For the Marker, leaving the pavement behind is a big part of its appeal. The 4” tires, front suspension, and long range make it comfortable venturing onto gravel roads, forest routes, and the right kind of singletrack. But trail riding comes with a slightly different set of rules than cruising a bike path.
Here are our tip seven pieces of advice before you head out on your first, or next singletrack ride:
1. Check Whether Ebikes Are Allowed on the Trail
Ebike access isn’t guaranteed. Rules vary by trail, land manager, and ebike class, so check the regulations for the specific place you plan to ride before heading out.
And don’t assume a “bikes allowed” sign automatically includes ebikes. A minute of research before the ride can save you an awkward turnaround at the trailhead.
2. Choose Trails That Match Your Bike and Ability
Like ski runs, mountain bike trails are usually rated by difficulty, including green (beginner-friendly), blue (intermediate), black (difficult) and red (experts only).
The Marker is right at home on dirt, loose gravel, forest roads, and less-technical singletrack, but it isn’t a downhill mountain bike. If your plans involve big drops, rock gardens, or highly technical descents, you’ll probably be happier on a full-suspension bike with more travel.
Also, when you’re trying a new trail, take the first lap a little easier. Learn where the tight corners, punchy climbs, and surprise drops are before picking up the pace, and give the rider ahead of you enough room so that, if one of you needs to quickly stop (voluntarily or involuntarily…), you won’t run into each other.
3. Adjust Your Tire Pressure for the Terrain
The Marker’s 26 x 4” tires already provide plenty of cushion and traction, but you'll want to run slightly lower pressure on singletrack than you would on pavement or hard-packed gravel.
Less air allows more of the tire to contact the ground, which can improve grip through loose corners, sandy sections, and uneven terrain. Just don’t go so low that you risk bottoming out or compromising handling.
If you like knowing exactly where your tires stand before every ride, Monarc’s TPMS sensors make it easy to keep tabs on pressure.
4. Use Pedal Assist Strategically on Trails
More assist isn’t always better.
On loose climbs or tight, twisty sections, too much power can make it easier to break traction or surge when you don’t want to. Dial the assist back, keep your pedal stroke smooth, and let the tires find their grip.
When the trail opens up or a long climb starts, bump the assistance back up. You can also use the TouchDisplay to customize ride modes around your power preferences.
5. Remember That Ebikes Carry More Momentum
Ebikes are heavier than traditional mountain bikes, and you’ll notice that weight most when you need to slow down or change direction quickly.
Look farther down the trail, brake a little earlier, and stay relaxed when the terrain gets rough. Smooth usually beats aggressive—especially when you’re still learning how the bike responds on dirt.
6. Manage Your Battery for the Whole Ride
Climbing, cold temperatures, rider and cargo weight, assist level, and even your lights can all affect battery use.
The Marker comes with two batteries, each with up to 60 miles of range, giving you plenty of flexibility for longer rides. Even so, keep an eye on your battery level throughout the day rather than waiting until you’re deep into the route to check.
That matters especially when the second half of your ride contains most of the climbing. It’s always better to finish with a little power left than to spend the final miles wishing you’d been more conservative earlier.
7. Be a Good Trail Citizen
Trail etiquette depends on where you ride. Most singletrack systems are directional and primarily used by mountain bikers and trail runners, which keeps things relatively simple. On multi-use trails, though, yielding rules become more important.
As a general rule, cyclists yield to horses and people on foot, and a rider descending should give way to someone climbing when two-way bike traffic is allowed. Local trail rules always take precedence.
Regardless of who technically has the right of way, courtesy goes a long way. Slow down around other trail users, don’t rip blindly around corners, stay on the established route, skip the ride if you’re leaving deep ruts, and avoid headphones that block out everything happening around you.
And when you want to pass someone? Ask nicely and don’t rush them!
Take the Marker Beyond the Pavement
Just as important as being prepared with things like water, a flat kit, and a helmet, is knowing the guidelines and rules that apply to the places you’re riding. With a bit of research ahead of time, and a fully charged battery, you’ll go far.