With options like Cuddeback, Blackgate, WiseEye, and Tactacam, how do you choose the trail camera that suits your needs? RG Sports & Outdoors is here to help! With first hand product knowledge on every trail camera brand we carry, we are here to help you choose the right brand. Cuddeback : Cuddeback provides hunters with a unique technology called Cuddelink. This system allows cameras to connect with each other, similar to walkie-talkies, and send photos to a single home unit. You can connect up to 24 cameras, with a linking range of 1/5 mile in wooded areas and 1 mile in open fields. The cameras can form a daisy chain, enabling coverage across vast hunting properties, even in regions without cellular service. Pros: Low cell fees, works with limited cell service, non cell plan available Cons: Video, Instant Photos & HD Photos are not available Camera Prices: L-Series = $180 MSRP Cell Plans: 750 Images = $10/Month 2,000 Images = $15/Month Unlimited = $30/Month Blackgate Blackgate provides high-end camera features with affordable monthly cell fees. You can share data between cameras, allowing you to tailor your cell plan and reduce expenses. There are two camera options to suit your needs. The R4G is the flagship model, while the newly introduced R4G Lite offers many of the same features at a lower cost, excluding video capabilities. Pros: Dual Carrier, Motion Blur Technology, No Glo Flash, Low Cost Cell Fees Cons: Smaller Accessory Selection, Short Battery Life on R4G Lite Camera Prices: R4G = $189 MSRP R4G Lite = $129 MSRP Cell Plans: Plans start at $3/month with data sharing available Wise Eye WiseEye provides excellent image quality along with one of the top apps for hunters. The Hunt Control app gathers image data using automatic species recognition to indicate the optimal hunting times and the most active locations. There are two camera models available: the DC2, which is the premium camera featuring high-end capabilities, and the MC2, a more affordable option that maintains the same image quality but excludes features like the LCD screen and GPS tracking. Pros: Picture quality, Hunt Control App, Multi Carrier, Ranch Plan (if qualified) Cons: High priced monthly fees Camera Prices: DC2 = $199 MSRP MC2 = $129 MSRP Cell Plans: 750 Images = $9/Month 4,500 Images = $15/Month 9,000 Images = $20/Month Ranch Plan = $6/Camera (need 12 cameras to qualify) Tactacam Tactacam changed the cell camera market with their first Gen 1 camera. Since then, they have continued to evolve and push forward in the latest trail camera technology. The Tactacam Reveal X 3.0 and Reveal Pro 3.0 offer great photos and videos instantly, with the option for HD. The Pro 3.0 offers an LCD screen and black flash, while the X 3.0 is a more budget friendly camera. Pros: Large accessory lineup, multi carrier, no glow flash (Pro 3.0) Cons: New models each year, higher priced monthly fees Camera Prices: Pro 3.0 = $155 MSRP X 3.0 = $125 MSRP Cell Plans: 250 Images = $5/Month 500 Images = $8/Month Unlimited = $13/Month

Cuddeback Digital offers a patended technology, Cuddelink. Cuddelink allows users to link up to 24 cameras under 1 cellular plan. With plans starting at $20/month, you will not find a more economical route to run a fleet of trail cameras than Cuddeback. Cameras will automitcally link when set to the same chanel (like a walkie talkie). Linking distance is 1/4 mile in the woods, or 1 mile in the open field, with the ability to daisy chain. To start your network, follow the steps below: Choose network type - Cellular - go to step 2 Non-Cellular - go to step 3 Any remote camera can be used as a non ceullar home camera Select home unit - G-Series Home Cellular Camera L-Series Home Cellular Unit (No Camera) Select remote unit(s) - L-Series Remote Camera IR Flash L-Series Remote Camera Black Flash L-Series Remote Camera White Flash (Available Fall 2024) Choose Extra Battery Source - Solar Panel - Super Solar Panel (great for shaded areas) 12D Dual Power Bank (adds 6-10 months battery life) 6D Power Bank (adds 3-5 moths battery life) 12V Power Cord Choose Mounting Style - Plastic Genius Mount (comes with camera) Metal Genius Mount Pan Tilt Lock (PTL) Mount Post Mount Cuddelink Advantages Seamless Connectivity : One of the most significant advantages of the Cuddeback Cuddelink is its seamless connectivity. Utilizing advanced technology, it allows users to link multiple cameras into a network without the need for Wi-Fi or cellular service. This proprietary wireless mesh network enables cameras to communicate with each other, extending the range and coverage, thus maximizing the monitoring capabilities over vast areas. Efficient Battery Life : In the world of trail cameras, battery life is a crucial factor. Cuddeback Cuddelink shines in this aspect, boasting remarkable efficiency in power consumption. With extended battery life, users can rest assured that their cameras will remain operational for extended periods without frequent battery changes, even in remote locations. High-Quality Imagery : The primary purpose of a trail camera is to capture clear and detailed images of wildlife. The Cuddeback Cuddelink excels in this domain with its high-resolution imaging capabilities. Whether it's daytime or nighttime, users can expect sharp, vivid images and videos, enabling them to closely observe wildlife behavior and patterns. User-Friendly Interface : Another notable feature of the Cuddeback Cuddelink is its user-friendly interface. Designed with simplicity in mind, it offers intuitive controls and settings, making it accessible even to those with minimal technical expertise. Whether setting up the camera or reviewing captured footage, the interface streamlines the entire process, saving time and effort. Reliability and Durability : When deploying trail cameras in the wilderness, durability and reliability are paramount. The Cuddeback Cuddelink is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor environments, featuring rugged construction and weatherproof design. Whether facing harsh weather conditions or encounters with wildlife, users can trust that their cameras will continue to perform consistently. Advanced Features : Beyond its core functionalities, the Cuddeback Cuddelink offers a plethora of advanced features to enhance the user experience further. From customizable settings to innovative motion-sensing technology, users have the flexibility to tailor the camera's performance to their specific requirements, ensuring optimal results in any scenario. Cost-Effective Solution : Despite its advanced capabilities, the Cuddeback Cuddelink remains a cost-effective solution compared to other cellular trail cameras on the market. Its competitive pricing makes it accessible to a wide range of users, from wildlife researchers and conservationists to hunting enthusiasts and landowners, seeking to monitor and manage wildlife populations efficiently.

In the realm of electric bicycles (e-bikes), one of the key decisions riders face is choosing between a hub drive or mid drive motor. Both options have their distinct advantages and cater to different riding preferences and needs. Understanding the disparities between these powertrains is crucial for making an informed decision. Let’s dive into the intricacies of hub drive and mid drive motors to unravel which one suits your riding style best. Hub Drive Motors: The Workhorse of Simplicity 1. Location: Hub drive motors are nestled within the wheel hub, either in the front or rear wheel. 2. Power Delivery: Hub motors deliver power directly to the wheel, providing a smooth and consistent acceleration experience. This setup is ideal for leisurely rides and commuting on flat terrain. 3. Maintenance: With fewer moving parts and a sealed design, hub drive motors require minimal maintenance. Riders can expect hassle-free operation and longevity from these robust motors. 4. Weight Distribution: The placement of the motor in the wheel affects the bike's weight distribution. Hub drive motors tend to make the bike slightly heavier, potentially impacting maneuverability, especially in off-road conditions. Mid Drive Motors: The Torque King of Efficiency 1. Location: Mid drive motors are positioned near the bike's bottom bracket, between the pedals. This strategic placement enables efficient power transfer and enhances the bike's handling dynamics. 2. Power Delivery: By leveraging the bike's gears, mid drive motors optimize power delivery according to the rider's pedaling cadence and the terrain's demands. This results in superior climbing ability and energy efficiency, making mid drives ideal for off-road adventures and hilly terrains. 3. Maintenance: The intricate design of mid drive motors demands regular maintenance to ensure peak performance. Components such as chains and gears may experience increased wear and tear, necessitating periodic replacements and adjustments. 4. Weight Distribution: Mid drive motors contribute to a more balanced weight distribution by placing the motor's bulk near the bike's center. This enhances stability and maneuverability, especially during technical riding scenarios. Choosing the Right Motor for You When it comes to selecting between a hub drive and mid drive motor for your e-bike, consider the following factors: 1. Terrain: For flat or urban environments, where consistent speed is key, a hub drive motor might suffice. Conversely, if you're tackling steep inclines or rugged trails, a mid drive motor's torque and efficiency are invaluable. 2. Riding Style: Casual riders seeking simplicity and ease of use may lean towards hub drive motors. Meanwhile, enthusiasts craving performance and versatility may opt for mid drive motors to conquer challenging terrain with ease. 3. Budget and Maintenance: Hub drive motors often come at a lower initial cost and require minimal maintenance, making them a budget-friendly option. However, mid drive motors offer superior performance and efficiency, albeit with higher upfront costs and maintenance requirements. Conclusion The choice between a hub drive and mid drive motor ultimately boils down to your riding preferences, terrain considerations, and budget constraints. Whether you prioritize simplicity, efficiency, or versatility, both powertrains offer distinct advantages that can enhance your e-biking experience. By understanding the nuances of each motor type, you can confidently embark on your e-bike journey with the perfect powertrain companion by your side.

The Electric-Assisted Bicycle Rebate (e-Bike Rebate) is designed to reduce the cost for Minnesota residents to buy a new e-bike at eligible retailers starting July 1, 2024. The rebate is worth 50-75% of the cost of an e-bike and qualifying accessories, up to a maximum of $1,500. Rebate Process Individuals and retailers must apply to the Minnesota Department of Revenue to take part of the MN Ebike Rebate . When the program opens on July 1: Individuals will apply for a rebate certificate using the application portal. Certificates are issued on a first-come, first-served basis. If approved, individuals will receive the rebate certificate by email. They will then have two months to go to an approved retailer and purchase a discounted e-bike and accessories. Retailers will apply the discount amount, listed on the rebate certificate, at the time of purchase. They will then have one month to request reimbursement through the retailer portal. Qualifying Items The MN Ebike rebate certificate applies to a new electric-assisted bicycle (e-bike) and qualifying accessories purchased at the same time. Qualifying accessories include a bike helmet, lights, lock, luggage rack, basket, bag or backpack, fenders, or reflective clothing. Number of Rebates Available The number of rebate certificates issued each year will be very limited based on the funds available. The legislation allocates $2 million per year in 2024 and 2025 for administration of the program and rebates. The program is set to expire in 2026. Sales Tax Though the rebate lowers the purchase price, sales tax must be paid on the full retail amount of the purchase. Additional information can be found on the MN Department of Revenue's website: https://www.revenue.state.mn.us/electric-assisted-bicycle-e-bike-rebate

New Product Release from Blackgate Hunting - R4G Lite Cellular Trail Camera Camera Details: Brand new for 2023 is the R4G Lite cellular trail camera. Don't let the price of $129.99 fool you, this is a great camera that packs a lot of features into a great price point. The R4G LITE is the latest 2023 cell camera model and is built with top-of-the-line 4G/LTE technology. A trigger speed of less than .04 sec ensures you won’t miss a thing. The R4G LITE offers proprietary Dual Lens and Dual Sensor Technology. Anti-fog lenses and weatherproof housing, the R4G LITE will continue to perform no matter what mother nature throws at you. All of these features plus a great cell plans, this might be your new favorite hunting accessory. Cell Fees: Blackgate offers a variety of cell plans, each on a month to month basis so you can easily stop or change your plan at anytime. These plans start at only $3/month and allow data sharing between all cameras on your plan. By doing this, Blackgate has significantly lower cell fees than their competition.

Blog from "Western Whitetail" https://www.westernwhitetail.com/cuddeback-launches-tracks/ Cuddeback, an industry leader in trail camera technology, announces “Tracks” cellular trail cameras. This line of trail cameras will focus on traditional cell cameras outside of the CuddeLink eco-system. Mark Cuddeback explains, “Tracks by Cuddeback is our stand-alone cellular trail camera. The CuddeLink system has exceeded my expectations and we are committed to continuing CuddeLink development. However, many hunters have smaller parcels where a single or a few cellular cameras are sufficient. And there are still plenty of new users of cellular cameras that want to begin with a single camera to get acquainted with cellular technology. Tracks allow Cuddeback to have a first-class offering while being branded differently to avoid confusion related to the CuddeLink product line.” Tracks are built on a new small ergonomic camera platform that maximizes the features users are looking for in a cellular trail camera. Historically, lesser cell cameras have been plagued by poor or spotty coverage and mediocre image quality. The new Tracks camera combats this issue with the integration of dual external paddle antennas for superior LTE reception in fringe areas. Tracks use an advanced IR-cut image sensor that eliminates the mechanical filter mover common in most trail cameras. This results in better image quality and reliability. The camera runs on four D batteries, which provides longer battery life than cameras powered by AA batteries. Additionally, Tracks supports connectivity to all Cuddeback accessories, ranging from external battery packs and solar panels to mounting systems. A built-in user interface allows the users to easily program and make changes to settings while at the camera. Users can also remotely adjust camera settings through the web interface or via the smartphone app. Finally, the new Tracks series allows users to access images in four ways: a smartphone app, email, text messaging, and an online web interface. And Tracks can send emails & texts to up to 10 people, allowing users to share images with friends and family without giving them access to the account. Features Small ergonomic housing. Advanced PIR (animal detector) with 7 stages of adjustability. Enhanced user interface with 2-line backlit display. Uses 4D size batteries which are lower cost and last longer than comparable AA battery power. Compatible with all Cuddeback accessories. Features 2 high-gain paddle external antennas for operation in fringe reception areas. Cell model features dual SIM sockets so camera can be configured by user to use either AT&T or Verizon cellular LTE service (one or the other, not at the same time).

A classic ride from our childhood reimagined, an electric scooter is all the rage right now, and for good reason. While best known for our fat-tire, all-terrain eBikes, Bakcou has entered the world of all-terrain electric scooters. They’re quick, easy to handle, and a relatively affordable option for alternative transportation. Built using the same technology as Bakcou eBikes, our new electric scooters offer another great opportunity for adventure. Whether you’re looking for something to cruise around the city or want a beefy ride to conquer the backcountry, Bakcou has a scooter to fit your needs. High-powered and built for the backcountry, the Timberwolf electric scooter lives up to its namesake. Key advantages of the Timberwolf include the ability to get on and off with ease, plus the easy handling allows you to constantly scan your surroundings. Without a chain like an eBike, this scooter allows for a quick, stealthy, and relatively silent spot and stalk. Likewise, the Timberwolf and smooth maneuvarability and easy handling. The Timberwolf is built with the same Bafang 750 Watt rear hub motor as our Flatlander eBikes, giving you the power you need to navigate the backcountry. Notably, the powerful Tektro Dual Piston Hydraulic brakes allow for a safe ride. Other notable components of the Timberwolf include the 400-lumen headlight, front and rear mud fenders, and a rear pannier rack. The Timberwolf is the perfect, quality-built electric scooter for rough roads and woodsy terrain. Grizzly The Grizzly is the top of the food chain, and this scooter is no different. This high-powered, full-suspension electric scooter was made for rocky roads and technical terrain. The Grizzly has easy handling, making it the perfect tool for the backcountry. As a result of the relatively silent operation, it is perfect for a spot and stalk. Powered by a Bafang 1000 Watt motor, this beast easily handles the difficult terrain of the backcountry. A high-grade aluminum alloy 6061 frame, beefy fat tires, and powerful Tektro dual-piston hydraulic brakes give this scooter the durability it needs. A bright 400-lumen headlight, rear pannier rack, and front and rear mud fenders are all included with the Grizzly scooter. The Grizzly, made to handle the demands of the backcountry, is sure to get you to your destination with ease. Every Bakcou electric scooter is built with the same quality design and integrity as our eBikes. From the slim and sleek Mini Badger to the rough and rugged Grizzly, our electric scooters provide fun for all ages with models available to fit all of your needs. Browse our collection of scooters HERE and find your ride to take you on your next adventure.

The popularity and success of eBikes have more than skyrocketed in recent years, for good reasons. They’re fun, relatively affordable, and capable of getting you where you need to go with relative ease. We often talk about how eBikes are a game-changer for your trail riding, hunting, and backcountry adventures, helping to take you farther into the backcountry. It's just as important to know how an eBike can improve your life overall. Whether an avid outdoorsman or a weekend warrior or simply just looking to get started, eBikes provide something for everyone. eBikes are opening the doors to new opportunities and making riding a bike and reaching new destinations possible for everyone. It’s been exciting to see how much the industry has accomplished and leaves us hopeful for what’s to come. Be sure to stick with us as we break down a few of the many ways riding an eBike can change your life. You might learn something new! #1: A Long-Lasting Form of Exercise The most notable and most talked about benefit of eBikes is their positive impact on physical health. eBikes help riders get in shape and stay in shape while being easier on the body (but not decreasing the intensity of your exercise). eBikes are easier on the joints, making them a perfect exercise option for the older generations or those with injuries or physical limitations. They make cycling more accessible for everyone. In addition to helping riders get in shape and being less physically taxing on the body, eBikes benefit riders by giving them the ability to modify each ride to fit their needs for the day. Often when people start to get discouraged by their workouts, they tend to back away from exercising because it can be too hard or too demanding on their body, and they lose hope. When riders can adjust each ride to their needs, they don't get discouraged, and it gives them the flexibility necessary to stay motivated to keep coming back for more. On the other hand, getting bored during a workout can also be discouraging and drive people away. If they feel like their rides are too easy, riders will get bored and never ride again. When they have eBikes with adjustable levels of pedal assist, riders can turn down the pedal assist and put themselves in a position to have to do more of the work themselves. Turning down the pedal-assist makes their workouts more challenging and a bit more enjoyable for those looking to push themselves, and in turn, keeps them coming back again and again. #2: Improving Your Mental Health, One Ride At A Time Fresh air and exercise are proven to improve your mental health. eBikes help you get outside and stay outside longer, improving your mental health one ride at a time. Many riders feel that there is nothing better than a ride in the sunshine, taking in new sights, with a slight breeze in your face on a warm summer day to put you in a good mood while benefiting your body. #3: Grow Your Social Life eBikes also create more of a social activity than traditional bikes. Finding biking and eBiking groups local to your area to get involved in is a great way to find new friends with similar interests. At the same time, eBikes create an opportunity to keep your rides consistent and give riders the capability to keep up with the group. On traditional bikes, riding in a group can be a bit stressful. You often have riders who end up farther ahead of the group while others fall behind due to terrain difficulty and riding abilities. With eBikes, riders can adjust their ride to match their needs by giving themselves the level of pedal-assist they need. Positive social interaction is essential for your mental health, and eBiking creates the perfect opportunity to make new friends or reconnect with old ones. #4: Save Time, Money and The Environment Riding an eBike makes for a far better mode of commuting than a traditional, gas-powered vehicle for several reasons. When you use your eBike for commuting, it benefits both you and the environment. Commuting on your eBike allows you to get in your daily exercise, spend time outside in the sunlight getting fresh air, and help the environment. eBikes are a non-pollutant mode of transportation and can help us reduce our carbon footprint one ride at a time. When you use your eBike for commuting, riders also find themselves saving quite a bit of money. With an eBike, there are no fuel costs, relatively no maintenance expenses compared to a car, and, typically, no costs to park your bike like there is for vehicles. Not to mention, using their eBike for commuting purposes allows riders to avoid the typical costs of wear and tear on their gas-powered vehicle. While we've focused a lot on the cost-saving aspects of an eBike with commuting, it’s also important to mention how much time riders save when they commute to work on their eBike. You may be thinking how that's even possible, and we don't blame you. Your eBike won't reach the speeds that your car can, and you sometimes have to go a little out of your way to find a bike path or bike lane that will take you to your destination, but you'll still typically find your commute being shorter than it is by car. And when you start to think about it, it starts to make sense. In cities across the country, commutes are getting longer and longer due to growing population size and needing to share the road with more people making the same commute. On average, the typical commute is thirty minutes each way; that adds up to an hour plus spent out of each day just sitting in your car waiting for traffic. But you can usually avoid that when you take your eBike. With your bike, you're able to either hop on the bike path to breeze home or ride in a bike lane sharing the road with commuting traffic but making much faster progress. When you use the bike path, you typically don't deal with traffic jams unless your ride crosses a busy street and you find yourself held up at a crosswalk. When you ride on the road, even if you do hit stalled traffic, you can typically safely navigate to the front of the pack and be able to continue on your way once the light turns green. Being able to save time and smoothly continue with your commute means that your trip will take the same amount of time every day and gives you more time to spend your day doing what you want, not wasting time sitting in your car. I think we can all agree that we would love to have a little extra time before and after work. #5: Taking You to New Destinations eBikes are helping riders reach new destinations and see places that would otherwise be inaccessible to them. Whether too far into the backcountry, farther than most are willing to travel by foot, or just places they would have never thought to visit otherwise, eBikes are opening a new realm of possibilities. Not only are eBikes taking riders further on single journeys, but they are also helping riders visit more destinations and ride many trails in a shorter amount of time. With the option to put a little less exertion into each ride, riders have the energy and capability to take on longer or multiple trails in one day or on one trip. This ability is opening doors to riders and tourists alike to-be-able to seize the opportunity of their trips to the fullest. eBikes help riders take on more trails, avoid traffic, and see more at their own pace and on their schedule. A whole new world of possibilities awaits when you take the leap and invest in an electric bicycle. eBikes are opening doors for new adventures, new friendships, and new opportunities for riders of all ages and abilities. Try not to let the fear of trying new things scare you away from trying out an eBike. As the biking world embraces the emergence of eBikes, several tutorials, guides, and local groups to get involved with have been established to make getting started on your new ride a breeze. Grab your eBike today and see where it takes you. Happy riding!

Purchasing an electric bike, or even a traditional bike, typically requires you to make quite a few decisions. Things like what color you want, what frame size, your purpose for the electric bike, and frame type are all things to consider. While these are all based mainly on personal preference, one tough choice is whether you want a hardtail or a full-suspension electric bike. If you're wondering what the difference between a hardtail and a full-suspension electric bike is, we're here to help! For now, we’ll give you the easy answer and then dive into the details a bit later. Hardtail bikes have only a suspension front fork, and the frame is rigid. Meanwhile, a full-suspension bike has both the front fork suspension and a rear suspension, and the frame is two separate pieces. As we mentioned, deciding between the two comes down to personal preference and preferred riding style. Our goal at Bakcou is to give you the information you need to make the right decision. In this blog, we're explaining the differences between a hardtail bike and a full-suspension electric bike. We're also giving a breakdown of the pros and cons of each. From there, we hope you feel more confident in deciding on purchasing your new Bakcou electric bike. HARDTAIL BIKES Let’s start with hardtail electric bike frames. Hardtail electric bikes are what most leisurely bicyclists are most familiar with, as they are a bit more popular in the bike market. As previously mentioned, Hardtail bikes have only the front fork suspension and a completely rigid frame. Front fork resistance is provided by metal coils or compressed air. On a hardtail bike, the bumps and vibrations can only be absorbed by the suspension fork. The suspension fork can help improve the rider’s handling and steering while out on rougher trails. Hardtail bikes are often a popular choice for cross country riding, trail riding, and bikepacking and are the top choice for those who enjoy riding at a more leisurely level. At Bakcou, the Mule, our hardtail electric bike with a mid-drive motor, continues to be our number one selling eBike. PROS The frame of a hardtail electric bike is rigid, meaning it is one single piece. A hardtail frame is typically lighter than its full-suspension electric bike counterpart. This makes it a better choice for long-distance riders or those who climb high elevations often. Efficiency is increased on a hardtail because the rigid frame transfers power from the pedals to the rear wheel. The lighter weight means riders expend less energy to accelerate and maintain speed. On a hardtail, there is no pedal bob. As a result, more energy will drive the bike forward when pedaling. Both of these will increase the bike's efficiency. On a hardtail, riders won't lose energy compressing the rear suspension. As a result, a hardtail has a faster ride when climbing or navigating easy terrain. Another important aspect is the design, mechanics, and durability of a hardtail bike. The design of a hardtail allows it to have a front derailleur in addition to the rear derailleur. This gives you more gearing options during your ride. We’ve already discussed in length the rigid frame design of the hardtail bike. This ties into the increased durability of a hardtail. A hardtail bike can withstand much harder impacts with little to no damage than its full-suspension counterpart can. On a hardtail, all of the tubes are welded together and there are no fragile linkages or pivot points. When it comes to the mechanics of a hardtail bike, they are much easier to repair and require less frequent maintenance. Easier maintenance and higher durability are important. It allows you to spend less time fixing your bike and more time getting out and riding the trails. All riders can agree that more time on the bike is the ultimate goal. Good for Beginners Hardtail bikes are the go-to bike for beginners for a multitude of reasons. First, hardtail bikes allow you to feel more connected to the trail because they provide more feedback. They also force riders to learn proper mountain biking techniques. Being forced to learn correct techniques can only benefit riders in the long run. The skills learned on a hardtail are transferable to a full suspension and contribute to being a better rider. Compared to a full-suspension bike, a hardtail is more versatile and is more suitable for several riding types. In addition to their versatility, hardtail bikes are less expensive than full-suspension bikes. They are typically about $800-$1000 cheaper. CONS Because a hardtail and a full-suspension electric bike are relatively the same, besides that rear suspension, most of the cons of a hardtail bike result from not having a shock absorber. A hardtail bike can be less comfortable and less efficient than its full-suspension counterparts. They can also be less capable as they don’t get as much traction and can’t handle the same drops and jumps. Finally, the last notable downside to a hardtail is the lack of adjustment options compared to a full-suspension bike. FULL-SUSPENSION ELECTRIC BIKES A full-suspension electric bike has both the front fork suspension and a rear suspension shock. Both shocks work together to absorb most of the rocks, bumps, and uneven terrain and the vibrations that come with them. The absorber makes for a much more comfortable ride and more efficient on rougher terrain. The full suspension also typically improves traction, control, and handling. Full-suspension bikes are the better choice for all types of mountain biking – downhill, trail riding, enduro, and CX. In the Bakcou world, full-suspension electric bikes are also a good option for those whose hunts or backcountry adventures take them to the top of a mountain or rocky hill. PRO For experienced riders, full-suspension electric bikes can improve their riding experience. The suspension system ensures that tires maintain contact with the ground at all times, giving riders better traction and handling control. The same suspension system also absorbs shocks and dampens vibrations from rocks, bumps, and roots in the trail, which makes it much more stable and efficient. The bike won't move around too much when you hit rocks and bumps. Not to mention, riders won’t lose their forward momentum on rough trails. The rear shock allows wheels to continue to roll over bumps, whereas on a hardtail, the wheels would bounce off the rocks and slow the bike down. On a full-suspension electric bike, the frame consists of two pieces. The two pieces of the frame are the mainframe and the swingarm. The rear shock is integrated into the frame and attaches both frame pieces. Because more research and development is put into the engineering of full-suspension frames and shock absorbers, they are much more technologically advanced. An added advantage of a full-suspension bike is its adjustability. Rear shocks offer multiple adjustment points so riders can dial in the bike specifically to their liking. Full-suspension electric bikes allow riders to reach and maintain higher speeds on technical trails because of the additional traction and shock absorption. Coupled with the ability to reach higher speeds is the capability of full-suspension bikes to hit drops and jumps because the suspension absorbs a lot of the impact when you make contact back with the ground. This impact is often hard to handle on a hardtail bike. These advantages make full-suspension electric bikes the better choice for all types of mountain biking – downhill, trail riding, enduro, and CX. CONS Like any fun, advanced product, there are always a few cons to go along with the pros. Let’s look at a few of the disadvantages of a full-suspension bike. The first, easiest downfall to get out of the way is the price. A full suspension bike is typically $800-$1200 more than a hardtail. Even if you found a full-suspension for the same price as a hardtail, the hardtail will usually have higher-end components and design than a full-suspension for the same price. Because full-suspension electric bikes are more forgiving, they are not a great learning tool for newer riders. A wider margin of error allows riders to ride above their skill level and can make up for the shortcomings of the rider. With the bike compensating for mistakes or lack of skill, riders can ride sloppily, roughly, or lazily and not know it. This compensation can lead to developing bad habits in their cycling skills, which can be detrimental in the long run. Full-suspension electric bikes are typically about two to four pounds heavier than a hardtail. They’re also less efficient and provide less trail feedback, both of which can greatly influence your ride. Not to mention, they’re less versatile than a hardtail bike. Full-suspension bikes are better suited for mountain biking and rougher terrain, whereas a hardtail is better for numerous uses. Finally, full-suspension electric bikes require more maintenance than hardtail bikes. More moving parts mean that not only are there more parts that need periodic maintenance and tune-ups, but there are more parts that can fail or wear out over time. For less mechanically inclined riders, this frequent maintenance can be a headache. WHICH ELECTRIC BIKE IS BEST FOR ME? Unfortunately, there isn't a simple, cut-and-dry answer for telling you which one is best for you. As mentioned, choosing between a hardtail and a full-suspension frame is a matter of personal preference and riding style. Both bikes have benefits, and both bikes have their downsides as well. The main things to consider when deciding are your budget and the terrain you plan to ride, plus your skill level. For experienced rider looking to spend more time riding rough trails, we’d lean towards a full-suspension bike. If you’re a newer rider or just looking to get out for some leisurely exercise with a few mountain trails thrown in, a hardtail bike will suit your needs (and then some) just fine. When you're on a tighter budget, you’re likely to have a wider variety of hardtail bikes available to choose from than full-suspension electric bikes. In this case, unless you need the rear suspension for the terrain you’re riding, we’d lean towards a hardtail with a few higher-end upgrades than an entry-level full-suspension. The decision is also dependent on your level of comfort in handling the bike, riding different terrains, and maintaining control of the bike. Hardtails are a better option for learning, whereas a full-suspension bike will give you a more comfortable ride. Hardtail bikes are a little faster and more adept, but a full-suspension electric bike conserves your speed on rocky terrain. It all comes down to preference and what you want out of your bike. Summary In the end, only you can decide what bike is best for you. Here at Bakcou, our goal is to lay out all of the options and advantages and disadvantages to our customers to help them make the best decision for themselves. We want our customers to love their electric bikes for years to come. We hope this has helped you learn more about the similarities and differences between a hardtail and a full-suspension electric bike. If you have any questions or are interested in purchasing a Bakcou electric bike of your own, reach out, and we’d be happy to help you out!

You can choose from various performance options and parts that can be customized with hunting e-bikes. The motor is one of the most crucial factors when choosing an electric bike for hunting. Typically, you have two choices: mid-drive or a hub motor. What is a mid-drive motor? A mid-drive motor (MDM) is a motor situated in the center of the bicycle, directly between the pedals. In contrast to the RHM, this sort of motor can only assist you with pedaling; it cannot run independently. Pros:  Hub drive motors tend to be cheaper than comparable mid-drive motors. Mid-drive motors use a chainring to transmit torque to your wheels, which combines with your gears to produce more active power and acceleration. Mid-drive motors offer a more natural feel and improved efficiency while driving in the right gear because they agree with your gears. Cons: Mid-drive motors may subject the chain to extra strain. This is especially true if the cyclist is using the gears wrong or is attempting to climb a steep hill. Mid-drive motors tend to be more expensive than comparable hub drive motors. Hub Drive Motor As the name suggests, it is a motor installed on the back of the bike, specifically on the axis of the rear wheel. Pros: Hub drive motors tend to be cheaper than comparable mid-drive motors. A hub drive will still function if the bike has a throttle. This guarantees that you won't be left stranded if your chain breaks. Cons:  Depending on which hub has the motor, the balance will be altered because the weight is far to the back or front.  Removing that wheel could be more challenging when you get a flat. Another possibility is that wires need to be dismounted. Conclusion: Which E-bike Motor Is Best For Hunters? Every motor is different, and some expensive hub motors will perform better than less expensive mid-drive motors. Quality vs. money is ultimately what makes the most difference. Hub motors for hunting eBikes typically cost cheaper to buy, fix, and replace the motor. A hub motor still delivers adequate performance, particularly for midwestern hunters who don't have to pass through very high slopes. However, a mid-drive motor will cost a little more if you want top-notch quality. Mid-drive motors typically offer more power and efficiency and better ride quality. Remark: The argument between the hub drive and the mid drive doesn't have a one-size-fitsall, clear-cut solution, like many other types of conflicting technology. It depends on your preferences for a motor and your budget for an eBike.

Without a doubt, the number one question we get asked about our Bakcou eBikes is “How far can I ride on a single charge?”, and to be completely honest, there isn’t a simple answer. The range of your Bakcou eBike, or any eBike for that matter, varies from rider to rider. When you see eBikes advertised as having a certain range, those ranges are usually inaccurate and sometimes quite exaggerated. It’s extremely difficult to estimate the range of your eBike because so many factors depend on the individual rider and the riding conditions. Some of the factors that influence the range of your Bakcou eBike include the rider weight, the level of pedal assist the rider is using, how much the rider is using the throttle, the terrain, the speed, weather conditions, and towing weight, just to name a few. How Do I Determine My Electric Bike Range? Before we start, it’s important to note that motor power only impacts how fast you can pull off and how well you can get up hills. Motor power doesn’t impact how far you can go. The battery capacity is the most important variable in determining the electric bike range. At Bakcou, we measure our battery capacity in Amp-hours (Ah). To calculate your eBike range, you will want to calculate the Watt hours (Wh) capacity of your battery. The formula to calculate Watt-hours is Watt-hours=Amp-hours X volts. Examples: Bike A has a 24V - 20Ah battery: 24V x 20Ah = 480Wh Bike B has a 48V - 10Ah battery: 48V x 10Ah = 480Wh Bike C has a 24V - 6Ah battery: 24V x 6Ah = 144Wh Bikes A & B have the same amount of energy, and with equal motors and riders they would perform very similarly. Bike B with the higher voltage will accelerate faster and climb better but at the expense of some of that energy. On the flip side, Bike C will not take you nearly as far. So, Which is Better? If you’re looking for an eBike that accelerates fast, climbs well, and can travel long distances on a single charge,the best option is to purchase a battery that has high voltage AND high amp-hours. A battery with high voltage and low amp-hours will shorten the distance you can travel on a single charge. At Bakcou, our eBike batteries are all 48V and available in a few different amp-hour options. We're proud to offer the BIGGEST eBike battery on the market in our 25ah/1200wh battery. This gives you great acceleration and climbing power and the high value amp-hour options give you the ability to go further. Finally, it’s important to also take the type of motor you are buying into consideration when you are looking at eBike ranges. There are good arguments to be made that mid-drive motors get a better range than the hub-drive motor counterparts because they work synergistically with the gears. At Bakcou, the Storm, Storm Jäger, Mule, and Scout are all available with a mid-drive motor. Conclusion We hope you find this information useful as you research and weigh your options for purchasing an electric bike. At Bakcou, in addition to having best-in-class customer service and eBikes built to handle their demands, we pride ourselves on offering the biggest electric bike battery available on the market for Lithium-ion batteries. If you have any questions regarding eBikes, eBike batteries, or Bakcou eBikes and scooters in general, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us. We’d be more than happy to help! https://bakcou.com/blogs/news/determining-electric-bike-battery-ranges

With summer coming to a close, trail camera season is fully open us. Cameras provide valuable insight for the hunting season, giving you a better chance to take down that mature buck! With many camera brands to choose from, it can be difficult to determine what brand fits your needs. Picture quality, video availability, cell plan cost and many other factors should be looked at. Below, we'll break down our top three favorite brands on the market today: Cuddeback, Tactacam and Spartan. Cuddelink by Cuddeback: The favorite thing we like about Cuddeback is the Cuddelink system. With the patented Cuddelink system, users can link up to 24 cameras under 1 cell plan, saving the users . When running a fleet of cameras, there isn't a cheaper cell plan available. If running more than 4 trail cameras in a select area, we recommend running the Cuddeback system. Cellular: Yes Flashes Available: Black, Infrared, Strobe(White) Instant Photos: No Videos: No Cost: $200 Warranty: 5:2:1 (1 Year Warranty, 2 Years if Registered, 5 Year Disc. Buy Back) Pros: Cuddelink System Longest Warranty One of the Main Original Trail Camera Manufacturers Cheapest Cell Plans When Running Systems Pictures can be sent to app and to multiple email/phone numbers Cons: Battery Life - Due to the linking, cameras use extra battery. External power sources are available for extended run times. No instant photos. Pictures are sent as a batch as fast as one hour Initial camera setup can be complicated Tactacam: The Reveal by Tactam is the newest company on our list. Since hitting the market, they have made a big splash, taking over the trail camera market. Simple, easy to use and low cost, 3 key factors for success. When running a small amount of cameras, or cameras spread across multiple properties, the Reveal is the perfect trail camera. Cellular: Yes Flashes Available: Black, Low Glow Instant Photos: Yes Videos: Yes Cost: $120 - $150 Warranty: 1 Year Pros: Instant Access to Photos and Videos Lowest Price Point Easiest Camera Setup Cons: Relatively New to Market Limited Flash and Camera Models Spartan: Spartan has been around for years and has always been seen as a premium trail camera. With top end features like "Go Live" (gives you the ability to watch live at any time) and a great warranty, it's no wonder the Spartan brand is still around. With a recent price drop, they are now more affordable than ever. For serious hunters who want all the bells and whistles, the Spartan "Go Live" is the trail camera for you. Cellular: Yes Flashes Available: Black, Strobe(White) Instant Photos: Yes Videos: Yes Cost: $200 - $400 Warranty: 2 Year Pros: Instant Access to Photos and Videos Live Streaming Available (Go-Live Model) Cons: High Price Point Initial Setup Can be Complex If you have any additional questions, feel free to email us at rgsportsandoutdoors@gmail.com or call the shop at 844-281-HUNT (4868).