Rob Dempster 'Allo 'Allo Gardens! (AAG) Howick (uMngeni) Stupid is as ... 26 June 2026

Google eMTB Brake AI Overview

In South Africa, the standard eMTB setup typically features the front brake on the right lever and the rear brake on the left lever. This mimics motorcycle controls, leaving your left hand free to signal or operate the e-bike's display/dropper post while applying the rear brake.

Key Differences & Setup

Regional Variances: While South Africa, the UK, and Australia predominantly use the Right-Front / Left-Rear layout, the US and mainland Europe generally use the Left-Front / Right-Rear configuration.

Stopping Power: Because eMTBs are heavier and faster, your front brake accounts for roughly 70% of your stopping power. It is highly recommended to use just one finger on the brake lever so you can maintain a firm grip on the handlebars.

END! - Google eMTB Brake AI Overview

When my new Trek Rail+ 8 Gen 5 Electric MTB arrived a week ago, the box was placed in a corner of the garage (My Shed). The box was opened to take a peak at the unassembled bike, and given that I am still recovering from my Triple Bypass and minor stroke, that was it.

It did not last. A week later while Edith was at a Pilates Class, I winched the frame out of the box and added the front wheel, handle bar (with brakes etc attached), pedals and saddle. Edith returned, was impressed and immediately gave the bike a short test ride.

As soon as Edith started her ride she realized that the brakes were opposite to what we are accustomed to. Front/Left, Rear/Right. A problem that would involve taking the bike to Hattons Bike Shop in Pietermaritzburg. The bike went into the bike rack.

Today Bruce came from Pietermaritzburg to visit us. After a birthday lunch for Edith, Bruce thought he would try the bike, and possible also riding it back to Pietermaritzburg (and Hattons Bike Shop). Well it did not take Bruce long to return from his test ride in order to tell us (me), that the handle bar had been installed upside down. He then reversed the handle bar, and also swapped the saddle for one that was more comfortable to sit on.

After that he grabbed his kitbag, hopped on the bike and headed for Pietermaritzburg, leaving me slightly embarrassed.

As the say, "Stupid is as Stupid does!".

     Some Links

• Die Trek Rail+ 8 Gen 5 - Blog about the eMTB

If you have any comments, corrections, suggestions or plain criticism,
I would appreciate it if you would communicate the same to me.

		[email protected]
Allo Allo (Protea) Gardens