Can the eBike be used for bikepacking without completely defeating the purpose of the sport, or are we just going to gloss over the fact that these motorized monstrosities are essentially cheating. I mean, whats the point of loading up your bike with all your gear and claiming youre self-supported when youve got a 250-watt motor doing most of the work for you. Are we going to start allowing eBikes in the Tour Divide, or is this just a case of the bikepacking community being too afraid to take a stand against the electric menace.
Im looking for some honest answers here, not just the usual hand-waving and excuses about how eBikes are still a form of cycling. If youre going to claim that an eBike is suitable for bikepacking, then you need to be prepared to defend that position and explain why the motor doesnt completely undermine the spirit of the sport. And please, spare me the nonsense about how eBikes are just a way for older or less able cyclists to enjoy the sport - thats just a red herring.
The fact is, if youre using an eBike for bikepacking, youre not getting the same physical or mental challenge as someone whos riding a traditional bike. Youre not developing the same level of endurance, skill, or strategy. And youre certainly not earning the same sense of accomplishment. So, can someone please explain to me why eBikes are being touted as a viable option for bikepacking, despite all the evidence to the contrary.