E-BIKE SKILLS
USE YOUR BIKE’S MODES E-bike motors can be set to deliver power in different ways. Whether you’re using a Bosch, Shimano or Specialized system, or one from another brand, the choice of modes will be similar, even if they’re named differently. Eco, Trail/Tour and Boost/Turbo are the standard ones, but Bosch and Giant have additional automatic modes that adjust the power depending on the input going into the bike. The first thing that most people do when jumping on an e-bike is to set the mode to Boost and leave it there. In Boost, the initial drive and acceleration is so far removed from a normal bike that you can’t help but grin, but it isn’t the best way to get the most from the bike, and will in fact work against you in some situations.
LET TERRAIN D I C TAT E M O D E E-bikes have an assistance speed limit of 15.5mph (25kmh), above which power cuts off. Exceed this and you’ll suddenly feel like you’re trying to self-propel a very heavy bike. Flat fireroads or gradual climbs can easily be ridden in Eco for great economy and smooth power. Steep banks may be best tackled in Boost, but you’ll be hindered on tight switchbacks, where the strong power can jerk the bike forward and encourage the front wheel to run wide.
108 MOUNTAIN BIKING SKILLS
