Electric Mountain Bikes

An electric mountain bike, or e-MTB, is your ultimate off-road companion that combines the rugged design of a traditional mountain bike with a powerful electric motor. Imagine your favourite trails but with the added boost that helps you tackle steep climbs, navigate tough terrains, and ride longer without fatigue.

Electric mountain bikes work by providing pedal assistance—when you start pedalling, the motor kicks in to give you that extra push exactly when you need it. With adjustable power levels, you can decide how much help you get, making every trail ride smoother, more enjoyable, and perfectly tailored to your riding style.

Electric mountain bikes (e-MTBs) stand out from other electric bikes because they’re specifically designed for off-road adventures and challenging terrains. While city e-bikes and commuter models focus on comfort and efficiency for smooth roads, e-MTBs are built tough, with powerful motors, robust frames, and advanced suspension systems that can handle rough trails, rocks, and steep climbs. The wider, knobby tyres provide extra grip and stability on uneven surfaces, while the responsive braking systems ensure control and safety during fast descents.

If you’re looking to explore beyond the pavement and take on more demanding rides, an e-MTB is made for your adventurous spirit.

Electric mountain bikes offer a range of benefits that transform your off-road riding experience. Here are some key advantages that make e-MTBs a game-changer for trail enthusiasts:

Conquer Steep Climbs Easily

One of the biggest perks of an electric mountain bike is the ability to tackle steep hills with minimal effort. The motor assistance kicks in when you need it most, allowing you to climb challenging inclines without burning out early in your ride.

Ride Further and Longer

With an e-MTB, you can extend your ride, exploring trails that were previously out of reach. The motor helps you conserve energy, so you can cover more ground and enjoy longer adventures without the fatigue that typically comes with mountain biking.

Boost Your Confidence on Rough Terrain

Electric mountain bikes provide stability and control on tricky trails, making it easier to handle rocks, roots, and uneven surfaces. The extra power lets you maintain speed and momentum, boosting your confidence as you navigate challenging paths.

Customisable Assistance Levels

E-MTBs allow you to adjust the level of assistance based on your needs and the trail conditions. Whether you want a light boost for flat sections or full power for steep climbs, you can tailor the ride to match your energy level and experience.

Enjoy the Downhills Even More

While the thrill of downhill riding is great on any mountain bike, e-MTBs let you fully enjoy the journey back up without the dread of an exhausting climb. It’s all about maximising the fun, both up and down the trail.

Stay Active and Fit Without Overexertion

Riding an electric mountain bike keeps you active, offering a solid workout without the strain of traditional mountain biking. It’s perfect for riders looking to enjoy the health benefits of cycling while having the flexibility to dial back the effort when needed.

Access Trails That Would Be Too Difficult Otherwise

E-MTBs open up new opportunities for exploration, allowing you to take on more technical and demanding trails that might feel too daunting on a regular bike. You’ll expand your riding horizons, discovering new paths and scenic routes with ease.

These advantages make electric mountain bikes a powerful tool for anyone looking to elevate their off-road riding experience, providing the perfect balance of adventure, control, and fun on every trail.

While electric mountain bikes offer many benefits, there are a few downsides to consider before making your investment. Here are some potential disadvantages of e-MTBs:

Higher Cost Compared to Regular Mountain Bikes

Electric mountain bikes are generally more expensive due to their advanced technology, including motors, batteries, and electronic components. While the upfront cost is higher, many riders find the investment worthwhile for the enhanced riding experience.

Heavier Weight

E-MTBs are significantly heavier than regular mountain bikes because of the motor and battery. This added weight can make them harder to carry or transport, especially when you need to lift the bike onto a rack or over obstacles on the trail.

Battery Life and Charging Needs

Depending on how you ride, the battery life of an e-MTB can vary, and running out of power mid-trail can be a real challenge, leaving you pedalling a heavier bike without assistance. Charging times can range from 3 to 6 hours, so you’ll need to plan longer rides carefully to ensure you have enough battery life.

Regular Maintenance and Repairs

With more complex components than a standard mountain bike, e-MTBs require regular maintenance of both the mechanical and electrical parts. Repairs, especially involving the motor or battery, can be more costly and might require specialised service.

Trail Access Restrictions

Some trails have restrictions on electric mountain bikes, as they are sometimes viewed differently from non-motorised bikes. It’s important to check local regulations to ensure that e-MTBs are allowed on the trails you want to explore.

Learning Curve for Beginners

Riding an e-MTB, especially managing power modes and handling the extra weight, can take some getting used to, particularly for those new to mountain biking. It might take a few rides to fully understand how to control the motor assistance and balance on more technical trails.

Security Concerns

Due to their higher value, electric mountain bikes can be more attractive targets for theft. Investing in a good-quality lock and taking extra precautions when parking in public areas is essential to protect your e-MTB.

While these disadvantages are worth considering, many riders find that the benefits of electric mountain bikes far outweigh the drawbacks, making them an excellent choice for expanding your off-road adventures.

Imagine this: you’re at the base of your favourite trail, ready to tackle that climb you’ve always dreaded. But today, you’re on an electric mountain bike—your ultimate riding companion designed to make every part of the trail accessible and exciting. Let’s dive into what it feels like when it’s just you, the bike, and the thrill of the ride.

Effortless Climbing: Tackle Hills Like Never Before

You know those hills that usually leave you winded, forcing you to stop halfway or, worse, walk your bike up? With an e-MTB, that struggle disappears. As you start pedaling, the motor kicks in, giving you a boost right when you need it. Suddenly, the steep climb feels smooth, almost effortless, and you’re gliding up with a smile, enjoying the view instead of focusing on every hard push. It’s as if the bike knows when you need help, letting you keep your momentum without draining your energy.

Customise Your Ride: Power When You Need It, Pedal When You Want

Riding an e-MTB is all about having the freedom to choose how you want to ride. Some days, you might feel like pushing yourself, enjoying the workout with just a bit of help on tough sections. Other times, you might just want to cruise, letting the motor do more of the work so you can soak in the scenery. The bike adjusts to you—simply switch between assistance levels with a touch, and feel in control of your ride, no matter the trail ahead.

Confidence on Every Terrain: Stability and Control

Those rocky paths and tricky descents that once felt intimidating? Now, they’re an invitation to have more fun. With wide, grippy tyres and responsive suspension, your e-MTB keeps you feeling stable and secure, even on the bumpiest terrain. You’ll feel the bike working with you, helping you maintain speed and balance as you navigate roots, rocks, and whatever the trail throws your way. It’s like having a reliable partner on every ride, giving you the confidence to take on more challenging routes.

Ride Longer, Explore More: Expand Your Adventures

One of the best parts of riding an electric mountain bike is the freedom to go further. You’ll find yourself exploring new trails, covering more distance, and discovering places you never thought you’d reach. Instead of worrying about saving your energy for the ride back, you can keep going, knowing that the bike’s got your back. It’s not just about getting from point A to B—it’s about enjoying every moment, extending your adventures, and experiencing the joy of the journey.

Downhill Thrills Without the Uphill Grind

We all love the rush of a fast descent, but with an e-MTB, you don’t have to dread the climb back up. You get to enjoy the best of both worlds—powering through the downhills with excitement and then easily making your way back up without the usual effort. It’s the thrill of mountain biking, but with a little extra magic that keeps the fun going, both up and down.

The Ride, Redefined: Your Adventure, Your Way

Riding an electric mountain bike isn’t just about speed or power—it’s about redefining what your ride can be. It’s that sense of freedom when you hit the trails, knowing you can tackle anything that comes your way. Whether you’re a seasoned rider looking to push your limits or new to the off-road scene and eager to explore, an e-MTB is designed to make every ride feel personal, enjoyable, and perfectly tailored to your adventurous spirit. So get ready, because once you ride an electric mountain bike, every trail feels like it was made just for you.

Yes, electric mountain bikes (e-MTBs) are legal in the UK as long as they meet the requirements for Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs). To be road-legal without needing a licence, tax, or insurance, your e-MTB must have pedals that can propel the bike, a motor with a maximum power output of 250 watts, and the motor should not assist you when riding above 15.5 mph (25 km/h).

As long as your electric mountain bike meets these criteria, it’s treated like a regular bicycle, allowing you to ride on roads, cycle paths, and most off-road trails. However, always check local trail regulations, as some areas may have specific rules regarding the use of electric bikes. If your e-MTB exceeds the power or speed limits, it will be classified as a moped or motorcycle, requiring a licence, insurance, and registration to ride legally.

No, you don’t need a licence to ride an electric mountain bike in the UK, as long as it meets the standards for Electrically Assisted Pedal Cycles (EAPCs). Your e-MTB must have pedals, a motor with a maximum power of 250 watts, and it should only assist you up to a speed of 15.5 mph (25 km/h). If your electric mountain bike fits within these guidelines, it’s legally treated as a regular bicycle, allowing you to enjoy your rides without the need for a licence, road tax, or insurance.

However, if your e-MTB exceeds these specifications—such as having a more powerful motor or offering throttle-only operation without pedaling—it would be classified as a moped or motorcycle. In that case, you’d need a licence, insurance, registration, and to comply with additional legal requirements to ride on public roads.

While it’s not a legal requirement to wear a helmet when riding an electric mountain bike in the UK, it’s highly recommended for your safety, especially when tackling off-road trails. E-MTBs can reach higher speeds and take you on more challenging terrains than regular bikes, so wearing a helmet adds an extra layer of protection against potential falls or collisions.

Given the nature of mountain biking—navigating rocky paths, steep descents, and unpredictable terrain—a helmet is essential to reduce the risk of head injuries. Investing in a good-quality helmet designed for mountain biking will keep you safer, allowing you to focus on enjoying your ride with peace of mind.

No, you cannot ride an electric bike on the pavement in the UK. Just like traditional bicycles, electric bikes are considered vehicles and must be ridden on the road, designated cycle lanes, or shared paths marked for bikes. Pavements are reserved for pedestrians, and riding on them is prohibited unless there is specific signage indicating that cycling is allowed.

Riding an electric bike on the pavement not only poses safety risks to pedestrians but can also lead to fines or penalties. To stay safe and within the law, make sure to stick to roads, bike lanes, and designated cycle paths, always being mindful of local regulations and signage.

Absolutely, MTB e-bikes are worth it if you love the thrill of off-road riding but want to make the experience more accessible and enjoyable. Electric mountain bikes offer a perfect blend of adventure and convenience, allowing you to tackle steep climbs, rough trails, and long distances without the usual fatigue. The motor assistance helps you ride further, explore new paths, and conquer tough terrain that might otherwise feel daunting on a traditional mountain bike.

For many riders, the investment in an e-MTB is justified by the freedom it provides—no more struggling on uphill battles or cutting rides short due to exhaustion. You can customise the level of assistance, making every ride adaptable to your energy and fitness levels. Plus, with the confidence that comes from having extra power at your fingertips, you’ll find yourself taking on more challenging trails and enjoying every ride to the fullest.

Whether you’re an experienced rider looking to push your boundaries or someone new to mountain biking eager to explore, an electric mountain bike makes the experience more accessible, fun, and rewarding, making it a worthwhile investment for any off-road enthusiast.

Choosing the right electric mountain bike (e-MTB) is all about matching the bike’s features to your riding style, terrain, and personal needs. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you find the perfect e-MTB tailored just for you:

Identify Your Riding Style: Where Do You Want to Ride?

Are you looking to tackle steep, rocky mountain trails, or do you prefer smoother forest paths and off-road tracks? Understanding your riding style will help narrow down your options. For technical trails and steep climbs, look for an e-MTB with advanced suspension and powerful motors. If you’re riding less aggressive trails, a more lightweight and versatile e-MTB might be the perfect fit.

Consider Motor Power and Placement: Get the Right Boost

The motor is the heart of your electric mountain bike, so choosing the right one is key. Mid-drive motors, located near the pedals, offer balanced weight distribution and better control on technical terrain. Hub-drive motors are simpler and often more affordable but may feel less natural on steep, tricky climbs. Make sure to pick a motor that provides the right power for your typical rides.

Battery Life and Range: Ensure You Can Go the Distance

Think about how far you usually ride and choose a battery that matches your needs. Longer rides require higher-capacity batteries, so you don’t have to worry about running out of power mid-trail. Look for bikes that offer easy-to-read battery indicators and removable batteries for convenient charging.

Suspension and Tyres: Ride Comfortably on Rough Terrain

The suspension on an e-MTB plays a crucial role in how it handles bumps, rocks, and roots. Full suspension (front and rear) is ideal for rough and technical terrain, providing better comfort and control. Hardtail e-MTBs (front suspension only) are lighter and more efficient on smoother trails and are usually more affordable. Choose the suspension that suits the terrain you plan to conquer.

Frame Fit and Comfort: Find the Right Size for You

Getting the right frame size is essential for comfort and control. Most e-MTBs come in various sizes based on your height. Test ride a few to ensure the fit feels natural, with handlebars and seat height adjusted to suit your riding position. A well-fitting bike will enhance your riding experience and reduce fatigue.

Check the Features: Look for What Matters Most to You

Consider additional features like integrated lights, dropper posts, or extra-wide tyres that offer more grip. Look for quality components like hydraulic disc brakes for reliable stopping power, especially on downhill sections. These features can enhance your ride, making it safer and more enjoyable.

Set Your Budget: Balance Quality with Affordability

Electric mountain bikes range widely in price, from budget-friendly options to high-end models with advanced tech. Determine your budget but be open to investing a little more if it means getting a bike that’s built to last and performs well on the trails you love. Remember, the right e-MTB is an investment in your enjoyment and safety on the trails.

Choosing the perfect electric mountain bike is about finding a bike that matches your riding dreams—whether that’s exploring new trails, conquering tough climbs, or simply enjoying the freedom of off-road cycling with a little extra power. Take your time, do your research, and you’ll find the e-MTB that’s perfect for you.

Yes, we stand behind our products. All products sold by us come with a minimum of 6 months manufacturer's warranty.

For specific warranty details, please check the product pages.

Note that warranties do not cover damage from negligence, non-original parts, or modifications. They also do not cover normal wear and tear.

Glide & Gear supports healthy and eco-friendly commuting by partnering with several Cycle to Work schemes, allowing you to spread the cost of an electric bike over 12 months, with potential savings of up to 49%!

For more details, visit our Cycle to Work information page.

Currently, we don't have a student discount program in place. However, we frequently run fantastic discounts and promotions that you might be eligible for.

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We offer a price match guarantee on all our e-bikes and e-scooters so you can shop with confidence that you are getting the best price possible.