Are you planning a trip to the woods and wondering what is the best electric bike for hunting?
You then need a tough machine with a high power range that gets you there quietly. It will make your trip enjoyable and bring you and your harvest back home safely.
We will discuss in this article why hunters actually need e-bikes and which one is suitable for you. Let’s get started.
Why Hunters Use E-Bikes?
When you are going to the woods, an e-bike will extend your range while preserving your energy. When you walk for miles with a heavy pack, you get drained before you even see an animal. An e-bike will let you cover more ground quietly and access remote areas that trucks cannot reach.
An e-bike also enables you to effortlessly follow the old logging roads that have completely overgrown. And since the e-bikes have motor assist, you will reach your spot fresh and ready to start the adventure.
How to Use an Electric Bike for Hunting
You need a unique and different approach here, as your primary goal should be stealth (and efficiency). You should first carefully use satellite maps to plan your route. Then look for terrain that is too rough to walk but is passable on two wheels.
You should use pedal assist at its lowest setting for most of the ride. This will provide you enough power for hills while keeping the motor sound to a bare whisper. When using pedals on flat ground, your locomotives are in complete silence.
A good cargo rack is a must, as you will need a secure way to transport your gear and your harvest.
Key Features to Look for in a Hunting E-Bike
To finally determine what the best electric bike you need to look for some specific features. You will make an informed decision and get the most out of your investment this way.
Motor Power
The ebike motor will ultimately determine how well you can climb. Look for a motor that can achieve at least a torque of 70 N.m, as it will be enough torque needed for steep and muddy inclines. A weak motor will struggle in such a terrain and drain your battery fast, too.
Battery Capacity
Battery capacity is basically your fuel tank. We recommend a battery with 720 watthour or more as it will provide you enough range for a long day out and back. And since cold weather reduces battery life, having extra capacity is a smart safety buffer.
Tire Type
Fat tires are the best choice in the woods. Their wide footprint floats over soft ground like snow and mud. They also provide stability on loose trails where a narrow tire would sink and get stuck.
Frame Material
Frame material greatly affects weight and durability.
Aluminium frames offer a good balance as they are light enough to handle and strong enough for rough use. Steel is tougher but much heavier. It would be suitable if you get into an incident where you must lift the bike over a fallen tree.
Suspension
Suspension works hard in protecting your body and your gear.
A front suspension fork will absorb impacts from both roots and rocks. A full-suspension bike is even better for brutal trails, as it will keep the bike stable and reduce fatigue so you feel fresher for the hunt.
Types of E-Bikes Suitable for Hunting
Not all e-bikes are good for hunting. We are outlining some of the perfect bike types that will make the game incredibly enjoyable for you.
Fat Tire E-Bikes
Fat tire e-bikes are very popular for hunting. Since they have enormous tires, they can work on all kinds of terrains without getting stuck. They also provide incredible grip and stability, especially in swampy areas that could even swallow hiking boots.
Dual-Motor E-Bikes
Dual motor e-bikes have a motor in each wheel, which creates all-wheel drive for extreme conditions. It is the ultimate solution in situations where you climb slippery hills or try to power through deep mud. The trade-off is higher battery consumption.
Mid-Drive Hunting E-Bikes
Mid-drive hunting e-bikes have the motor at the bike's centre which gives them a balanced feel. Their motors also excel at hill climbing because they use the bike's built-in gears. Their efficiency can significantly extend your range.
Best E-Bikes for Hunting
These e-bikes should be your go-to choice if you want to take the joy of hunting to the next level.
ENGWE X26
The ENGWE X26 is built for epic remote trips.
Its massive dual batteries promise incredible range. Venture deep into new territory without range anxiety as much as you want. The high torque motor (70 N.m) and 30-degree climb rating will get you and a heavy load up steep hills.
Just know its substantial weight makes it a handful to lift over obstacles. This is a true backcountry expedition bike.
ENGWE M20
The ENGWE M20 is a more compact and manageable option.
Its folding frame is great for tight storage in a truck bed or small cabin. However, its 10-degree climbing limit, smaller tires are significant trade-offs. This bike is best for relatively flat established trails.
It will struggle in muddy or deeply rutted terrain where other fat-tire bikes would excel. And with a torque of 55 N.m, climbing up steep inclines is although not bad by any stretch, but it’s not very remarkable either.
QuietKat Ranger AWD
The QuietKat Ranger AWD is your tool for brutal traction.
The dual motors provide true all-wheel drive, perfect for slick riverbanks or loose gravel hills. You can engage just one motor to save battery on the ride in. The single-speed drivetrain means you will rely heavily on the throttle and power levels for control.
It is a powerful machine for tough conditions.
Eahora Romeo Pro II AWD
The Eahora Romeo Pro II AWD is overkill for most hunters.
Its extreme speed and 500-pound load capacity are impressive but not practical or legal for most hunting grounds. The immense weight makes it impossible to manoeuvre without power.
This bike is better suited for other extreme off-road activities. For hunting, its power becomes a liability in both safety and legality.
ENGWE Engine Pro 3.0 Boost
A straight upgrade from the previously released, acclaimed ENGWE Engine Pro 2.0, the ENGWE Engine Pro 3.0 Boost offers a smart balance for the practical hunter.
Its torque sensor provides a smooth, natural pedal assist crucial for quiet manoeuvring. The hydraulic brakes and Shimano 7-speed gears offer fine control on descents.
Equipped with a powerful motor, it comes with a special “boost mode” that allows its already spectacular torque and acceleration to go even further beyond, reaching as high as 90 N.m, which is plenty enough to beat even the steepest climbs.
While the 20-inch tires and modest climbing degree suit light to moderate trails, it is a competent package for hunters who value a responsive ride.
Safety and Legal Considerations
The woods are full of unexpected hazards, so you should always wear a helmet during your ride.
Also, check your local game laws before you go. Many states classify e-bikes as motorised vehicles, which means they are banned from designated non-motorised trails. You cannot ride them on most singletrack hiking trails. So use existing fire roads or ATV trails. Being a responsible rider means this tool will remain available for all hunters.
Conclusion
Still thinking about what the best electric bike for hunting? For this sport, focus on a bike with strong power and rugged tires. Use it wisely to access the quiet places where big game live. The best bike is the one that gets you there and back with your focus entirely on the hunt.
FAQs
What is the average range of a hunting e-bike?
Range varies with terrain and load. A good bike can go 20 to 40 miles on a charge. Riding on low assist in mild terrain greatly extends this distance.
What is the number one mistake new users make?
The biggest mistake is using too much power. They crank the assist to maximum. This creates noise and defeats the purpose of a stealthy approach. Use only the power you need.
