Cost to maintain EMTB

[rcspott]

Looking to buy a 2020 EMTB. Target is a full suspension bike costing between $3.5k to $5.5k. I was wondering what type of maintenance cost these bikes occur over a 1yr period? I know it has a lot to do with how much and hard ya use it but would like to hear some of your experiences. Out of warranty what would a blown motor cost to replace? Thanks.

 

[Gary]

Exactly the same as a normal mtb
Drivetrains don't wear out any quicker
Tyres don't wear out quicker
Brake pads don't wear out any quicker
Suspension pivots/seals don't wear any quicker or need any more regular maintenance.
all other parts than the motor/battery/cranks are generally just standard mtb components

The motors and batteries need no maintenance costs (most are non user servicable and are warrantied for 2 years)
£900 to replace a motor when out of warranty
£500 for a relacement battery

 

[Kernow]

Fact is you’ll ride it harder longer and faster , chains brakes and tyres do wear faster same as any vehicle more power results in more wear depending also how much you use the power
It’s hard to say how much faster stuff will wear as it depends on your local conditions and how you ride
Since owning mine in 8 months And 1400 miles I’ve replaced rear tyre , and front is past it’s best . Iam half way through my second chain and probably half worn front ring .
Brake pads I’ve worn out 2 sets . It’s not an extreme cost really though for amount of riding I’ve done . I would say compared to last season on my normal bike I’ve used about a third more wearable parts . That all amounts to about a £100 in parts so far so not exactly an expensive sport .
However the tyres wheels and drivetrain are tougher and chunkier on some higher end bikes , I think some with cheaper cycle parts etc have experienced a bit more wear and had to upgrade stuff . I think a lower spec bike will probably cost more in the long run
Iam sure motors and batteries will be rebuildable , but thats a way down the line so a bit of an unknown .
I can see specialist motor repair centres offering exchange motors etc in the same way you currently see for other electric motors across all uses from industry to motor vehicle

 

[NorthernBloke]

As above you'll ride it for longer and harder imo, I've ridden mine 4000km in the last two years. Twice as much as I would have.
On my third back tyre (although one was swapped from front), chain ring replaced, on third chain (third is new) and second cassette (replaced after 3000km).
I reckon I have 1000km before I need a new cassette.
Shimano motor replaced (under warranty, £700 otherwise), back wheel replaced (refused warranty).
Derailleur replaced just recently, argument with a rock.
Pads changed at least four times.
I have easily spent £1500 in two years on keeping it on the trail, so £750** per year I think is reasonable.
**I have just downgraded from XTR to XT to halve the price, which is a weight to cost compromise I am willing to take.
I am a heavier rider and the conditions are often muddy and gritty which gets into bearings and chains and motors.
Note, you'll get very friendly with your LBS unless you can do most of the mechanics yourself