Some uphill tasks only work in power mode.
E-drives have plenty of modes to choose from. But only in boost mode do the advantages of an e-bike really come into their own, at least according to E-Heavy users. We asked for two opinions. This is what racer Johannes Fischbach and bike designer Peter Denk have to say.
E-mountainbike motors offer different support modes depending on the manufacturer and model. The following modes are typically available:
- Off - No motor assistance, the bike rides like a normal bike.
- Eco - Lowest support, saves energy and extends battery life.
- Tour / Trail - Medium support, balanced between performance and range.
- Sport / EMTB - Dynamic support, automatically adapts to the pedal pressure.
- Turbo / Boost - Maximum support for steep climbs and difficult terrain.
- Walk-Assist - Support when pushing the bike, useful for very steep passages.
Depending on the brand (Bosch, Shimano, Brose, Yamaha, etc.), the modes of the various E-bike motors vary slightly, some systems also offer individual customisation options.
Is Boost mode the only true E-mode?
One question - two opinions. Because opinions differ on boost mode. Only the turbo really brings out the advantages of an e-bike, at least according to e-heavy users. True mountain bikers are happy with Eco mode, the rest is overkill and more motorsport than cycling, argue advocates of a "something less is enough" mentality. Here's what two bike celebrities have to say: Racer Johannes Fischbach and bike designer Peter Denk.
Pro: Johannes Fischbach says yes...
If you're going to use an e-bike, then do it properly! The descent is the most fun, so I want to string together as many laps as possible. Time is pressing anyway - either daylight is short or the family is calling. So I switch to boost mode and off I go. I often take a second battery with me, which I change in the car. If I want to use uphills and tours as a fitness challenge, I take the bio-bike anyway. So: forget the eco mode and switch up. Boost, baby, boost! - Johannes Fischbach, E-Racer, Raymon Bikes
How do you like this article?
Contra: Peter Denk says no...
I love e-bikes, but I don't want to ride a moped. Speeding up the mountain in boost mode is too close for me. As a mountain biker, I want to continue to feel my body and stay fit. Nevertheless, I'm happy to have support. After all, it's no fun to struggle up steep forest roads with angular crank movements. Eco mode is ideal. I also use it to ride downhill tyres on my Enduro - for maximum control downhill. Thanks to Eco mode, I'm still as fast uphill as I am on my Specialized Epic Racefully. - Peter Denk, bike designer
Other articles that might interest you:
Laurin Lehner
Editor
