Why an e-bike hardtail?
Compared to previous "normal" e-bike hardtails without an electric drive, the e-mountain bike does put more weight on the road and therefore has to accept some compromises in terms of maneuverability and lightness, but it has all the other features of a mountain bike. The motor also offers countless advantages that easily compensate for the minor drawbacks. First and foremost among these is the enormous fun factor! The feeling of being able to cover considerably longer distances or conquer your favorite trail more often gives you a new sense of motivation, freedom and success. Especially when it comes to issues such as age and illness, which have a major impact on fitness, you no longer have to do without your beloved bike.
Who is an e-bike hardtail suitable for – why is an e-bike hardtail exactly the right bike for me?
Even a short detour into the forest on the way home is no longer associated with extreme exertion and negative thoughts when riding an e-MTB, but instead provides balance and a healthy way to relieve work stress. In addition, the increased weight due to the support of the electric motor plays a rather less important role. Whether for men or women, young or old, with the help of a lowered top tube or a slightly smaller frame and wheels, there is an e-mountain bike to suit every need. According to the German Road Traffic Licensing Regulations (StVZO), e-MTBs are not approved for use on public roads, but an e-MTB hardtail can easily be retrofitted with lights, reflectors, mudguards, etc.
Which e-bike hardtail brand should I buy?
Modern e-bikes have to meet high standards. A lot of research has been done into the performance and durability of the materials used. Whether touring bike or electric bike, the requirements and quality standards are identical. You can recognize a good bike or a good brand by its frame, suspension fork or braking and shifting system. These components are subject to the highest stresses. That is why all the brands we offer meet high quality standards and it goes without saying that all our bikes undergo strict quality tests. Brands such as Cube, Ghost, Scott, Haibike, Focus, Trek, Kalkhoff, Winora, Diamant and Conway all offer the above-mentioned quality features and can be recommended without exception.
The best e-bike hardtails – an overview of the top brands
Hardtail or E-Hardtail – Which E-Bike Hardtail Should I Buy?
The hardtail e-MTB is an absolute all-rounder and is the perfect choice for you if you mainly ride on firm ground or off-road on easy to moderate trails. Compared to a full-suspension (E-fully) mountain bike with two suspensions, the hardtail only has a spring/telescopic fork at the front of the wheel to absorb shocks. The rear part therefore remains rigid, which leads to greater riding safety and more precise riding technique. In addition, power transmission is significantly better and more efficient because no power is lost through the suspension. When touring on flat terrain and uphill, a higher speed can also be achieved with the MTB hardtail. The hardtail also has a significant weight advantage over the MTB fully due to the fewer parts used. This also means less maintenance and fewer wear parts, which makes servicing the MTB hardtail much easier.
Important components of the E-MTB Hardtail
The frames are preferably made of aluminum or carbon because of their low weight. The hydraulic disc brakes ensure improved driving technique and shorter braking distances. When it comes to the wheels, you can choose between 27.5-inch and 29-inch wheels. 27.5-inch wheels are particularly recommended for downhill-oriented mountain bikers, as they are considerably more maneuverable while still providing a certain degree of stability. However, they do have one disadvantage for longer tours and excursions, as they have poorer rolling properties, which results in a loss of speed. Nowadays, you can even choose 27.5+ wheels. The slightly wider wheels, whose weight is counterbalanced by the electric motor, can achieve a higher grip. From a height of about 170 cm and for touring-oriented cyclists, 29-inch wheels are recommended, as they provide a higher level of riding comfort and more distance can be covered due to the high pedalling energy. In addition, there is better traction, but also reduced manoeuvrability.
Advantages of a hardtail eMTB:
- Lower purchase price
- Light weight
- Less maintenance
The hardtail is ideal for dirt roads, moderate downhill riding and extended day trips.
Disadvantages of a hardtail eMTB:
- Less speed
- Less driving force
- Less stability
Advantages of a full-suspension bike:
- Full suspension reduces shocks
- More driving force
- Full control in the terrain
Disadvantages of a full-suspension bike:
- Higher purchase price
- Heavier
- Maintenance-intensive
Which wheel size is perfect for me and my e-bike? 29" or 27.5"
| Criterion | 27.5 inch | 29 inch |
|---|---|---|
| Smooth running | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Rigidity | ★★★★★ | ★★★★ |
| Rollover behavior | ★★★★ | ★★★★★ |
| Weight | ★★★★★ | ★★★ |
| Acceleration | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
| Agility | ★★★★ | ★★★ |
What are the advantages of a 29-inch hardtail e-bike?
29-inch wheels have been very popular and trendy for years. Initially eyed critically by mountain bike purists and plagued by some prejudices, the bicycle industry has recognized the trend and made it the new standard through constant improvement. The advantage of 29-inch tires is that the ride is very smooth. This offers a great advantage and saves energy on long rides as well as uphill and downhill.
Bikes with a wheel size of more than 27.5 inches can overcome almost any obstacle more easily and cover longer distances. Initial problems with trail handling and the small frame look have been optimally compensated for by improvements and adjustments in frame construction and component selection.
What are the advantages of a 27-inch e-bike hardtail?
The 27.5" wheels are a logical addition to the larger 29" wheels and an ideal compromise for smaller riders and trail enthusiasts. The combination of smooth running and enduring maneuverability meets the demands of all bikers.
It is more maneuverable than 29" wheels and is perfect for off-road rides and winding terrain that requires quick reactions. This category is particularly suitable for switching from 26 inch wheels.
The 27.5" combines the best of both worlds in one bike and its versatility is limitless. Full Tail or Hardtail – 27.5" is the golden ratio and the perfect tire size for anyone who wants to use their mountain bike as it is supposed to be used.
E-bike hardtail motors with lots of power – what should you look out for in an engine?
The motor is one of the most important components. It is the heart of every e-mountain bike. In modern e-MTBs, it is installed directly on the bottom bracket as a powerful mid-mounted motor to optimally position the additional weight. This replaces the rear wheel hub motor. The result is a significantly smoother and more stable ride. Important topics when it comes to e-bike motors are always the maximum weight and the maximum speed. Our manufacturers decide which motor/manufacturer to use based on the requirements and the bike. In our small comparison, we describe the significant differences between the motors we favor. Our specialist advisors will also be happy to answer any detailed questions you may have.
Features of the Bosch motor:
The Bosch Performance Line CX motor is the manufacturer's absolute favorite. The Bosch Performance Line CX motor is particularly suitable for off-road use due to its impeccable performance data and innovative E-MTB mode. High torque is essential for the drive. This is where a drive of approx. 85 Nm at 250 watts comes into play. State-of-the-art technology ensures that the motor runs smoothly for comfortable riding around every bend. A powerful 625Wh or 750Wh battery ensures sufficient energy. These are located deep in the fully or partially integrated frame for easy handling.
Features of the Yamaha motor:
Yamaha's most commonly used ST motors in the PW series are equipped with a quad-sensor system. This ensures the best possible support in every situation. The support range of the drive train is also large and therefore suitable for pedaling with a high cadence. The ST tuning of the PW series makes this drive unit the perfect all-rounder. Whether you are a beginner or an expert, on-road or off-road, the PW-Series ST offers riding fun and extremely comfortable support.
With a nominal power of 250W, a maximum torque of 70Nm and a battery capacity of up to 630Wh, the Yamaha motor is more than enough for every situation and delivers ample power for almost any trail. In terms of range, we can say that the more watt hours, the greater the range. However, other factors also play a role here, such as the weight of the e-bike, your weight, the selected driving mode and the surface you are riding on.
The range of the batteries depends, of course, on the battery capacity, measured in ampere or watt hours, the power of the motor and the selected driving mode. The larger batteries have a capacity of up to 625Wh and can achieve a range of up to 140 kilometers on a flat surface. However, this may decrease under certain circumstances. These include, for example, very steep inclines, uneven ground, very cold temperatures or the weight of the driver. If the latter weighs 50 kg, the range will be greater than for a driver weighing 100 kg. Lithium-ion batteries are extremely durable and easy to use. The battery can be charged using the mains supply at your home or at one of the now widespread e-charging stations throughout Europe.
What size fits my e-bike hardtail? Calculate your frame size!
How much does a good hardtail eMTB cost?
In terms of price, an e-hardtail is significantly more interesting than an e-full-suspension bike, as you can get one for as little as €1500-1800. The golden mean is around €2500, which is still in the affordable range. In this price range, you get a lot more than in the entry-level models. The motor and battery are often integrated into a lightweight aluminum frame in a visually appealing way. This also protects the sensitive electronics in the event of a fall. The high-end products start at around €3500 and are almost exclusively equipped with a motor and battery fully integrated into the frame. This often consists of carbon, which makes the E-MTB Hardtail significantly lighter.
For more information and individual advice, please do not hesitate to contact us by phone or visit us at our bike center in Schwäbisch Hall – Hessental.
What types of mountain bike are there?
Cross Country Bikes, Marathon Bikes
These mountain bikes are used mainly in cross-country racing. They are very light (between 10 kg and 13 kg), have high-quality components and are at home on forest paths, country lanes and meadows. Great maneuverability and power transmission are the focus of every cross-country bike. The suspension travel is approx. 100 mm to 120 mm.
Downhill mountain bike
Steep, demanding trails are a breeze for this bike, which overcomes obstacles with ease. A low steering angle and a fully retracted saddle ensure an optimal center of gravity. Grippy fat tires provide the necessary grip. The suspension travel is approx. 1, 180 m - 250 mm.
All mountain bikes, trail bikes and enduros
All-mountain bikes are suitable for almost anything. You will be thrilled by this equipment, especially on long tours in mountainous terrain (e.g. across the Alps) and in flat terrain. These lightweight bikes (approx. 10 kg -14 kg) are the perfect outdoor companions that you can always rely on for ascents, descents and small jumps. On many models, the suspension travel can be locked or reduced to make riding uphill easier. Suspension travel is approximately 120 mm to 160 mm. Our enduro bikes are designed for an even wider range of uses. With these bikes, you can master faster descents, higher jumps and easier ascents. Suspension travel is approximately 140 mm to 180 mm.
Freeride mountain bike
Technician in the mountain bike world! Very steep terrain, complex obstacles and long jumps are no problem here. It is a cross between downhill and cross bike. The suspension travel is about 165 mm to 200 mm.
Fat Bike - Let's have fun
Whether on snow, sand or loose surfaces, fat bikes can usually be recognized by their thick, wide tires. They are twice as wide (4-4.8 inches) as normal MTB tires. This type of bike has no suspension. A little less air in the tire gives you the spring performance you need.
Dirt jump bike
As the name suggests, this variant is mainly the bike variant that allows you to get on your bike to perform various so-called "tricks" in the air. These days, the lines between hardtail and fully are blurring.
What characterizes an e-bike hardtail for women? Men's or women's mountain bike?
When choosing a mountain bike, pay particular attention to the features of the e-bike hardtail for women. They differ in that they ensure a comfortable riding position without back pain or discomfort on trails and tours.
- short crank arm
- tuned spring element
- Special saddle
- short torso and short arm reach
- Smaller frame size means lower standover height
- narrower handlebars and grips
- small hand brake lever setting
- Low entry or trapezoidal frame
A women's bike makes sense because of the smaller frame size. The XXS frame size (13.5") is tailored to women's ergonomics, but it also fits men well. Most models are already very well made and tailored to the average body type, but there are big differences in body types. If you have smaller hands or are petite overall, then the women's model is perfect for you.
Is a push assist function useful on an e-bike hardtail?
Not all e-bikers need this support. However, with its considerable weight compared to a bicycle, this extra feature quickly proves to be very useful. The pushing aid also makes handling much easier on steep ramps. Pushing aids are also very useful on tours. Many cyclists have major problems uphill. Using a pushing aid or starting aid makes this task considerably easier. Like the push assistance, the starting aid is also limited to a maximum of 6 km/h, but the support is somewhat stronger.
Push aids make handling an e-bike hardtail considerably easier. The advantages of push aids are particularly convincing in the following situations:
- If you like to ride on difficult terrain
- You have to push your e-bike up cellar steps or underground parking ramps
- It is too steep to pedal
- Your riding technique and the motor do not allow you to continue.
How does the push assistance work?
From what age can I use an e-bike hardtail?
With the e-bike motor providing assistance up to 6 km/h, there is no age limit. If the motor assists you up to 25 km/h, you must be at least 15 years old. All e-bike motors that run above 25 km/h require a minimum age of 16 years.
Can I attach accessories to my e-bike hardtail?
Of course! You can perfectly customize your e-bike hardtail to your needs and fully equip it with accessories. Whether it's bags, lighting systems, luggage racks, bike locks and many other accessories.
How can I make my e-bike hardtail safe for use on public roads?
E-bikes also require a number of accessories to be allowed on the roads in Germany. Some regulations may be a bit vague, but one thing is clear: problems will arise if the traffic control does not approve the lighting and it is not certified. That is why we have provided a detailed list of what you should consider to ride legally and, above all, safely at all times.
What do you need for a road-legal e-bike?
- Headlight and rear light
- Reflectors at the front and back
- Reflectors on both wheels
- Bike bell
- Working brakes
E-bike hardtail made of carbon or aluminum – which frame is right for me?
Aluminum E-bike Hardtail
Instead of pure aluminum, mountain bike frames use a blend of 95-98% aluminum and other metals, called aluminum alloys. Mountain bikes typically use 6061 aluminum, but many companies use different names for this material.
Carbon e-bike hardtail
Not too long ago, carbon fiber mountain bikes were quite rare. The technology has now matured to the point where carbon bikes can easily match the strength of most aluminum bikes.
Due to the different ways carbon fibers are woven, it is not easy to define the specific properties of carbon. However, due to its excellent moldability, carbon has allowed frame builders to create previously unthinkable frame designs. So if you come across a particularly exotic frame on the trail, you can assume that it is probably made of carbon.
E-bike hardtail made of carbon or aluminum – which material is better for my mountain bike?
There is no general answer to this question. Both materials have different properties that can have advantages or disadvantages depending on the application.
| Criterion | Aluminum | Steel | Carbon | Titanium |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | ★★ | ★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ |
| Stability | ★ | ★★★ | ★ | ★★★★ |
| Longevity | ★ | ★★★ | ★ | ★★★★ |
| Stiffness | ★★★ | ★ | ★★★ | ★★ |
| Torsional stiffness | ★★ | ★★★★ | ★★★ | ★★★ |