When it comes to both mountain biking and road riding, cyclists in the Blue Ridge have differing opinions on e-bikes. / photo courtesy Getty Images

Debate Continues in Cycling Community

The thought of electric assist bikes has people both screaming “NO!” and whimpering “yes.”

Some mountain bikers are against E-bikes on trails, concerned about the deterioration of trail systems with fears the beloved woods will evolve into motocross tracks. They also fear the mountain biking vibe would drastically change, assuming that beginners are riding E-bikes and unfamiliar with proper etiquette and respect for the trails. They also contend that even just increased speed and traffic on trails will greatly degrade their experience.

On the flip side, E-bike riders are grateful for the pedal-assist because they are able to return to the sport despite physical limitations and ailments—probably from old mountain biking injuries, so not all are beginners. Another set of