Lightweight E-MTB, does it exist?

[simple]

Not exactly what you are looking for. Similar to a hub drive and uses hand throttle. Appears to add less than 10lbs and is way cheaper than a Ebike. Looks cool because the system snaps on and off. How well it works I have no idea.

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[Trail Talk]

OK the deed is done!



Well, sort of. I'm not yet ready to give up my Norco Revolver so this GasGas Trail Light 2.0 is for my wife, but I'm using the opportunity to learn its quirks (of which there are a few). Weighs 20.4kg or under 45lbs (less now with a RaceFace NEXT carbon bar) and has about 120km/75mi range with a mid-assist 50Nm Yamaha motor and 500Wh battery. It finally hit the tipping point to purchase when I found a smokin' good deal locally. The GasGas FB page is a great community and has helped with a few niggles. Finally we both can enjoy long summer rides.

 

[Trail Talk]

Taking advantage of BF sales, I just added an Old Man Mountain rear rack to carry a set of panniers on the GasGas. Love their racks for FS bikes, have a front and rear setup on my analog bikepacking rig.

 

[Mfitz]

Ah ha, they do exist! Went riding yesterday for 3 hours with a friend, he on his ebike and me on my analog bike. The differences were subtle but real; he had an easier time climbing hills and while I slowed on the return leg, he did not. But his bike is heavy and he struggles to load and unload. He also avoids any trails or destinations where he may have to hike-a-bike so we are limited that way.

Just an FYI, some of e-mtb's have a walk feature. Hold down a button on the bars and it goes forward at a walking pace with no pedal input. My wife's Specialized has it, it can be super handy when she has to walk up something steep or technical.