We need hard proof of the environmental effects of ebike use on trails. We have few studies from independent sources showing the effects of a standard MTB on trails (less than foot, way less than horses) but eMTB's are new territory that need to be studied. And that's a crucial undertaking. Who will fund the study? Likely those with a vested interest in it, which to some will sully any positive data that may come to light. I do think there may well be a place at the mtb table for e-assists, but data points are needed beyond personal opinion. 'Purists' will always cast shade, but policy makers and negotiators need facts not rhetoric to make as informed of a decision as possible. Good luck to you media types as you dodge the arrows and stones from us commenters.
July 25, 2017, 2:23 p.m. - JT
We need hard proof of the environmental effects of ebike use on trails. We have few studies from independent sources showing the effects of a standard MTB on trails (less than foot, way less than horses) but eMTB's are new territory that need to be studied. And that's a crucial undertaking. Who will fund the study? Likely those with a vested interest in it, which to some will sully any positive data that may come to light. I do think there may well be a place at the mtb table for e-assists, but data points are needed beyond personal opinion. 'Purists' will always cast shade, but policy makers and negotiators need facts not rhetoric to make as informed of a decision as possible. Good luck to you media types as you dodge the arrows and stones from us commenters.