Thread: Off-road e bike

What about one of these
https://www.ubcobikes.com/products/2x2-utility-bike/

Originally Posted by mikee

What about one of these
https://www.ubcobikes.com/products/2x2-utility-bike/

Currently being trialled by the NZDF according to TV news a couple of weeks back.

Originally Posted by NZShoota

Currently being trialled by the NZDF according to TV news a couple of weeks back.

Not sure why they would want to trial any of those lightweight Ebikes. I've ridden the Ubco. Its far more Raleigh twenty than MTB when negotiating lumpy terrain, and slow, and has little suspension travel. The 2WD function is more fad than practical, as anyone who rides an enduro bike half well could vouch for. It needs the 2WD 'cause its wheels are so small.

A soldier, even a small one, has to cart quite a bit of 'essential kit' wherever they go. Especially when travelling off track. NONE of those MTB variants have the strength of frame and ruggedness of suspension to cart that sort of weight cross country.

The only advantage I can think of that an Ebike could offer mil forces is stealth. It loses out big time on range and top speed, esp when loaded up with soldier, belt order and personal weapon. Current SF bikes crank out 50ish Hp and have a foot of suspension travel, and cart 130ish kg. Any Ebike being considered would have to be able to measure up to those sort of specs