For the first time in its history, the BC Bike Race (BCBR) will welcome ebikers. Known as one of the world’s most iconic multi-day stage races, BCBR is taking a groundbreaking step by launching an eMTB category. It’s the first event of its kind in North America to include electric mountain bikes.
This move reflects BCBR’s tradition of innovation in mountain bike events. It follows similar international events like South Africa’s Wines2Whales and New Zealand’s Volcanic Epic. Both of which have embraced eMTB categories in recent years.
The vision behind eBCBR
“This has been on our radar for nearly a decade,” says Andreas Hestler, co-founder and marketing director of BC Bike Race. “We first started thinking about it when a group of German racers asked us why we didn’t have a category for eMTBs. At the time, North America was about ten years behind Europe in adopting electric bikes, but now we believe it’s the right moment to start including them.”
Dubbed the “eBCBR,” the new eMTB category will run as a separate, concurrent event, ensuring a dedicated schedule that keeps traditional (acoustic) and electric riders apart. This approach preserves the integrity of both experiences.
For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, an untimed option will also be available. This allows. riders to tackle the course without the added pressure of competition.
Riding into a new era
BCBR’s decision to include eMTBs marks the latest evolution in a race that has consistently grown alongside the mountain biking industry. When the event launched in 2007, most bikes were aluminum hardtails with 26-inch wheels and dropper posts were unheard of.
E-mountain bikes are simply the next step in this progression. By introducing the eBCBR, the race continues to honor its legacy of embracing new technology. As Hestler puts it, “we’re evolving to give more people the chance to enjoy what makes BCBR special—an unforgettable singletrack adventure.”
What you need to know about eBCBR
Dates and locations
The eBCBR will run from June 30 to July 6, 2025, alongside the traditional BC Bike Race. The race will showcase some of Vancouver Island’s most spectacular terrain, with stages including:
Stage 1 & 2: Victoria
Stage 3: Cowichan Valley
Stage 4: Nanaimo
Stage 5 & 7: Cumberland
Stage 6: Campbell River
Bike options
Both SL (super light) and full-power eMTBs are eligible to compete, offering flexibility for riders of all preferences.
Course…
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