The Best Electric Mountain Bikes of 2024

In my last e-bike-themed article, I took a look at the best budget-friendly commuter bikes of 2024. Today, I decided to switch things up and tackle off-roading e-bikes. Moreover, this time, I'm not keeping in mind how affordable they are, so brace yourself for some exorbitant price tags.

Generally, we can split e-MTBs into two major categories: those meant to withstand hardcore stresses such as jumps and high-speed turns and those designed for cruising over mud, rocks, and more. This article features a list of the best general e-MTBs, so I'm not going to focus on a particular category. I'll keep things short and sweet and provide the most important details about each model.

Canyon Spectral:ON CFR

We're gonna kick things off with an excellent all-rounder e-bike, the Canyon Spectral:ON. For the model year 2022, Canyon refreshed the Spectral:ON with a full carbon frame, increased battery capacity, and a redesigned geometry, features that were carried over into the next model year.

There are several versions available, such as the CF 7 and CF 8, but the top-of-the-line variant is the CFR. At the core of this e-bike are an enormous 900 Wh battery and the EP8 motor, which delivers 85 Nm of torque and 400% pedal assist.

Regardless of the trail you'll be climbing on, the Shimano Deore XT Di2 12-speed shifter will make sure you get to the top. Furthermore, the Spectral ON:CFR boasts 150mm travel at the front and 155mm at the rear through its Fox 36 Factory fork and Fox Float X Factory EVOL premium shocks. Moreover, to slow down, you'll use a Shimano XTR 4-piston setup.

Tipping the scales at 48.3 lb. (21.9 kg) thanks to Canyon's custom carbon frame, the Spectral:ON CFR is light and agile yet still boasts plenty of power. Of course, to enjoy this lightweight performance, you must empty out an appropriate sum, as the CFR is priced starting at $8,500.

Specialized S-Works Turbo Levo SL

The S-Works Turbo Levo SL, the highest-spec bike in Specialized's highly regarded Turbo Levo range, is all about lightweightness. That's identifiable even in its name, with SL standing for Super Light.

This top-shelf and all-rounder version of the Turbo Levo boasts a carbon chassis, a 12-speed SRAM premier Eagle XX1 AXS drivetrain, and a Fox fork and shock. Moreover, its smaller 320 Wh battery is paired with a Specialized custom SL 1.1 240 W lightweight motor, which can be tuned to fit your exact riding needs, providing 35 Nm of torque. Even though it sounds like not much, it makes a significant difference when you consider how light the bike is.

This e-bike is about ten lb. (4.5 kg) lighter than the Spectral:ON CFR, tipping the scales at 38.2 lb. (17.3 kg). That means it will feel more like a conventional MTB rather than a full e-MTB, allowing you to control it more easily on steeper sections. Moreover, its small battery and motor will make a big difference on uphill stretches. However, expect to be rather tired after a full day of riding, probably more than you would with other e-MTBs on this list.

The Turbo Levo SL can also handle longer rides, but if you're looking to go those extra miles, the included range extender will boost your range by an additional 50%. Furthermore, the custom-tuned FOX Float DPX2 Factory rear shocks offer 150mm of travel, enabling you to eat up those trail bumps. You also get 150mm of travel at the front via FOX Float 36 Factory forks.

Other notable features are an SRAM XG-1299 12-speed cassette, an SRAM XX1 Eagle AXS rear derailleur, and Magura MT7 custom Loic lever blade brakes, which offer enough bite for the bike.

You'll have to dish out $16,250 for the Turbo Levo SL, although prices might depend on the dealer.

Trek Fuel EXe

The Trek Fuel EXe will offer a natural-feeling ride, partly due to the extremely quiet motor, the German-made TQ HPR 50, which outputs 50 Nm of torque. Moreover, it has zero overrun and provides an almost instantaneous pick-up.

Even though it doesn't have the highest power or the most torque, this e-bike's motor is very compact and quiet. In fact, this mid-power e-bike might even pass as an analog bike at first glance. The only real giveaway is a monochrome display integrated into the top tube. What's more, if you put this e-bike side-by-side with the analog Fuel EX, you might have a hard time telling them apart.

A removable 360 Wh battery will offer you two to five hours of riding, but you can increase that to three to seven hours via a 160 Wh extender slotted into the bottle cage.

When it comes to suspension, the Fuel EXe delivers 140mm of rear wheel travel and 150mm via the RockShox Lyrik Ultimate fork. Moreover, plenty of stopping power is provided by SRAM Code RSC four-piston brake calipers paired with 200mm front and rear rotors.

Tipping the scales at 42.5 lb. (19.3 kg), the Fuel EXe is available in six models, starting with the Fuel EXe 9.5 at $6,500 and ending with an eye-watering $16,200 for the top-shelf Fuel EXe 9.9 XX1 AXS. The EXe feels more like an enduro bike and will do a better job climbing hills than the Specialized Levo SL, although it boasts less range.

Nukeproof Megawatt Carbon RS

The Ireland-based Nukeproof has turned to carbon fiber in the new version of its Megawatt 297 RS. The aim was to retain the same signature silhouette while also significantly lowering weight. The frame boasts clear lines and undeniable Nukeproof DNA. What's more, you get a tool mount on the underside of the top tube. Also, the Megawatt Carbon is one of the few eMTBs that features an integrated storage compartment hidden in the motor cover.

Besides the carbon fiber frame, Nukeproof equipped the new Megawatt with SRAM's new Powertrain e-bike system, outputting 90 Nm of torque. It's paired with a 720 Wh removable battery housed at the base of the downtube. Moreover, a wireless SRAM Transmission will make sure you're in the right gear via the Auto Shift function.

The e-bike rides on mixed wheel sizes, with a 29" wheel up front and a 27.5" one at the rear. What's more, the 170-mm travel allows you to hit the wildest of trails – you get a RockShox ZEV Ultimate fork at the front and a brand-new Vivid Ultimate shock at the rear.

Speed will be kept in check by robust SRAM Code RSC Stealth four-piston brakes with a 220 mm rotor up front and a 200 mm rotor at the rear, enough to keep you safe no matter how long or steep your descents are.

You'll have to empty out a whopping $10,900 to get your hands on this beast. Oh, by the way, the scales tip at 52.9 lb. (24 kg) for the medium-sized version.

Orbea Rise M-LTD

The Orbea Rise was launched with a "more bike, less E" philosophy, emphasizing the lightweight and natural feel it offers. Its new version is lighter than ever and comes with more battery options to fulfill different needs.

At the core of the e-bike is a detuned Shimano EP801-RS motor, delivering 60 Nm of torque. It offers the same engagement as a standard EP8 unit, only the acceleration is much softer. If you're a lazy pedaller, this might not be the best choice for you.

One way to reduce the overall weight of the Rise was to fit a small 360 Wh battery. Despite its compact size, it can still offer an impressive range thanks to its lightweight construction and efficient motor. Moreover, its geometry is very suitable for fast and aggressive trail riding.

Regarding travel, you can opt for 140mm or 150mm (for an extra price) at the front, while the rear travel remains fixed at 140mm. You get a Fox 34 Float Factory at the front, while the rear houses a FOX Float DPS shock. What's more, the e-bike rides on ultra-light 29" OQUO Mountain Control wheels.

What I presented above is just one version of the Rise. You can also go for a Shimano EP600-RS motor and a larger 540 Wh battery. Furthermore, a 253 Wh range extender is also available as an upgrade.

The Orbea Rise (in the medium size) tips the scales at an astonishingly low 35 lb. (15,9 kg) thanks to an ultra-light OMR Evo carbon compound frame. Braking is done by Shimano XTR M9100 brakes, while a 12-speed Shimano XTR drivetrain will provide smooth shifting.

There are seven Rise models to choose from. However, the Rise M-LTD is the top-of-the-line version, currently discounted to $9,200 from $11,500.

Merida eOne-Sixty 9000

The "original" eOne-Sixty is, as its maker describes, the most decorated, tested, and awarded bike in Merida's history. The newest model is just as impressive, the best version being the eOne-Sixty 9000.

Even though this e-bike is described as an e-enduro, it's truly a good all-rounder, with 160mm at the front and 150mm rear travel. It will feel planted due to its higher weight when downhill riding, but it can also be used as an "SUV" bike, as it comes with enough travel, big tires, and comfortable geometry.

An EP8 motor offers 85 Nm of torque, paired with a 630 Wh battery. The only exception is the XS frame, which comes with the old 504 Wh battery due to not enough space.

The drivetrain and braking system are provided by Shimano: an XT 11-speed derailleur and SLX shifter offer dependable performance. Moreover, plenty of stopping power is provided by Shimano XT disc brakes with 203mm.

Fox's DPX2 Elite shock and 38 Elite forks, both measuring 160mm, will eat up the bumps. You also get 29" front wheels paired with a 27.5" rear wheel, with DT Swiss rims wrapped in Maxxis tires.

It might not push the boundaries like other e-bikes on the market, but that's what makes it so good: it's a supremely well-balanced package, suitable for a vast range of trail types and riders.

Santa Cruz Bullit X01 RSV

The brand-new Santa Cruz Bullit X01 RSV is designed as an excellent descender. What makes it a downhill-focused beast is its ultra-aggressive geometry. What's more, with 170 mm of front and rear travel, this long-travel e-bike can tackle the gnarliest terrain. It sports a 29" wheel in the front and a 27.5" one in the back.

Power is provided by a Shimano EP8 motor, outputting 85 Nm of torque. Energy is fed by a full-size 630 Wh battery housed in the down tube, allowing you to cover plenty of ground. Not that it's that important, considering that the bike is made for descending.

You get a FOX 38 Float Factory front suspension, while a RockShox Super Deluxe Ultimate shock enables the rear to absorb the bumps. Moreover, the Bullit X01 RSV features a premium CC carbon composite frame. The e-bike tips the scales at 49.2 lb. (22.3 kg), making it playful on the trail but without feeling too lightweight.

Considering its downhill DNA, Santa Cruz had to fit proper brakes. They come in the form of excellent SRAM Code RSC brakes, which are known to provide reliable performance. Furthermore, the 12-speed SRAM X01 Eagle AXS drivetrain is one of the brand's most highly tuned drivetrains, with lightning-speed responsiveness and smooth shifting.

When it comes to pricing, the Bullit comes with quite a hefty tag of $11,600.

Conclusion

It wasn't easy to consider all the factors and create this list. Due to the countless models out there, I'm fully aware there are e-MTBs I haven't included that provide excellent performance. So, let me know in the comments what other electric two-wheelers you feel deserve a spot in this article.