Is range anxiety still a thing for e-bikes?

In not too distant memory, range anxiety clouded the ride plans for many mountain bikers who wanted to take their new eMTB on an adventure. I even recall needing to have a long lunch on a media launch, so we could recharge our bikes for the ride back to the hotel. And we hadn't been out that long before stopping. In this era, battery sizes were around 400Wh and 500Wh (approximately). With most batteries being external at the time, it wasn't uncommon for a rider to purchase a second whole battery to swap out when needed. Backpack brands even developed bags to carry a spare battery in a secure fashion!

While a second battery is a legitimate way to really extend the length and amount of climbing of an eMTB ride, there have been plenty of other developments since then that may make range anxiety a thing of the past.

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Firstly, battery size. With sizes up to 900Wh available, you really can have your cake and eat it as well. The Bosch 625Wh PowerTube was always a good size when we had bikes equipped with the Performance CX motor, but the latest 750Wh PowerTube with the Bosch Smart System setup has meant I am yet to run a battery dead on a ride. However, this isn't just about available watt hours.

Secondly, the current crop of eMTB motors tends to be more efficient as well, partly from design, but also from programming. Most motor manufacturers have worked not just on their eMTB modes, but also how easily you and I can tune those, via an associated app. My experience with the Bosch Smart System has shown how efficient their two dynamic modes are: TOUR+ and EMTB. While the system has ECO and TURBO as well, the two dynamic modes vary the assistance you get based on the input you are providing. So while ECO would always get you the most range, it likely won't feel it it has the support most people want. I find using TOUR+ means I can get the support needed on climbs, but it tapers off on the flat – where I'm not fussed on burning up battery life. The EMTB modes works in a similar way but gives you a little more support when needed, perfect for steeper and more technical trails. Compared to running on TURBO, the dynamic modes dial back the support on flat terrain, to keep the punch when you need it. And this all preserves battery life, giving you greater range as well. Earlier this year Bosch have even opened up these two modes to user customisation via the Bosch Flow App, so all four modes can be amended to suit exactly what you need to suit your riding and trails.

One of the other bid changes is the proliferation of mid-power motors. Be it the TQ HPR50, the Specialized 1.2, Fazua Ride60 or the new Bosch SX – with 50-60Nm of torque available, and anywhere from 300-600W peak power, the new systems prioritise cutting weight and the torque peaks to reduce the load on the battery. While the battery size is therefore smaller as well, based on having a lighter overall bike, it doesn't mean range is overly compromised. But of course – there is one last way to bolster the range, even on a bike with a 360-420Wh battery.

Range extenders.

It seems rudimentary, just slapping a second battery on, but the benefits are actually great. It seems unlikely that every ride you head out on will push the range of your eMTB. A blast before or after work probably is a great match for your current battery – so why run the extra weight? But bring on the weekend, or a cheeky day in lieu during the week when you you have time and Watt hours to burn, and then the range extender makes sense. The new Bosch PowerMore packs an extra 250Wh, and other range extenders offer 160Wh or more, depending on the system. This means a Smart System setup could run with 1000Wh, or even 925Wh for anyone with a 625Wh PowerTube battery. That's a lot of juice to use for even the longest day out on the trails! So perhaps, we can say goodbye to range anxiety?

Photos: Jens Staudt