I’ve been riding a mountain bike since the late 80’s and up until 9 months ago. I was a “hell no, I’m not riding an e-bike. That’s for lazy people.” I was deciding which new Yeti I was going to buy in 2020 and then.......back surgery unexpectedly happened. It left me with a lot of nerve damage in my left leg which means the muscles don’t respond normally. My left leg is maybe 15% the strength of my right leg. So, I bought an e-bike and now I get to do most of the stuff love about riding. It may not be for everyone, but if you love riding and need some assistance an e-bike gives you back your freedom to go out and have some fun.
I too have had 3 major back surgery and have nerve damage going to both legs and ebikes have changed my life! I can't run or walk very long but have a blast on my ebike riding rough hilly terrain and in 4 months that been riding I've lost 15 pounds and have a different outlook on life! E-mountain bikes forever for me!
Same here! 63, used to ride a lot, shingles nerve damage took 50% of my right leg strength and I’m thinking hard about going electric, too. Amazing for people with disabilities.
Seriously glad to see Syd back on the trails. I'm really stoked to know you're able to start getting back out there. Much admiration and respect for both of you, sending good vibes and lots of love.
Love this❤️ I have a lung condition and MS. I love the shit out of my ebike, it’s my absolute pride and joy. the freedom it has given back for mtb as my conditions have progressed since riding my normal XC bike. Long time subscriber of yours from Australia 🇦🇺 and love your videos guys. Great to see you ripping in again syd ❤️
I love the way you guys are courteous and respectful to the hikers you encounter on your rides. I can't tell you enough how much that does to get rid of the stigma a lot of hikers have towards bikers. You two are the gold standard for what all bikers should strive towards.
I sub'd because they are the same during a race! The BC race series vids. I haven't raced xc in a long time, just road. Forgot how cool the mtb scene is. S&M people learn from they way you race, and it's great that you do it where everyone is having fun and doing their best! When Syd was neck and neck with the other girl, and told Macky to hang back and let them go head-to-head ... pure class. They way you passed slower riders, pure class. Your e-bike opinions are great, and just goes to show the strength of bikes and positive energy. You guys remind me to always be better, and that it matters! Thanks
I love the content that you guys put out. I am working on getting me an EMTB because it makes riding fun for me again. I'm a disabled veteran and besides my injuries from my service I've had a few health issues that's set me back enough that I can't do the climbs like I used to but still do well on the descents that make it a lot of fun. However that is also my setback as the budget is tight and with supporting my son in his riding/racing adventures I delay my purchase until I can one day get the bike I want and get back on the trails riding with him and friends!! Thanks for making this video and thanks to Niner for getting these bikes to you all to share with us as well!!
I started mountain biking in the early 90s as a kid. i was 200lbs, a skated boarder and played hockey as well. Ran a six minute mile! By 2001 i had a knee surgery and was busy working. My work schedule kept me from my activities and i got out if shape! Fast fwd to 2014 and i started riding again........with people that are way lighter and fitter than me! Finally in 2018 I got an E-bike so i wouldnt be too tired attack the decent! I ride way more now! Ok so heres the point im trying go make. E-bikes are perfect for people who dont have the fitness to do all the climbing it takes ride fun trails but still want to ride! E-bikes make it possible to work on important skills while you work on you fitness level in a more controlled environment like the gym! Im 250lbs and ride with guys that race enduro and run marathons! So lets cut the crap here SYD and MACKY lol.........E-bikes are Perfect for people that are out of shape and thats great!!!! Dont be afraid to say so!!!!!!! Big dudes like me who are just sitting around need to here that!!!!!
surprising to hear you all about Everesting and then see you take off on E-bikes. I just got an ebike and love it but I'm almost 50 years older than you. So thank you for bowing to the generations and having fun even. I got a Trek Step-thru with battery on back. There are plenty of back roads around here with little traffic, but they're all on hills. So now a joy-ride is a joy-ride. And I can commute into town now without a car. Blessings on you both.
The thing is, all an Ebike does is give you options. On Levos, you can choose the amount of power in each mode via an app so if you feel the need for a heart attack on the uphills, that's entirely possible. But if you're not feeling masochistic or not in the mood, there's power there if you want it. I've done 1300km in 4 months and can't get enough of the damn thing. And, oddly, while you'd think it's all about ripping around tearing up tracks, the bike is actually peaceful and makes a brilliant trail tourer as well as a mountain bike. Since there's less effort, you can explore more, take detours, go longer. It's brilliant.
At the age of 73, with worsening rheumatoid arthritis and lung problems (I've never smoked by the way), my rides on the trails were getting shorter and shorter and I was always having to stop for a rest. I eventually gave in and fitted a mid drive ebike kit to one of my MTBs (the youngest being 16 years old, all have 26" wheels) Now i gt to travel much further, hills are such fun so i look forward to getting out on the hills. (Was beginning to dread it, it was so exhausting and I was becoming so depressed). I now decide how much exercise I get by selecting a power level that gives me a workout. I still see more trails than younger folk on state of the art bikes and who take the shuttle to get up the hills. I've found fun again!
Great video guys. I’m riding a Giant Reign E pro 0 and I love ebikes. I’ve sold all but one of my analogue bikes. I kept one analogue so when my ebike is getting serviced I can still get out for a ride. I’ve found that riding in lower power settings is smoother, especially when climbing. Lower power settings stop you shooting off around corners and feels more naturally. It gives you the feeling of having stronger legs. I can’t think of many things that an analogue bike is better than an ebike at except lifting the ebike up onto a bike rack.
E-bikes are fun, did a demo ride we rode my local trails for about 3 hours not tired at al, my LBS let me try one for a week and almost got one for my 50th b-day, I am my own mechanic and I can handle the work but instead decided to get me a light nice specs full suspension bike as i'm still pretty fit for my age. Maybe when I'm 60 will add one to the herd.
First time viewer of your channel Enjoyed the video! I smashed the sub button. I am looking forward to watching more of your channel and getting caught up. I lived and Santa Fe for 2.5 and traveled all over NM and CO for work some 20 years ago now. Cheers!
Great video! Love your on ride review of how it feels from a regular bike. I really need to get one. Not being able to ride more than once a week due to family obligations is killing my stamina...so an eMTB would put back the fun by not getting exhausted on the uphills and feel fresher for the downhills!! Love that you two are bringing more awareness to these eMTB (class-1) !! Looking for to more along with your other content. Just be awesome!👍🚴⚡
Great video. So good to see pros enjoying ebikes. I love my ebike along with my 2 regular bikes. Riding bikes are supposed to be fun. Ebikes definitely up the fun factor. Well done
Brilliant upload! Syd, you need to rig up a rear facing GoPro so we can see Macky riding. (Read: pedaling desperately trying to keep up with you!) Keep doing what you do!
Had the chance to test a turbo levo a month ago and I totally feel the same. But I'll wait a decade ... could be a great 50th gift, for now my legs still works great alone
I've been climbing Aspeñola on my regular mountain bike a bunch this year and can confirm it's a heinous climb. Also; Syd I'm coming for your QOM on Half Aspen
Glad to see you guys are open-minded enough to try ebikes. There's a lot of haters out there that have attitudes that need to be adjusted, but that's just fine if they stay where they're at because ignorance is bliss and they'll never know what they're missing. I was riding conventional mountain bikes for 25 years before I got my specialized Turbo levo expert. I must say that the one word I take away is versatility. I can do a lot more on an e-bike than I could ever do on my regular bike. It allows me to Define new routes that I wouldn't consider without the motor. Anyone that tells you an e-bike doesn't give you the same amount of Fitness just didn't figure out that they can turn the motor off and still pedal it. The better bikes allow you to adjust how much assist torque you have. I lowered my assist level in the ECO mode so that I can be sure to continue to get good workouts. After 2700 miles on my Levo, I can say I feel I'm ready to ride more often because of the versatility it has to offer. As you guys realized it eliminated the need to have another machine to shuttle you to the top of the mountain. That's an incredible benefit to have, especially since the lift is not running now. Everyone should ride whatever they choose and not worry about what someone else chooses to ride. I see no reason whatsoever to regulate Class 1 e-bikes any differently than push bikes. I can see there's only really two reasons why the current situation is what it is. The first is people with ego problems on push bikes and the second is I believe there's a contingent of anti-bike types that don't like ANY bicycles on trails to begin with, so they opportunistically lobby to prevent Class 1 bicycles on trails at all.
Really lived ur guys input on the ebike , spot on on how it feels , people say lazy bit u go farther and go tonplaces where i normally wont go because of the effort you have to put into those huge climbs . Ebikes are awesome and still get a workout . U can turm them off while riding and when u get tired turn it on for the help
good job missing the picnicers. my health issues currently keep me from doing something like this but yall sure make me want to, looks like a blast and with the ebikes, you will still have enough energy to do it again or just go and still have a full day of energy to do stuff. thanks for the vid.
Hey there you two! I was hoping you could tell me what glasses you are both wearing in this video? Thanks. It was fun seeing you both on e-bikes. Keep up the great work.
I honestly don’t understand why trail systems ban e bikes. They don’t propel you down the trail at +50mph. You still have to descend under your own power. And when climbing it is definitely noticeable, but it is not a dirt bike ripping third gear up a hill fast. I really hope videos like this help eliminate the bad stigma with these things. Keep it up guys 👌
Jazz echos I have ridden Downhill/freeride/enduro for almost 20 years now and I just got a E MTB this year and its amazing. People just hate without trying something. The bikes are the exact same speed down the hill but 3x faster up. More riding in less time = more fun People need to stop hating on stuff because they can’t afford it or are narrow minded
I totally agree. Except for going up hills, a normal pedal bike can be faster...especially on flats. People who make those rules just don’t understand.
What e-bike can support 120-150km ride if my average is 40-50km ? Usually the battery will be long dead before i would reach those distances. So what you wrote makes no sense to even an average fit rider.
Which noone is ever going to do. People who buy E-Bikes aren't getting them for a workout, that's completely insane logic, they are getting E-Bikes because they either can't ride normal bikes or don't care about the fitness aspect.
First those jerseys are awesome. I would like to try an ebike, doesn't sound like the weight is too bad and can still maneuver the bike pretty well, but you guys are pros Lol. As always, love the channel and vids.
So awesome to see Syd back in action! Once battery technology gets better, i.e. lighter, what mountain bikes can do will only get better. As a person approaching 60, the idea of a relatively lightweight capable DH/Enduro style bike with motor assist is becoming increasingly attractive.
Those are the Shimano Technium, but they don't seem to make them anymore. We've started wearing the S-Phyre instead (also comes with a clear lens): bit.ly/2KOue7x
Love the videos! Here's a little tip for your Santa Fe Brewing bottle caps: Place a quarter on the bottle cap before opening to prevent denting the cap! Cheers!
Hi there. Enjoyed the video. I’ve been on a EMTB all season now and will never go back to a reg non E bike. Too much fun climbing and defending now. I would recommend that you use Eco and maybe trail mode for a great work out vice Turbo all the time. Hardly ever use turbo and really no need for it unless on a very steep climb. I’m on aRocky Mountain Instinct A20 Powerplay. Enjoy. You can still pop these bikes if you get use to it. The motor on this one is proprietary to Rocky Mountain and is sensitive to torque input vice always on like Shimanos and Bosch motors. Use it like a MTB that it is.
Nice job, I love my e bikes, but I ride my normal bikes most of the time and ride the e bikes on the rest days as far as I'm concerned it gives you all the dynamics of riding a mountain bike and as long as you leave it in eco mode you get a excellent workout riding a 54lb bike. Reminds me of my 1st mountain bike, a Murray yep it weighed over 50lbs
I feel like the "turbo" mode is for climbing non-technical stuff or loong steep sections, whereas "trail" gives a much more natural feel. But of course, at the end of the day, we are all gonna end up using the highest power output anyway and overcome the guilt trip that comes attached...
We went out yesterday and I did a couple laps on each bike to compare. I did the first lap on "tour" (3rd from highest setting) and actually didn't mind it at all. I wasn't going quite as fast up the hill, but it was still a good pace. Did the other laps on "eMTB" (2nd from highest) and it was faster but not necessarily significantly more fun...
Just added a Levo SL to the stable...half the asset as a full E-bike. It is amazing Nice to see you guys and gal embracing E-Bikes. They are not what a lot of people think they are.
glad for you guys, you might have no excuses anymore for not riding, that is the beauty of an e-bike (emtb)it helps you a lot more than you think and no weather can stop it. The only time you won't be able to ride it is when is charging or being servicing at the local bike shop, it can rain or snow with wind on top or worse trail conditions but it will ride it with a very big smile on your face because you are having fun. cheers and keep riding, at least your mileage will double
I ride mountain bikes a lot and when I got an opportunity to ride one I jumped at the chance. I am 53 and had total hip replacement surgery last year. A crazy younger life lead to this. The recovery was a real bummer. After riding one of these, I went out and got a full suspension Giant Trance! No, it isn't cheating ( I thought that it might be before I rode one). I get the same workout as I got before but it isn't as brutal or harsh! It makes my ride funner and more enjoyable so I ride more. The only thing I am worried about is pushing myself too hard and crashing on that new hip. That would be a bummer. So, I just have to ride conservatively in the mountains.
Most people's first thought on seeing a Ebike is it defeats the purpose of cycling but if your purpose includes FUN pleasure exploring and fitness put your Ego aside and try one. All cycling is cheating gravity ,rolling and air resistance .ALL development since 1817 have enhanced the cheating a fact whether you like it or not. Purists run the roads and off road tracks barefoot or swim the English channel unassisted. The Majic of Emtbs is they turn us into gleeful kids again and broaden our ability to explore terrain multiplying the benefits of one of mans greatest inventions. Emtbs don't defeat the purpose of cycling only enhance the pleasure. They are a Time Machine with enormous health benefits as you just want to ride it harder every day. If you've got a ego looking for a trip give one a proper long fast hard off-road ride .They don't or won't replace your naturally aspirated bike but enhance your joy of cycling. FUN FUN FUN IS THE PURPOSE of Emtbs. Racing is a form of ego shuffling with more disappointment than joy. Their seems to be a certain pleasure in suffering but not so much Fun. E=Mtb²
My initial, gut reaction to any type of e-bike was “cheater bike that blurs the lines with moto”. The more I learn about them, including this, the more I see the key word here is “enabling”, not “cheating”; who wrote the rule book on fun, anyway? Thanks for changing skeptical minds.
@@mnihonAgain: I only have respect for Purists that run the trails barefoot or swim the English channel unassisted. All cycling is cheating ,gravity ,rolling resistance and air resistance. Emtbs are a Time Machine that turn us into gleeful kids again and broaden our ability to explore terrain multiplying the benefits of One of mans greatest gravity cheating inventions the bicycle. E=Mtb²
When SYD was talking about putting to much power which caused her to tip over, something I like to do is modulate the brakes while putting the power down to better control the bike. Some E-Bikes are smoother with the power delivery than others like my specialized Levo is incredibly smooth but my hai bike is very abrupt. Hopefully, this is a semi helpful comment lol.
Good tip. I saw this done on a decoy (so Shimano) and it made a huge difference on the climbs. Without modulating using the brakes it was too much in some scenarios where you need control more than power.
Also Turbo is really only for stright up hills or stairs and no turns! EMTB is the best all around mode. You can literally set it and forget it. I also use my dropper post way more on the EMTB. I lower it a few inches to climb Tech as it lowers my center of gravity and makes for a more stable ride. You don't need as much leg power so it's make Tech climbs super fun. If it's a long one I still feel spent at the top. The climb is just doable. So much fun!😁
Great video guys! I work for Rocky Mountain her in Australia and have been riding our Powerplays E-MTB's and they are ridiculously fun and really good for the full-time working father of Two like me who doesn't have enough hours in the day to go on epic rides. The e-mtb's ready allow for that. You can get so much done in minimal time on them. Oh, and they also make climbing fun...go figure! Really like your channel...you've gained a new subscriber here!!
I rode a friends eBike a few times, its so fun. That said, I can't really afford or justify buying one now. I can see renting one when I travel so I have a better chance of seeing more of the trails instead of running out of steam and just sitting at the campsite worn out haha.
ebikes are the dream...just great to have longer sessions and much more fun up the hill. I just got one 2 weeks ago...a Cannondale Moterra LT2 2018...almost new. 600 mile on it...still have my Giant Trance 3 2019 to take out just to remind me what EMTB does for you...much more fun on a EMTB
Commenting a year late, but discovered your channels and subscribed mainly for the scenery. I rode mountain bikes (XC mostly), pretty heavily through the early to mid 90s then gave it up when I moved to horribly-flat Chicago. These days all my riding is car-free utility cycling and due to some injuries over the years I've given up riding two wheels and I now build/fabricate my own recumbent trikes. I've used e-assist on cargo bikes for a number of years and find that you can set your assist level such that you can still get a workout. Sure, you probably don't burn as many calories but you're still getting your heart rate up some. As to e-bikes on trails, lots of people seem to talk about how much faster e-bikes can go and how "dangerous" they are, and frankly you can be just as dangerous, careless, and inconsiderate with no motor power backing you up. I've seen a-hole riders (non-e-assist) on trails, and I see rude and inconsiderate roadies all the time on the lakefront trail here in Chicago. Thanks for putting out a video that shows e-bikes on trails in a measured, objective, manner. Have fun riding WHATEVER you ride, I mean that's what it's all about right, having fun?
I was neutral on the e-bike think because, u know if u dont try u dont know. And the there was this bike test think where you could borrow scott bikes for free for certain period of time. So i tried their e-genius whitch is their trail e-bike. And damn that think was awesome! instead of riding in the bike park (the bikes were lended at the bike park´s parking lot so everyone went straght to the lift) we rode to the other side of the mountain and explored its climbing capabilities, it almost felt like a dirt bike. Another year me and my friend took that bike to our local hill. We zoomed up that hill, it took me about 18-20 to get on that on normal bike, it was like 7 tops on e bike. We did some runs and then i realized e-bike suspencion acts bit differend. Bikes are planted and soooo well cushioned, so this year on another bike test think i testet their evo and it was still awesome but i liked the shimano steps on the genius more. btw im 16 now and its a lot of fun eaven for fully capable human to ride motor assisted bike
For me (and my wife), off road riding was getting to be more like work. Now we both have mountain e-bikes and cannot wait to hit the trails. Not to mention we go 3 times further. Upped the fun factor by 1000%. Only regret is not getting one sooner!
Depends on the distance, amount of climbing and power setting you use, but most likely it would be plenty for a big day of training. Swapping the battery is also quite easy (just don't forget the key)
I admire one (normal) thing about Macky riding behind Sid patiently nowing that he is fast, I should definitely do more of that with my friends or people that ride slower
We have nearly no particular bike trails where I live (Swiss alps close to Berne). So we were always climbing up fire roads (or alp roads as we call them here) and ride down hiking trails. The climbs are hard so it was never a problem with a few (good) riders on the trails. Now we got a lot of E-Bikes on the trails, blocking back brake, not giving way to the hikers, and more and more trails get closed for biking. I think E-Bikes are a good thing for going to work, or if you really have to go with somebody much stronger. But accept that nature and a mountain are bigger than you. Work and train to make it, but don't take a shuttle, lift, helicopter, E-Bike and destroy the thing you love.
It's unfortunate to hear that's happening. Definitely one of the issues of having more new riders on the trail who don't know about proper trail etiquette.
There definitely is tricks to riding e-bikes. When you don’t want the motor to kick in such as making a tight turn you need to pull in your brake just enough to disengage the motor so it doesn’t shoot you uncontrolled. Nice video
I’ve been riding a mountain bike since the late 80’s and up until 9 months ago. I was a “hell no, I’m not riding an e-bike. That’s for lazy people.” I was deciding which new Yeti I was going to buy in 2020 and then.......back surgery unexpectedly happened. It left me with a lot of nerve damage in my left leg which means the muscles don’t respond normally. My left leg is maybe 15% the strength of my right leg. So, I bought an e-bike and now I get to do most of the stuff love about riding. It may not be for everyone, but if you love riding and need some assistance an e-bike gives you back your freedom to go out and have some fun.
That's a great point that didn't occur to me.
I too have had 3 major back surgery and have nerve damage going to both legs and ebikes have changed my life! I can't run or walk very long but have a blast on my ebike riding rough hilly terrain and in 4 months that been riding I've lost 15 pounds and have a different outlook on life! E-mountain bikes forever for me!
Written like a true e-bike industry professional.
@@johnlear313 I’m not even sure what you mean?
Same here! 63, used to ride a lot, shingles nerve damage took 50% of my right leg strength and I’m thinking hard about going electric, too. Amazing for people with disabilities.
Seriously glad to see Syd back on the trails. I'm really stoked to know you're able to start getting back out there. Much admiration and respect for both of you, sending good vibes and lots of love.
Those Jerseys are more electric ⚡️ then the Bikes! 😝
Happy to see you back on a bike, Syd ! 👌
Love this❤️ I have a lung condition and MS. I love the shit out of my ebike, it’s my absolute pride and joy. the freedom it has given back for mtb as my conditions have progressed since riding my normal XC bike.
Long time subscriber of yours from Australia 🇦🇺 and love your videos guys. Great to see you ripping in again syd ❤️
I love the way you guys are courteous and respectful to the hikers you encounter on your rides. I can't tell you enough how much that does to get rid of the stigma a lot of hikers have towards bikers. You two are the gold standard for what all bikers should strive towards.
That why I subscribed to this channel.
I sub'd because they are the same during a race! The BC race series vids. I haven't raced xc in a long time, just road. Forgot how cool the mtb scene is.
S&M people learn from they way you race, and it's great that you do it where everyone is having fun and doing their best! When Syd was neck and neck with the other girl, and told Macky to hang back and let them go head-to-head ... pure class. They way you passed slower riders, pure class.
Your e-bike opinions are great, and just goes to show the strength of bikes and positive energy. You guys remind me to always be better, and that it matters! Thanks
If only hikers would do the same when walking on specific trails for mountainbikes.
I love the content that you guys put out. I am working on getting me an EMTB because it makes riding fun for me again. I'm a disabled veteran and besides my injuries from my service I've had a few health issues that's set me back enough that I can't do the climbs like I used to but still do well on the descents that make it a lot of fun. However that is also my setback as the budget is tight and with supporting my son in his riding/racing adventures I delay my purchase until I can one day get the bike I want and get back on the trails riding with him and friends!! Thanks for making this video and thanks to Niner for getting these bikes to you all to share with us as well!!
It is not cheating if you're not racing. Enjoy your EMTB's, people : )
I started mountain biking in the early 90s as a kid. i was 200lbs, a skated boarder and played hockey as well. Ran a six minute mile! By 2001 i had a knee surgery and was busy working. My work schedule kept me from my activities and i got out if shape! Fast fwd to 2014 and i started riding again........with people that are way lighter and fitter than me! Finally in 2018 I got an E-bike so i wouldnt be too tired attack the decent! I ride way more now! Ok so heres the point im trying go make. E-bikes are perfect for people who dont have the fitness to do all the climbing it takes ride fun trails but still want to ride! E-bikes make it possible to work on important skills while you work on you fitness level in a more controlled environment like the gym! Im 250lbs and ride with guys that race enduro and run marathons! So lets cut the crap here SYD and MACKY lol.........E-bikes are Perfect for people that are out of shape and thats great!!!! Dont be afraid to say so!!!!!!! Big dudes like me who are just sitting around need to here that!!!!!
the "weeeeeeeeeeeeeeeee" by the 3rd time had me laughing red wine through my nose!
I had the opposite reaction, no offense, but I was thinking, "what a dork". Nice review nevertheless.
Glad to see that Syd seems to be on the path to regaining her athletic health
“Jet oils are really aggressive “ that’s so true ! Awful for cooking on …. Not so bad for boiling water
surprising to hear you all about Everesting and then see you take off on E-bikes. I just got an ebike and love it but I'm almost 50 years older than you. So thank you for bowing to the generations and having fun even. I got a Trek Step-thru with battery on back. There are plenty of back roads around here with little traffic, but they're all on hills. So now a joy-ride is a joy-ride. And I can commute into town now without a car. Blessings on you both.
Looks like fun. Keep up the great videos
The thing is, all an Ebike does is give you options. On Levos, you can choose the amount of power in each mode via an app so if you feel the need for a heart attack on the uphills, that's entirely possible. But if you're not feeling masochistic or not in the mood, there's power there if you want it. I've done 1300km in 4 months and can't get enough of the damn thing. And, oddly, while you'd think it's all about ripping around tearing up tracks, the bike is actually peaceful and makes a brilliant trail tourer as well as a mountain bike. Since there's less effort, you can explore more, take detours, go longer. It's brilliant.
Good to see Syd riding again!
So awesome that your back riding Syd! It was getting a little boring watching Macky ride on his own. LOL
Syd, your personality is infectious and makes for fun videos to watch. Keep the smile and keep filming.
Finally seeing Syd ride again made me so happy! rock on guys :) be more awesome
Fun ride on e-bikes. Thanks for sharing
So good to see you on a bike again Syd Sweet.
It’s great to see you riding again Syd.xx
Very helpful video. I am considering adding an e-Mtb to my inventory and now the niner brand from watching you guys.
Very cool indeed....and good to see Syd back on a bike again.
At the age of 73, with worsening rheumatoid arthritis and lung problems (I've never smoked by the way), my rides on the trails were getting shorter and shorter and I was always having to stop for a rest. I eventually gave in and fitted a mid drive ebike kit to one of my MTBs (the youngest being 16 years old, all have 26" wheels) Now i gt to travel much further, hills are such fun so i look forward to getting out on the hills. (Was beginning to dread it, it was so exhausting and I was becoming so depressed). I now decide how much exercise I get by selecting a power level that gives me a workout. I still see more trails than younger folk on state of the art bikes and who take the shuttle to get up the hills. I've found fun again!
This is great guys, thanks for keeping an open mind and having fun on the new bikes.
Thanks for making them so fun!!
Great video guys. I’m riding a Giant Reign E pro 0 and I love ebikes. I’ve sold all but one of my analogue bikes. I kept one analogue so when my ebike is getting serviced I can still get out for a ride. I’ve found that riding in lower power settings is smoother, especially when climbing. Lower power settings stop you shooting off around corners and feels more naturally. It gives you the feeling of having stronger legs. I can’t think of many things that an analogue bike is better than an ebike at except lifting the ebike up onto a bike rack.
E-bikes are fun, did a demo ride we rode my local trails for about 3 hours not tired at al, my LBS let me try one for a week and almost got one for my 50th b-day, I am my own mechanic and I can handle the work but instead decided to get me a light nice specs full suspension bike as i'm still pretty fit for my age. Maybe when I'm 60 will add one to the herd.
Ebikes are a blast, total game changers, where you can now go further, faster!
Too many great things to list about your videos and this video in particular. Just great stuff.
Kanuga Bike Park in Henderson, NC opens this weekend and is eMTB friendly, built by Neko Mullaly, and has some awesome jump lines.
Glad to see Syd back on a bike!
First time viewer of your channel Enjoyed the video! I smashed the sub button. I am looking forward to watching more of your channel and getting caught up. I lived and Santa Fe for 2.5 and traveled all over NM and CO for work some 20 years ago now. Cheers!
WELCOME BACK SYD!!!! Missed you soooo much 👍👍👍👍✌️
love to see a NM mtb channel. I've been looking for a good one forever
Great video! Love your on ride review of how it feels from a regular bike. I really need to get one. Not being able to ride more than once a week due to family obligations is killing my stamina...so an eMTB would put back the fun by not getting exhausted on the uphills and feel fresher for the downhills!! Love that you two are bringing more awareness to these eMTB (class-1) !! Looking for to more along with your other content. Just be awesome!👍🚴⚡
What did I even just watch? That was amazing! I NEEEEED IT
Great video. So good to see pros enjoying ebikes. I love my ebike along with my 2 regular bikes. Riding bikes are supposed to be fun. Ebikes definitely up the fun factor. Well done
Brilliant upload! Syd, you need to rig up a rear facing GoPro so we can see Macky riding. (Read: pedaling desperately trying to keep up with you!) Keep doing what you do!
Had the chance to test a turbo levo a month ago and I totally feel the same. But I'll wait a decade ... could be a great 50th gift, for now my legs still works great alone
I've been climbing Aspeñola on my regular mountain bike a bunch this year and can confirm it's a heinous climb.
Also; Syd I'm coming for your QOM on Half Aspen
Glad to see you guys are open-minded enough to try ebikes. There's a lot of haters out there that have attitudes that need to be adjusted, but that's just fine if they stay where they're at because ignorance is bliss and they'll never know what they're missing.
I was riding conventional mountain bikes for 25 years before I got my specialized Turbo levo expert. I must say that the one word I take away is versatility. I can do a lot more on an e-bike than I could ever do on my regular bike. It allows me to Define new routes that I wouldn't consider without the motor. Anyone that tells you an e-bike doesn't give you the same amount of Fitness just didn't figure out that they can turn the motor off and still pedal it. The better bikes allow you to adjust how much assist torque you have. I lowered my assist level in the ECO mode so that I can be sure to continue to get good workouts.
After 2700 miles on my Levo, I can say I feel I'm ready to ride more often because of the versatility it has to offer. As you guys realized it eliminated the need to have another machine to shuttle you to the top of the mountain. That's an incredible benefit to have, especially since the lift is not running now.
Everyone should ride whatever they choose and not worry about what someone else chooses to ride. I see no reason whatsoever to regulate Class 1 e-bikes any differently than push bikes. I can see there's only really two reasons why the current situation is what it is. The first is people with ego problems on push bikes and the second is I believe there's a contingent of anti-bike types that don't like ANY bicycles on trails to begin with, so they opportunistically lobby to prevent Class 1 bicycles on trails at all.
Really lived ur guys input on the ebike , spot on on how it feels , people say lazy bit u go farther and go tonplaces where i normally wont go because of the effort you have to put into those huge climbs . Ebikes are awesome and still get a workout . U can turm them off while riding and when u get tired turn it on for the help
good job missing the picnicers. my health issues currently keep me from doing something like this but yall sure make me want to, looks like a blast and with the ebikes, you will still have enough energy to do it again or just go and still have a full day of energy to do stuff. thanks for the vid.
Hey there you two! I was hoping you could tell me what glasses you are both wearing in this video? Thanks. It was fun seeing you both on e-bikes. Keep up the great work.
I asked to see Sids eBike but this is far better than I expected. Thank y’all so much.
I honestly don’t understand why trail systems ban e bikes. They don’t propel you down the trail at +50mph. You still have to descend under your own power. And when climbing it is definitely noticeable, but it is not a dirt bike ripping third gear up a hill fast. I really hope videos like this help eliminate the bad stigma with these things. Keep it up guys 👌
Then you obviously dont ride in the first place.
Jazz echos
I have ridden Downhill/freeride/enduro for almost 20 years now and I just got a E MTB this year and its amazing.
People just hate without trying something.
The bikes are the exact same speed down the hill but 3x faster up.
More riding in less time = more fun
People need to stop hating on stuff because they can’t afford it or are narrow minded
Yes, the most rediculous rules in place. Need to be removed
I totally agree. Except for going up hills, a normal pedal bike can be faster...especially on flats. People who make those rules just don’t understand.
There are some very fast high wattage ebikes out there, and many DIY conversions. These bikes are very fast, and pose a danger to others.
The best part about e-bikes is to get an equal workout you need to ride 3 times as far. More riding = More fun.
Or just turn down the boost, ride twice as far & have enough battery left for another ride w/out a recharge.
What e-bike can support 120-150km ride if my average is 40-50km ? Usually the battery will be long dead before i would reach those distances. So what you wrote makes no sense to even an average fit rider.
Which noone is ever going to do. People who buy E-Bikes aren't getting them for a workout, that's completely insane logic, they are getting E-Bikes because they either can't ride normal bikes or don't care about the fitness aspect.
First those jerseys are awesome. I would like to try an ebike, doesn't sound like the weight is too bad and can still maneuver the bike pretty well, but you guys are pros Lol. As always, love the channel and vids.
Nice to finally see you on a bike again Syd 😊
So awesome to see Syd back in action! Once battery technology gets better, i.e. lighter, what mountain bikes can do will only get better. As a person approaching 60, the idea of a relatively lightweight capable DH/Enduro style bike with motor assist is becoming increasingly attractive.
Those bikes look so much fun 👍
I love yals videos. So fun. What are the clear riding glasses Syd is wearing? Thanks. I need something like those.
Those are the Shimano Technium, but they don't seem to make them anymore. We've started wearing the S-Phyre instead (also comes with a clear lens): bit.ly/2KOue7x
@@sydandmacky Thank you. I checked out the S-Phyres. Very nice, but $160? Whew. Can't pull that off. ha ha. Maybe something cheaper.
Really enjoyed the ride and the pair of you chatting.
I was waiting for it
they look crazy fun!
Love the videos! Here's a little tip for your Santa Fe Brewing bottle caps: Place a quarter on the bottle cap before opening to prevent denting the cap! Cheers!
They don't make bottles anymore so we had to scrounge what we could find 😭
that looked like fun! when i hit the lotto im definitely buying an e-bike
Awesome.Aspen for Trouble, JR, Half Aspen, and Mayday; my favorite ride at Paj.
I just bought an E bike myself this is a really good video and hearing your comments on the eBikes.
Hi there. Enjoyed the video. I’ve been on a EMTB all season now and will never go back to a reg non E bike. Too much fun climbing and defending now. I would recommend that you use Eco and maybe trail mode for a great work out vice Turbo all the time. Hardly ever use turbo and really no need for it unless on a very steep climb. I’m on aRocky Mountain Instinct A20 Powerplay. Enjoy. You can still pop these bikes if you get use to it. The motor on this one is proprietary to Rocky Mountain and is sensitive to torque input vice always on like Shimanos and Bosch motors. Use it like a MTB that it is.
Great vid
Nice job, I love my e bikes, but I ride my normal bikes most of the time and ride the e bikes on the rest days as far as I'm concerned it gives you all the dynamics of riding a mountain bike and as long as you leave it in eco mode you get a excellent workout riding a 54lb bike. Reminds me of my 1st mountain bike, a Murray yep it weighed over 50lbs
That's cool that you got to try out the e bikes
I feel like the "turbo" mode is for climbing non-technical stuff or loong steep sections, whereas "trail" gives a much more natural feel. But of course, at the end of the day, we are all gonna end up using the highest power output anyway and overcome the guilt trip that comes attached...
We went out yesterday and I did a couple laps on each bike to compare. I did the first lap on "tour" (3rd from highest setting) and actually didn't mind it at all. I wasn't going quite as fast up the hill, but it was still a good pace. Did the other laps on "eMTB" (2nd from highest) and it was faster but not necessarily significantly more fun...
Just added a Levo SL to the stable...half the asset as a full E-bike. It is amazing
Nice to see you guys and gal embracing E-Bikes.
They are not what a lot of people think they are.
glad for you guys, you might have no excuses anymore for not riding, that is the beauty of an e-bike (emtb)it helps you a lot more than you think and no weather can stop it. The only time you won't be able to ride it is when is charging or being servicing at the local bike shop, it can rain or snow with wind on top or worse trail conditions but it will ride it with a very big smile on your face because you are having fun. cheers and keep riding, at least your mileage will double
Thanks for the heads up about transporting e bikes on a recon.👍. I was just contemplating whether it could be done. Planning to carry 3 bikes.
Yeah, pull the battery and you should be good.
@@sydandmacky Just check for rust on the carrier first. ;-)
My next bike will be that WFO ebike. My first full suspension bike was the mint green WFO
I ride mountain bikes a lot and when I got an opportunity to ride one I jumped at the chance. I am 53 and had total hip replacement surgery last year. A crazy younger life lead to this. The recovery was a real bummer. After riding one of these, I went out and got a full suspension Giant Trance! No, it isn't cheating ( I thought that it might be before I rode one). I get the same workout as I got before but it isn't as brutal or harsh! It makes my ride funner and more enjoyable so I ride more. The only thing I am worried about is pushing myself too hard and crashing on that new hip. That would be a bummer. So, I just have to ride conservatively in the mountains.
Most people's first thought on seeing a Ebike is it defeats the purpose of cycling but if your purpose includes FUN pleasure exploring and fitness put your Ego aside and try one.
All cycling is cheating gravity ,rolling and air resistance .ALL development since 1817 have enhanced the cheating a fact whether you like it or not.
Purists run the roads and off road tracks barefoot or swim the English channel unassisted. The Majic of Emtbs is they turn us into gleeful kids again and broaden our ability to explore terrain multiplying the benefits of one of mans greatest inventions.
Emtbs don't defeat the purpose of cycling only enhance the pleasure.
They are a Time Machine with enormous health benefits as you just want to ride it harder every day. If you've got a ego looking for a trip give one a proper long fast hard off-road ride .They don't or won't replace your naturally aspirated bike but enhance your joy of cycling. FUN FUN FUN IS THE PURPOSE of Emtbs. Racing is a form of ego shuffling with more disappointment than joy. Their seems to be a certain pleasure in suffering but not so much Fun.
E=Mtb²
Dud i love the e=mtb2 thats brilliant! Im gunna have to steal that one!
My initial, gut reaction to any type of e-bike was “cheater bike that blurs the lines with moto”. The more I learn about them, including this, the more I see the key word here is “enabling”, not “cheating”; who wrote the rule book on fun, anyway? Thanks for changing skeptical minds.
@@mnihonAgain: I only have respect for Purists that run the trails barefoot or swim the English channel unassisted. All cycling is cheating ,gravity ,rolling resistance and air resistance. Emtbs are a Time Machine that turn us into gleeful kids again and broaden our ability to explore terrain multiplying the benefits of One of mans greatest gravity cheating inventions the bicycle. E=Mtb²
FAB VID...
EBing is the future...never look back.😃
Love your videos! Have you considered some kind of wireless microphone setup to let us hear Syd better?
When SYD was talking about putting to much power which caused her to tip over, something I like to do is modulate the brakes while putting the power down to better control the bike. Some E-Bikes are smoother with the power delivery than others like my specialized Levo is incredibly smooth but my hai bike is very abrupt. Hopefully, this is a semi helpful comment lol.
On Bosch the "Tour" mode has nice constant power.
Good tip. I saw this done on a decoy (so Shimano) and it made a huge difference on the climbs. Without modulating using the brakes it was too much in some scenarios where you need control more than power.
Also Turbo is really only for stright up hills or stairs and no turns! EMTB is the best all around mode. You can literally set it and forget it. I also use my dropper post way more on the EMTB. I lower it a few inches to climb Tech as it lowers my center of gravity and makes for a more stable ride. You don't need as much leg power so it's make Tech climbs super fun. If it's a long one I still feel spent at the top. The climb is just doable. So much fun!😁
Great video guys! I work for Rocky Mountain her in Australia and have been riding our Powerplays E-MTB's and they are ridiculously fun and really good for the full-time working father of Two like me who doesn't have enough hours in the day to go on epic rides. The e-mtb's ready allow for that. You can get so much done in minimal time on them. Oh, and they also make climbing fun...go figure! Really like your channel...you've gained a new subscriber here!!
Welcome!
Woohoo! Big Syd smiles!
I rode a friends eBike a few times, its so fun. That said, I can't really afford or justify buying one now. I can see renting one when I travel so I have a better chance of seeing more of the trails instead of running out of steam and just sitting at the campsite worn out haha.
ebikes are the dream...just great to have longer sessions and much more fun up the hill. I just got one 2 weeks ago...a Cannondale Moterra LT2 2018...almost new. 600 mile on it...still have my Giant Trance 3 2019 to take out just to remind me what EMTB does for you...much more fun on a EMTB
Commenting a year late, but discovered your channels and subscribed mainly for the scenery. I rode mountain bikes (XC mostly), pretty heavily through the early to mid 90s then gave it up when I moved to horribly-flat Chicago. These days all my riding is car-free utility cycling and due to some injuries over the years I've given up riding two wheels and I now build/fabricate my own recumbent trikes. I've used e-assist on cargo bikes for a number of years and find that you can set your assist level such that you can still get a workout. Sure, you probably don't burn as many calories but you're still getting your heart rate up some. As to e-bikes on trails, lots of people seem to talk about how much faster e-bikes can go and how "dangerous" they are, and frankly you can be just as dangerous, careless, and inconsiderate with no motor power backing you up. I've seen a-hole riders (non-e-assist) on trails, and I see rude and inconsiderate roadies all the time on the lakefront trail here in Chicago. Thanks for putting out a video that shows e-bikes on trails in a measured, objective, manner. Have fun riding WHATEVER you ride, I mean that's what it's all about right, having fun?
Great review. A few too many "weees" for my taste. Thanks for the vid, I've been wondering about e-mountain bikes, I'm going to start saving!!
Haha pairing a camouflage helmet with a flashy Jersey nice macky XD
Got a rip e9 myself. Personally for me the geometry is spot on. Reach is shorter than most brands, perfect for my terrible back.
Great "hair" game Syd before you headed out on trip!
I was neutral on the e-bike think because, u know if u dont try u dont know. And the there was this bike test think where you could borrow scott bikes for free for certain period of time. So i tried their e-genius whitch is their trail e-bike. And damn that think was awesome! instead of riding in the bike park (the bikes were lended at the bike park´s parking lot so everyone went straght to the lift) we rode to the other side of the mountain and explored its climbing capabilities, it almost felt like a dirt bike. Another year me and my friend took that bike to our local hill. We zoomed up that hill, it took me about 18-20 to get on that on normal bike, it was like 7 tops on e bike. We did some runs and then i realized e-bike suspencion acts bit differend. Bikes are planted and soooo well cushioned, so this year on another bike test think i testet their evo and it was still awesome but i liked the shimano steps on the genius more. btw im 16 now and its a lot of fun eaven for fully capable human to ride motor assisted bike
For me (and my wife), off road riding was getting to be more like work. Now we both have mountain e-bikes and cannot wait to hit the trails. Not to mention we go 3 times further. Upped the fun factor by 1000%. Only regret is not getting one sooner!
Now u both fat and happy
I got an urban/commuter ebike a couple years ago, and only after I recently acquired a mtb did I finally realize just how heavy that ebike was...
I haven't had it long but this thing seems to be a beast a very sturdy dependable vehicle
Super man and super woman on super bikes. That's awesome. Keep doing the amazing things you do.
Great video as always. So good to see Syd back on a bike. Can't wait for the next video
That looked like a blast. I tried a non mountain ebike and it was impossible not to have a huge grin while riding.
What bikes were you riding. Sorry if I missed that part
Awesome!!!
Hey Tinkerbelle!
Very Original Thumbnail
Syd - what are your glasses? They look fantastic... Excellent video as always, it convinced my wife to let us get two ebikes!
They're the Shimano S-Phyre X: bit.ly/2KOue7x
Would the battery last for a days training or could there be xtra batteries being charged somewhere on the route for replacement?
Depends on the distance, amount of climbing and power setting you use, but most likely it would be plenty for a big day of training. Swapping the battery is also quite easy (just don't forget the key)
I admire one (normal) thing about Macky riding behind Sid patiently nowing that he is fast, I should definitely do more of that with my friends or people that ride slower
What a charming couple you are! I'm kinda jealous not in a green eyed monster way. I salute you and subbed.
What is that noise your bike is making while you are climbing? ;)
We have nearly no particular bike trails where I live (Swiss alps close to Berne). So we were always climbing up fire roads (or alp roads as we call them here) and ride down hiking trails. The climbs are hard so it was never a problem with a few (good) riders on the trails. Now we got a lot of E-Bikes on the trails, blocking back brake, not giving way to the hikers, and more and more trails get closed for biking. I think E-Bikes are a good thing for going to work, or if you really have to go with somebody much stronger. But accept that nature and a mountain are bigger than you. Work and train to make it, but don't take a shuttle, lift, helicopter, E-Bike and destroy the thing you love.
It's unfortunate to hear that's happening. Definitely one of the issues of having more new riders on the trail who don't know about proper trail etiquette.
There definitely is tricks to riding e-bikes. When you don’t want the motor to kick in such as making a tight turn you need to pull in your brake just enough to disengage the motor so it doesn’t shoot you uncontrolled. Nice video