JimEG's Comments

The mechanical shifter system is not additive energy. There is energy loss, mostly through friction, in the system. The mechanical shifter rider input energy is higher than the output energy due to system friction loss. Not the case with a battery powered drive motor that is directed through a lower energy rider input tap on the E shifter control and E boosted by a higher energy output at the derailleur.

One of or a combination of E drivetrain, E braking system and E dropper post could have a net total of additive energy to reduce overall rider energy output to become an actual additive energy advantage over riders using E unassisted bikes - and not just E assist at the pedals.

All LBS and mechanic job security aside. This was more an inquiry into the line between E and traditional MTB.

RE: The Critics

Does electric shifting also count as "E" mtb? Additive energy to a part of the bicycle system formerly and purely rider powered. Minimally, but literally, adding energy to a system that has historically been purely rider energy powered.

Seriously. Additive energy to shifting system is OK? Just not the drive system? Brake and dropper post systems may be next. Increasing the additive energy.

It's a competitive time to be a bike designer (these guys are all for most part no longer manufacturers). Santa Cruz bikes are smartly designed and super solid.

The next few years are going to be a very interesting time in the bike industry. Better bikes. More choices. Competing pricing and distribution strategies.

Hightower LT for sale! Mint!

WORLDWIDE says the PB interview

Remember The Rennie Beast showing up to Downieville in 2007? And knocking it out on flat pedals and launching a huge powerful backflip huck off of the river ramp. Memorable. Beast.

Built in frame flex. Most companies design that out, Yeti designs it in.

Beast.

Wowza!