Listen up, moto enthusiasts and mountain bikers alike! Today we’re putting the spotlight on the Gas Gas ECC6. This electric bike has been turning heads on the trails more than any other I’ve ridden recently. Boasting a vibrant red color and a robust build, the new Gas Gas Electric Bike clearly appeals to riders with a dirt bike background. But don’t think this is just for moto converts; mountain bikers, you’ll want to pay attention too. Gas Gas has done their homework, equipping this eMTB with quality components and a well-thought-out frame. This isn’t some cobbled-together e-bike – the ECC6 is a legitimate, high-performance electric mountain bike.
Before we dive into the ride experience, let’s run through some quick details. The ECC6 is built as a true enduro eMTB, ready to tackle aggressive trails. Our test model comes with top-of-the-line components and Sram’s advanced Powertrain drive system. It’s powered by a 630Wh swappable battery, although the battery cover can be a bit tricky to handle when removing and reinstalling. For suspension, Gas Gas has collaborated with DVO and WP. For those familiar with dirt bikes, WP is a name that carries weight, and it certainly sparked conversations on the trails. This setup combines DVO’s expertise with WP’s cone valve technology. With those details covered, let’s get into how this Gas Gas electric bike performs on the mountain.
A vibrant red Gas Gas ECC6 electric bike parked on a trail, showcasing its enduro mountain bike design.
Close up view of the Gas Gas ECC6 electric bike SRAM Powertrain system and components, highlighting the high-end build.
Detailed shot of the Gas Gas ECC6 DVO and WP suspension collaboration, emphasizing the cone valve technology.
Front view of the Gas Gas ECC6 electric bike showcasing the handlebar controls and robust front suspension.
Side profile of the Gas Gas ECC6 electric bike demonstrating its frame geometry and aggressive stance.
Rear detail of the Gas Gas ECC6 electric bike, showing the rear suspension and tire setup.
Gas Gas ECC6 Ride Review
Uphill Performance
Let’s get straight to the point and discuss how the ECC6 performs on climbs. There are definitely aspects to praise, along with a couple of minor drawbacks. First, the drive system. The Sram Powertrain system is genuinely impressive. It delivers ample power, seamless integrations, and a user-friendly interface. Personally, I find the two power mode options sufficient – in reality, I often only need one. The power delivery is also well-refined; it’s not overly aggressive or jerky. While on flatter trails, it might not feel as potent as some other systems, when tackling truly steep inclines in lower gears, it begins to outshine the competition. When the climbs become incredibly challenging, the motor simply keeps powering through. And, for me, that’s one of the greatest advantages of an eMTB – conquering ridiculously steep trails that you’d likely avoid on a traditional pedal bike. So, the Sram Powertrain earns high marks in my book. Regarding battery capacity on the ECC6, it comes with a 630Wh battery, which isn’t the largest for a full-power electric bike. It’s sufficient for substantial rides, but don’t expect to tackle massive elevation days without considering a battery swap.
A quick note on the auto-shift feature before we move to suspension and geometry. I haven’t quite gelled with it myself. I prefer the control of manual shifting. However, I understand it’s a significant draw for riders who prefer to focus solely on pedaling and let the bike handle gear selection. Having said that, the ability to shift while coasting is a notable feature. It’s quite useful to drop a couple of gears just before powering into a steep climb or when cornering right before you want to accelerate and pedal hard.
The geometry of the Gas Gas ECC6 is undeniably long. The head tube angle is slack, and the reach is moderately long, especially if you’re on the larger side of a large frame. For riders around or under six feet tall, it might feel on the longer side. Combine that with 461mm chainstays, and you have a substantial bike. This has both advantages and disadvantages. Let’s start with my favorite benefit. As I mentioned before, I love tackling incredibly steep climbs on an eMTB. The Sram motor is a significant help here, but so is the long wheelbase, particularly those extended chainstays. Typically, on an eMTB, your climbing limit is dictated by how difficult it becomes to keep the front wheel grounded and tracking straight. The longer chainstays help distribute your weight more towards the front of the bike, preventing unwanted wheelies on steep ascents. The ECC6 is definitely above average when it comes to tackling challenging climbs.
On the downside, in tight and twisty terrain, you’ll need to exert more effort to navigate corners. It can occasionally feel like a wrestling match. Fortunately, the suspension platform isn’t overly soft, preventing excessive bobbing and wallowing simultaneously. I can only imagine how unwieldy the ECC6 would be if the suspension were as plush as some other bikes in this category. The suspension provides relatively good support for a 160mm travel bike equipped with a coil shock. Yes, there is some pedal bob, but it’s likely within my preferred range for an eMTB. The enhanced traction from a more active suspension platform is beneficial on technical climbs.
Rider climbing a steep uphill trail on the Gas Gas ECC6 electric bike, demonstrating its climbing capabilities.
Downhill Dominance
The most striking characteristic of the ECC6 when descending is its sheer size and stability. That long wheelbase truly shines, providing exceptional “plowability.” However, this stability comes at the cost of agility. This bike is designed for riders who prefer a point-and-shoot approach. It excels at steamrolling over rocks, roots, and anything else in its path. You’ll certainly feel the terrain through the suspension, but the bike remains composed and unfazed – it simply keeps going.
The suspension isn’t overly plush or excessively soft. I typically prefer eMTBs with around 140-150mm of travel due to what I call the “ebike effect.” Because of the weight distribution and sprung-to-unsprung weight ratios, e-bikes can feel plusher and offer more travel than their non-electric counterparts. The ECC6 exhibits less of this ebike effect. It feels very much like a traditional 160mm bike, which I would argue is a positive trait. Combining overly plush suspension with the ECC6’s long wheelbase and rear center might result in a ride experience akin to piloting an oversized, faux leather recliner down the mountain.
The ECC6 definitely favors steeper descents and higher speeds. It feels less comfortable cruising on flat, mellow terrain. In those situations, it can feel overbiked, and the handling might seem cumbersome. Pumping and jumping are not where this bike excels. However, when you introduce speed and slope, it feels right at home. The handling improves, the bike’s weight becomes less noticeable, and it becomes more maneuverable. In this regard, it reminds me somewhat of the Giant Trance X E+, which makes sense considering both bikes have relatively long chainstays.
I do have one minor complaint, which is unusual for me. I don’t typically mind a bit of noise from my bike. In fact, many of my personal bikes sound like rattling shopping carts – but it doesn’t bother me. The ECC6, however, is on the noisier side. Between the cable management, plastic frame protectors, and the battery itself, it can get a bit loud. Let’s just say you won’t be sneaking up on any wildlife on the trails. I believe this could be addressed and improved with some clever DIY solutions. But I wanted to make you aware of it.
Gas Gas ECC6 electric bike descending a rocky trail, highlighting its stability and downhill performance.
Close up of the Gas Gas ECC6 suspension compressing while riding downhill, demonstrating its responsiveness on rough terrain.
Action shot of the Gas Gas ECC6 electric bike rider navigating a berm on a downhill trail.
Front view of the Gas Gas ECC6 electric bike rider speeding downhill, showcasing its aggressive enduro capabilities.
Gas Gas ECC6 Comparisons
Giant Trance X E+ vs Gas Gas ECC6
Image link to Giant Trance X E+ review.
I find many of the handling characteristics of the ECC6 to be comparable to the Trance X E+. However, the Trance offers a significantly different suspension feel. It’s plusher, deeper, and more forgiving. The ECC6 provides similar levels of stability and length, but its suspension is more performance-oriented and race-ready.
Read the Trance X E+ Review
Transition Repeater vs Gas Gas ECC6
Image link to Transition Repeater review.
The original Transition Repeater comes to mind when considering the ECC6. They share a similar suspension feel, but the geometry ultimately dictates how they handle trails. The Repeater is more agile and maneuverable, while the ECC6 prefers straight lines and confidently tackling obstacles head-on.
Read the Repeater Review
Who is the Gas Gas ECC6 For?
I envision the Gas Gas ECC6 as an exceptional bike for four distinct groups of riders. Let’s start with the most obvious one: riders transitioning from motocross. There’s a definite appeal to this bike for those with a moto background. There’s a sense of familiarity and comfort in choosing a brand name they recognize when venturing into a new sport. Riders who enjoy motos and are looking to explore mountain biking will likely feel more at ease on a Gas Gas. Think of it this way: if you’ve never ridden dirt bikes but wanted to start, and Santa Cruz suddenly released a moto, you’d probably be very excited. You’d trust that they understand what you appreciate about mountain biking and could translate that experience into a different discipline. This is the same concept, but in reverse.
Next, we have riders who prioritize “wheels on the ground” performance and enjoy simply plowing through trails. If you’re not focused on jumps, tricks, or playful riding, you’ll appreciate the stability the ECC6 provides. It’s a bike that means business and will confidently roll over almost anything in its path.
Then there are riders who desire top-of-the-line, high-spec components. The ECC6 is equipped with some of the most premium parts available on a mountain bike. And, when compared to many other high-end eMTBs, it offers a slightly more accessible price point.
Finally, the ECC6 will appeal to tinkerers. With its highly adjustable suspension and customizable frame protection, you could spend considerable time in the garage fine-tuning settings and personalizing its appearance. As for me? I’d rather just get out and ride the thing.
A rider stands with the Gas Gas ECC6 electric bike on a scenic overlook, summarizing the riding experience and target audience.
That concludes our review of the Gas Gas ECC6 electric bike. See you on the trails!
