E-MTBs have polarized opinion since they were first introduced, but although issues like trail access and erosion continue to stoke the fires of debate, these machines have become an integral - in some places even a dominant - part of the wider mountain bike landscape. Primarily driven by very high levels of user demand, the industry continues to evolve at a rapid pace, with advances in technology enabling the development of both lighter and more powerful e-MTBs than ever before. At the same time, regulatory frameworks remain somewhat loose and certainly not harmonized across different geographies, making it difficult to pinpoint what constitutes a "legal" e-MTB these days, and what it should look like in the future.
To address this topic together with you, our readers, we invited several e-MTB manufacturers to answer a set of questions on the topic of e-MTB power, and then take some more questions "from the floor" in this forum. You can read through the individual answers from Fazua, Avinox, Specialised, and TQ below, and then fire off your comments or questions - the brands are all standing by to address any points raised in real time (or as real as everybody's busy working days will allow for)! Bosch and Shimano were also invited but declined to participate at this point.
OK, have at it! In keeping with the Vital spirit, let's keep things spicy but civilized - don't hold back, but do mind the forum rules.
FAZUA
What defines an e-MTB, specifically with regards to rider interaction and power delivery? What is your overarching goal when you develop an e-MTB motor/battery system?
An e-MTB from the FAZUA perspective is defined by the interaction between rider and motor — by how naturally the system responds to human input and how intuitively it delivers power. At FAZUA, we believe that true performance is not about adding more watts, but about creating a seamless connection between rider and machine.
Our goal when developing an e-MTB drive system is to engineer a lightweight, compact, and fully integrated unit that enhances the ride without changing its character. The FAZUA system delivers smooth, progressive, and highly responsive support, adapting precisely to the rider’s effort to maintain a natural pedaling sensation.
Technically, this means optimized torque curves, low internal resistance, and finely tuned sensor calibration to ensure consistent and intuitive power delivery across all riding conditions. From a design perspective, the system’s architecture preserves handling, aesthetics, and bike balance — key to maintaining the authentic feel of a traditional MTB.
In essence, FAZUA stands for “better riding, not more power.” We build drive systems that let riders go further and climb higher, while staying fully connected to the trail, the bike, and their own performance.
The e-MTB market is still divided up between “light” and “full-power” bikes (in general terms), is that something that you see continuing into the future? Will there always be demand for lighter bikes with less power, or will advances in motor and battery tech mean that all e-MTBs will eventually just have “full power”? Is Fazua working on more powerful systems as well, or do you feel that your current level of support is sufficient?
We strongly believe in the Light e-Bike segment — and we see the FAZUA RIDE 60, with its powerful 60 Nm of torque, as hitting the true sweet spot of e-MTB development for all riders seeking a natural and engaging riding experience. For us, it’s never just about power output; it’s about creating a ride that feels dynamic, intuitive, and connected. This segment still holds enormous potential, especially as more riders begin to fully understand and appreciate the added value of lighter, more agile systems. While the market currently distinguishes between “light” and “full-power” e-MTBs, we expect these categories to coexist rather than converge — and even believe that new subcategories will emerge as the market continues to mature.
There will always be riders who seek maximum assistance — but there’s also a growing community that values efficiency, handling, and the authentic MTB feel that only a lighter system can deliver.
At FAZUA, we’re committed to continuously refining and optimizing the light segment, focusing on intelligent power delivery, seamless system integration, and natural ride dynamics rather than simply chasing higher wattage. Of course, we keep exploring technological advancements and scalability within our platform — but always guided by the principle that “more power” should never come at the cost of “better riding.”
In short, we see the Light e-MTB category not as a compromise, but as the natural evolution of mountain biking — blending the freedom of analogue with the possibilities of electric.
What is the reality of making even lighter batteries with better energy density today? In 10 years’ time? Does the technology exist, or are major innovations required to really move to the next level?
Developing lighter batteries with higher energy density is one of the key challenges in e-mobility today. Current lithium-ion technology allows only incremental improvements — true leaps will require new materials and major innovations.
FAZUA benefits from close ties to the automotive industry, where advances in solid-state cells and intelligent battery management are paving the way for the next generation of e-bike systems.
In the coming years, progress will be evolutionary rather than revolutionary, and our focus remains on intelligent system design — achieving the perfect balance between weight, efficiency, and the natural riding experience FAZUA is known for.
Despite the topic’s complexity and innovative spirit, one simple fact remains: less power means less energy consumption. The result – smaller, lighter batteries for improved handling and efficiency.
There has been a lot of discussion around e-bike power over the years, and with motor systems getting more and more powerful, we’ve reached a point where several systems already exceed power regulations in many markets. What’s the answer here? Should e-MTB power be strictly regulated, or do we keep pushing for more?
At FAZUA, as a dedicated Light e-Bike provider, we follow a clear philosophy: maximum customer value doesn’t come from maximum power. Our focus is on creating a natural, efficient, and intuitive riding experience — not on pushing the limits of output.
We fully understand, however, that our approach does not represent the entire e-mobility landscape. In cargo applications, for example, higher power levels may be both relevant and beneficial. That’s why we don’t see ourselves in the position to lead the debate on maximum performance for the broader market.
Still, we believe it’s essential to critically evaluate where high levels of assistance truly add value — and where they might also pose safety risks. Regulation has an important role to play in defining these boundaries, especially when it comes to rider safety and (trail) sustainability.
At the same time, any form of regulation inevitably means a limitation of freedom — both for riders and manufacturers. Finding the right balance between innovation, safety, and individual freedom is therefore crucial. For FAZUA, the answer lies in responsible performance: power where it’s needed, and harmony where it matters most.
SPECIALIZED
What defines an e-MTB, specifically with regards to rider interaction and power delivery? What is your overreaching goal when you develop an e-MTB motor/battery system?
For Specialized, an e-MTB is a bike first. From the very beginning, our SuperNatural Power Deliver has been the foundation of our philosophy to ensure our Turbo systems seamlessly integrate rider input with motor support. Our guiding principle is the ride should feel as close to a pure pedal experience as possible, just with added capability when you need or want it. When we design a motor and battery system, our overarching goal is to deliver the smoothest, most natural pedaling feel on the trail. That means focusing on how power comes on and tapers off, making sure the system reacts instantly, but predictably to the rider. It shouldn’t feel artificial. If should feel like “you, only faster.” Beyond that, we obsess over the details that matter most once you’re actually out riding: low noise, intuitive controls, the right balance of power and range, ongoing software updates, and making service straightforward for shops. At the end of the day, our aim is to keep riders riding longer, with less friction, and to deliver the most innovative, reliable system we can.
The e-MTB market is still divided up between “light” and “full-power” bikes (in general terms), is that something that you see continuing into the future? Will there always be demand for lighter bikes with less power, or will advances in motor and battery tech mean that all e-MTBs will eventually just have “full power”?
Full-power bikes are where most of the demand is right now—that’s true across the whole industry. Lightweight e-MTBs aren’t dead, but as motors get lighter and batteries get better, we see e-MTBs evolving into new setups—different battery sizes, more flexible systems, and lighter overall builds. The tech’s moving fast, and the lines between “light” and “full power” bikes are blurring. At some point, full power bikes may very well rule the world, but we’re not there yet for some riders looking for the lightest possible e-MTB experience.
What is the reality of making even lighter batteries with better energy density today? In 10 years’ time? Does the technology exist, or are major innovations required to really move to the next level?
Right now, battery weight mostly comes down to the cells inside. Fewer cells = less weight, but also less range. That’s why some riders chasing quick laps are already choosing smaller packs. As for the future, cell tech is improving fast, but the big leaps in energy density are still expensive and resource limited. The next 5–10 years should bring real gains, but it’s not magic—it’s going to take major innovations to really change the game.
There has been a lot of discussion around e-bike power over the years, and with motor systems getting more and more powerful, we’ve reached a point where several systems already exceed power regulations in many markets. What’s the answer here? Should e-MTB power be strictly regulated, or do we keep pushing for more?
This is a tricky one. In the U.S. we gave Levo 4 riders the ability to switch between Class 1 and Class 3, because not every ride is the same. In other places we have to stick to whatever the local rules are. Honestly, most riders just want a bike that’s fun to ride and practical—like using it instead of a car to get to the trail. Hitting that 20mph wall on the way sucks. We’d be in favor of well thought out legislation that removes the ambiguity we’ve got today—like the 750w “nominal power” rule. A clear ceiling would let brands focus on making smaller, lighter drive units instead of chasing gray areas. And the reality is, more power isn’t always better: it burns range fast, and nobody wants a 70lb e-MTB just to fuel longer rides. Over time, riders figure that out—just like how bike travel has swung back and forth over the years. Needs shift as people get more time on E-MTBs and MTB's.
AVINOX
What defines an e-MTB, specifically with regards to rider interaction and power delivery? What is your overreaching goal when you develop an e-MTB motor/battery system?
Avinox's mission is to make mountain biking fun and accessible for everyone. For those that already enjoy mountain biking, Avinox's power allows them to go faster, further, and higher - while also keeping safety and regulations in mind. At the same time, by providing electric assistance and a powerful motor to riders, Avinox also opens up the world of mountain biking to people that never considered it a possible hobby. Any type of rider can discover the joy of mountain biking with Avinox. When it comes to define the rider experience with Electric mountain bikes, all e-MTBs should require some physical input from the rider - eg pedaling to gain pedal assist or increase power output - to enhance the ride with more watts and torque, and e-MTB brands have the responsibility of ensuring legal limits are followed. Avinox products will always be in compliance with all local and federal rules and regulations.
The e-MTB market is still divided up between “light” and “full-power” bikes (in general terms), is that something that you see continuing into the future? Will there always be demand for lighter bikes with less power, or will advances in motor and battery tech mean that all e-MTBs will eventually just have “full power”?
We feel that the category of light e-bikes will not be relevant anymore in the future. Riders can experience stronger power output without adding weight. As battery technology advances, and as full power motors become smaller and even more lightweight, the weight, aesthetic, and handling experience of e-MTBs will be closer to that of traditional mountain bikes, and the benefits of a light e-MTB motor will be diminished. The boundaries between mountain riding and daily commute will be blurred, and the riding scenarios will become more diversified.
What is the reality of making even lighter batteries with better energy density today? In 10 years' time? Does the technology exist, or are major innovations required to really move to the next level?
Batteries will continue to improve in terms of capacity and energy density, but advancements will be more gradual than we've seen in the past decade. We anticipate that new cell chemistry and updated cells will gain more capacity while remaining the same form factor and weight - but the increase in capacity will be minimal, at least for the next 2-3 years. For instance, we do not expect cells to double their capacity, or to see battery weight or size cut in half - it will be a smaller scale than that. As the trend of high power-density battery supply continues to grow, rather than seeing great leaps in capacity or energy density, we will see the power choices diversify, from replaceable batteries to range extenders, etc.
There has been a lot of discussion around e-bike power over the years, and with motor systems getting more and more powerful, we've reached a point where several systems already exceed power regulations in many markets. What's the answer here? Should e-MTB power be strictly regulated, or do we keep pushing for more?
At Avinox, our goal is to improve the user experience for every type of rider, while always remaining in compliance with the local law and regulations. Increasing the power can certainly elevate the ride, but it isn't the only thing to consider. Avinox represents more than power output; its innovation is reflected in various features, such as its compact size and lightweight design, impressive power-to-weight ratio, seamless software-hardware integration, smart advanced-assist algorithms, lightweight yet high-capacity battery, rapid charging capabilities and more. All these elements underscore Avinox's commitment to enhance user experience and exemplify our dedication to innovation.
When power is the element in question, the rules and regulations should be easy to understand and follow. Currently, regulations aren't consistent from region to region, making it difficult for manufacturers to innovate, and complicating enforcement for the regulators. Regulation should have safety at the forefront, while paving a path forward for innovation and the development of new technology.
More power allows riders to go further, ride longer, speed faster, or climb higher - but the power is informed by the rider. Power is nothing without control, and manufacturers must ensure that as power increases, the drive system provides the right level of rider control so that the bike operation feels natural. E-drive systems react to input rider, so while rules and regulations can guide product offerings, it remains the responsibility of the rider to exert control over the mountain bike and to ride responsibly.
We believe it is essential for the industry to engage in more thorough and comprehensive discussions to determine an appropriate power limit. The imposition of an arbitrary watt limit may overlook the needs of certain groups, including individuals with disabilities who require enhanced assistance, those with higher body weights, minors, and users of e-cargo bikes for transporting supplies and heavy loads, necessitating additional support when navigating inclined terrains). We urge policymakers to consider these unique requirements in their deliberations.
TQ
What defines an e-MTB, specifically with regards to rider interaction and power delivery? What is your overreaching goal when you develop an e-MTB motor/battery system?
For us, an e-MTB is defined by the perfect balance between rider and machine. The motor should enhance the rider’s own power in a natural, intuitive way rather than dominate it. That means smooth power delivery, precise control, and seamless integration with the bike’s handling and character. Our overarching goal when developing an e-MTB motor and battery system is to preserve the authentic mountain bike experience — just with the right amount of intelligent assistance. Natural ride feel, traction, and control are key. We want riders to feel stronger, not replaced.
The e-MTB market is still divided up between “light” and “full-power” bikes (in general terms), is that something that you see continuing into the future? Will there always be demand for lighter bikes with less power, or will advances in motor and battery tech mean that all e-MTBs will eventually just have “full power”?
We believe the distinction between “light” and “full-power” e-MTBs will remain relevant for the foreseeable future, because different riders have different priorities. Some value maximum power and range, while others prioritize agility, low weight, and a more natural ride experience. Our philosophy has always been to focus on compact, lightweight, and quiet systems that deliver enough power to be competitive on the trail, without sacrificing handling or feel. At the same time, we can certainly imagine developing a higher-powered system in the future if the market clearly moves in that direction — but always with the same focus on efficiency, ride quality, and system integration rather than raw output alone.
What is the reality of making even lighter batteries with better energy density today? In 10 years' time? Does the technology exist, or are major innovations required to really move to the next level?
Making significantly lighter batteries with better energy density is still a challenge today. Incremental improvements are happening, but major breakthroughs — such as solid-state cells — will be required to take a big step forward. Over the next 10 years, we’ll likely see gradual gains in energy density, but physics and safety standards still set clear limits. For us, the smarter approach is optimizing the overall system — motor efficiency, drivetrain integration, and power management — rather than just relying on bigger or lighter battery cells.
There has been a lot of discussion around e-bike power over the years, and with motor systems getting more and more powerful, we've reached a point where several systems already exceed power regulations in many markets. What's the answer here? Should e-MTB power be strictly regulated, or do we keep pushing for more?
Power regulation is an important topic, and we believe clear and consistent limits are essential for both safety and market stability. More and more power does not automatically mean a better ride experience. In fact, beyond a certain point, too much power can compromise control, traction, and battery life. We focus on making available power fully usable — smooth, predictable, and efficient — rather than exceeding regulatory boundaries. If Class 1, CONEBI, and UCI maintain the 750 W standard, we’re confident that we can continue delivering the best possible ride within those limits.
Shimano will answer your email in about 5-10 years, next upgrade cycle....
Interesting how different some answers are from each other, each brand really is going their own way especially in the last "power" question. Where they all seem to be saying the same thing is battery advancement. With that being a HUGE source of weight it tells me we're not moving +/- 1-2 points for a few years.
My question, who is going to release an integrated gearbox first? Otherwise keep fighting it out boys, the competition is good for us!
Glad to see FAZUA sent a reply, considering forum members here seem to be forecasting their imminent demise. I (reluctantly) picked up a steeply discounted FAZUA Ride 60 powered gravel bike for commuting and have found it to have more than adequate power for that application (can comfortably sit at 28mph when in the drops). For my mountain bikes, it’s full power all the way.
Anyone have plans for replacement motors/batteries?
Could do a core charge type thing where you buy a new motor for $1000, but send in the core and receive $500 back. Same for batteries. I think people (myself especially) are concerned about long term durability and finding replacement parts. I'd be happy to purchase a new OR refurb motor 5 years down the road.
Get rid of lifetime warranties and just make replacement parts easy to find and buy.
Good info.
Schooled me on my thoughts that SS batteries were just around the corner. If they are, they are all keeping it close to the vest.
Regarding Fazua, I worked with a QBT (is that the wholesale bicycle parts retailer?) Rep to update my remote, recently and asked him this very question if he thought Fazua was pulling out. He basically said based on his recent training and other info, that he's received, not even close. He also pointed out that Porsche has a long history of providing long term support, even for outdated products such as very old cars. He said he wasn't worried at all. My F60 is still working great but I am ready for a different bike. The motor is fine however.
It's not exactly related to the topic of motor power but I have a few questions related to ebike systems in general:
1) I'd like to know more about the thought process behind product managers who think LED battery level displays are still acceptable. Everyone wants a percentage level, even if it's just a tiny little watch sized, black and white LCD screen. Speaking from personal experience, if I know I'm at 19% juice, I will go do another lap, but if I'm at 6%, it's time to head home.
2) I'd like to hear how the motor brands are going to make it possible for consumers to upgrade to newer model motors when their old ones die. Barring that, what is your brand's commitment (in years) to making replacement motors available to consumers once the initial warranty expires?
3) What is your brand doing to facilitate recycling or reuse of degraded batteries?
I really want to try a lightweight eMTB... For a whole day to feel what it's like. I PREFERRED the Fazua motor on the Decoy SN, and the bikes overall ride quality/feel, to the older Shimano Decoy with a full power type motor/battery... But I didn't get the opportunity to kill the battery. (Not to mention owning it long term and all the warranty potential that exists there.)
I think what we are seeing is an industry attenuation to 'a sweet spot in the middle', and that middle is being seen as 'full power' going forward due to just improved motors. So that's like ~600wh batteries. Maybe 500. Bikes around 50 pounds, maybe 55 (for alloy lets say).
I feel like the industry did away with the 60+ lbs builds, rightfully so, and only a few brands are bothering experimenting with the bleeding edge ~40 pound ebikes with motors like TQ.
And once that middle spot is fully secured (imo kinda already is) the next advancements will naturally be about mounting, battery swaps, etc. to make the bike a better long term investment.
Gun to my head today I take that Amflow Avinox. Seems to be the perfect sweet spot bike/motor and the cherry on top is its traction control ring. imo EVERY motor should be implementing that going forward. That system clearly has the most potential as of now.
Though I'm interested to see where stuff like SRAM systems go, where the entire bike is integrated. It's compelling, I just don't know how needed it is and when it will be trickling down to a full build set, instead of only high end builds. (Also will Shimano ever attempt anything similar with di2? my crystal ball says 'not likely')
Batteries are batteries. Everybody just uses existing cells, there's no new tech there, just different packaging by the bike power unit manufacturers.
The primary weight in any e-bike is the battery. 600wh is the size/weight limit for me personally. That makes something that's overpowered like the dji not optimal. I'd love to see them come out with a more efficient setup like the tq60 that uses the existing 600wh battery. I think their next move to a similarly overpowered, heavier, cheaper drive unit is a bit bizarre.
If tq dropped something like a tq70, they'd own the market.
Regarding battery energy density. The average ebike 800w battery has 1.3kg of weight in the case/wires/cell holders/bms. The rest is the cells. Battery certification to UL 2271 has impact testing for the case so safe to assume most of that 1.3kg is the case. Why don't any manufactures test their battery IN the frame to UL rating in order to use the protection provided by the frame to then cut down on the battery case weight?
The Kelly's system that was recently announced as class leading highest energy density all the weight saved was in the battery case.
Hi everyone,
I’m Daniel. I’m responsible for product management at TQ and have been with the company for about eight years.
My background is in mechanical engineering, so even though I’m not in a pure engineering role anymore, the technical side of things still interests me a lot. I’m also a passionate e-mountainbiker, so these topics are genuinely close to me.
I’m happy to see all the comments here — feel free to send any feedback, questions, or criticism our way.
That’s a cool thought. More power is definitely possible from a technical point of view - the challenge is keeping the typical TQ ride feel at the same time. We hear from a lot of riders that they’d like ‘a bit more’ without the system getting noticeably bigger or heavier. That’s definitely something we’re looking at.
I am pretty sure Pinion already has. MGU, Motor Gearbox Unit.
I'm asking the brands who are particiapting in this discussion.
Integrated gearboxes are definitely an interesting idea, and we’re following that topic. In the end it depends on whether such a solution really improves the ride: efficiency, noise, packaging,... - all of that has to line up. We’re keeping an eye on it, but only if it brings a real benefit on the trail does it make sense for us.
Daniel (TQ)
I rode the Pinion a year or 2 ago Eurobike. The noise from the MGU was pretty high and distracting. I hope for them they can reduce it. TQ has been at the forefront of making the motor smaller. Keep it up!
That's great to hear !
I wouldn't mind a less "natural" feel really, I find the bosch and fazua perfectly acceptable. And would be very happy with the current 580wh with something like a 500g increase in motor/drive weight and a bit more power. The fazua system would be great if it weren't for the reliability and efficiency issues inherent in a right angle, high reduction, drive in a low weight application.
Integrated gearboxes are a really exciting concept, and we’re absolutely keeping an eye on the space. There’s a lot of potential there, but in their current state the systems are still a bit bulky and not quite delivering the full ride benefit that riders expect from a modern e-MTB.
Our approach is always to start with the rider’s problem and work backwards. For us, a GMU has to meaningfully improve the experience on the trail—efficiency, noise, weight, serviceability, packaging—before it makes sense to bring it into a Turbo platform.
We love the innovation happening in this area, but the technology just isn’t at the point yet where it meets our standards for performance and ride feel.
What are your thoughts on having a removable vs. non-removable battery?
Subbing
Personally I think a mid-sized non-removeable battery and a good range extender provides a best of both worlds Removeable battery that drops out the side or the front of the downtube add considerable weight. The options that drop out the bottom of the downtube with minimal work being the best compromise.
Do you ever ride range extender only?
I don't own a e-mtb. Technically I should be the ideal target market, late 40's with family and limited ride time but currently no plans to get one. I am a tech geek (hand build my own full suspension frames) and keenly follow what's happening with the motor and battery tech.
Specifically on riding on a range extender I've run the thought experiment of a three component battery system. Have 3 small 14s1P 52v 5ah packs. Run the one small 260wh pack for quick lunch lap. Run two packs for the after work go to lap. Run all three for the weekend ride when you can sneak away from the family that little bit longer. New 6ah and 6.5ah Molicel 21700 cells would up them to 312wh / 338wh.
Since you're here, I'll ask my annoying question.
How universal is the current TQ engine/mount. I had heard the new motor could be swapped into bikes with the previous TQ motor. And I'm wondering if that is always the case (on every bike) as well as will that trend continue into the future with potentially more powerful motors. Thanks.
I know it wasn't directed at me, but I would not find the range extender only a practical solution at all. You would have all the weight or more of current SL ebikes without the range. Maybe at a self shuttle bike park but again, it still doesn't seem practical to have multiple range extenders for a full day of riding.
I personally think the Levo SL around 60-70nm and 500-600wh battery, mid 40lbs or less with optional range extender would kill it. I have owned a Levo gen 4, Shuttle AM, Shuttle SL, several Giant Ebikes, and currently have a Heckler SL. I have not had the problems with the Fazua system that others have, but am very disappointed in the announcement of no range extender.
I don't mind a non removable battery if it saves weight and keeps the tube profile smaller. I know this isn't ideal for some who need to charge battery away from bike.
Love that Fazua joined the chat. After riding most all the systems lately it’s still my fav. Maybe they don’t die???
When will e-bike companies provide us with adequate chargers? Something that can charge an 500wh ebike in half an hour or so will alleviate most issues with range for us weekend warriors doing laps after laps. We can plug that baby in while snacking between the runs and replenish the battery somewhat.
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