Overview
Imagine the ultimate eMTB. Blisteringly quick with huge power and range, built to handle serious terrain, and with an internal gear system to prevent chain problems. That’s what Optibike has produced in its top-end electric mountain bike, the R22 Everest.
Unlike many other e-bike brands, Optibike uses an in-house power system instead of relying on Bosch or Yamaha. The motor is a 1,700-watt mid-drive system. Emphatically not for road use in the U.S., it chucks out a brutal 190 Nm of torque — well over double that produced by the top Bosch motor. This is powered by a 3.26kWh dual battery capable of up to 300 miles per charge.
Designed for overlanding (with its trailer attachment) or trail riding, the Optibike R22 Everest is an extreme eMTB with few comparisons on the market today. And if you feel like going hard, a dual crown suspension fork balanced with a 200mm travel rear swingarm suspension will allow you to handle the most extreme off-road riding your mind will let you attempt.
Reasons to Buy
Do you have access to large tracts of private land with extreme terrain? This is the ultimate mountain bike for you in that case. It can’t be used on public roads in most states, but if you have the opportunity to explore the wilderness with the landowner’s permission, there are few areas you couldn’t enjoy on this eMTB.
You’ll know if this is your ride if you’re the sort of expert mountain biker who feels limited by most other electric mountain bikes. If you’re looking for a bike that offers max range, industry-leading power, or the capability to handle any terrain, then there aren’t many electric mountain bikes that quite fit the bill like the R22 Everest.
Things to Consider
There is no way this could fit in the U.S. three-class system for electric bikes. The motor is 700W too powerful, and the speed is 8 mph above the widely held legal limits for an e-bike.
This is a beast that needs caging on private property. If we’re to play with this metaphor, you wouldn’t take a pet mountain lion on a walk on your local trail, as people might get a bit freaked out! Nor should you ride this to work without expecting attention from the local law enforcement.
