[leadin]A new race pits riders against one another for bragging rights and a $5,000 purse. The twist? They’ll be riding electric bicycles, defying the logic that e-bikes aren’t made for competition.[/leadin]
The inaugural Haibike eMTB Race is part of the Sea Otter Classic, an industry event and multidiscipline kickoff to the North American professional cycling season. The festivities are held in Salinas, Calif., April 14 – 17th.
The electric-bike event, on April 15th, will have multiple divisions, including a special heat for “anyone currently working in the bike industry,” age 15 and up, whether they have a racing license or not.
E-Bike: A Race-Worthy Vehicle?
Electronic mountain biking has taken off in recent years as manufacturers have pushed out both built bikes and conversion kits, and riders have discovered the thrill of carving through steep inclines without losing speed or momentum.
But electric bikes, and particularly mountain bikes, have drawn the ire of some in the community. The bikes blur the line between power vehicles, such as motorcycles, and bicycles.
Some riders see the electric element as “cheating,” as the powered cycles easily climb terrain that would leave many struggling.
That ability to level the playing field is beloved by others, who see eMTBs as opening the sport to some who lack the physical ability to tackle tough trails.
Sea Otter E-Mtb Race
