Fresh of the back of winning the British National Enduro Champs, we chat to Tracy Moseley about the ins and outs of riding and racing ebikes.
Power arms races, full fat vs half fat, and the next generation… We chat it all with all round mountain bike legend, Tracy Moseley.
Photos courtesy of Bosch eBike Systems.
Can you remember your first eBike ride and if so, what was it like?
I remember my first eBike ride very well as it was in Flims in Switzerland at a Trek launch, and I got to ride with my Swiss teammate Rene Wildhaber. We rode up this incredible alpine flow trail, just berm after berm of uphill fun, it was unbelievable to be able to climb like this and I couldn’t believe how far up the mountain we got and the beautiful trails we then descended upon, it was such a cool first experience and it opened my eyes to what the future held.
Do you have more than one eBike in the shed?
I do… my race bike and my old race bike I use as the daily commute bike, on school runs /bike bus, some local shopping, checking fields on the farm and to tow Toby up the hills sometimes on our rides.
Do you prefer full power with the big battery and higher weight or mid-power, smaller battery that’s a bit more nimble?
I have only used a full power bike so far, as I have been focused on racing, and if I am not on my eBike I still enjoy riding my XC or trail bike, so I like to keep them for different things. I think in the future I would like to try and find a use for a lightweight version but for now I am happy with my options.
What do you think are the best things about eBikes?
I love the variety of ways that you can use an eBike, from huge mountain adventures, climbing crazy steep tech terrain, to riding to school, grabbing some shopping and riding with my late dad… Ultimately, the eBike transforms cycling into the absolute first choice for every day mobility.
And the worst?
The attitude and irresponsible approach of some riders. Some eBikers blast past other riders on the trails and don’t even acknowledge you, slow down or say hello… we are all cyclists and it would be a shame if the few ruined it for the many.
What would your advice be to riders looking to be a responsible eBike user?
Be aware of your interactions with other bikers and users of the outdoor space and be considerate of your speed. Make sure you are riding a legally compliant eBike that does not exceed the speed regulations (motor assistance up to15.5mph)and learn the skills needed to ride your bike on different terrains. Try to ride in conditions or terrain suitable for the bike, this will prevent unnecessary trail damage as a result of excess skidding, wheel spin, or getting stuck.
How do you feel about the ‘arms race’ going on with motor power?
I think it’s a crucial time for the evolution of eBikes. While there is a trend toward more power, we shouldn’t lose sight of what makes eBiking special. The harmony between human effort and electric support. For me, the focus should always be on enhancing the natural riding experience and the flow on the trail, rather than just sheer power. The real focus shouldn’t be on extreme support ratios that make pedaling merely cosmetic; it should be about creating a seamless, natural ride where the rider remains an active participant.
As the industry evolves, it is a shared responsibility, from manufacturers to riders, to ensure safety on the trails. We must ride considerately and respect regulations so that eBikes continue to be classified as bicycles. This is vital to protect our access to outdoor networks, allowing everyone to safely enjoy the mental and physical benefits of being out in nature on an eBike.
Motorbikes have heavily restricted access to the outdoor trail network and, if we are not careful, in the future we could end up with losing this amazing access if our eBikes are no longer classified as a bicycle and governed by the UCI but fall under the motorsport category.
What does the fifth generation Bosch motor do that previous offerings or competitors can’t?
The fifth generation motor gives such a natural feel of assistance that it’s till really feels like riding a bike. With many ways of adjusting the amount of power and how that power is delivered, it allows you to really personalise your ride feel.
The 120nm of torque is adjustable but if you choose to use it to its maximum it allows you to climb incredibly technical terrain with amuch lower cadence which can make it less demanding on your body and also gives you the ability to restart in a controlled manner, if you make a mistake, without skidding or losing control.
The jump and trick feature is a fun addition. Being able to check out your airtime stats at the end of the ride is always a great source ofcompetition.
And finally, with Bosch you know you are getting a motor that has been rigorously tested, has proven great warranty and support from a company that cares about the future of eBikes, its sustainability benefits and its need to remain as a bicycle and not a motorised sport.
What’s your favourite ride to do on an eBike?
I love how much riding I can do in a short time when life is busy. When often I wouldn’t have time for a ride, in just an hour I can have such a hit of exercise, fresh air and ‘me time’ and hit up some great trails too, both up and down.
Where do you think eBikes and their technology will go next?
I honestly don’t know where it will go, but I know what I would love to see… no need for more power but lighter weight, smaller and longer battery range and a way to recharge from the energy created when descending, so we can just keep riding…
