What Are the Best eBike Models for Tackling Steep Hills?
eBikes
Conquer Every Climb with the Right eBike
Steep hills can turn a fun ride into an exhausting challenge. But with the right eBike, inclines feel effortless. Whether you’re commuting through Lynchburg’s rolling hills, riding through Blue Ridge Parkway trails, or tackling steep backroads, an eBike with the right motor, battery, and gearing system can make all the difference.
If you’ve ever faced the frustration of struggling up a steep hill on a traditional bike, you know how exhausting it can be. You start strong, but halfway up, your legs burn, your speed drops, and before you know it, you’re forced to get off and walk your bike up the incline. E-Bikes eliminate this struggle, giving you the power to glide up hills effortlessly while still getting the benefits of an active ride.
In this guide, we’ll cover:
- What makes an eBike great for steep hills
- The best eBike features to look for
- Top eBike models that can handle elevation changes with ease
- How to ride efficiently on hills
- Maintenance tips to keep your eBike climbing smoothly
Why Some eBikes Struggle on Hills
Not all eBikes are built for climbing. Some models, especially those with low-wattage hub motors or single-speed drivetrains, can struggle on steep inclines. The reason is simple: eBikes rely on a combination of motor power, torque, and gearing to maintain speed and efficiency on hills. If any of these factors are lacking, you might find yourself pushing your eBike up an incline instead of riding it.
Lower-powered 250W hub motors may be suitable for flat terrain, but they lack the necessary torque to handle steep inclines. Even if a small motor can get you part of the way up a hill, it may overheat or drain the battery quickly, making it an unreliable choice for hilly routes. That’s why 750W or higher mid-drive motors with high torque ratings are the preferred choice for riders who frequently tackle hills.
Another common issue with cheaper eBikes is limited battery capacity. Since hills require more power, a weak battery can quickly deplete, leaving you without assistance when you need it most. That’s why selecting an eBike with a high-capacity battery is just as important as choosing the right motor.
What to Look for in an eBike for Steep Hills
1. Motor Power (Watts & Torque)
The motor is the most important factor when tackling hills. The more power and torque your motor has, the easier it will be to climb without strain.
- Mid-drive motors (positioned at the pedals) offer the best hill-climbing ability, as they leverage your bike’s gears.
- Hub-drive motors (in the wheel hub) are great for gradual inclines but may struggle on steeper terrain.
- Torque rating (measured in Newton-meters/Nm) determines how much force the motor exerts. Aim for at least 60 Nm for serious hills.
For reference, a good mid-drive motor will have 80 Nm or more, making it ideal for long, steep climbs. Some of the most powerful high-performance eBikes even have torque ratings above 100 Nm, giving riders the ability to power up nearly any incline with ease.
Best pick: A mid-drive motor with 750W+ power and 80+ Nm torque.
2. Battery Capacity & Range
Climbing hills drains battery power faster than riding on flat terrain. A strong battery ensures you won’t run out of power mid-ride or struggle on multiple inclines.
- Look for 48V or higher for peak efficiency.
- A larger amp-hour (Ah) rating means longer rides before recharging.
- Removable batteries are ideal for longer adventures—swap out a second battery and keep going.
If you plan on riding in hilly areas often, consider carrying a spare battery or opting for a model with an extended range battery to avoid getting stranded.
Best pick: A 750W eBike with a 48V/15Ah battery or higher.
3. Gearing System & Pedal Assist Levels
A high-quality drivetrain with multiple gears makes it easier to climb hills efficiently. The best eBikes for hills typically have:
- 8 to 12-speed gear systems to allow for smooth shifts on inclines.
- Torque sensors that adjust motor power based on your pedal input.
- Multiple pedal assist levels so you can control how much motor power you need on each incline.
If you’re riding up short but steep hills, you may need full motor assistance to power through. However, for longer inclines, adjusting your pedal assist level allows for a more natural, energy-efficient ride.
Best pick: A mid-drive motor and an 8- to 12-speed gear system.
Top eBikes for Steep Hills
1. Mokwheel Basalt ST
Perfect for: Riders who want a reliable, all-terrain hill climber.
* 750W brushless motor
* 85 Nm torque
* 48V 19.6Ah battery
* Fat tires for added traction
2. Mokwheel Obsidian
Perfect for: Commuters and trail riders facing varying elevations.
* 1000W powerful motor
* 105+ Nm torque
* 20ah battery
Which eBike Should You Choose?
For steep hills, we highly recommend mid-drive eBikes with high torque and a strong battery. Whether you’re riding through downtown Lynchburg or the Blue Ridge Mountains, a powerful eBike transforms uphill rides into an effortless experience.
If you’re new to eBikes, test riding different models is the best way to determine which bike feels the most comfortable and suits your riding style.
Ready to find your perfect hill-climbing eBike? Stop by Perry Pools & Spas to test ride our top models and see which one fits your needs best!