Some people are curious about whether an Electric Assist Mountain Bike is still a functional bike without the motor engaged. Perhaps you want to conserve battery or just prefer a traditional riding experience on a flat section of a trail. So, can you ride an e-MTB without using the motor at all?

Yes, you can absolutely ride an Electric Assist Mountain Bike without using the motor. When the motor is turned off or set to a zero-assist level, the bike functions just like a regular mountain bike. You can pedal and shift gears normally.

However, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Added Weight: Because of the motor and battery, the bike will be significantly heavier than a non-electric mountain bike. You will need to put in more effort to pedal, especially on hills, as you are moving the extra weight of the motor and battery.

No Drag: Modern e-MTB motors are designed to have very little internal resistance when they are not in use. You won't feel any drag from the motor itself, which makes for a smooth pedaling experience.

Practice for Skills: Riding with the motor off on some sections of a trail can be a great way to improve your fitness and refine your skills, such as climbing and handling, without the assist.

The ability to turn the motor on and off gives you a choice. Whether you want to enjoy a traditional ride on the flats or engage the assist to tackle a difficult climb, your Electric Assist Mountain Bike gives you the flexibility to customize your ride to your exact needs.