June 2017| 29
waymarked loops from 3km to 40km, it’s a great place
to discover e-biking. The tourist o ce in r oux-les- ains
will point you in the right direction for electric mountain
bike hire and guided rides.
Inevitably, this new branch of mountain biking is
slowly percolating into the competition scene. More
and more e-bike s ecific races are o ing u and
the sport is becoming a genuine discipline in itself.
The biggest electric mountain biking event in France,
the ElectrEnduro, takes place in June near Lyon and is
now into its third year. The event sees 300 participants
compete in three races over two days including the 42km
flagshi event. To do well, it’s not ust about fitness and
bike handling, but also how you manage battery life so
you have the most useable wattage when you need it
most.
The number of eMTBs on the trails is only going to increase. So, in the interest of long-term harmony with other
trail users, it’s up to eMTB riders themselves to represent the sport in a positive way. With that in mind, here’s some
eMTB do’s and don’ts
DO’S: DON’TS:
Do stick to the marked trail. Don’t start a ride without checking your battery
has enough charge for the whole route.
Do keep your speed under control. Don’t take on a trail that is too technical and might
involve having to push or carry your bike.
Do be careful when approaching a blind corner
(especially on a climb). Don’t cut switchbacks.
Do give way to hikers and other trail users. Don’t ride beyond your limits.
Do check that eMTBs are permitted if in a natural
reserve. Don’t head off without appropriate gear for
changes in weather or other conditions.
Do wear a helmet and appropriate safety gear. Don’t scare the animals (Give them plenty of room
and time to adjust to you).
So, there we have it; in France, the feeling towards eMTBs
is overwhelmingly positive. It means more people riding
bikes and having fun in the French mountains. With an
electric mountain bike you can take on steeper, longer
trails whilst staying within your comfort zone. With
the extra push from the motor it’s easy to double the
distance covered and access remote terrain that would
normally be the reserve of expert riders. However, with
power comes responsibility, so if you’ve been inspired to
give e-biking a go, just respect the trail and other trail
users and stay within your limits. If you’re still sceptical,
riding is believing – hit the trails with an open mind and
you could well be part of the new wave of eMTB converts.