Exactly one year ago, e-mountain bikes were the focus of attention here. The topic was the hostile and even aggressive comments from "traditional" mountain bikers and the risk of not recognizing the opportunities that e-mountain bikes offer because of all the problems. The blog post is still relevant a year later. The topic has lost none of its explosive nature. What has changed in the meantime, however, is the spread of e-mountainbikes. Although mountain bikers with an auxiliary motor are still exotic off-road riders, their numbers have increased noticeably. The number of e-mountain bikers is growing enormously and will continue to do so. And which of the horror scenarios have come true? None. No increase in conflicts on single trails because mountain bikers are speeding along at excessive speeds. No serious accidents because e-mountain bikers are helplessly overwhelmed in alpine terrain. No increase in damage to nature because the heavier bikes damage the trails or wild animals are more likely to be startled by the higher speed. None of these prophecies have even come close to coming true.

The picture was completely different: the e-mountain bikers I saw were all of our ilk. Friendly and courteous when dealing with hikers. Technically adept and up to the single trails they were riding. The only difference: they were faster on the climbs. That was all. Otherwise exactly the same. There was nothing to be seen of the "wannabe cyclists from the power socket" who were "betraying our sport".

A different impression was gained from the numerous discussions on this topic. There is talk of an enormous potential for damage. E-mountain bikers will lead to serious conflicts in previously untouched side valleys. Bad accidents are predicted in high alpine terrain because uninformed e-mountain bikers will get lost there. But the reality is obviously very different. The reality is also that many of the e-mountain bike critics have never ridden an e-bike off-road themselves. You don't always have to experience everything first-hand to form a solid opinion. In the discussion about motorized mountain bikes, however, many arguments are put forward that are far removed from reality. With some practical experience on an e-mountainbike, at least the most abstruse arguments would no longer be put forward.

It would be good for the cause if the critics of e-mountainbikes had some practical experience to fall back on. Not to convince them. But to objectify the discussion and seriously debate the dangers and problems. Because these undoubtedly exist. However, making prejudices and blanket judgments far removed from reality will not get us any further.