Is the Power War over ? Is 1500 peak watts, 150Nm, the new benchmark ?

[Astro66]

People are now conditioned to be impressed with product features and numbers most of which fall into the category of being being superfluous.

Whilst I agree. The +1000 peak watts motor does ride incredibly well. Especially on technical climbs.

I think the industry is becoming more accepting that the EMTB, is no longer just a shuttle. But a device that creates a whole new sport, where ascending without foot dab, is a super fun goal. And greater peak powers make this possible on technical climbs, where it wasn't previously.

As more riders see what other riders can achieve on these motors. I think understanding of why riders choose them, has grown. Leading to greater acceptance.

 

[Mikerb]

Yes a bit more

Whilst I agree. The +1000 peak watts motor does ride incredibly well. Especially on technical climbs.

I think the industry is becoming more accepting that the EMTB, is no longer just a shuttle. But a device that creates a whole new sport, where ascending without foot dab, is a super fun goal. And greater peak powers make this possible on technical climbs, where it wasn't previously.

As more riders see what other riders can achieve on these motors. I think understanding of why riders choose them, has grown. Leading to greater acceptance.

yes, a bit more power helps but 100nm with 600 watts is all I need and I am not the strongest or fitest rider out there at 75 years old! If more power than that makes a tech climb easy I question the point of doing the climb. At those power levels above I still need good technique, good line choice, optimum tyre pressures and a well designed bike and I can feel the contribution each of those make.
I guess that is my point really. Who or what achieves success on the bike.....the rider or the machine. I like to conquer difficult terrain...not just be a passenger.

 

[Astro66]

If more power than that makes a tech climb easy I question the point of doing the climb.

It opens up more terrain. You don't have to get off and walk. It's fun.

It's funny. Descending on my 180/180 Enduro is easier than my 150/160 Trail Bike. The extra travel and geometry of the enduro, flattens the bumps. As does running 29 inch wheels, compared with the old 26er. Yet I've never had anyone ask me. If the bigger suspension and wheels makes descending easier. What's the point of doing the descent ?

For me, it's just about using the latest and best technology, to make you the best rider you can be.

Getting back to the topic. I think this is why we are getting more acceptance of motor technology. The motor now being accepted as something that can add performance improvements to the EMTB, rather than just as a shuttling device to get you back to the top of the descent.