Which hardtail E MTB?

[Scrump]

I have decided to dip my toe into the world of E bikes.
Looking for something to use on cycle paths and bike trails, a bit of road, nothing too technical. I will also be taking on the back of my campervan and using it as local transport.

I have a non electric Specialized hybrid so although an E hybrid bike would work I am thinking of getting a MTB.

I think I would like 29er wheels and a mid drive motor (preferably Bosch). Will be bought via GCI cycle to work scheme.

I have seen the Whyte E-505 at Evan’s for £2.5k:
https://www.evanscycles.com/brand/whyte/e-505-elec...

Any good? Anything better for similar money (or as good for less)?

[TGCOTF-dewey]

If I had 2.5k for an ebike, I'd be looking full suspension and second hand.

Pinkbike for sale section.

Or some bike shops offer ex-rentals.

[SwissJonese]

Look at Mondraker Prime HT Ebikes.

Some sales prices depending on your frame size:-
Large:-
WinstanleysBikes

Extra Large:-
SpokesOnline

But the Whyte is also a lovely bike.

[GuigiaroBertone]

I'm a big fan of Santa cruz bikes. Above budget, but the flat bar version of this would be great for your needs.

https://www.santacruzbicycles.com/en-gb/collection...

[PushedDover]

Scrump said:

I have decided to dip my toe into the world of E bikes.
Looking for something to use on cycle paths and bike trails, a bit of road, nothing too technical. I will also be taking on the back of my campervan and using it as local transport.

I have a non electric Specialized hybrid so although an E hybrid bike would work I am thinking of getting a MTB.

I think I would like 29er wheels and a mid drive motor (preferably Bosch). Will be bought via GCI cycle to work scheme.

I have seen the Whyte E-505 at Evan’s for £2.5k:
https://www.evanscycles.com/brand/whyte/e-505-elec...

Any good? Anything better for similar money (or as good for less)?

Sufficient for sure.
We bought Cubes similar and did the job too.
Need to buy new? Facebook Cube groups have them popping up regularly - and numersous different suppliers offering insane discounts regularly.
i.e.
https://winstanleysbikes.co.uk/bikes/sale-bikes/sa...
my LBS:
https://www.westbrookcycles.co.uk/e-bikes/electric...

Scotte, Orbea, take your picks.



Word of warning on the master plan is to use the rack on the camper. A) These are hard work to lift to shoulder height, B) can the rack / camper take what will end up being a 27kg bike ?

second word of warning, I would also go with a brand of bike and motor supported by a LBS, to save any chew if you get motor issues.

[Scrump]

Thanks for the replies. I would buy used but think the saving using cycle to work scheme means a new one is not much more .

I hadnt thought about lifting a heavy bike on to the campervan rack, security is also a bit of worry with the bike exposed on the rear of the van. The alternative is to get something like a Brompton Electric G line. This could be stored inside the van, not sure what they are like to ride. (I currently have a Tern folder stored in the van). I have heard that the electric system in the G line is a bit basic and I am not convinced that it will give me the ride and assistance I am looking for.

I could just keep Tern folder for the van and not put the full size MTB on the rear rack.

Decisions, decisions!

I am thinking maybe I get a test ride on a E-MTB and a g line electric.

Edited by Scrump on Thursday 17th April 11:17

[Griffith4ever]

I was looking at EMTBs and then realised as the owner of a LTD co I could get 45% off, so a £6300 bike became nearly half that. That put second hand bikes out the window so to speak! 20% VAT back, plus offset against corp tax is another 25%.

I now have an Amflow PL Carbon with upgraded forks on order which will end up costing me £3780!

[Hol]

I’ve had my hardtail cube since the beginning of lockdown and it’s been excellent. However, I came from a full suspension bike and have replaced the seat post with a cantilever one, which makes some trails that require you to be seated more comfortable.

I chose Cube as i needed three bikes and they use Bosch parts, which were the gold standard at the time I bought.

[POIDH]

Whatever brand that a local bike shop can sell you, and support well. IME ebikes have more issues and more expensive issues under warranty, and you really don't need to be posting it off or similar.

[Timetoleave]

We sold e-bikes for 12 years. Just stopped. Always buy a bike that can be serviced by your local shop. Always give them the option of price matching. Shops that sell bikes do not make money out of selling bikes. It’s all about servicing. Buy a Bosch system.

Not sure if allowed - I have 3 bikes left to sell ! DM if you’d like to hear what they are (S)

Edited by Timetoleave on Sunday 20th April 10:51

[Scrump]

Timetoleave said:

We sold e-bikes for 12 years. Just stopped. Always buy a bike that can be serviced by your local shop. Always give them the option of price matching. Shops that sell bikes do not make money out of selling bikes. It’s all about servicing. Buy a Bosch system.

Not sure if allowed - I have 3 bikes left to sell ! DM if you’d like to hear what they are (S)

Edited by Timetoleave on Sunday 20th April 10:51

I have sent you an email.