I recently had the chance to ride a very sweet e-bike—the Marin Rift Zone E1. It was my third time riding an e-bike, but the first time I got to test a high-quality eMTB on my home trails, head-to-head against my beloved Salsa Blackthorn.

With me were Brad and Marin rep Glen, and we hit a trail system we’ve ridden dozens of times. It features everything you want: fast flow, steep climbs (both punchy and grinding), technical sections, and spicy descents. Some sections I clean every time on the Blackthorn, others I don’t. So this felt like a fair, honest test.

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First Impressions: Speed and Stability on the Descent

The trail kicks off with a fast descent that always sets the tone. The Rift Zone E1 felt great right out of the gate. It handled the tight hairpin turns confidently, and while I’m not sure it was faster than my Blackthorn, it felt every bit as fun. The weight of the bike added a planted feeling and helped carry momentum without compromising control. That theme kept coming up again and again.

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Learning Curve: Climbing with a Boost

Climbing on an eMTB definitely requires recalibrating your gearing and cadence. On the way out, the familiar tight chicane section that I usually tackle with ease on my acoustic bike suddenly became unpredictable—I shot into the bushes a few times before figuring out the power delivery. That’s not a knock against the Rift Zone E1—it’s just the reality of adapting to the torque and pedal assist that all e-bikes bring.

Once dialed in though? Climbing felt like cheating—but in the best possible way.

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The Impossible Climb: Conquered… Mostly

There’s one legendary section of trail we call The Impossible Climb. Very few in our group clean it consistently. Riding it on the Rift Zone E1? Still tough—but I cleared a particularly nasty stretch I rarely make on my acoustic rig, thanks to the assist and a bit of newfound confidence.

This is where eMTBs shine. When you learn to harness the motor’s power, especially in low-speed technical climbs or when you’re caught off guard by sudden elevation changes, it opens up trail possibilities that feel just out of reach on a regular bike.

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Instant Power is a Game-Changer

Whether you’re stuck in the wrong gear, surprised by a techy section, or digging through an endless rock garden, the ability to lay down power instantly is a serious advantage. It’s not just about going faster—it’s about maintaining flow and confidence.

By the end of our ride, we were hot, sweaty, smiling—and still had gas left in the tank, both figuratively and literally.

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So… Should You Go Full E?

Here’s the thing: eMTBs are amazing. No question. But I’m still holding off for now. Why?

• I love my Salsa Blackthorn. It’s a do-it-all machine, and the only thing holding it back is… me.

• None of my riding crew has gone full eMTB—yet. And going solo on an e-bike while your friends are suffering uphill just feels weird.

• Cost is a real factor. The Marin Rift Zone E1 is more affordable than some, but adding another bike to the stable isn’t always in the cards.

Would I recommend e-bikes to someone who’s considering it? Absolutely. If e-bikes get more people riding more trails, more often—and with less intimidation—then I’m all in.

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Final Thoughts: E-Bike Curious?

The Marin Rift Zone E1 proved itself as a playful, capable, and fun eMTB that doesn’t take the soul out of riding—it just turns up the volume a bit.

If you’re even a little bit curious, I say: go demo one. Just be warned—you might not want to give it back. 

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🛠️ Marin Rift Zone E1 Specs at a Glance

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