Our Sport is Changing
My first XC mountain bike race was the Susquehanna Scorcher in 1996. That's nearly 30 years of racing. (Gee George, you don't look old enough to have been racing that long.) Since then, there have been many changes: 26" to 29"size wheels, rim brakes to hydraulic, hardtail to full suspension, 21-speed (3x7) to 1x12-speed, and many more. There is a new change that is growing rapidly.
My racing has been sporadic at best since my right knee started giving me trouble three years ago. Last year, I didn't race at all. I miss it and wanted a way to get back on the MTB without suffering knee pain post-ride. We are happy to announce adding an e-MTB (Class 1 Pedal assisted race) to the 2025 Challenger.
The new e-MTB category will be a combined Cat 1 & 2 Co-Ed race group. You must have prior race experience to enter the e-MTB class. Once all of the CAT 3 racers are finished, the start time will be approximately 2:15 p.m.
What is a Class 1 e-MTB?
It is a pedal-assisted bike. You have to pedal to activate the e-assist. The bike is capped at 20 mph, and there is no throttle.
Riding an electric mountain bike (e-MTB) isn't just fun; it's a great way to get healthier and a big help for racers with injuries. Here's why e-MTBs are becoming popular and keeping athletes in the game.
Health Benefits
1. **Heart Health:**
Even with motor support, you still need to pedal, which helps your heart. It’s a good mix of effort and ease, keeping your heart strong without overdoing it. As I get older, I want to enjoy riding without completely exhausting myself, and an e-MTB fits the bill.
2. **Muscle Strength & Weight Loss:**
Riding an e-MTB on different terrains works various muscles. You'll strengthen your core, legs, arms, and back, with the bike helping you focus on your form. My upper body is sore from maneuvering a heavier bike (mine is 52 lbs). As you ride more trails in a lower heart rate zone, you burn calories and boost your stamina, making weight control more straightforward. An e-MTB lets you ride without putting too much stress on injuries. The electric pedal assist helps you regain strength and endurance after an injury.
4. **Mental Health:**
Being outside lifts your mood. Riding on scenic trails reduces stress, eases anxiety, and gives you a sense of freedom and adventure. My mood has dramatically improved since I bought my e-MTB a few weeks ago. I have more energy and drive. Being able to ride again can lift spirits and help keep a competitive mindset, aiding in recovery and overall well-being. In my humble opinion, this is by far the single most crucial aspect of my e-MTB.
5. **Adaptability:**
For racers with injuries that limit regular biking, e-MTBs offer flexibility. They enable athletes to stay competitive and keep riding, even with physical challenges, as the bike helps out when needed. It allows me to get in a 60—or 90-minute ride, raise my heart rate, and not hurt my knee.
**Bonus**
BTW - We have a new race course selected for this year. And yes, Molly's loop is back for 2025. Registration opens on March 1st @ www.bikereg.com/challengermtb.
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