Overview of the R22 Everest
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.
We spoke to the co-founder of Optibikes, Jim Turner, and he states that while the R22 Everest can be configured to 5 different levels. In Levels 4-5, the R22 is legal in all US forest and BLM areas where OHV (off-highway vehicles) are legal. There are ten of thousands of miles of these trails available, so check with your local national forest area before riding.
Furthermore, in Level 3 the R22 is a Class 2 e-bike, so you could ride it on the road to these trails. Can you imagine a Class 2 electric bike with over 300 miles of range?! Insanity.
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 that 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 the R22
If you’re looking to do some serious, and we mean serious overlanding, this is the ultimate electric mountain bike for you. Like, if you live for bikepacking in extreme conditions on extreme terrain, or if you have a trailer that you haul your gear with, this is your bike.
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 (we’re talking 40% grade inclines), then there aren’t many electric mountain bikes that quite fit the bill like the R22 Everest.
Things to Consider
To legally ride this beauty on the streets, you will need to set the Level to 3 or lower. If you’ve found some open land to ride on, however, let it rip at Levels 4 or 5! Topping out at 34 mph, with 190 Nm of torque and 1700W of power between your legs, this rig is for serious riders who know how to control something of this magnitude.
All this power comes at a price, and rightfully so. We are talking high-end, thoughtfully designed construction with the R22. Bring your checkbook and your sense of adventure if you’re interested in something like the R22 Everest.
