At first glance, it is one of the most pointless screwdriver projects imaginable: an e-bike is to be converted back into an exclusively muscle-powered mountain bike. Johannes Fischbach, who is equipped by the pure e-bike brand GasGas, can only take part in the Urban Downhill Race in Valparaiso (Chile) without a motor.

The German won the race in 2016 and has finished on the podium several other times. Perhaps that is why he has been invited to the 20th edition. However, he is understandably not allowed to compete against the re-motorized competition with his actual work equipment, the e-enduro "GasGas ECC".

The organizers would let him start with his e-bike without a battery, he says. But Fischi doesn't feel competitive this way. He also wants to leave no doubt about his honesty. He asks Sram to remove everything from the motor housing that can be removed. The manufacturer finally sends him a box in which there is only a cavity next to the bottom bracket. The bike is an estimated 1.5 kilograms lighter.

The race takes place on the weekend of March 2 and 3. It is clear from the video that Fischi is motivated to the tips of his hair.