When it comes to choosing an electric bike mountain bike, there are several different options. There are the YETI 160E T1, the YT DECOY MX CORE 4, the Specialized Turbo Levo SL Comp, and the Giant Trance E+ 1. Considering all of these options, how do you know which one is best for you?
YETI 160E T1
The YETI 160E T1 electric bike is a carbon frame and carbon fork bike. It features a Shimano XT 1×11-speed drivetrain, 29-inch DT Swiss EX1700 wheels, and a Shimano EP8 motor. The bike is designed to be comfortable for both men and women, with frame geometry that caters to both genders.
The Yeti 160E uses Yeti’s TURQ-series carbon fibre to deliver a unique balance between stiffness and compliance. It also comes with a lifetime warranty. The frame also has full-length internal cable routing, integrated clips, and entry/exit clamps.
The suspension platform on the 160E is different from the other Yeti bikes. It is designed for longer rides. The bike has a 20mm rise bar and a 625mm stack height. The front wheel feels a little low. However, this isn’t a serious problem. The 160E’s rise bar is just high enough to counterbalance the front wheel.
The 160E’s suspension has a progressive leverage rate that prevents the rear shock from bombing over bigger hits. This helps create a smooth ride over uneven terrain. The rear suspension is also surprisingly supple, resulting in a stable, comfortable ride.
YT DECOY MX CORE 4
The YT DECOY MX COR 4 electric mountain bike features a Shimano EP8 drive unit for maximum power output and a fully integrated downtube battery. It also has a carbon frame with aggressive downhill geometry for better handling on rough terrain. The bike is positioned in the light category of eMTBs. It is suitable for beginning eMTB riders on easy trails but requires an experienced rider to handle more technical terrain.
The Decoy is a fun bike to ride. The light front end makes it extremely agile. It also forces you to actively load the front wheel when climbing steep sections. This requires a good amount of physical effort, but makes for an enjoyable ride. The bike also sits high in the travel for optimal traction, which makes it an excellent all-rounder.
Its frame features great durability and excellent balance. The downtube is protected with a tough nylon layer that can be replaced if damaged. The seatstay and chainstay are protected with rubber, so the bike will not slap the ground while riding. Shock dials are also easy to reach, allowing you to quickly adjust the suspension.
Specialized Turbo Levo SL Comp
If you’re looking for a rad electric mountain bike with a lightweight design, the Specialized Turbo Levo SL Comp is the bike for you. This new lightweight breed of eMTB combines the slick ride of the Stumpjumper with more power and a rad price tag.
The Levo SL features just-right geometry, which has been refined over several years. The resulting bike is maneuverable, responsive, and easy to control. You can easily climb and pick through technical rock gardens without feeling like you’re letting go of control. Its low pedal assistance makes it easy to control while climbing and getting through technical areas.
The Specialized Levo SL weighs just 19kg and comes with a front and rear suspension system with 150mm of travel. It also comes with a 160Wh Range-Extender Battery, which adds 50% to its overall range. Depending on how much you ride, you can expect to ride for up to five hours on a single charge.
Giant Trance E+ 1
The Giant Trance E+ 1 electric mountain bikes feature Maxxis tires, Shimano drivetrains, and 4-piston braking systems. However, the bike does not use Shimano crank arms. All three models are equipped with Praxis Cadet cranksets, which have 160mm arms on the small and medium frames, and 165mm arms on the large frame. The Giant Trance E+ models are available in three sizes – XS, S, and M.
The Trance E+ 1 offers full E-MTB power and range, and it feels at home on all types of terrain. The motor is a Yamaha SyncDrive Pro2, and the multifunction RideControl GO unit provides information on the bike’s performance. It has a minimalist cockpit and is equipped with a 750Wh EnergyPak XL battery.
The SyncDrive Pro motor on the Giant Trance E+ 1 produces 59 ft-lbs of pedal-assisted torque. This powerful motor was designed in partnership with Yamaha, a company that also makes its own e-bikes.