Best Electric Mountain Bikes - Trailblazing Options for 2024

Electric mountain bikes (eMTBs) have revolutionised the way enthusiasts explore rugged trails and tackle challenging terrains. By offering an extra boost of power to help riders ascend steep hills and navigate technical sections, eMTBs open up new possibilities for riders of all levels. Whether you’re an experienced rider looking for an edge on the trails or a beginner seeking a more accessible way to enjoy the outdoors, there’s an eMTB for everyone.

As the market for electric mountain bikes continues to grow, manufacturers are innovating to create models that blend performance, durability, and style. From high-performance full-suspension bikes to lightweight hardtails, the options are diverse, catering to every type of rider.

So what are the best electric mountain bikes available in 2024? - Let's explore the best bikes on the market. those all important features, benefits, and what sets them apart from the competition.

 

 

What Makes an Electric Mountain Bike Different?

Before diving into the best models, it’s important to understand what differentiates an eMTB from a regular mountain bike. At the core of an eMTB is an electric motor and battery system, which provides power assistance to the rider. The motor is typically located in the rear wheel hub or integrated into the bike’s frame near the bottom bracket. This power assist allows riders to pedal with less effort, especially when climbing hills, riding through sand or mud, or navigating tough terrain.

While eMTBs are equipped with powerful motors, they still rely on the rider’s effort. The motor amplifies the rider’s pedalling output, but the rider must still engage with the bike’s controls to maintain speed and power. This makes eMTBs unique in that they provide an enhanced experience, without taking away the traditional mountain biking elements that riders love.

Now that we know what makes eMTBs so special, let’s explore the best options on the market in 2024.

 

1. Specialized Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon

The Specialized Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon is one of the top contenders for the best electric mountain bike on the market. This full-suspension eMTB boasts a lightweight design and powerful performance, making it ideal for trail riders who want both agility and power.

Key Features:

• Motor: The Levo SL is powered by a lightweight SL 1.2 motor, which provides 250 watts of assistance. The motor is engineered to be silent and efficient, offering a natural ride feel.
• Battery: It comes with a 320Wh battery, providing ample range for longer rides. With the optional range extender, riders can achieve even greater distances.
• Frame: Made with carbon fibre, the frame is both lightweight and durable, ensuring a smooth, responsive ride. The frame geometry is designed to handle technical descents and climb with ease.
• Suspension: The bike features 150mm of front and rear suspension travel, perfect for tackling rough trails and challenging terrain.
• Technology: Specialized’s Mission Control app allows riders to customize motor settings, track ride data, and even adjust power output based on the type of terrain they are riding on.

Why It Stands Out:

The Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon offers an incredible balance between weight, power, and ride quality. Its lightweight frame makes it more agile than many other eMTBs, and the powerful motor ensures you have the extra boost you need on the toughest climbs. This bike is designed for serious trail riders who want the best performance in an eMTB.

 

2. Trek Rail 9.8 XT

Trek has been a pioneer in the electric mountain bike space, and the Trek Rail 9.8 XT is one of the brand’s flagship models. Known for its high-quality build and performance, the Rail 9.8 XT is a favorite among riders who demand power and stability on steep descents.

Key Features:

• Motor: Powered by the Bosch Performance Line CX motor, the Rail 9.8 XT delivers a powerful 85Nm of torque, making it ideal for steep climbs and tough trails.
• Battery: It comes equipped with a Bosch Powertube 625Wh battery, providing plenty of range for all-day rides. The battery is fully integrated into the frame for a sleek look and enhanced protection.
• Suspension: With a 160mm RockShox Yari RC front fork and a 150mm rear shock, the Rail 9.8 XT provides excellent suspension for both climbing and descending.
• Wheels and Tires: The bike features 29-inch wheels and wide tires that provide added traction and stability on rocky and uneven terrain.
• Drivetrain: The Shimano XT 12-speed drivetrain offers smooth and responsive shifting, ensuring you can maintain your momentum, even on technical sections.

Why It Stands Out:

The Trek Rail 9.8 XT is a full-suspension eMTB built for serious riders who demand power, precision, and durability. The Bosch motor system is a standout feature, offering high torque and smooth assistance that helps you tackle challenging climbs without sacrificing control on technical descents.

 

3. Cannondale Moterra Neo 5

The Cannondale Moterra Neo 5 is a versatile electric mountain bike that offers a great mix of value, performance, and durability. It’s designed to handle a wide range of terrains, from singletrack trails to forest paths, and everything in between.

Key Features:

• Motor: The Moterra Neo 5 uses the Bosch Performance Line motor, providing 63Nm of torque, ensuring riders have enough power for the majority of trails.
• Battery: The bike comes with a Bosch Powertube 500Wh battery, which gives it excellent range for longer rides without compromising weight.
• Frame and Geometry: Cannondale’s SmartForm C1 alloy frame offers a balance of strength and lightness, with a design that prioritizes stability and handling.
• Suspension: The Moterra Neo 5 features a RockShox Judy Silver TK fork with 120mm of travel, ensuring smooth handling on rough trails.
• Brakes: Shimano Deore 4-piston disc brakes offer superior stopping power, especially in technical sections or downhill runs.

Why It Stands Out:

The Moterra Neo 5 offers a solid entry-level electric mountain bike experience, with a great mix of performance and value for money. Its balance of power, durability, and comfort makes it an ideal option for riders looking to upgrade from a traditional mountain bike to an eMTB.

 

4. Bulls E-Stream EVO AM 4

The Bulls E-Stream EVO AM 4 is a high-performance electric mountain bike built to excel on both technical trails and long-distance rides. With top-tier components and a powerful motor, this eMTB is designed for serious riders.

Key Features:

• Motor: The Bulls E-Stream EVO AM 4 uses the Shimano STEPS E8000 motor, delivering 70Nm of torque for consistent power output across a variety of terrains.
• Battery: Equipped with a Shimano 630Wh battery, it provides impressive range, making it suitable for long trail rides without needing to recharge.
• Suspension: With a 160mm front and rear suspension (SR Suntour AION), the EVO AM 4 can handle tough technical descents with ease, while still being responsive on climbs.
• Wheels and Tires: The bike comes with 27.5-inch wheels and wide tires, giving it exceptional traction and stability in rocky and muddy conditions.
• Drivetrain: The Shimano XT 11-speed drivetrain provides precise and smooth shifting, helping to maintain consistent speed throughout your ride.

Why It Stands Out:

The Bulls E-Stream EVO AM 4 offers premium components and a high level of performance, making it one of the best full-suspension eMTBs for off-road enthusiasts. The powerful Shimano motor and large battery make this bike an excellent option for riders who want to take on tough trails and long rides.

 

5. Haibike XDURO AllMtn 6.0

Haibike is another leader in the eMTB market, and the Haibike XDURO AllMtn 6.0 is one of its standout models for trail enthusiasts. With a focus on precision, power, and handling, this bike is a go-to option for serious off-road riders.

Key Features:

• Motor: The Haibike XDURO AllMtn 6.0 is powered by the Yamaha PW-X2 motor, which offers up to 80Nm of torque, making it suitable for a variety of mountain biking challenges.
• Battery: It features a 500Wh battery that offers enough range for day-long rides and challenging terrain.
• Suspension: The bike boasts a 160mm front fork and 150mm rear travel, offering excellent control and comfort, even in rough conditions.
• Drivetrain: The bike is equipped with a 12-speed SRAM Eagle drivetrain, offering precise and smooth shifting on all types of terrain.
• Brakes: The powerful Magura MT5 disc brakes provide reliable stopping power in any condition.

Why It Stands Out:

The Haibike XDURO AllMtn 6.0 stands out for its all-around performance. With top-quality components and the Yamaha motor, this eMTB is capable of taking on a wide range of trail types. Whether you’re navigating rocky terrain, muddy paths, or technical climbs, the AllMtn 6.0 will provide you with the power and control you need.

 

Electric mountain bikes have changed the game, providing new opportunities for riders of all skill levels to tackle difficult trails and enjoy the outdoors. Whether you're an experienced mountain biker looking for an extra boost or a beginner eager to experience the sport with less strain, the best eMTBs of 2024 offer the perfect combination of power, agility, and performance.

From lightweight models like the Specialized Turbo Levo SL Expert Carbon to rugged bikes like the Trek Rail 9.8 XT and Bulls E-Stream EVO AM 4, there’s an electric mountain bike for every rider. Consider your needs—whether it’s motor power, battery range, or suspension performance—and you’ll find the perfect trailblazing companion for your adventures. Happy riding!