In the fast-growing sector of electric mountain biking, women’s e-MTBs are carving out a significant niche. These bikes are specifically tailored to meet the needs of women, considering factors like smaller build and the unique balance required for rigorous rides. Unlike the unisex models that often compromise on comfort or performance, these bikes ensure that ease of use does not differentiate between the sexes. Having tested several models, the market shows a clear preference towards designs that integrate woman-specific features, making every ride not just possible but enjoyable for everyone.
What Does The Women’s E-MTB Market Look Like?
How Do Women-Specific E-MTBs Differ From Other E-MTBs?
When selecting an e-mountain bike designed specifically for women, the nuances in design features play a pivotal role. Women’s e-MTBs consider the different build and stature of a woman compared to the average man, ensuring a more comfortable riding experience. By taking into account subtle anatomical differences, these bikes offer a tailored fit that boosts confidence and control on varied terrains.
Some of the tweaks can include:
Women-specific e-MTBs are distinctively designed with layout adjustments that cater specifically to female riders. These bikes typically feature a lower top tube or step-thru type design, which is far less common in generic e-MTBs. This type of design helps in avoiding the awkward positioning and the risk of nasty injuries in the nether regions if a woman falls. Unlike the men’s e-MTBs with a horizontal top tube, the angled diagonally down top tube in women’s e-MTBs ensures easier mounting and dismounting, crucial for height considerations.
Furthermore, women’s e-MTBs are often lighter and easier to handle, designed not to feel cumbersome even when the terrain gets tough. These modifications make the bike less bulky and easier to manipulate, providing a significant advantage over unisex e-MTBs, which may often feel harder to control. While unisex e-MTBs are built to suit both men and women, they do not always fit correctly for all, especially not fitting certain women as well as a gender-specific model might.
By focusing on these specific features, women’s specific e-MTBs ensure a better fit and a more enjoyable riding experience for many women, making them a preferable choice for those looking to invest in an e-MTB designed with their needs in mind.
Let’s find out in our hunting e-bike review….
1. Liv Intrigue Advanced X E+ 2
Best women’s electric mountain bike
Good for – Enduro, downhill
Price – $12,688
Peaks:
- Versatility
- Motor power
- Drivetrain
- Brakes
- Suspension
- Handling
- Light
Troughs:
- Price
- Battery range
Summary:
Weight/Frame
The allure of electric mountain bikes tailored for women lies in their meticulously crafted geometry and lightweight construction. Our top pick features a carbon frame that scales just 18.5kg, combining strength with a compact and playful build. This bike is designed with a shorter frame and a low set, diagonal top tube, making it ideal for women. Its frame is not only easy to throw around on trails but also robust enough to handle rowdy terrain. The gears are finely tuned to complement the technical demands of varied landscapes, ensuring a balanced and responsive riding experience.
Battery
The bike features an installed small 400Wh EnergyPak battery that provides a range which may be considered less than ideal for extended excursions. This range tends to fall a bit short when tackling monster peaks or undulating trails where energy demands are higher. Further, for riders planning longer rides, the bike is also compatible with a 250Wh range extender, a welcome addition that extends your range to over 100km. This setup ensures that whether you are out for a brisk morning ride or pushing the limits on a steep climb, you will not find your battery conked out under the strain.
Motor
The Yamaha SyncDrive Pro2 motor in the latest e-MTBs is a game changer for avid cyclists. With 85Nm of torque, this powerful beast operates smoothly with an intuitive power delivery system that kicks in and out with precision. Whether you’re tackling steep climbs or managing technical terrains, the motor and the pedals seem completely at one with each other. Not only does it operate silently, but its impressive capabilities make it a nimble climber, perfect for those who demand top performance from their rides.
ℹ️ Be cautious with your assistance use on hazardous technical sections – the bike’s heavyweight, combined with its immense power, could lead to a nasty accident if you aren’t careful or don’t have the strength to cope with it.
Suspension
E-MTB models designed specifically for women not only balance robust travel capabilities but also integrate cutting-edge suspension technology. The front suspension spans 150mm, providing ample clearance and impact absorption for varied terrains. At the rear, a slightly shorter 140mm setup ensures a dynamic response and agility, particularly in tight turns or unexpected trail features. Both are impeccably fitted with FOX 36 Performance Elite Live Valve forks and FOX Float X shocks, a pairing that delivers precision and control on the most challenging trails. This configuration reaches the highest standards required for the gnarliest downhill parks, offering a descender the advantage of a playful yet flat-out enduro riding experience.
Wheels/Tyres
Brakes/Drivetrain
Focusing on the brakes and drivetrain of elite e-MTBs designed for women, the SRAM Code R brakes ensure a high level of stopping power and responsiveness, crucial for navigating the unpredictable terrains of mountain biking. Coupled with the 12-speed SRAM GX Eagle AXS drivetrain, riders enjoy a smooth feel and precise shifting that’s necessary for both steep ascents and rapid descents. This combination of top-notch components confirms the bike’s capability to handle both leisurely rides and more aggressive trail challenges effectively.
