FEATURE
e-bike sector), in fact 8% from May to June 2023 according to the Bicycle Association statistics. This trend is looking like it will continue into autumn/winter.” On the factors contributing to this, Browne said: “The fact that there are so many great riding parks in England, Wales, Scotland and Ireland have seen the sport go from a fringe sport into a fully respected and revered sport. This will be amplified by the UCI World Championships in Scotland in August. “In fact we at Advanced Bikes have our German UCI team coming to race. We can’t wait to be there cheering them on.” As far as a global sport, mountain and e-mountain biking is a ‘sweetheart sport’, continued Browne. “Massive in the USA with the origins of the sport in Marin County California, very strong in Australia and New Zealand and has been a strong sport in Europe for a few decades now. “The UK has a powerful history in cycle sport and there is no difference in this sector, only growth and a healthy competition between the brands that compete in the exciting sport.”
Further, faster A recent study, from January 2023, undertaken by Edinburgh Napier University found that e-MTB riders are riding ‘further, faster and more frequently’ throughout the year compared to other cyclists, with mental health cited as the biggest benefit of riding e-MTBs.
The demographics of e-MTB riders in Britain showed that 96% of people riding e-MTBs are white, 15% are disabled and primarily ranged from 45-74 years old, with the majority of riders being male. The study did however show that there is a greater proportion of older e-MTB riders, particularly aged 45-74 years, when compared to general MTB data. Most riders (83%) were likely to avoid trails in fragile areas
16 | August 2023
and the majority of riders, particularly women, were looking for social rides with the preferred location being trail centres. Commenting on the study, Forestry England’s national cycle infrastructure manager, Dan Cook, said it’s “clear that the ever-increasing proportion of e-MTBers will be a crucial part of the future growth of mountain biking”. “Cycling participation in e-MTB has skyrocketed in recent years and is becoming increasingly accessible to the wider population,” said British Cycling’s official and off-road leadership lead, Ben Creed.
Creed continued: “The volume of e-bikes and e-MTBs is already significant and growing fast. We know that they support many riders to be more active, as well as being a lifeline for those who might not otherwise be able to ride.” Lally said: “One interesting finding from the research is
that e-MTB riders tend to cover greater distances and achieve higher speeds throughout the year compared to other cyclists. This suggests that e-MTBs can enhance the overall cycling experience, with many individuals participating to benefit their mental health or simply have fun.”
Seeking adventure “Bike riding isn’t just about transportation, or getting from point A to point B, ” said Lally. “It’s about connecting with the world around you and your community in a way that feels right. “E-bikes are breaking down barriers and making cycling accessible to all, regardless of fitness level, gender, disability, or age. When people get out of their cars and onto bikes: It’s good for the environment, good for our mental health and it helps us feel like we have more control over our lives. E-MTBs offer everyone, regardless of ability to go out and seek adventure. Enriching their lives with a wealth of experiences.”
www.bikebiz.com
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