Understanding eBike Motors: A guide to what’s out there.

Posted on 9 October 2024
By Dexter @ 360 Cycles
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Understanding eBike motors: A guide to what’s out there

If you're looking to purchase an eBike for the first time or considering an upgrade, you've probably heard about the different motors available. Choosing the right eBike with the right motor can make a significant difference in your riding experience. Let's dig in!

There are many brands manufacturing eBike motors - Bosch, Shimano, Bafang, and Mahle might be names you recognise, but what makes them different?

Motor Manufacturers Breakdown

Bosch motors are typically found in our premium eBike range. Their systems are industry-recognised as some of the best available. While Bosch does create hub motors, you will generally find only mid-drive motors in Bosch-powered eBikes. Bosch also produces high-capacity battery packs featured in our CUBE range. These motors can be updated and serviced by connecting diagnostic tools in our workshop, ensuring your eBike stays in top condition.

Shimano is known for its decades of experience in creating bicycle components—they're so well-known that there's a 75% chance your bicycle has Shimano parts! Their eBike system, called STEPS, can be found in both premium and entry-level bikes. Shimano has mastered the art of connectivity and often releases fully integrated gear and motor combinations, like the STEPS EP8 paired with a Di2 groupset. Like Bosch, Shimano systems can be updated, repaired, and serviced through diagnostic tools.

Bafang makes both hub and mid-drive motors and is usually found in our more affordable eBike models. They are used in many types of bikes, from city commuters to mountain bikes. Bafang motors are a reliable option at a lower cost, we have seen bikes come back to us after thousands of kilometres for just basic servicing, with no real damage to the motor. Bafang is also a big player in the DIY and ebike builder kits. You’ll find these hub motors in most of the Tenways range.

Mahle specialises in compact and lightweight hub motors, often used in sleek and stylish eBikes where aesthetics are important. Mahle motors can be found in the lightweight Merida eRoad range, where weight and looks matter. The motors are also quiet and maintain the handling of a traditional bike, with a little bit of an electric kick!

Understanding the differences between motor types:

There are three types of motors you'll find on most eBikes in 2024: front hub motors, rear hub motors, and mid-drive motors.

Front hub motors are located inside the front wheel, meaning the wheel is built around the motor hub. These motors are usually connected to cadence sensors near the pedals and provide power whenever the sensor detects movement. They are the most basic form of eBike motors and typically offer less torque than rear hub or mid-drive motors. Front hub motors are common in more affordable eBikes and conversion kits.

DublinBikes, fitted with a Front Hub Motor.

Mid-drive motors are mounted in the bottom bracket area. The motor uses the chain and gears of the bike to assist you as you pedal. These motors work based on torque sensors—basically, the harder you push down on the pedals, the more assistance the motor provides. Mid-drive motors offer the best torque and power compared to hub motors. You'll also feel a natural weight distribution since the motor is centrally located. You will find these motors in a wide range of bikes, usually in more powerful models, like the CUBE Touring Range. They are a great tool to have built into your commuter to give that extra kick on the way home!

CUBE Touring Hybrid ONE 500, with a BOSCH Mid-Drive Motor.

Rear hub motors, similar to front hubs, are mounted inside the rear wheel. They work by driving the wheel directly, much like how you propel the bike by pedalling. You'll get a more natural sensation when using a rear hub motor since the power comes from behind. A downside is that the bike's weight will be more focused at the rear. If not maintained well, spokes may get damaged due to the increased stress from the additional weight.

Tenways CGO600 PRO, fitted with a Bafang Rear Drive Motor

Power vs torque, what matters when?

Power, which you will see measured in Watts (w) is regulated in the European Union, eBike regulations say that the maximum continuous power output of the motor must not exceed 250 watts. Additionally, the motor's assistance must cut off when the bike reaches 25 km/h (15.5 mph). These rules classify eBikes similarly to traditional bicycles, allowing you to use them without a licence, insurance or registration!

While power is regulated, torque is not. Torque refers to the rotational force of the motor and is measured in Newton metres (Nm). It is a measure of how much help you are getting from the motor as you start pedalling. Higher torque means the motor can deliver more pulling power, making it easier to tackle steep inclines and carry heavy load if you are on a cargo bike

Why Torque Matters

- Hill Climbing Ability: A motor with higher torque will make climbing hills much smoother and require less effort from you.

- Acceleration: High torque provides quick acceleration from a standstill, which is helpful when you are stopping and starting in town.

- Carrying Cargo/Heavier Loads: If you plan to use your eBike for transporting goods or extra weight, a higher torque motor will handle the additional strain with less effort needed from your legs.

Finding the balance between Power and Torque

Manufacturers design eBike motors to comply with the 250-watt power limit while optimising torque to enhance performance. For instance:

- Electric Mountain Bikes are often equipped with motors that have torque ratings upwards of 75 Nm or more to handle challenging off-road terrains, and repeated climbing of steeper hills.

- Urban Commuter Bikes are rated anywhere between 40 Nm and 85 Nm for example the lightweight Tenways CGO600 has a torque rating of 40 nm whereas the CUBE Touring Hybrid 625 is rated to 75 nm, providing a lot more punch when you’re on the hills or accelerating.

- Electric Cargo Bikes are most times fitted with a cargo specific motor, to ensure that carrying extra loads of cargo does not make the ride uncomfortable for the rider! You will typically find torque ratings of 85 and up in Cargo Bikes.

So, What hub is best for what?

There’s no right answer, and it is all very rider specific. Some people think you absolutely need a mid-drive motor, but it really depends on the type of riding you’re going to do. Of course, if you plan to take your mountain bike up and down mountains every week, then yes, a mid-drive motor would be a better choice for your style. For general riding through cities, and with gentle inclines, hub motors will be more than enough. When searching, we suggest you look for a high torque, high efficiency motor. This will bring you the best performance, no matter where the motor is placed.

Ready to Find Your Perfect eBike?

We’re a team of passionate cyclists and we make sure to test our bikes. - Feel free to contact us, or drop down to our store to test ride your next adventure making machine!