This is my sixth year attending the SHOT Show in Las Vegas, Nevada, and this time, I came across something completely new: hunting e-bikes. These aren’t just regular mountain bikes—they’re rugged, high-powered electric models designed specifically for outdoor enthusiasts, especially hunters.
These e-bikes are equipped with powerful lithium-ion motors—typically 750W or 1000W—and use microprocessors and sensors to provide pedal-assist, making it easier to ride through tough terrain. The idea is simple but clever: you can quietly ride one of these bikes into the woods without spooking wildlife, and then bring your catch back out using the same bike. It’s like having a portable, motorized pack animal.
I had a chance to chat with Dean Stokes from BAKCOU, a Salt Lake City-based company showcasing their models at the show. He gave me some insight into this emerging market, which is still in its early stages. Here’s what stood out:
Some bikes feature rear-wheel motors, while others use mid-drive motors, which offer more torque and better performance when climbing or hauling heavy loads. BAKCOU’s models are nine-speed mountain bikes with both pedal assist and a throttle. When using pedal assist, you can travel anywhere from 10 to 50 miles depending on the terrain and how much you're pedaling. If you use the throttle alone, the range drops to about 3–5 miles.
But don’t worry—if you prefer, you can still ride them like a regular, albeit heavy, mountain bike. Some models come with front suspension, others with full suspension, so you can choose based on your needs.
Prices for BAKCOU bikes start around $4,000 and go up to over $5,000, with other models like the Rogue pushing past $6,000. They also offer a solar charging kit, allowing users to charge off-grid in 4–5 hours via a standard outlet or sunlight.
One thing to note is that some backcountry areas have restrictions on powered vehicles, so you can lower the wattage to stay within regulations. The front-mounted display lets you control the motor, check battery life, and adjust settings as needed.
The bikes can detect whether you're pedaling or not and respond accordingly. For example, if you stop pedaling, the assistance stops, letting you coast down hills unpowered. This makes them versatile for different situations.
Accessories vary by brand, with options like baskets, cargo racks, and trailers to help carry gear or game. As this category is only about five years old, the market is still growing, with fewer than 10,000 units in circulation so far.
While they may seem like a futuristic solution, there are limitations. These bikes are complex machines, and parts like tires, motors, and batteries can fail over time. That said, in a short-term crisis—like a gas shortage or grid failure—they could be a valuable tool for getting out quickly. With pedal assist, you can cover tens of miles on flat roads, making them a solid alternative to traditional vehicles.
For now, the price tag is too steep for most preppers, but as demand grows, costs will likely decrease. In the future, these e-bikes might become a must-have for those preparing for emergencies—or just looking for a unique way to explore the outdoors.
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