Contents
Introduction
Electric mountain bikes (eMTBs) traditionally have crossbar frames and full suspension, but they may not be ideal for all riders. For those who prefer a more accessible design, especially those who find mounting and dismounting a crossbar frame challenging, electric bikes with step-through frames offer a solution. In this post, we’ll explore the benefits of eMTBs with step-through frames, focusing on options like the Hikobike Scout and Hikobike Vibe, which combine mountain bike specifications with the ease of a step-through frame.
Hikobike Vibe step-through MTB
The Challenge with Traditional Crossbar Frames and Full Suspension
Crossbar frames provide excellent structural integrity and strength, making them ideal for high-performance mountain biking. Full suspension helps absorb shocks from rough terrain, ensuring a smoother ride over obstacles like rocks, roots, and uneven trails.
While these features are important for riders who want to tackle challenging trails and rough terrain, not all cyclists find them necessary. For some riders, especially those with limited flexibility or physical challenges, the crossbar frame can be a barrier to enjoying the ride. Additionally, the extra weight of full suspension may not always be needed for those who aren’t riding in extreme conditions.
As a result, some riders are choosing to dispense with the crossbar and full suspension but still want the higher performance and stylish design of an electric mountain bike.
Why Choose an Electric Mountain Bike with a Step-Through Frame?
1. Better Performance, Without the Crossbar
While most electric mountain bikes come with crossbar frames, which offer strength and durability for tough terrains, step-through eMTBs offer a more relaxed riding experience without sacrificing performance. Many step-through models, like the Hikobike Scout and Hikobike Vibe, provide hardtail mountain bike specifications with high-performing motors, powerful batteries, and torque-sensing controls, allowing riders to tackle rough terrain with ease, all while enjoying the convenience of a step-through design.
2. Perfect for Riders Who Want Comfort and Accessibility
The step-through frame design is ideal for riders who don’t want the hassle of lifting their leg over a crossbar. This is especially useful when riding on rough tracks or navigating obstacles in urban areas. With a step-through frame, riders can simply slide off or on the bike, without needing to make any awkward movements, which is especially beneficial on long rides or when the rider needs to stop frequently.
3. The Best of Both Worlds: Comfort and eMTB Specifications
Electric mountain bikes with step-through frames like the Hikobike Scout and Hikobike Vibe strike the perfect balance between comfort and performance. These bikes have the same technical specifications as their crossbar counterparts but are designed for easy access. Riders can enjoy the performance of a rear-wheel or hub motor, 48V operating system, and multiple power settings without needing to deal with the limitations of a traditional frame.
Two Step-Through Electric Mountain Bikes: Hikobike Scout and Hikobike Vibe
For riders looking to experience the full eMTB performance with the comfort and accessibility of a step-through frame, two standout models are the Hikobike Scout and the Hikobike Vibe.
Hikobike Scout
The Hikobike Scout is designed to offer a robust eMTB experience with the added benefit of a step-through frame. The Scout shares the same technical specifications as the Hikobike Enduro (its crossbar counterpart), including a rear-wheel motor, torque sensor controls, and a 48V operating system with two battery options, three riding modes, and five power settings. These features provide ample power and versatility for both casual and serious mountain biking enthusiasts.
Although the step-through frame can’t match the strength of a traditional triangulated frame like the Enduro, the Scout is built with a durable frame, smaller 26” wheels, and 2.3” tyres, making it ideal for rough tracks and byways. It’s perfect for riders who want a more relaxed and accessible bike, without compromising on performance for moderate off-road adventures. The step-through frame allows riders to easily get on and off, even when navigating tight spaces or stopping frequently during a ride.
Hikobike Vibe
The Hikobike Vibe is another step-through eMTB that delivers excellent performance for riders who want the power of a mid-drive motor without the crossbar. The Vibe is equipped with the Japanese Dapu 100Nm 48V mid-drive motor, the same motor featured in the Hikobike Rangler. Coupled with a 672Wh 48V battery, this bike can provide a range of 60+ miles on moderate terrain for an average rider. However, keep in mind that if you demand full power continuously, the battery range will decrease, so it’s best to use the full power only when necessary.
The Vibe also boasts the same impressive features as its crossbar counterpart, but with the added benefit of the step-through frame for riders who prioritize ease of use. With its mid-drive motor, the Vibe ensures efficient power delivery to the wheels, improving overall performance on steep climbs and rough trails.
Conclusion
Electric mountain bikes with step-through frames offer an excellent balance between comfort, accessibility, and performance. Riders who want the benefits of eMTB power—without the traditional crossbar frame—can enjoy great off-road adventures with models like the Hikobike Scout and Hikobike Vibe. These bikes provide the performance specifications of higher-end eMTBs, such as rear-wheel and mid-drive motors, torque sensor controls, and 48V systems, all within a step-through frame that’s easier to mount and dismount.
Whether you’re tackling rugged tracks, commuting on varied terrain, or simply enjoying a leisurely ride, the Hikobike Scout and Hikobike Vibe ensure that you don’t have to compromise on performance to get the comfort and convenience you need. If you’re looking for the full e-bike experience with the added benefit of a step-through design, these bikes offer an unbeatable combination of features and reliability.
Experience the perfect blend of performance and convenience, knowing that the step-through frame doesn’t compromise the top-tier eMTB capabilities you expect.
