Epidemiology of Electronic Mountain Biking Injuries: An Unexplored Emerging Extreme Sport

IntroductionMountain biking is a fast-growing recreational activity. Electronic mountain bikes (EMTBs) are becoming more common and can attract a different demographic to traditional mountain bikes. The difference in bike design could lead to a differing injury profile. This study examined acute EMTB injuries, an unstudied area.MethodsA voluntary online survey collected data on EMTB injuries sustained by riders in the Australian Capital Territory and New South Wales. Descriptive statistics were used to analyze injury events.ResultsOver the study period (November 2022-June 2023) 67 injuries were recorded across 46 injury events. The median age of participants was 49 y (range, 20-67 y), and respondents were predominantly male (males 63%, females 35%, other 2%). Common injuries were superficial skin injuries (42%), mainly to the limbs. The study recorded 7 fractures to the limbs and 7 to the head and trunk. Most injuries were sustained from collisions or obstacles (49%). Most occurred traveling downhill (63%) on blue graded single tracks (65%), and 22% injuries occurred whilst traveling uphill. Injury management were spread across self-managed (44%), Emergency Department care (31%) and other health providers (26%). In the 7-d period following the injury 59% of riders experienced moderate to severe pain, and 50% were unable to participate in MTB riding.ConclusionElectronic mountain biking participants have a similar injury profile to traditional mountain bikers, but their demographics may differ. More research is needed to determine whether there is increased representation of female and older riders in electronic mountain biking.