Devon is one of the most rewarding places in the UK to cycle, but it’s also one of the most challenging. From the steep climbs of Dartmoor to the rolling lanes of East Devon and the sharp coastal ascents around Teignmouth and Exmouth, your bike needs to be capable of handling serious gradients with confidence.
If you’re looking for the best electric bike for Devon’s hills, choosing the right motor, battery and riding position can make all the difference.
At Leisure Life in Exeter, we’ve helped thousands of local riders find an electric bike that suits both their lifestyle and the terrain they ride. Whether you’re tackling rural country lanes, commuting into Exeter or exploring the South West’s stunning coast and countryside, this guide explains exactly what to look for.
Why Devon Is Demanding for Electric Bikes
Unlike flatter parts of the country, Devon riding often involves:
- Long sustained climbs
- Short but steep gradients of 15% or more
- Mixed road surfaces
- Rural lanes and farm tracks
- Strong coastal winds
An electric bike that performs brilliantly in a city environment may struggle when repeatedly climbing steep hills around Dartmoor, Haldon Forest or the South Devon coast.
This means power delivery and battery efficiency are often more important than top speed.
What Makes a Good Electric Bike for Hills?
Mid-Drive Motors
If you regularly ride steep terrain, we generally recommend a mid-drive motor.
These motors sit at the centre of the bike and work directly through the gears, making them significantly more efficient on long climbs.
Benefits include:
- Better hill-climbing performance
- More natural riding feel
- Improved battery efficiency
- Enhanced weight distribution
Popular systems include Bosch, Shimano and Motinova-equipped bikes.
Browse our range of electric-bikes
Large Battery Capacity
Steeper terrain uses more battery power.
For Devon riding, we typically recommend:
- 500Wh minimum for regular leisure use
- 625Wh to 800Wh for longer rides
- Dual battery systems for serious mileage
A larger battery allows you to use higher assistance levels without worrying about getting home comfortably.
Low Gearing
Many riders focus on motor power alone, but gearing is equally important.
Look for:
- Wide-range cassette systems
- Shimano Deore or equivalent groupsets
- Climbing-friendly gear ratios
The combination of a quality motor and appropriate gearing will make Devon’s toughest climbs feel far more manageable.
Our Recommended Electric Bikes for Devon Hills
1. Ampere Deluxe Pro Mid-Drive
One of our most popular all-round electric bikes, the Ampere Deluxe Pro combines comfort with impressive hill-climbing capability.
Why we recommend it:
- Efficient mid-drive motor
- Comfortable upright riding position
- Excellent value for money
- Ideal for country lanes and recreational riding
This is often the perfect choice for riders looking to enjoy Devon’s scenery without feeling every incline.
2. Raleigh Motus
The Raleigh Motus has established itself as one of the most reliable touring and leisure e-bikes available.
Key benefits:
- Bosch motor technology
- Comfortable long-distance geometry
- Excellent climbing assistance
- Proven reliability
For riders regularly exploring Dartmoor or planning all-day adventures around Devon, it’s a superb option.
3. Ampere X-Trail
If your rides take you beyond the tarmac, the Ampere X-Trail is worth considering.
Perfect for:
- Devon trails
- Forestry tracks
- Haldon Forest
- Mixed-terrain adventures
The more aggressive geometry and wider tyres offer additional confidence when conditions become rough.
4. Bergamont E Horizon
If comfort is just as important as climbing ability, the Bergamont E-Horizon Edition 5 Low Bar is an excellent choice for exploring Devon’s hilly roads and countryside.
Features include:
- Bosch Performance Line motor for reliable hill-climbing assistance
- Bosch Smart System for enhanced connectivity and ride data
- Integrated 500Wh PowerTube battery
- Over 50 miles of assisted range
- Four power assistance levels to suit varying terrain
- Intuvia 100 display for clear ride information
- Comfortable low-bar frame for easy mounting and dismounting
- Backed by a 2-year warranty
The E-Horizon Edition 5 is particularly well suited to riders who want a comfortable riding position without compromising on performance.
Step-Through or Crossbar for Devon?
This is one of the most common questions we hear in our Exeter showroom.
Choose a Step-Through If:
- Comfort is your priority
- You want easier mounting and dismounting
- You primarily ride roads and cycle paths
Choose a Crossbar If:
- You ride more challenging terrain
- You prefer a sportier position
- You regularly climb steep hills
Neither option is inherently better, but the right choice depends on your riding style.
Can You Ride an Electric Bike on Dartmoor?
Absolutely.
Electric bikes are ideal for exploring Dartmoor’s challenging terrain, helping riders cover more ground while reducing fatigue.
Many customers use their e-bike to:
- Explore Dartmoor National Park
- Ride the Granite Way
- Enjoy long-distance leisure cycling
- Discover quiet Devon villages
The key is selecting a bike with sufficient motor assistance and battery capacity for the distance and terrain you intend to ride.
Why Visit an Electric Bike Specialist?
While buying online can appear convenient, riding position, frame sizing and motor choice all have a significant impact on long-term satisfaction.
At Leisure Life in Exeter, our team helps riders:
- Compare different motor systems
- Understand battery options
- Test ride suitable models
- Find the right fit for Devon’s terrain
A short consultation often saves buyers from choosing a bike that isn’t suited to the hills they’ll actually be riding.
Frequently Asked Questions
Final Thoughts
Devon’s stunning scenery rewards riders with unforgettable cycling experiences, but those views often come after a climb. Choosing an electric bike with the right motor, battery and geometry will make those climbs feel significantly easier while helping you get more enjoyment from every ride.
Whether you’re exploring Dartmoor, commuting into Exeter or enjoying leisurely rides along the coast, the right e-bike can transform your cycling experience.
Ready to find the perfect electric bike for Devon’s hills? Explore our full range of electric bikes or visit our Exeter showroom to speak with our experienced team.
Ready to Find the Right Electric Bike for Devon’s Hills?
Choosing the right motor, battery and frame can make a huge difference when riding Devon’s steep hills, country lanes and coastal routes. At Leisure Life in Exeter, our experienced team can help you find an electric bike that suits your riding style and the terrain you want to explore.
- Expert advice on motors, batteries and gearing
- Electric bikes suited to Devon’s hills and countryside
- Test rides available at our Exeter showroom
- Local servicing and ongoing support