Riding EMTBs in early spring is a unique thrill. Trails come alive as snow melts (if you happen to ride in high-altitude places) or mud dries out (if you like in the UK!), revealing a mix of damp earth and fresh greenery.
Electric mountain biking offers the advantage of e-assist, helping you conquer muddy climbs with ease, while cooler temperatures keep rides comfortable.
With fewer crowds, you get peaceful, scenic routes all to yourself. It’s the perfect time to explore rugged landscapes, enjoying the best of both winter and spring riding.To celebrate the new season, we’ve created a guide to all things spring eMTB.
You may not have been riding all winter. Don’t worry, we get it!
After a long off-season in storage, a thorough bike check-up is crucial to ensure everything is in top shape for spring rides.
Start by inspecting the battery – charge it fully and check for any signs of wear or reduced performance. Test the brakes to ensure they’re responsive, examine tyres for cracks or low pressure, and inspect the suspension for smooth operation.
Addressing these small issues early helps prevent breakdowns when you're out enjoying the trails.
Spring conditions can be unpredictable, so consider upgrading your setup for maximum comfort and durability.
Mudguards help keep you clean on wet trails, while weather-resistant gear ensures you stay dry in sudden showers. Check your lights and reflective elements for early morning or late evening rides.
A fresh set of grippy tyres suited to mixed terrain can also improve control and safety as you transition from winter’s chill to spring’s changing landscapes.
Spring weather can have a significant impact on trail conditions. If you live somewhere that has been snowbound over the winter, when snow melts, trails can become muddy and waterlogged.
If you are somewhere lower-altitude and/or more temperate, the prevailing conditions through the winter will have been wet and muddy. These slippery surfaces are challenging to navigate.
When selecting trails for early spring, consider factors such as elevation and the trail’s exposure to sunlight. Trails at lower elevations tend to dry out faster, whereas those at higher elevations may remain wet.
Check online sources like TrailForks for trail recommendations to find routes that are better suited for spring conditions, ensuring a more enjoyable and safe ride. Opting for well-drained, south-facing trails can provide a better experience when spring is slow to arrive.
Our own top-end full-suspension eMTB, the PL Carbon Pro, comes with a top quality Maxxis Assegai MaxxTerra front tyre and Maxxis Dissector MaxxTerra rear tyre, which combine to give you amazing control in the wetter, slippery trail conditions of spring.It’s essential to respect trail closures, particularly when conditions are wet. Riding on soft trails can cause long-term damage, leading to rutting and erosion.
Spring riding brings variable conditions - icy shade one moment, warm sun the next, with chilly descents quickly turning into sweaty climbs. The solution lies in smart layering: start with a base layer, add a light jersey or t-shirt, then top with a breathable waterproof jacket that packs small for easy storage.
For cold but dry days, swap the rain jacket for a fleece while maintaining breathability for climbs. The key is having layers that are easy to adjust and convenient to carry when not needed, ensuring comfort through spring's unpredictable weather.
Safety is paramount when riding an eMTB, especially with unpredictable spring weather and trail conditions.
Mud and slippery surfaces can challenge even the most experienced riders, so maintaining a steady, controlled pace is key. Use a higher level of assist on your eMTB motor for added control and stability on slick trails, and avoid sudden braking or sharp turns.
Riding with a partner or group provides both safety and enjoyment. It ensures help is available in case of an incident and offers the opportunity to share experiences. A group also helps in making better decisions when faced with tricky trail conditions, enhancing the overall adventure.
Spring brings with it a real sense of opportunity. There is a feeling of rebirth and a clean slate. It’s a great time to try something new, either by hitting some previously unknown trails near your home, or heading off to a top eMTB destination.
Spring riding offers an exciting combination of challenges and rewards making it the perfect time to embark on new eMTB adventures.
As the snow melts or the mud dries, trails transform, revealing new opportunities for adventure, while the cooler temperatures keep rides comfortable.
The unpredictability of spring weather and trail conditions only adds to the thrill, with fewer crowds and peaceful routes allowing you to connect with nature like never before.
Embrace the season by exploring fresh trails, upgrading your gear, and experiencing the unique excitement that only spring riding on an eMTB can offer.
If you’re lacking bike maintenance confidence, there’s a fabulous guide on E-MOUNTAINBIKE magazine on how to get your eMTB ready for the spring.
The Amflow PL electric mountain bike offers 105 N·m of max continuous torque in an ultra-light build.
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