Introduction
When you begin using an e-bike for commuting, exercising, or other functions, curiosity about its motor will arise. The convenience you can enjoy with a good e-bike motor is enough to make any cyclist curious. Due to its function as part of the pedal-assist system, an electric bike’s motor is probably its most important component. It is also the most talked-about, with various facts about e-bike motors circulating the internet.
Most people start getting confused when shopping for a new e bike. This happens when attempting to determine the superior motor, which will confuse you further. You can make a better decision with more knowledge of the motor types commonly used in e-bikes. Learn more about e-bike motors and how to know the best one for you right here.
Types of E-bike Motors
There are three common types of e-bike motors, each so named because of its position on the bike’s frame. An electric bicycle’s motor is usually placed in the front, rear, or middle of its frame. Hub motors tend to be placed in the front or rear of the e-bike’s wheels. The one placed in the middle is known as a mid-drive motor.
The Front Hub Motor
Front hub motors are usually placed in the hub of the front wheel. The hub is the area around the shaft in the middle of the e-bike wheel. A more powerful drive system is created when the motor is placed in the front. With the drive provided by the motor, there is a ‘pulling’ sensation most people feel when riding an e-bike with a front hub motor. It is an efficient option, but like every other thing, has its benefits and disadvantages.
- Pros
First, e-bikes using front hub motors are easier to install or detach. This is because there is no other bike part complicating its space. E-bikes with this motor are easier to repair. Replacement of parts or flat tires is one easily.
Front hub motors are built away from the drivetrain or rear wheel so that you can use a regular gear setup for the rear wheel. The resulting system has increased traction since the motor outputs enough power for each tire. This makes an e-bike with a front hub motor a good option for riding on snowy or muddy grounds.
- Cons
Despite the increased traction that makes them good for riding on snowy roads, this is only made easy if you use an electric fat tire bike. Front hub motors are not so great when riding entails climbing steep or hilly roads.
The ‘pulling’ sensation described earlier can is not particularly enjoyed by cyclists who prefer a more natural ‘push’ to their rides.
The Rear Hub Motor
Rear hub motors are the most commonly used in electric bike manufacture, probably due to their efficiency in giving cyclists that familiar ‘push’ feeling. If you check your Haoqi e-bike, you should find this motor fitted right into the rear wheel of your electric bicycle. With a rear hub motor, you can enjoy a range of power options to complement your cycling. You can’t get this on a front hub motor.
- Pros
This electric bike motor provides a more stable ride than the front hub type due to its direction of power.
If you enjoyed riding a traditional bike and want to make the switch to an electric one, a rear hub is much better for getting a feeling close to that. This is because of the operation of its pedal-assist that requires your touch on the pedals. You enjoy intelligent pedal assist when riding e-bikes using this type of motor.
Rear hub motors are much better for climbing up hills. Their structure is designed for balance, and this significantly affects performance due to the increased power output.
You enjoy a better range of power options on e-bikes with a rear hub motor. The provision of a throttle option means you can get riding as soon as possible!
- Cons
E-bikes using this motor type may be inconvenient to carry around by yourself. With the motor and battery at the rear of the bike, the physics of carrying it conveniently is upturned.
Attempting to change your tires may require external help. This is due to the close proximity of the gear and the motor’s location.
The Mid-drive Motor
Mid-drive motors are the least commonly used of all the e-bike motor types mentioned here. The motor is placed in the middle of the pedals and drivetrain, so its location is not the problem. The only thing currently limiting the availability of this motor type is its cost. The mid-drive option is the most expensive of all the types of e-bike motors on this list.
- Pros
The motor’s location makes it great for providing more stability to rides. E-bikes with this motor have a lower center of gravity that makes them convenient to ride and carry.
Mid-drive motors are best for extending the range of your e-bike’s battery. The higher power output means you roll smoothly over hilly parts of your trip without it taking a toll on your battery range.
They are easier to access for repairs since neither wheel is around the motor area.
- Cons
Mid-drive motors are more expensive and less available.
The motor’s location can be unfortunate sometimes, resulting in more damage to the drivetrain and other parts related to it, including the gears.
The constant need for replacement can be expensive, and the unavailability of replaceable parts can be a reason for concern.
Conclusion
From the above, it can be concluded that mid-drive motors are best for enjoying the most balanced ride. However, its unavailability and cost can be a problem for maintenance and consistency. This leaves the rear hub motor as the better option for balance and enjoying the natural feeling of riding a traditional bike. Front hub motors are ideal for commuting while providing easier repair options than the rear hub type. You can search online for more specific information regarding your personal equipment. Have fun riding!
