How can we ensure responsible future development of e-MTBs and maintain access to trails and green spaces for sustainable outdoor recreation? This is a question being heatedly debated as new regulations for e-bikes are proposed in Europe. IMBA Europe summarizes the ongoing discussions in this article.
As development of e-bikes continues at a blistering pace, the subject of regulations and classification of electrically powered assisted cycles (EPACs) is again in the news. The German industry association ZIV, in their market report for 2024 noted that almost 94% of mountain bikes sold in Germany last year featured a motor assist function (1), as strong an indication as any that e-MTBs are here to stay. With new models being launched, established heavyweight brands from other industries such as DJI and Porsche entering the market, and numerous EU ministries considering revisions to vehicle regulatory frameworks, it’s vital that mountain bikers join the discussion in envisioning the future path of e-bikes.
At a much-discussed “E-Mountainbike Think Tank”, hosted by E-Mountainbike/Enduro Mountainbike magazine, industry leaders, engineers, product managers and more gathered in Leonberg, Germany to discuss the state and future of e-MTBs. Consensus was achieved on the need for regulation to ensure a sustainable, responsible e-MTB market (2). Capping motor output to 750 watts as a first step for example will encourage brands to focus on other competitive advantages rather than sheer power such as overall performance, battery life and total cost of ownership. “We view regulation as an active opportunity to foster innovation rather than hinder it. Clear guidelines offer orientation, security, and sustainable development,” the resulting Leonberg Protocol document states.
Beyond issues of mountain bike specifications and performance is the critical issue of maintaining the definition of e-bikes as bicycles for recreation and mobility. Regulations and restrictions can help maintain an e-bike’s “bicycle-like characteristics” and legal status as bicycles (3). Maintaining this status is critical for e-MTB access to trails and green spaces across the continent, and for any efforts to improve or broaden accessibility. “For EPACs to continue to be considered equal to muscle-powered bicycles as a means of active mobility and not be subject to type approval, the restrictions and requirements mentioned must be incorporated into the legal regulations,» says ZIV’s CEO Burkhard Stork (4).
E-bikes have become a vital component of the mountain bike community during the past decade, making the sport more accessible to a broader range of potential riders. E-bikes allow riders to ride to trailheads otherwise potentially only accessible by car, and for groups of riders with varying abilities to explore and enjoy the outdoors together.
(1) https://www.ziv-zweirad.de/wp-content/uploads/2025/03/ZIV-Market-Data-Presentation-2025-for-2024.pdf
(2) ebike-mtb.com/en/e-mountainbike-think-tank-2025-2/
(3) https://www.bikeradar.com/news/is-the-definition-of-an-ebike-about-to-change
(4) https://www.ziv-zweirad.de/en/2025/04/08/ziv-positions-itself-on-future-epac-regulations/