Shifting the Focus – The Latest E-MOUNTAINBIKE Issue #043 Is Out Now!

The latest issue of E-MOUNTAINBIKE magazine marks a significant shift in focus for the publication and the wider e-mountain biking community. Rather than concentrating solely on incremental technical improvements and new product launches, the editorial team has chosen to address a broader and more pressing issue: the disconnect between potential and actual rider experience. The magazine highlights how many riders never fully optimise their existing bikes, with a recent survey revealing that over half of buyers receive their eMTBs without any personalised setup, particularly regarding suspension settings that are crucial for safety and enjoyment. This realisation has prompted a reassessment of how the magazine approaches its reviews and tests. Despite conducting an extensive group test involving 30 eMTBs and detailed benchmarking, the editors concluded that simply increasing the quantity and complexity of tests does not necessarily yield better insights or serve the community’s needs. Instead, E-MOUNTAINBIKE has revamped its testing criteria to include beginner sessions and more probing questions for manufacturers, aiming to bridge the gap between theoretical performance gains and practical rider benefits. The publication stresses that focusing on marginal product differences while ignoring fundamental setup and rider education is counterproductive. The editorial also reflects on a wider cultural issue within the bike industry, where endless discussions about risks, strategies, and the latest innovations often overshadow the joy and curiosity that should drive riding. The magazine calls for a shift away from over-analysis and hesitation towards action and exploration, encouraging riders to embrace new paths and experiences rather than remain stuck in cycles of doubt and indecision. This change in tone and approach is described as a necessary evolution not only for the magazine but for the industry and bike culture as a whole. Founder Robin Schmitt emphasises that this issue is just the beginning of a deeper transformation. While acknowledging it is not perfect, the magazine commits to moving beyond “what if” scenarios and taking concrete steps to better serve riders and the community. The new issue is available through the free E-MOUNTAINBIKE app, inviting readers to engage with this fresh perspective and be part of the ongoing conversation about the future of e-mountain biking.