides support where needed but still requires your own effort. I didn’t even know such a thing existed, and it took me three days to want one (but then absolutely and immediately!), and two days to choose and buy one. And five days until it finally arrived!!!
The cow in the background is just decoration. You can see:
- The battery is hidden within the frame (good for me – I find it very compact, though in Greece it might be a disadvantage as charging in a tavern with the whole bike might be unwelcome).
- This is a “fully”, the rear shock absorber is also hidden within the frame. I think that’s great!
- A helmet from the year 200x, has already been replaced.
You cannot see (I missed all these developments during my Sleeping Beauty slumber):
- The height-adjustable seat controlled by a button
- The huge 2x-inch wheels
- The adjustable suspension by button both in the fork and the rear (specific to Scott)
After my first experiences, which made me feel 20 years younger, I have a nuanced opinion about this type of bike: perfect for me, but maybe not for everyone:
- The motor’s power is specified as 50Nm, the simplified representation is: “x2”. And? Motors with higher performance are indicated as “x4” or “x8”. Which means?
- EVERYONE else is faster. You’ll be overtaken on every climb by everyone else. By cyclists with rearview mirrors. Just saying.
- Your performance profile only matches others with your type of bike. In a group that also includes “larger” e-bikes, you’re not compatible.
- You also have to contribute: the bike does almost nothing without your own effort. So just pretending to pedal and expecting the bike to go won’t work. But honestly, I wouldn’t want that either. I like to use my own strength, but I appreciate the support for what’s no longer possible due to age. A nice companion that gives a little push.
Otherwise, the bike feels very similar to my old bio-bike, especially when descending.
A whole new perspective and a range of possibilities I thought were no longer possible. Highly recommended – see above.
