Trail Advocacy, Access Is Earned
Access is earned, not assumed. Riding within Class 1 limits protects fragile terrain and preserves the partnerships that keep our trails open. We build for performance and ride with restraint so every trail stays rideable for the next generation.
Power Limit Guidance
Not all eMTBs are created equal, and not all are welcome on the same trails. Class 1 defines the benchmark for backcountry access: pedal-assist only, with motor support ceasing the instant you exceed 20 mph (32 km/h). No throttle. No loopholes. Just measured, human-amplified effort.
20 mph
32 km/h ceiling
Pedal-Actuated
No throttle
Ceases
At threshold
Widest
Of all eMTB classes
eMTB Class Comparison
| Class | Speed Limit | Throttle | Trail Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Class 1OURS | 20 mph | No | Widest, most non-motorized trails |
| Class 2 | 20 mph | Yes | Restricted, throttle disqualifies many trail systems |
| Class 3 | 28 mph | No | Restricted, speed ceiling limits backcountry access |
The Paratu CP eMTB operates strictly within the Class 1 envelope. The Maxon BIKEDRIVE AIR S delivers its full torque only while you pedal and cuts cleanly at the 20 mph threshold. This is not a limitation. It is the contract that keeps singletrack open to eMTBs. Suggested power limits are not bureaucracy; they are the line between access and closure. Honor the class, and land managers, state forests, and volunteer networks can advocate for continued access with confidence. Exceed it, and the gate closes for everyone.
The Stewardship Pledge
Every TGI Cycling build carries a commitment that extends beyond the rider. We pledge to build within Class 1 limits, to educate every owner on responsible eMTB use, and to give back to the trails that give us everything.
Every Paratu CP eMTB leaves the workshop tuned to honor the 20 mph assist ceiling. Full torque only while you pedal, clean cutoff above the line.
Yield to non-motorized trail users, protect wet and thawing singletrack, and stay on designated routes. Speed you don't use is access you keep.
A donation to the Vermont Mountain Bike Association (VMBA) is embedded in every eMTB sale, funding trail building, maintenance, and advocacy across the state.
Support land-use policy and legislation that preserves responsible Class 1 eMTB access on public trails for generations to come.
Embedded Donation
Riders may add a personal contribution at checkout. 100% routed to the Vermont Mountain Bike Association for trail building, maintenance, and access advocacy statewide.
Trail Organizations
VMBA
Vermont Mountain Bike Association
Our primary trail partner. $50 of every Paratu CP eMTB sale goes directly to VMBA trail building, maintenance, and advocacy statewide.
Visit VMBAIMBA
International Mountain Bicycling Association
The global voice for mountain biking access. IMBA's trail standards and land-use advocacy underpin eMTB access policy nationwide.
Visit IMBASustainable Trails Coalition
Sustainable Trails Coalition
Focused on restoring hiker-biker access on federal wilderness trails, the long game for backcountry access.
Visit Sustainable Trails Coalition