So I finally got to try a "real" eMTB today at the Pivot demo. Overall the experience was about what I expected. More miles, less tired, easier on my heart but still a good workout. It was alot of fun, but almost got borderline boring by the end? Hard to explain, maybe because after 17 miles at Walnut you've done everything at least once. I'd really like to try one on an A to B adventure ride or as a gravel bike for longer distance. I think I'd really like it.
The bike (Shuttle SL) was great, I'm not a well. qualified reviewer but I'd say the bike and it's 3+ power modes were spot on. Perfect amount of assistance with easy controls to use while riding. Never once did I feel like the motor was doing something for nothing and never once did it feel like it was overpowering me. Spec was great, more than enough to handle the nut. I would love to try it on something techy like 1/4 notch. I think he said it was 37ishlbs. It felt great, but I have a dirt bike background so the extra weight didn't bother me at all compared to my 30 ish lbs "acoustic" bike.
I can 100% see the alure for someone who wants to extend their riding career due to age, health etc. Or someone who wants to get more miles in. However, I would say, it's a different sport, it's not a dirt bike but it's almost not a MTB. Maybe you could grab a 90s stump jumper and compare it my Timberjack and say the same thing.