Surron vs Mountain Bikers

[vigalass]

Guys- had my surron for about 5 weeks. I rode both motocross and mountain bikes here in phoenix for years. I've taken my surron out on some of the mountain trails where people walk and mountain bikes are prevalent. I did not expect how bikers would hate me. I'm always cool following customary rules and i don't overtake anyone and when i encounter people i creep at about 5mph. They still hate me. They just sneer and many say stuff like you need pedals.

is this universal?

[JohnKol]

It is really bad form to take what is essentially an MX bike to MTB trails, so the reactions from cyclists is to be expected. In CA motorized vehicles are not allowed on MTB trails, so you could get a heavy fine for riding a Sur Ron there.

And really, MTB trails are not that challenging on a Sur Ron, so why take it there in the first place?

[surronster]

vigalass I live in the Phoenix area too...have done the exact same thing as you. Ranger rick has been pissed off a few times b/c of our Surrons, told us not to come back to the mountain. I really like the MTB trails in Arizona, they are fairly technical and advanced. Until the police get involved, ride on my friend. Also DM me so we can ride.

[AZguy]

I ride my BBSHD electric bike all over the place out here and pretty much all the users except MTB guys really seem to like the bike... equestrian users and hikers all have commented to me how they really like the quiet low-impact use... ATV guys mostly just shrug their shoulders but still think it's cool in a way they don't really understand... MTB guys tend to sneer a bit and grumble "cheater" but outside that no worries

I get it with a sur-ron though.. it's not a bicycle, not even really trying to be, it's a light electric moto and it makes sense [to me] why it wouldn't be all that acceptable on the non-motorized-use trails

I've thought a lot about getting one but personally, I'd keep it on the motorized trails and use the electric bike for the non-motorized... I'd likely just plate the thing, not for street use but just so it's legal most all the motorized-use off-road stuff we have out here

The main reason I haven't taken the plunge is because I'd always haul it out to the trails and with the bike I can ride it both in town and on the trails... there's so much motorized-use excellent stuff out here that I guess I don't really understand the compulsion to take them on the non-motorized trails... especially knowing that it will aggravate a lot of folks including the land managers... When I talk to rangers on my electric bike they dig it - think it's a great use of the land... I'm confident they don't share that view on light electric motos although I'm also sure they have more problem with ICE motos


Regardless, no matter where we ride we should abide by the golden rule: don't be a dick

[dirtman]

Guys- had my surron for about 5 weeks.
They just sneer and many say stuff like you need pedals.

The SRX-LB has a pedal kit available.
There is information here on this forum if your do a search.
PS: even with the pedals they might still sneer & hate your superior power.

[MountainRider]

If you're poaching trails, yes, people are going to get mad. Continuing to poach on busy trails is going to make things worse for yourself and other Sur Ron/small EV users.

One challenge of owning and riding a Sur Ron is that it's a vehicle ahead of its time, with regards to regulations. That's just part of the deal. Ride it on moto trails, unless you enjoy conflict and setting back progress.

[vigalass]

well then when i see pedal bikers on my dirtbike trails i'm going to give them a rash of stink eye.

[Quinc]

I use these and keep them in pedals when the area calls for it. Then switch to pegs when not needed.

[pismocycler]

It is really bad form to take what is essentially an MX bike to MTB trails, so the reactions from cyclists is to be expected. In CA motorized vehicles are not allowed on MTB trails, so you could get a heavy fine for riding a Sur Ron there.

And really, MTB trails are not that challenging on a Sur Ron, so why take it there in the first place?

Not entirely true. In CA :

"Class 3 electric bicycles are not allowed on any bicycle path or trail, bikeway, equestrian trail, or hiking or recreational trail, unless it is within or adjacent to a roadway or unless the local authority or the governing body of a public agency having jurisdiction over the path or trail permits them by ordinance. "

[JohnKol]

Not entirely true. In CA :

"Class 3 electric bicycles are not allowed on any bicycle path or trail, bikeway, equestrian trail, or hiking or recreational trail, unless it is within or adjacent to a roadway or unless the local authority or the governing body of a public agency having jurisdiction over the path or trail permits them by ordinance. "

That proviso covers multi-use (usually asphalt) trails within city boundaries, not MTB trails.

[ElenaPrince]

I've been into motocross and mountain biking too, and recently got a Surron. It's a blast to ride, but I've noticed the same vibes on mountain trails. It's like some folks think you're intruding on their turf. I'm all for following the rules and being respectful, but it seems like not everyone's on the same page.I think the ""you need pedals"" comments might come from a place of misunderstanding. They might not realize that electric bikes, like the Surron, are a legit thing, and not just a motorbike. It's not universal, but it's definitely something some people need to get used to.If you're into downhill biking, you might want to check out some of the dedicated downhill trails in your area. They're usually more accepting of different types of bikes, and you'll find riders who appreciate the variety.

[JohnKol]

I'm all for following the rules and being respectful

Are you sure about that? In many states motorized vehicles are not allowed on MTB trails, and judging from the reaction you get from MTBers you're probably in one of those states, so doing something illegal is never respectful.