British Cycling is among the organisations supporting a new, long-term research project into the use of off-road e-bikes. The study, which will be carried out by Edinburgh Napier University, will look at the growing popularity of electric mountain bikes and what fuels it.

Speaking to BikeBiz, Dan Cook, the leadership and off-road technical lead at British Cycling, said that a key element would be seeking to understand exactly how bikes appeal to a wider audience.

“We’re incredibly excited by the potential impact of e-MTB on cycling participation and outdoor access more widely, and this timely new research will enable us both to capitalise on those opportunities and prepare us for any challenges we may encounter along the way.

“The volume of e-bike and e-MTB riders is significant and growing fast, and they are a real lifeline for those who might not be able to ride otherwise. Like our partners, we are keen to understand how we can use this appeal to engage an even wider audience, including those who are currently inactive.”

Cook went on to say that the findings would serve as a platform for further growth with an emphasis on sustainability.

“We will look to use the outcomes of this study as a platform for sustainable growth, better supporting e-MTB riders in terms of trail infrastructure, responsible access and understanding the legalities of motor modifications,” he said.

“We hope that by working together to manage increasing levels of access we can help to mitigate the impacts on fragile environments and rider safety.”

Professor Geraint Florida-James, from Edinburgh Napier University, and also lead academic at the Mountain Bike Centre of Scotland, added: “We are hugely excited to be working with British Cycling and their partners on such an important area of research. We are seeing unprecedented growth figures in e-bike sales, with some estimates predicting as much as an eight-fold increase in e-bike sales by 2030.

“This research will look at the potential impact that the expansion in e-bike sales and use will have on the collective MTB industry and community, while the implications for future planning to accommodate these increased numbers and the potential to harness this technology in creating positive health outcomes will also be explored.”