Electric mountain bikes have transformed trail riding in Australia. Hills that once demanded exhausting climbs now become manageable, allowing riders to attempt longer loops, explore more remote trails, and focus on the technical joy of descending rather than dreading the ascent. E-MTBs have opened mountain biking to riders who might never have considered it otherwise, while giving experienced riders the ability to double their trail time in a single session.
But e-MTB riding isn't just traditional mountain biking with a motor—it requires specific techniques, planning, and trail etiquette. This guide covers everything you need to know to get the most from your electric mountain bike adventures on Australian trails.
Choosing the Right Trails
Not all trails are created equal for e-MTB riding, and not all trails allow electric bikes. Before heading out, research both the suitability and legality of your intended routes.
Trail Access and Regulations
In Australia, e-MTB access varies by land manager. Many dedicated mountain bike parks welcome e-bikes on all trails. State forests and national parks have varying policies—some allow e-bikes on cycling-designated trails, others restrict them to fire roads, and some prohibit them entirely. Always check current regulations before riding.
The Mountain Bike Australia (MTBA) website maintains information on e-bike access at popular trail centres. Local riding groups often have the most current information about access policies in their areas.
Dedicated MTB parks: Usually allow e-bikes on all trails
State forests: Often permit e-bikes, check specific area rules
National parks: Policies vary widely, often more restrictive
Private trails: Depends entirely on landowner policy
Trail Selection for E-MTB
When selecting trails, consider that your e-bike changes the equation in several ways. Long, climbing-intensive loops that might be exhausting on a traditional bike become achievable. Technical climbs that would require walking can potentially be ridden. Shuttle runs where you'd normally drive uphill can become full loops.
However, some trails are better suited to e-MTBs than others. Narrow, twisty trails with tight switchbacks can be challenging due to the additional weight and turning radius of e-bikes. Very technical descents require strong skills to manage the extra mass. Consider starting with intermediate trails that allow you to develop e-MTB-specific skills before tackling advanced routes.
E-MTB Climbing Techniques
Climbing is where e-MTBs truly shine, but getting the most from motor assistance requires proper technique. The motor amplifies your input—good technique is amplified into excellent climbing, while poor technique leads to wasted energy and reduced traction.
Weight Distribution
On steep climbs, weight distribution becomes critical. Too far back and your front wheel lifts, losing steering control. Too far forward and your rear wheel loses traction, spinning uselessly despite motor power. Find the balanced position—typically with your torso low, elbows bent, and weight centred over the bottom bracket.
Adjust your saddle position if your bike allows. Many e-MTBs feature dropper posts; for steep climbs, raise the saddle to maximise pedalling efficiency, then lower it for technical sections and descents.
Power Management
E-MTB motors deliver power based on your pedalling input and cadence. Maintain a steady, smooth cadence rather than mashing hard on the pedals. This gives the motor consistent input to work with, resulting in more predictable and controllable power delivery.
On technical climbs, use lower assist modes than you might expect. Turbo mode can deliver too much power for maintaining traction on loose surfaces. Trail or eco modes give you better modulation and control, preventing sudden wheel spin when you need it least.
- Maintain steady cadence for smooth power delivery
- Keep weight centred—not too far forward or back
- Use lower assist modes on loose or technical terrain
- Look ahead and plan your line through obstacles
- Stand occasionally to adjust weight and maintain traction
Descending on an E-MTB
E-MTBs are heavier than traditional mountain bikes—typically 22-25kg versus 12-15kg. This extra mass significantly affects descending dynamics and requires technique adjustments.
Braking
The additional weight increases momentum, requiring more braking power and longer stopping distances. Start braking earlier than you would on a lighter bike. Use both brakes together, with slightly more rear brake input to prevent front-wheel lockup.
On long descents, brake in pulses rather than dragging continuously. This prevents brake fade from heat buildup and gives your rims (on rim brake bikes) or rotors (on disc brakes) time to cool between applications.
Body Position
The attack position—standing on pedals with knees and elbows bent, weight centred and low—is even more important on e-MTBs. The extra weight wants to tip forward on steep descents; counteract this by getting your weight back further than you might on a traditional bike.
Let the bike move beneath you. On rough terrain, your arms and legs act as suspension, absorbing impacts while your core maintains control. Keep a loose grip on the bars—death-gripping leads to arm pump and loss of control.
Cornering
The additional weight of an e-MTB provides stability but reduces manoeuvrability. You'll need to plan corners earlier and commit more decisively—last-second direction changes are harder to execute.
Enter corners slower than you might on a lighter bike, but carry more speed through the exit as the weight helps maintain traction. Look through the corner to where you want to go, not at obstacles you want to avoid.
E-MTB descending requires respect for the additional mass. Start with trails well within your comfort zone and gradually build skills. The consequences of crashes are greater due to higher speeds achievable after motor-assisted climbs and increased impact forces from the heavier bike.
Battery Management for Long Rides
Running out of battery miles from the trailhead is every e-MTB rider's nightmare. Strategic battery management ensures you complete your ride with power to spare.
Know Your Range
Before attempting long rides, understand your bike's realistic range in trail conditions. Manufacturer claims are typically based on optimal conditions—smooth roads, minimal climbing, light rider. Trail riding with frequent climbing might deliver only 50-60% of advertised range.
Do shorter test rides on similar terrain to calibrate expectations. Note battery consumption at various assist levels and riding intensities. This data informs planning for longer adventures.
Strategic Assist Usage
Plan your assist level usage strategically. Save higher assist modes for steep or technical climbs where they make the biggest difference. Use eco mode on gradual climbs and flats where the assistance is less critical. Reserve enough battery for the return—remember that "downhill" trails often include significant climbing.
Many experienced e-MTB riders aim to return with 20-30% battery remaining. This provides a buffer for unexpected detours, getting lost, or harder-than-anticipated terrain.
Alternative Strategies
For very long rides, consider carrying a second battery if your bike supports hot-swapping. Some riders arrange mid-ride recharges at cafes or cars parked at trail intersections. Planning routes with bailout options—shorter loops that return to the start if battery runs low—adds safety margin.
Trail Etiquette for E-MTBs
E-MTB riders face particular scrutiny on trails. Behaving responsibly maintains access for all e-bike riders and builds positive relationships with other trail users.
Speed and Passing
Motor assistance allows faster climbing than traditional bikes, meaning you'll often catch other riders on ascents. Pass courteously—slow down, announce your presence, wait for safe opportunities, and thank riders who yield. Never force past or use motor power to blast past others on narrow trails.
On descents, you're subject to the same rules as any mountain biker: yield to uphill traffic, control your speed, and ride predictably.
Trail Impact
The extra torque from e-MTB motors can cause trail damage if used irresponsibly. Wheel spin on climbs gouges trails and accelerates erosion. Use appropriate assist levels that provide power without breaking traction. Avoid riding wet trails where damage is most likely.
E-MTB riders are under particular observation by land managers considering access policies. Every rider who tears up trails with unnecessary wheel spin makes access restrictions more likely for everyone.
Respecting Access Boundaries
Where e-bikes aren't permitted, don't ride there—regardless of how unlikely you are to be caught. Access policies are set for various reasons, and violating them undermines advocacy efforts to expand e-MTB access. Ride legally and work through proper channels to advocate for expanded access.
Essential Gear for E-MTB Adventures
Beyond your bike, carrying the right gear makes trail rides safer and more enjoyable:
- Helmet: Mountain-specific with extended coverage
- Gloves: Essential for control and protection
- Hydration: Pack or bottles—enough water for your ride plus reserve
- Repair kit: Spare tube, pump, multi-tool, tyre levers
- Navigation: Phone with trail maps downloaded offline, or GPS device
- First aid: Basic kit for trail injuries
- Nutrition: Energy bars or gels for longer rides
- Phone: Charged and accessible for emergencies
E-MTB riding offers incredible access to Australian trails, combining the joy of off-road cycling with the power to explore further and climb higher. Approach it with respect—for the trails, other users, and your own limitations—and you'll discover adventures you never thought possible. See you on the trails.