Electric bikes are gaining increasing popularity as an ideal means of transportation, especially in cities. Choosing an electric bike will depend on how you intend to use it. Whatever your criteria, the motor on an electric bike remains the central component; the motor is the heart of the bike!
It is indeed the motor, assisted by pedaling, that powers the entire mechanics of the bike.
How do you choose your electric bike motor? In this content, you'll find all the elements to consider to make the right choice, one that suits your usage.
What criteria should you focus on when choosing an electric bike motor?
To choose an electric bike motor, several criteria or parameters need to be considered. How do you choose your electric bike motor? Which is the best electric bike motor?
Again, your bike's intended use will determine your motor choice. Before deciding on the best one, you need to consider the essential parameters to focus on, namely:
- Comfort
- Ease of use
- Efficiency and performance
- Reliability
- Weight and compactness
- Cost
In terms of comfort, mid-drive motors are undoubtedly those that offer the most comfort; even the most well-known brands favor mid-drive motors on electric bikes.
This type of motor offers genuine comfort sensations when pedaling, the assistance is smooth, even, and without jerks. Stability is also better, and in case of a breakdown, this motor is also more easily accessible.
This is not the case for wheel hub motors, whether front or rear, which also alter the bike's gravity; moreover, there is also a pushing or pulling effect that varies in intensity depending on the model.
Mid-drive motors also feature more advanced technological developments; the sensors are more diversified, interconnected, and more precise.
Is the motor of an electric assist bike noisy?
Generally, the motor is quite discreet on an electric bike, but its sound intensity varies from one brand to another.
What are the types of motors for electric bikes?
The mid-drive motor: ideally located for repairs, offers more natural electric assistance, requires very little maintenance, suitable for all types of riding, is more expensive, and often a bit heavier.
The front hub motor: it provides a good sensation of being pulled, can be fitted to many types of bikes, is less expensive, is well-suited for urban use, repair is less easy in case of a puncture, there is a feeling of weight in turns.
The rear hub motor: it offers a good propulsion sensation, suitable for both city use and sport, can be fitted to many types of bikes, repair is not easy in case of a puncture.
Motor choice based on usage:
It is the bike's motor peripherals that will make the machine easy to use. The transmission is important for a motor; described as more intuitive, the model coupled with an integrated gear hub is therefore preferred over derailleur systems.
Latest generation mid-drive motors, such as those from Bosch or Yamaha, feature an automatic gearbox, ensuring the correct gear is engaged according to the route taken. A wheel hub motor, in case of a puncture, does not really facilitate repair. The interface of the bike's on-board computer must also be considered, as most settings are made from there.
Choosing your motor for performance
In Europe, the legal speed of an electric bike is 250 Watts, but this does not prevent two motors of the same power from being very different.
The torque delivered in Newton-meters (Nm) must be considered. A motor capable of reaching 80 Nm provides sporty acceleration even on steep terrain. A motor limited to 40 Nm will provide more progressive acceleration, and the bike will be less dynamic on hills.
Depending on the mode selected (eco, sport, boost, or turbo), manufacturers indicate the possible assistance level. This criterion is expressed as a percentage; on some motors, this power can reach 400%, which is the case for certain mountain bikes.
Of course, the weight of the cyclist and the weight of the bike have an impact on overall performance.
European regulations require e-bike motors to be limited to 25 km/h for speed. Thus, cyclists can only go faster by the strength of their legs. There are indeed motors that develop powers greater than 250 Watts, as is the case in Switzerland, but in Europe, for such a case, the bike is then no longer considered a bicycle but a moped.
Choosing the motor based on reliability criteria
Again, it can be noted that mid-drive motors show higher reliability than wheel hub motors in entry-level e-bikes. Lifespan is always difficult to estimate as it depends on usage, riding habits, care taken with the bike, and the routes ridden.
Brushless motors, which equip electric-assist bikes, have an excellent reputation for durability. Brands like Bosch, Yamaha, and Shimano nevertheless offer reliable motors.
Choice for a lightweight and compact e-bike motor
Batteries are now lighter, and so are motors, with the lightest not exceeding 3 kg. Mid-drive motors are consistently lighter than other wheel hub motors. One thing is certain, motors are becoming less and less visible on bikes.
The manufacturer Fazua has developed a drive system whose motor block, weighing less than 2 kg, fits directly into the frame, which is a significant aesthetic advantage.
Conclusion:
You now have the main criteria to choose the electric bike motor best suited to your needs, your budget, and your use. Of course, motors from reputable and recognized brands will always offer more reliability, but the cost will be higher.
We invite you to discover the range of electric bikes offered by Batoobike, and particularly their Colibri model.
FAQs
What is a good wattage for an electric bike?
A good electric bike is equipped with a motor that has a power output between 250 and 750 watts. Bikes with motors in this range are capable of reaching speeds of up to 25 km/h and can easily tackle hills and other challenging terrains.
What is the best motor size for an electric bike?
Motor size is not an essential criterion; what matters for the motor is its power, position, torque, and brand. Power: As mentioned, 250W is sufficient for the majority of urban users.
What is the best brand of electric bike motor?
Bosch, Yamaha, Shimano, and Brose are leaders in this field. You can't go wrong, especially as these manufacturers are constantly engaged in further developments.
How to choose the power of your electric motor?
For urban use on flat terrain, a 250W rear hub motor may suffice. For rides on hilly terrain or off-road applications, a 500W or more mid-drive motor will be more appropriate.
