130 miles from Stockton on Tees to Berwick on my Ribble gravel ebike. Was in level 1 assist all the way. This did include the range extender fitted. Had 70 miles left in the battery hen I finished!
I ride a bicycle, not a e-bike. Longest ride 300+ km. Can we please stop making video's about e-bike's? This channel is called Global CYCLING network. Not mopeds :(
@@chrisprice5806 The downer is the one that needs namecalling for no apparent reason. Guess what a moped is? A bicycle with a motor! Just the looks that evolved over the years.
I’ve been riding the Ribble SLE for just over a year now and I absolutely love it. At first I was against ebikes but as you get older I realised that as mush as I love cycling, my body was not. Speaking on this bike it give you the ability to feel natural as you do have to work on it but that little push when you need it and by having the option to adjust the power output make it feel normal.
I can't believe how quiet the road is, not a car in sight. Definitely a bucket list climb! E-bikes are truly a game changer. A couple older gents in the local group ride them and keeps them from getting stuck in the "limbo" zone where on a standard bike the fast group is a bit too much and the slower group is a bit too slow. The e-bike allows them to cruise with the faster group, still get a good workout, enjoy the comradery they are accustomed and avoid soft pedaling with the slower members.
It’s filmed off season. During the summertime the road is often full of cars, buses and motorcycles. Really narrow road with a lot of blind corners, I would personally never go there on a road bike.
@@enforcer-enduro Correct. Unfortunately. You can ride there in summer and during the day, but it's harder to enjoy the ride and the scenery then. Recommendation is to ride only in the early morning or late evening hours.
I climbed both sides with a road bike already, the side from Prad just last summer. It‘s still a super beatiful climb even in season and the traffic isn‘t too bad. What helps a lot is that there are loads of road cyclists on the road, so naturally cars and motorcycles need to be careful everywhere. But don‘t expect a lot at the top. You have booths and tourists everywhere.
@@MrMrTierry I've climbed it from bormio last year...there are 5/6 sundays per year in which the whole climb is closed for vehicles (you can only go by foot or bike) and for sure that was my best ever experience on a bicycle A MUST EXPERIENCE IMO...otherwise its doable but not advisable on weekends
Great video and useful for many. I do wish that some cyclists weren't so snooty about e-bikes. They serve a great function to allow older riders and those with injuries to maintain a pace that allows them to access rides like this with their peers. Not everyone gets to their 60s, 70s and beyond in perfect health, despite best efforts. Especially for a club rider, the social element cannot be underestimated for ones mental and subsequently physical health. Getting out every week with friends and seeing the world is almost a basic human right. I'm 37 and fairly fit. I don't feel I need an e-bike (yet) but I wouldn't for a minute criticise someone who went for a bike like the Ribble featured here.
I've been encouraging a colleague to get one to use to bike to work. He's always getting caught in the morning traffic. His commute is far enough that to a non biker it's an unreasonable distance for a daily commute to work. but a little electric assistance could tip the balance.
I'm 22 and was doing a crit practice a few months ago, this man was in his late 70s was keeping up with the group at 30+ mph having the time of his life smile from ear to ear, I was astonished then noticed it was an E-road bike and made me realize the doors ebikes can open for individuals that want to still be with the group but can't due to physical limitations, it was absolutely awesome.
Yeah, I don't get the reasoning for that. Well, I do, but not the reasoning put forward. The bike, assuming it's an EU compliant type 1 ebike is not allowed to produce more than 250 watt, and it's only allowed to assist when the rider is pedalling. If it's like most ebikes that I've seen, it'll assist proportionally to the effort put forth, not inversely proportional to what you put in. The harder you push, the harder it pushes - up to its 250 watt limit.
@@MrMartinSchou Your understanding of the Mahle X35 system is lacking. Unlike most ebike systems it has no torque sensing so does not react to how hard you are pedalling. You set the assistance level and, provided the pedals are turning and speed is less than 25km/h then it will provide assistance at that level.
Thanks Ollie. As a 71 yr old of road rider i totally support this video. Would love to give this road a go if i could Tele - port there. I'm in Canada. As i said I'm usually riding gravel roads and trails and my bike, heavier, bigger tires, allows me to get up the hills easier without painful knees and lungs busting. I ride almost always in the lowest assist mode as i still want a workout, just don't want it to kill me or damage me.
GCN has produced many awesome videos, but this one tops them all, thanks to the Ollie’s sheer happiness and gratitude of being there. ♥️👍🤩 I’ll be 65 sept. 15th and decided to start cycling this year to help improve a failing heart condition. I’ll be hitting 4,000 km in a few days using my Trek Domane+ ALR and I’ve learned so much from watching GCN on RUclips. Thanks to all of you 👍
I’ve just picked up my Ribble SL-e this is on my bucket list it’s a fab bike noticed you had the range extender on you wouldn’t make it up on just the internal battery I’m 62 and 86kg and get around 45 miles over mixed terrain on just the internal battery it’s got me back cycling with our group no longer left behind ⚡️🚴
@@user-jy3fd7rf5p The dude is 62 years old, we should just be stoked he’s able to hop on a bike of any type and have fun. Cut the elitist shit out. More people on bikes is better for all of us.
At 75 years old i rode up it on a hire MTB electric assist bike. used assist sparingly as i was told it would not reach the top using assist. As a lifelong cyclist it is the best ride of my life.
just last saturday i've climbed the Stelvio pass... i grow up just under...Bormio... never done.. on a bike... (thousend times with my motorbike!!!) so i climbed...i'm 52 and recreational graveler... i've climbed with my standard specy diverge...with two friends.. over 60... with ebikes... they used to be passionate bikers... and now they have ebikes just to keep have fun on bikes and climb longer... i've climbed in 4h... they ride it really slow...to wait me.... but we have fun toghether... i will surely buy a ebike in the future, why not.
20km in boost going up hill @ over 10 degrees, 200+ km in Eco spending most of my time over the 25km limiter, only using the motor on the steeper uphill sections. I suffer from asthma and bung knees (thank you biopace) so higher power efforts have to be short and when I start to suffer I can "recover" using the motor instead of stopping. Both these are invisible to anyone else, and I feel the judgement on every ride. However the ebike is a great way to get out, exercise, socialize and not shut myself off from the world. Blessed are those who don't suffer illnesses and can judge others from afar
I have CMT disease and it has all but taken away my ability to ride. I was an ex pro DH racer and would do 5-7 hour rides here in CO. Now I can barely do 15-20 miles with the altitude and terrain. I have been looking at this bike for awhile due to its pricepoint and look. It blows me away how many people crap on the e-bike world as for some reason they think it is cheating while on their club rides and "training", and no one ever thinks about us who have a disability, and injury, or just need a little extra boost to still be able to do what we love. But someone will always spend more energy giving crap to others and judging them instead of just enjoying the ride and the views.
Me too. I was a downhill racer and broke my pelvis and neck. At one point I could probably only push 50 watts after several years in bed / hospital. An E-Bike has let me go back to at least enjoy what I used to be good at.
Hi Ollie, love the vid's. I have just bought a Giant revolt E+ pro and had my first ride here in NZ. Too addictive loved it and I wanted to be sensible as nearly 60 years old, but 47 kms through the local park bloody great, bring on the hills. cheers Mike
I have a Pinerallo Nytro Roadstar, approx 50 mile range on hilly routes. I’m 56 coming back to cycling and having to build my fitness. I use the ebike for recovery rides on tired legs. Mix and match, ebike and normal road bike, it works for me.
I road the Stelviopass yesterday for the first time, with my road bike. The whole route is filled with spectacular views! On top was the Ortler with the blue shining glacier, when the sun hits it right!
That bike seems to have the range extender option on it, which I assume was in use. That roughly doubles the battery capacity. I don't recall it being mentioned in the video. Also, what would be useful to know is if there will be any regen when going downhill. However, it's still a very good video and useful to know it can manage 1,500 metres of climbing. It's easily possible to do that cumulatively on a longish bike ride in the UK depending, of course, on the terrain. It ought easily to cope with London to Brighton (with the extender) if assistance is only used on climbs.
Yes I thought the same. I have the same bike albeit the Orbea Gain version and with the extender, which also almost doubles battery capacity but adds an extra 1.5 kg weight to the bike. There is no regen facility on these bikes. I’ve just ordered giants new defy e road bike which look and rides even better than the ribble or orbea versions.
I really appreciate this video Ollie. In less than 3 weeks I and the group with inGamba Tours will climb this pass from both sides, with Eros Poli leading us. I've had a total hip replacement about 3 months ago, and can't imagine climbing this well, but will be on a Pinarello Nytro E-bike. With my diminished performance, I can't match your 150 W, but you are giving me some useful input to my calculations. At least I will have extra drive units the mechanics can pop in if needed!
Would liked to have known how far Ollie had travelled before he switched on the range extender. I'm assuming he used it given the red flashing LED at the summit. Interesting to watch if only for the stunning scenery. Road CC did a Ribble SLe test a few years back, complete with range extender. This was across southern England and the ride managed about 150 miles.
Thank you so much for this valuable review. It is heartening to hear that even though I'm getting older, there might still be a bike for me to do Italy's beautiful classic climbs .
I watched this mostly for the beautiful views of the ride. The hook was that I recently bought my first road ebike. How I would love to do this route! My bike has about the same watt hours. Nice demonstration of the possibility.
Not sure if the „Ad“ relates to Ribble or the Stelvio. That is an epic piece of road and definitely on my bucket list. I‘ll do it without a motor but good to see that it is possible for more people.
Awesome video!!! Now I know I'm making the right choice purchasing the Wilier Filante Hybrid as my new ride. I'm a 63 woman cyclist looking to extend my road cycling years. Your videos are always informative and fun to watch. Thx! 🚴♀️
note... stelvio pass.. on early 1900... was opened also in winter.. and coaches with 4 horses bring people from Austria to Bormio...to our famous thermal bath. you can see those coaches in a local museum.
I ride Ebike in Bangalore and have covered more than 200 km in one full charge as I switch off the battery when on flat surface. Use it only when exhausted and have a gradient to go over. Yes now am able to explore many places in my neighbourhood. Wish I had a place like the one you showed in your video. You have a great bike... Mine is E-Motorad EMX ... I believe it is a French design made in Taiwan.
I’ve been crashing about on my eMTB in the local woods. The decision wasn’t easy but being mid-fifties and struggling with the climbing, I had no choice. Two years later and I barely use the power, just enough to take the “ick” out of a stiff hill. No doubt in my mind, if climbing is limiting your cycling get yourself an e-bike, road or rough. It’ll put the smile back on your face and keep you fit. You end up riding more often as recovery is possible, you haven’t gone too deep.
Orbea Gain , alloy version with same motor. I do a 30 mile commute into London occasionally. And by time i get home after 60’miles I have 35-50% battery left depending on how tired I am . It’s fairly flat with only a handful of short steep hills , nowt like the climb in the vid !! But the range is good as I am frequently pedalling above the UK cut off limit of 15.5mph
There was an extra battery pack attached to the frame. Can see it was attached to the system as well. So that whole ride needs the extra battery as well
That road does look incredible. It is good that an ebike like that allows more people to experience an epic climb like that. I guess you could always hire one, for the day, if your budget can’t quite extend to the expense of buying one of those.
You can not experience an epic climb like that on a ebike. You can easily tell Ollie or any trained person wouldn't break a sweat doing any climb on a ebike. You may aswell just drive the Stelvio up with a car and claim you've experienced an epic climb.
@@user-jy3fd7rf5p What about someone with a medical condition? Ollie is fit and healthy, of course he found it easy with the ebike. Someone with say a respiratory condition, or just an older person, might not be able to do the ascent without some assistance. For them averaging 150watts might be a substantial effort. The bike is not like a car, that's a pretty ignorant statement tbh. You still have to pedal the bike. It is called e-assist for a reason.
@@stevek8829 no, the cyclist powered up the climb with assistance from the electric motor. If you watch carefully you can see the Ollie's legs moving the pedals
@@a1white Yes for someone with health issues e-bikes can be good, pointed that out before in this thread. Your statement of "having to pedal" is a misconception. Yes you have to turn around the pedals, but you don't have to use any force. Studies indicate that riding an e-bike is hardly raising your heartrate and will not at all result in muscle growth or better condition. Recent studies show riding an ebike is about as "intensive" as walking through the city with a bag of groceries.
That Ribble has the battery range extender fitted but there is absolutely no reference to it. It looks like it was plugged in so theoretically has given him up to 70% more range. (I believe by the way that it is the range extender I now own, having bought mine as an ex-demo one. The guy I bought it off said that it had been out on test with GCN)
I've got a Giant Road E plus, but it's a heavy beast - at 19kg, so i really fancy trying one of these Ribble's - The Ribble is light enough at around 12kg to be used without any power as a normal bike, if you should run out of power you won't be going backward, as it feels on the Giant - you pop over the 'magic' 26kmh and when the motor stops it feels like someone is applying a brake as the 19kg bike's gravity pull kicks in. The Ribble would have a markedly less effect as you slip in and out of the speed limit and that's what I'd like to try.
60 plus years old. E-bikes (I own 3, Giant, Trek, and Specialized) have me riding more than I ever have before. Longest ride to date is 70 miles (eco) mode Trek 8s...32% battery left when I arrived home.
did the same trial three days ago from the other direction starting at Prad, around 26km distance and 1850 elevation to the top, with the Cannondale Synapse Neo 2 Model 2019, Bosch active line plus 3. generation. It worked, but on the top the battery was nearly empty with 13km range left. Anyway, if bicyclists use mostly "Tour Mode" it should work easily.
I got arthritis in both knees just before I turned 40 this year. Thankfully I can ride again medicating with MTX. When I overdo it regarding sports or a rheuma episode kicks in I will have to cool it down, cycle less and weigh easier. Last weel I looked at an E-road bike in a shop, the big rear hub, the fat down tube, the weight lifting it up. When I can't ride anything anymore without assistance I might buy one, hopefully when I am 70. Until that point in time I am so glad to lift my own weight up a mountain or over a distance; nothing beats the raw feeling of accomplishment, silent and private, mostly to yourself. I worry fewer and fewer normal people get to experience what their bodies and minds actually could do if they did just put in the effort. But hey, now that climbing on a mountain bike without assistance often gets you positive feedback by hikers, road bikers may seem an increase in positive feedback, too ;-)
It appears that you were using the Mahle add-on battery (a water-bottle battery). Was this additional battery pack used? Or was the internal 250 Wh battery only used? Just curious.
Great video. Amazing scenic route. Not sure if I ever dare using my own bike and probably will not rent/use an e-bike because that will hurt my pride. Thank you Ollie and GCN team for the video.
@@gcn Totally agreed, no shame using an e-bike. And neither I care if someone is teasing/commenting but still deep down inside…. Someday I will probably try from some middle point and climb up! There are quite a few in Europe that are in my bucket list. :)
I have an Orbea gain e bike- rode the Isle of Wight a few weeks ago, strong head wind for 50% of the ride 110k and 1650mtrs - had the additional battery attached, finished with 5% left. 62 yoa and 95kg. Average 25k
I’ve got the same set up on my bike. Took it to Morzine and did the climb up to Avoriaz then back down and up the jou plan - it was just over 1500m of elevation and a flashing red light . Amazing bit of kit 🤛
It is a fine looking bike. No big battery bulge, although the black thing that looks like a water bottle is in fact the optional extended range battery.
I did the Stelvio many years ago on a 750cc motorbike with pillion. Because of the thinner atmosphere as you go up I had to gradually drop down the gears to prevent the engine from stalling.
surely one of the reasons we ride our bikes is to see great views of countryside, to take our minds off everyday drudgery. Whether it's something as glorious as European climb or grovelling up a local hill, riding a bike is just enjoyable.
I rode the Stelvio in June 2019. Ollie was so lucky to have it to himself When I rode it, it was full of Germans in Porche and mad motorcyclists and the top looked like Blackpool on a bank holiday.
I own one of these and can't sing it's praises enough. I would add a few points that were missed. The motor is 250KW and the bike has an internal 250kwh battery, you also have the range extending battery in the bidon cage which adds a further 240kwh and it's pretty heavy circa 2 kilos. The range extending external battery will only charge the main battery when the motor is not being used so not sure if you had any benefit from it? There are 3 levels of assistance and these can be tailored in the app so in theory you could have as low as 1% assistance up to 100%, the bike also connects to my Garmin 1030 which provides accurate data on how much battery is left by %, how much power is being put out, cadence etc. If you are on the fence about buying an ebike and your not out riding because of it then stop what you are doing and get go buy one now, it's a game changer. Great video.
@@MikeCaffyn1 Yes - the Mahle Range Extender cannot directly power the X35 motor. Instead it is used to charge the main, internal battery whenever the motor assistance is not being used (either because the rider has switched to zero assistance level, or because road speed is above 25km/h).
I have a BMC Alpenchallenge AMP and it's amazing, it's not as pretty as all this bikes with the Ebikemotion system, but I need all the power and a big battery being over 100kg.
Somebody deserves an award for building that road, that was a lot of work. Great video. I wonder how many times your battery would make the same trip before it would need to be replaced.
Hi. Good video and one reason why I bought the Ribble Endurance SLe. The service from Ribble has been absolutely awful. Delayed delivery, then the bike delivered with faulty Di2 gearing. GCN, you did a paid promotion and review on this product. Personally, I think you should look at the overall package/product. That's what your viewers want.
Great video Olly. Even better than Snake pass when it was closed to traffic this spring. Did you use the range extender battery on the down tube ? or was it not plugged in? so you were testing the range on the main in frame battery?
I'd like to know too. You would think that if he had 250 Watts for an hour and putting in 150W himself then it would easily make it, Particularly, as Ollie is light, But the extender was there for a reason and the red light was flashing so less than 5-10% battery left. Message seems to be if you get up an HC climb on this bike DO NOT descend the other side or you are going to have a very hard climb to get back home!
He did say he pushed the battery so i suspect he climbed it quickly. The battery bidon was there, it's only fair to assume it was used, if he hadn't, he'd have said so. I climbed that pass, it is looooong.
I love this, it just is a great reminder that cycling is supposed to be fun and liberating. There seems to be a lot of cyclists that think it is only about suffering and bragging rights over power numbers. I wonder if they ever even look up and see the scenery anymore. I wonder which group most people would rather ride with. I see there is someone in these comments already saying you should stay away from this road if you can't get up it without a motor. This is why so many people hate cyclists, it just seems to turn too many people into elitist, egotistical, selfish, idiots. Cycling is constantly on the back foot in society because of a small number of psychotics giving the rest of us a bad name.
@@Exgrmbl No...there is nothing "inherently" funny about it. Our sun is "inherently" hot. It is how you were indoctrinated that determines your perception.
Ollie, it looks like you had the accessory spare battery installed on the Ribble, did you use that battery up too ?? I have just ridden my first 1,000 on my Bianchi Impulso e-allroad gravel bike which has the same Mahle X35 motor on it and I love it. Another great video sharing how much fun cycling is to all……
God what a road. And NO TRAFFIC! I'm so jealous. Ex-NYC bike messenger here. I have a VanMoof X3 that has replaced my car. My longest ride so far has been 30 miles in a hilly environment. I'm 71 and really love that I don't have to kill myself on hills, especially when it is 95F (35C). The e-bike is transformational in bike transportation. I welcome them whole-heartedly. I could not care less what some single-letter grouch thinks.
@@MikeBrown-lq3iv I can only imagine! I used to ride many kilometers when I was younger but then you know, family and children, working hours and stuff… riding becomes secondary 😂
When did you make this video? You seem to have picked the perfect split between snow and tourists. I’ve been over the Stelvio twice in the other direction, but in late June. The party at the top is quite something then.
Was this done with the range extender battery. I like the look of the bike but much prefer mid mounted motors for their feel. Admittedly I only use one for commuting now, but could see the benefit of having something that looks so much like a normal road bike.
I like that you are featuring Ribble bikes, a nice English company. That looks like an additional external battery in the seat tube water bottle cage. Do you have to manually switch that on?
Oh, to have the Alps on your doorstep... PS I'm going to 'drape spaghetti insouciantly' over my plate from now on, instead of just tipping it out of the saucepan into a great big soggy pile.
Thanks for this, I immediately paused the video and was trying all sorts of spellings for what I thought he had said but couldn't figure it out. "Insouciantly"
What power did Ollie average? I take it "ECO" mode is the least assistance of the 3 modes. What was the bike's average power assistance? What was the duration of the climb?
A guy I work with is French and the last climb on the list to be done was the Col du Tourmalet. (Apparently, if you're French and you don't make all the epic climbs, you die and go to French Hell. I think that is ridding a Huffy and eating Chef Boyardee for eternity. I'm not sure.) His sister-in-law was on an e-bike. He said it made it all the way up the climb but ran out on the "short" climb back into town. He said she was miserable getting the heavy bike up the last 5 kilometers.
@@johnarleentaninecz2867 I do not know. I didn't ask him what bike she rode. I didn't ask for a lot of details. Maybe she could have used less assist and maybe it would have lasted. If I think to ask, I will next time I see him. He is a semi-retired professor, so I don't see him that often anymore.
@@johnarleentaninecz2867 depends on bike and batteries. Some are set up for swappable batteries like you’d find in film equipment but those are rare. Most bikes have built in batteries and you just need to buy what you need. The only downside I see is the amount of bike battery explosions we’ve seen in NYC since they became the norm for deliveries.
@ollie can you please verify your logic @2:50 ? Most ebikes are force multipliers and provide N * [your watts] so as your watts INCREASE (up to the assist speed limit) the motor’s contribution also INCREASES.
![BLACK BAG - Official Trailer [HD] - Only in Theaters March 14](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/Du0Xp8WX_7I/mqdefault.jpg)
Have you got an E-Bike, what is the longest ride you've got out of it? Let us know 👇
130 miles from Stockton on Tees to Berwick on my Ribble gravel ebike. Was in level 1 assist all the way. This did include the range extender fitted. Had 70 miles left in the battery hen I finished!
I ride a bicycle, not a e-bike. Longest ride 300+ km. Can we please stop making video's about e-bike's? This channel is called Global CYCLING network. Not mopeds :(
@@user-jy3fd7rf5p you are a downer, unreasonably. its a bicycle with a electric motor, not a old school moped for college sidewalks and road use.
@@chrisprice5806 The downer is the one that needs namecalling for no apparent reason. Guess what a moped is? A bicycle with a motor! Just the looks that evolved over the years.
@@chrisprice5806 bicycles should be driven by legs - only. sorry, mate.and, yes: no more videos about e-bikes on this channel, please.
Ollie is just coming up with new ideas to keep riding the stelvio pass every week and I'm loving it 😂
I’ve been riding the Ribble SLE for just over a year now and I absolutely love it. At first I was against ebikes but as you get older I realised that as mush as I love cycling, my body was not. Speaking on this bike it give you the ability to feel natural as you do have to work on it but that little push when you need it and by having the option to adjust the power output make it feel normal.
Nice one mate. Keep going
I can't believe how quiet the road is, not a car in sight. Definitely a bucket list climb!
E-bikes are truly a game changer. A couple older gents in the local group ride them and keeps them from getting stuck in the "limbo" zone where on a standard bike the fast group is a bit too much and the slower group is a bit too slow. The e-bike allows them to cruise with the faster group, still get a good workout, enjoy the comradery they are accustomed and avoid soft pedaling with the slower members.
It’s filmed off season. During the summertime the road is often full of cars, buses and motorcycles. Really narrow road with a lot of blind corners, I would personally never go there on a road bike.
@@enforcer-enduro Correct. Unfortunately. You can ride there in summer and during the day, but it's harder to enjoy the ride and the scenery then. Recommendation is to ride only in the early morning or late evening hours.
I climbed both sides with a road bike already, the side from Prad just last summer. It‘s still a super beatiful climb even in season and the traffic isn‘t too bad. What helps a lot is that there are loads of road cyclists on the road, so naturally cars and motorcycles need to be careful everywhere.
But don‘t expect a lot at the top. You have booths and tourists everywhere.
@@MrMrTierry I've climbed it from bormio last year...there are 5/6 sundays per year in which the whole climb is closed for vehicles (you can only go by foot or bike) and for sure that was my best ever experience on a bicycle A MUST EXPERIENCE IMO...otherwise its doable but not advisable on weekends
Great video and useful for many.
I do wish that some cyclists weren't so snooty about e-bikes. They serve a great function to allow older riders and those with injuries to maintain a pace that allows them to access rides like this with their peers.
Not everyone gets to their 60s, 70s and beyond in perfect health, despite best efforts.
Especially for a club rider, the social element cannot be underestimated for ones mental and subsequently physical health. Getting out every week with friends and seeing the world is almost a basic human right.
I'm 37 and fairly fit. I don't feel I need an e-bike (yet) but I wouldn't for a minute criticise someone who went for a bike like the Ribble featured here.
100% agree
what sucks is certain states and counties in the US ban eMTB or e-bikes period. sucks majorly
I've been encouraging a colleague to get one to use to bike to work. He's always getting caught in the morning traffic. His commute is far enough that to a non biker it's an unreasonable distance for a daily commute to work. but a little electric assistance could tip the balance.
@@dnll987 Same states that encourage you all to carry automatic weapons?
I'm 22 and was doing a crit practice a few months ago, this man was in his late 70s was keeping up with the group at 30+ mph having the time of his life smile from ear to ear, I was astonished then noticed it was an E-road bike and made me realize the doors ebikes can open for individuals that want to still be with the group but can't due to physical limitations, it was absolutely awesome.
‘I’m going to keep my power output really low by capping it at 150W.’ Well that was a bit of a kick in the nuts.
Ha! In all fairness going up a mountain pass pushing less than 150W will quickly get you going backwards, unless you're a petite lady.
Yeah, I don't get the reasoning for that.
Well, I do, but not the reasoning put forward. The bike, assuming it's an EU compliant type 1 ebike is not allowed to produce more than 250 watt, and it's only allowed to assist when the rider is pedalling.
If it's like most ebikes that I've seen, it'll assist proportionally to the effort put forth, not inversely proportional to what you put in. The harder you push, the harder it pushes - up to its 250 watt limit.
@@MrMartinSchou You do have different pedal assist modes though, where you choose how much work the motor is doing for a given input from your legs.
@@MrMartinSchou Your understanding of the Mahle X35 system is lacking. Unlike most ebike systems it has no torque sensing so does not react to how hard you are pedalling. You set the assistance level and, provided the pedals are turning and speed is less than 25km/h then it will provide assistance at that level.
@@pierrex3226 No, there is no torque sensing on the Mahle X35.
I'm 67 and still ride. But climbing is becoming an issue. Thanks for this extraordinary demonstration of a pedal-assist ebike.
Thanks Ollie. As a 71 yr old of road rider i totally support this video. Would love to give this road a go if i could Tele - port there. I'm in Canada. As i said I'm usually riding gravel roads and trails and my bike, heavier, bigger tires, allows me to get up the hills easier without painful knees and lungs busting. I ride almost always in the lowest assist mode as i still want a workout, just don't want it to kill me or damage me.
GCN has produced many awesome videos, but this one tops them all, thanks to the Ollie’s sheer happiness and gratitude of being there. ♥️👍🤩
I’ll be 65 sept. 15th and decided to start cycling this year to help improve a failing heart condition. I’ll be hitting 4,000 km in a few days using my Trek Domane+ ALR and I’ve learned so much from watching GCN on RUclips. Thanks to all of you 👍
What an epic climb! I'm surprised you didn't mention the added external battery when you were talking about the bike's 250W battery.
I’ve just picked up my Ribble SL-e this is on my bucket list it’s a fab bike noticed you had the range extender on you wouldn’t make it up on just the internal battery I’m 62 and 86kg and get around 45 miles over mixed terrain on just the internal battery it’s got me back cycling with our group no longer left behind ⚡️🚴
I would read the Ribble blog on looking after your battery if I were you.
??? ⚡️🚴
What ever
@@user-jy3fd7rf5p The dude is 62 years old, we should just be stoked he’s able to hop on a bike of any type and have fun. Cut the elitist shit out. More people on bikes is better for all of us.
@@user-jy3fd7rf5p Yawn.
Hearing Ollie speak about the different parts of the route with such passsion and joy made this video so so special! Thank you!
At 75 years old i rode up it on a hire MTB electric assist bike. used assist sparingly as i was told it would not reach the top using assist. As a lifelong cyclist it is the best ride of my life.
just last saturday i've climbed the Stelvio pass... i grow up just under...Bormio... never done.. on a bike... (thousend times with my motorbike!!!) so i climbed...i'm 52 and recreational graveler... i've climbed with my standard specy diverge...with two friends.. over 60... with ebikes... they used to be passionate bikers... and now they have ebikes just to keep have fun on bikes and climb longer... i've climbed in 4h... they ride it really slow...to wait me.... but we have fun toghether... i will surely buy a ebike in the future, why not.
20km in boost going up hill @ over 10 degrees, 200+ km in Eco spending most of my time over the 25km limiter, only using the motor on the steeper uphill sections. I suffer from asthma and bung knees (thank you biopace) so higher power efforts have to be short and when I start to suffer I can "recover" using the motor instead of stopping.
Both these are invisible to anyone else, and I feel the judgement on every ride. However the ebike is a great way to get out, exercise, socialize and not shut myself off from the world. Blessed are those who don't suffer illnesses and can judge others from afar
I have CMT disease and it has all but taken away my ability to ride. I was an ex pro DH racer and would do 5-7 hour rides here in CO. Now I can barely do 15-20 miles with the altitude and terrain.
I have been looking at this bike for awhile due to its pricepoint and look. It blows me away how many people crap on the e-bike world as for some reason they think it is cheating while on their club rides and "training", and no one ever thinks about us who have a disability, and injury, or just need a little extra boost to still be able to do what we love.
But someone will always spend more energy giving crap to others and judging them instead of just enjoying the ride and the views.
Excellent video Olly, your enthusiasm is so contagious, love it. Scenery is fantastic
Great vid. As a partially disabled rider the ebike lets me go places where I can't even walk!
Me too. I was a downhill racer and broke my pelvis and neck. At one point I could probably only push 50 watts after several years in bed / hospital. An E-Bike has let me go back to at least enjoy what I used to be good at.
Hi Ollie, love the vid's. I have just bought a Giant revolt E+ pro and had my first ride here in NZ. Too addictive loved it and I wanted to be sensible as nearly 60 years old, but 47 kms through the local park bloody great, bring on the hills. cheers Mike
Amazing film from Ollie and the GCN team, great stuff, the cinematography was awesome too, really helped capture the breathtaking location.
they also kidnap DJs from the local area demanding audio engineering
I'm guessing the ebike manufacturer paid them a fortune for this so could afford to do it
I have a Pinerallo Nytro Roadstar, approx 50 mile range on hilly routes. I’m 56 coming back to cycling and having to build my fitness. I use the ebike for recovery rides on tired legs. Mix and match, ebike and normal road bike, it works for me.
Best tool ever for recovery rides for an aging cyclist in particular. Same here.
E bikes are a game changer. Just make it more fun! Great video
5:43 wew that's a lot of faith in your ability to get out of the clipless / the brakes!
yuh, its a good feeling when you have enough faith in yourself and your equipment to do that.
great video, i always enjoy vids made by Ollie and Simon, theyre always so well presented
I road the Stelviopass yesterday for the first time, with my road bike. The whole route is filled with spectacular views! On top was the Ortler with the blue shining glacier, when the sun hits it right!
Great video Ollie. I have the same set-up on my gravel bike and helps me get places that I never would imagine.
Training can get you there too :)
That bike seems to have the range extender option on it, which I assume was in use. That roughly doubles the battery capacity. I don't recall it being mentioned in the video. Also, what would be useful to know is if there will be any regen when going downhill.
However, it's still a very good video and useful to know it can manage 1,500 metres of climbing. It's easily possible to do that cumulatively on a longish bike ride in the UK depending, of course, on the terrain. It ought easily to cope with London to Brighton (with the extender) if assistance is only used on climbs.
Yes I thought the same. I have the same bike albeit the Orbea Gain version and with the extender, which also almost doubles battery capacity but adds an extra 1.5 kg weight to the bike. There is no regen facility on these bikes. I’ve just ordered giants new defy e road bike which look and rides even better than the ribble or orbea versions.
Was you using just the bike battery, or the extender battery in the rear bottle carrier as well - it looked like that was plugged in as well.
I really appreciate this video Ollie. In less than 3 weeks I and the group with inGamba Tours will climb this pass from both sides, with Eros Poli leading us. I've had a total hip replacement about 3 months ago, and can't imagine climbing this well, but will be on a Pinarello Nytro E-bike. With my diminished performance, I can't match your 150 W, but you are giving me some useful input to my calculations. At least I will have extra drive units the mechanics can pop in if needed!
Would liked to have known how far Ollie had travelled before he switched on the range extender. I'm assuming he used it given the red flashing LED at the summit. Interesting to watch if only for the stunning scenery. Road CC did a Ribble SLe test a few years back, complete with range extender. This was across southern England and the ride managed about 150 miles.
I'm 77 years old and I've been diagnosed with Heart Issues so I converted my road bike to a Road E Bike and I'm loving it. Tour de France next!!!🇨🇦🇨🇦
Thank you so much for this valuable review. It is heartening to hear that even though I'm getting older, there might still be a bike for me to do Italy's beautiful classic climbs .
I did it 3 ways in 2018 from bormio , Prato and the Swiss side val my stair, the climb from bormio is the toughest and most beautiful
I normally watch the channel videos on my phone but I watched this video on my tv and wow! It looks amazing. Great work!
I watched this mostly for the beautiful views of the ride. The hook was that I recently bought my first road ebike. How I would love to do this route! My bike has about the same watt hours. Nice demonstration of the possibility.
Not sure if the „Ad“ relates to Ribble or the Stelvio. That is an epic piece of road and definitely on my bucket list. I‘ll do it without a motor but good to see that it is possible for more people.
Awesome video!!! Now I know I'm making the right choice purchasing the Wilier Filante Hybrid as my new ride. I'm a 63 woman cyclist looking to extend my road cycling years. Your videos are always informative and fun to watch. Thx! 🚴♀️
The Stelvio has been on my bucket list for over 30 years. Nice video of the route. Some day.
note... stelvio pass.. on early 1900... was opened also in winter.. and coaches with 4 horses bring people from Austria to Bormio...to our famous thermal bath. you can see those coaches in a local museum.
I ride Ebike in Bangalore and have covered more than 200 km in one full charge as I switch off the battery when on flat surface. Use it only when exhausted and have a gradient to go over. Yes now am able to explore many places in my neighbourhood. Wish I had a place like the one you showed in your video. You have a great bike... Mine is E-Motorad EMX ... I believe it is a French design made in Taiwan.
I’ve been crashing about on my eMTB in the local woods. The decision wasn’t easy but being mid-fifties and struggling with the climbing, I had no choice. Two years later and I barely use the power, just enough to take the “ick” out of a stiff hill. No doubt in my mind, if climbing is limiting your cycling get yourself an e-bike, road or rough. It’ll put the smile back on your face and keep you fit. You end up riding more often as recovery is possible, you haven’t gone too deep.
As an ageing biker living in Pyrenees and cycling with a much younger friend - just ordered mine. Six month wait unfortunately, but can't wait.
GCN Videos with Dr Oli are definitely top shelf 👌
Orbea Gain , alloy version with same motor. I do a 30 mile commute into London occasionally. And by time
i get home after 60’miles I have 35-50% battery left depending on how tired I am . It’s fairly flat with only a handful of short steep hills , nowt like the climb in the vid !! But the range is good as I am frequently pedalling above the UK cut off limit of 15.5mph
There was an extra battery pack attached to the frame. Can see it was attached to the system as well. So that whole ride needs the extra battery as well
That road does look incredible. It is good that an ebike like that allows more people to experience an epic climb like that. I guess you could always hire one, for the day, if your budget can’t quite extend to the expense of buying one of those.
You can not experience an epic climb like that on a ebike. You can easily tell Ollie or any trained person wouldn't break a sweat doing any climb on a ebike. You may aswell just drive the Stelvio up with a car and claim you've experienced an epic climb.
Mopeds have been around 120 years. Motors outperform humans. But, YOU didn't climb it, the motor did.
@@user-jy3fd7rf5p What about someone with a medical condition? Ollie is fit and healthy, of course he found it easy with the ebike. Someone with say a respiratory condition, or just an older person, might not be able to do the ascent without some assistance. For them averaging 150watts might be a substantial effort. The bike is not like a car, that's a pretty ignorant statement tbh. You still have to pedal the bike. It is called e-assist for a reason.
@@stevek8829 no, the cyclist powered up the climb with assistance from the electric motor. If you watch carefully you can see the Ollie's legs moving the pedals
@@a1white Yes for someone with health issues e-bikes can be good, pointed that out before in this thread.
Your statement of "having to pedal" is a misconception. Yes you have to turn around the pedals, but you don't have to use any force. Studies indicate that riding an e-bike is hardly raising your heartrate and will not at all result in muscle growth or better condition.
Recent studies show riding an ebike is about as "intensive" as walking through the city with a bag of groceries.
That Ribble has the battery range extender fitted but there is absolutely no reference to it. It looks like it was plugged in so theoretically has given him up to 70% more range.
(I believe by the way that it is the range extender I now own, having bought mine as an ex-demo one. The guy I bought it off said that it had been out on test with GCN)
no comment?
It really makes a massive difference and effects the entire subject matter of this video.
@@petergoodier of course no comment. This was an ad. Being only able to beat This climb with 200 € extra Equipment would not fulfill the task 😉
I've got a Giant Road E plus, but it's a heavy beast - at 19kg, so i really fancy trying one of these Ribble's - The Ribble is light enough at around 12kg to be used without any power as a normal bike, if you should run out of power you won't be going backward, as it feels on the Giant - you pop over the 'magic' 26kmh and when the motor stops it feels like someone is applying a brake as the 19kg bike's gravity pull kicks in. The Ribble would have a markedly less effect as you slip in and out of the speed limit and that's what I'd like to try.
60 plus years old. E-bikes (I own 3, Giant, Trek, and Specialized) have me riding more than I ever have before. Longest ride to date is 70 miles (eco) mode Trek 8s...32% battery left when I arrived home.
did the same trial three days ago from the other direction starting at Prad, around 26km distance and 1850 elevation to the top, with the Cannondale Synapse Neo 2 Model 2019, Bosch active line plus 3. generation. It worked, but on the top the battery was nearly empty with 13km range left. Anyway, if bicyclists use mostly "Tour Mode" it should work easily.
Great camera and drone footage....Top stuff and wow !!!
I got arthritis in both knees just before I turned 40 this year. Thankfully I can ride again medicating with MTX. When I overdo it regarding sports or a rheuma episode kicks in I will have to cool it down, cycle less and weigh easier. Last weel I looked at an E-road bike in a shop, the big rear hub, the fat down tube, the weight lifting it up. When I can't ride anything anymore without assistance I might buy one, hopefully when I am 70. Until that point in time I am so glad to lift my own weight up a mountain or over a distance; nothing beats the raw feeling of accomplishment, silent and private, mostly to yourself.
I worry fewer and fewer normal people get to experience what their bodies and minds actually could do if they did just put in the effort.
But hey, now that climbing on a mountain bike without assistance often gets you positive feedback by hikers, road bikers may seem an increase in positive feedback, too ;-)
What a great video; hits the nail on the head about the benefits of an e -bike. They allow the not so fit or able of us to enjoy cycling.
Cycling should be for all, E bikes are a step in the right direction 🙌
Learned a new word today. Insouciant - showing a casual lack of concern; indifferent. Thanks Ollie.
Every day's a school day
It appears that you were using the Mahle add-on battery (a water-bottle battery). Was this additional battery pack used? Or was the internal 250 Wh battery only used? Just curious.
Great video. Amazing scenic route. Not sure if I ever dare using my own bike and probably will not rent/use an e-bike because that will hurt my pride.
Thank you Ollie and GCN team for the video.
There's no shame in using an e bike!
@@gcn Totally agreed, no shame using an e-bike. And neither I care if someone is teasing/commenting but still deep down inside…. Someday I will probably try from some middle point and climb up! There are quite a few in Europe that are in my bucket list. :)
I have an Orbea gain e bike- rode the Isle of Wight a few weeks ago, strong head wind for 50% of the ride 110k and 1650mtrs - had the additional battery attached, finished with 5% left. 62 yoa and 95kg. Average 25k
Another pleasant episode brought by Ollie. It’s gives us near asmr sensations. Thank you guys
I have a Specialized Turbo Creo SL…with 85kg I can run 100km with a single charge…love that bike
I’ve got the same set up on my bike. Took it to Morzine and did the climb up to Avoriaz then back down and up the jou plan - it was just over 1500m of elevation and a flashing red light . Amazing bit of kit 🤛
Sounds like an epic ride!
Yes , was amazing - that was without the extender - Alta Badia in August next 🤛🤛
Beautiful bike and a corresponding landscape!
It is a fine looking bike. No big battery bulge, although the black thing that looks like a water bottle is in fact the optional extended range battery.
love the ebike video these new road ebikes are the way to go
I did the Stelvio many years ago on a 750cc motorbike with pillion. Because of the thinner atmosphere as you go up I had to gradually drop down the gears to prevent the engine from stalling.
surely one of the reasons we ride our bikes is to see great views of countryside, to take our minds off everyday drudgery. Whether it's something as glorious as European climb or grovelling up a local hill, riding a bike is just enjoyable.
I rode the Stelvio in June 2019. Ollie was so lucky to have it to himself When I rode it, it was full of Germans in Porche
and mad motorcyclists and the top looked like Blackpool on a bank holiday.
Luckily it was quieter when we rode up it
I own one of these and can't sing it's praises enough. I would add a few points that were missed. The motor is 250KW and the bike has an internal 250kwh battery, you also have the range extending battery in the bidon cage which adds a further 240kwh and it's pretty heavy circa 2 kilos. The range extending external battery will only charge the main battery when the motor is not being used so not sure if you had any benefit from it? There are 3 levels of assistance and these can be tailored in the app so in theory you could have as low as 1% assistance up to 100%, the bike also connects to my Garmin 1030 which provides accurate data on how much battery is left by %, how much power is being put out, cadence etc. If you are on the fence about buying an ebike and your not out riding because of it then stop what you are doing and get go buy one now, it's a game changer. Great video.
The range extending external battery will only charge the main battery when the motor is not being used ? Are you sure?
@@MikeCaffyn1 Yes I’m sure.
@@MikeCaffyn1 Yes - the Mahle Range Extender cannot directly power the X35 motor. Instead it is used to charge the main, internal battery whenever the motor assistance is not being used (either because the rider has switched to zero assistance level, or because road speed is above 25km/h).
I have a BMC Alpenchallenge AMP and it's amazing, it's not as pretty as all this bikes with the Ebikemotion system, but I need all the power and a big battery being over 100kg.
great bike that!
Somebody deserves an award for building that road, that was a lot of work. Great video. I wonder how many times your battery would make the same trip before it would need to be replaced.
It's won numerous awards
Not sure about the Marle system, but Shimano quote 1000 charges will keep 60% capacity
Cracking video! That’s on my bucket list now!
Go for it!
Did you have to use the range extender? Itson the bike but not mentioned
Infectious enthusiasm!!! Epic day out!
I've done many of the Tour climbs with my Giant Explore an ebike in both the Alps and Pyrenees.
Climbing that for the first time would take me four times as long, I’d be off the bike every other hairpin admiring the view!!!
Hi. Good video and one reason why I bought the Ribble Endurance SLe. The service from Ribble has been absolutely awful. Delayed delivery, then the bike delivered with faulty Di2 gearing. GCN, you did a paid promotion and review on this product. Personally, I think you should look at the overall package/product. That's what your viewers want.
What beautiful scenery. Well done.
Thanks Ollie...insouciant , huh ? and. WOW...what a place..thanks for sharing that ! You legend you ! Peace
Great video Olly. Even better than Snake pass when it was closed to traffic this spring.
Did you use the range extender battery on the down tube ? or was it not plugged in? so you were testing the range on the main in frame battery?
Yeah, I’d like to know if the extender was used…
the answer is gonna take a while, he has to check back with Ribble first about what he can say and still get paid
I'd like to know too. You would think that if he had 250 Watts for an hour and putting in 150W himself then it would easily make it, Particularly, as Ollie is light, But the extender was there for a reason and the red light was flashing so less than 5-10% battery left. Message seems to be if you get up an HC climb on this bike DO NOT descend the other side or you are going to have a very hard climb to get back home!
Yes please do tell, it’s not a standard feature and is an option, and doesn’t seem to have been mentioned in the video at all.
He did say he pushed the battery so i suspect he climbed it quickly. The battery bidon was there, it's only fair to assume it was used, if he hadn't, he'd have said so. I climbed that pass, it is looooong.
Go in greece ...macedonia
Olumbiada -Arnea (forest hollomondas... 30 km climbing..)
I love this, it just is a great reminder that cycling is supposed to be fun and liberating. There seems to be a lot of cyclists that think it is only about suffering and bragging rights over power numbers. I wonder if they ever even look up and see the scenery anymore. I wonder which group most people would rather ride with.
I see there is someone in these comments already saying you should stay away from this road if you can't get up it without a motor. This is why so many people hate cyclists, it just seems to turn too many people into elitist, egotistical, selfish, idiots. Cycling is constantly on the back foot in society because of a small number of psychotics giving the rest of us a bad name.
thanks mate! glad you enjoyed. and just ignore the naysayers!
All quite right...but yeah, there also is something inherently funny about an electrified road bike.
@@Exgrmbl No...there is nothing "inherently" funny about it. Our sun is "inherently" hot. It is how you were indoctrinated that determines your perception.
I cycled up there in 1990 with panniers, tent and all on a MTB , flies around ur sweaty head and hairpin bends forever.
Love your videos Ollie!
As a person afraid of stationary heights, my hairs started to stand up when he stopped by the cliff area for the view 😨
Ollie, it looks like you had the accessory spare battery installed on the Ribble, did you use that battery up too ?? I have just ridden my first 1,000 on my Bianchi Impulso e-allroad gravel bike which has the same Mahle X35 motor on it and I love it. Another great video sharing how much fun cycling is to all……
Spectacular! I’d love to take my Specialized Creo SL Expert up that!
Go for it! 🙌
God what a road. And NO TRAFFIC! I'm so jealous. Ex-NYC bike messenger here. I have a VanMoof X3 that has replaced my car. My longest ride so far has been 30 miles in a hilly environment. I'm 71 and really love that I don't have to kill myself on hills, especially when it is 95F (35C). The e-bike is transformational in bike transportation. I welcome them whole-heartedly. I could not care less what some single-letter grouch thinks.
Loved these Stelvio contents you guys made. Hoping someday to be fit enough to ride in a place like that without needing this beautiful e-bike! 😂
I'm not a fitness fanatic and I managed to ride it (slowly) but it was absolutely worth It. One of the best rides of my life!
Hopefully you will!
@@MikeBrown-lq3iv I can only imagine! I used to ride many kilometers when I was younger but then you know, family and children, working hours and stuff… riding becomes secondary 😂
That's impressive considering how small the motor and battery are .i thnk you have understated your ability .👍
When did you make this video? You seem to have picked the perfect split between snow and tourists. I’ve been over the Stelvio twice in the other direction, but in late June. The party at the top is quite something then.
Was this done with the range extender battery. I like the look of the bike but much prefer mid mounted motors for their feel. Admittedly I only use one for commuting now, but could see the benefit of having something that looks so much like a normal road bike.
Amazing! Thanks
Amazing tour on an ebike 👍
Great Video Ollie!
thanks mate
I like that you are featuring Ribble bikes, a nice English company. That looks like an additional external battery in the seat tube water bottle cage. Do you have to manually switch that on?
Oh, to have the Alps on your doorstep...
PS I'm going to 'drape spaghetti insouciantly' over my plate from now on, instead of just tipping it out of the saucepan into a great big soggy pile.
Thanks for this, I immediately paused the video and was trying all sorts of spellings for what I thought he had said but couldn't figure it out. "Insouciantly"
What power did Ollie average? I take it "ECO" mode is the least assistance of the 3 modes. What was the bike's average power assistance? What was the duration of the climb?
Gorgeous! I want to go to there.
You should!
Im impressed with this bike being a hub drive bike, it seems to compare very well with a centre drive bike.
A guy I work with is French and the last climb on the list to be done was the Col du Tourmalet. (Apparently, if you're French and you don't make all the epic climbs, you die and go to French Hell. I think that is ridding a Huffy and eating Chef Boyardee for eternity. I'm not sure.) His sister-in-law was on an e-bike. He said it made it all the way up the climb but ran out on the "short" climb back into town. He said she was miserable getting the heavy bike up the last 5 kilometers.
Is carrying a spare battery an option?
@@johnarleentaninecz2867 I do not know. I didn't ask him what bike she rode. I didn't ask for a lot of details. Maybe she could have used less assist and maybe it would have lasted. If I think to ask, I will next time I see him. He is a semi-retired professor, so I don't see him that often anymore.
@@johnarleentaninecz2867 depends on bike and batteries. Some are set up for swappable batteries like you’d find in film equipment but those are rare. Most bikes have built in batteries and you just need to buy what you need.
The only downside I see is the amount of bike battery explosions we’ve seen in NYC since they became the norm for deliveries.
Amazing views on my list to do one day 🚴🤩👍
@ollie can you please verify your logic @2:50 ? Most ebikes are force multipliers and provide N * [your watts] so as your watts INCREASE (up to the assist speed limit) the motor’s contribution also INCREASES.