Whether you’re looking to get an electric bike or just want to upgrade your current one, there are plenty of options out there. However, when it comes to choosing a motor for your bike, the choice can be confusing.
There are two main types of electric bicycle motors: hub and mid-drive. Each has its advantages and disadvantages, so it’s important to understand the differences between them before you decide which one is right for you.
Hub and mid-drive motors are the most common types of electric bicycle motors available. They’re found on many popular e-bike brands, including Shimano and Bosch.
A mid-drive motor is located between the cranks on an e-bike’s frame, rather than directly in front of the pedals as a hub motor is. It generates torque that spins a shaft connected to the chainring on a rear wheel, which provides additional assistance to the rider when they’re pedaling.
The motor’s rotor is made of magnetic materials that interact with the stator to spin, which transfers electrical energy into mechanical power. Brushless DC motors have become the standard over the last decade, compared to older motors that used brushes, which wear out over time and make them less efficient.
When it comes to electric bicycles, most manufacturers focus on mid-drive motors because they’re easier to install than hub motors. Plus, they’re able to provide more torque than hub motors at lower RPMs.
They also don’t damage chains and cogs as often as hub motors, so they’re cheaper to produce and less likely to break down over time.
In addition, the gearing in a mid-drive motor makes it easier to climb hills because you can select a low gear when you’re climbing steep terrain or accelerating from a stop with a lot of power.
Another advantage of a mid-drive is that it’s much quieter than hub motors because it doesn’t spin as quickly. That’s important for people who don’t want to annoy neighbors or other bikers on the road with their noise.
A mid-drive also doesn’t have the same issues with overheating that a hub motor does when you’re cruising uphill. Because the motor doesn’t spin as quickly as you can pedal, it doesn’t need to be as efficient at converting electricity into heat.
This leads to a significant reduction in the amount of cooling that’s needed on an e-bike, which can help you avoid sweating too much on a long ride.
Some mid-drive e-bikes come with a display that can help you keep track of the battery life and level of assistance being delivered by the motor, which is especially handy if you’re going on an extended trip where you’re not able to plug in for extended periods of time.
The most advanced e-bike motors are typically rated for speeds of up to 48 km per hour, so they’re ideal for commuting and pleasure riding. They also offer a variety of power levels, from low to high, so you can find the perfect option for your needs and budget.