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The first time you ride an e-bike at Electric Bikes Brisbane we can guarantee that your first hill climb will leave you grinning from ear to ear. That's because you're getting help from a quality electric drive system.
There are two types of drive system: hub-drive and mid-drive e-bikes, and at Electric Bikes Brisbane we only sell the road-legal pedal assist (also called 'pedelec') versions.Â
While every pedal assist ebike operates in a similar way - turn it on, select your power level, start pedalling - they aren't the same.Â
Each system type has its unique advantages and drawbacks. Understanding these differences can help you choose the best e-bike system type for your needs.Â
What is a 'Hub-Drive' and 'Mid-Drive' Motor?
Mid-Drive Motors
Positioned centrally in the e-bike and integrated with the cranks, mid-drive systems provide a balanced weight distribution. The well-known Bosch system is a prime example.
Hub-Drive Motors
Located in the wheel, replacing the wheel hub, these motors offer a different balance and weight distribution. The Dyson e-bike is an example of a hub-drive system.
The video below explains the key differences and read below for more information.
Another recommended read:Â Â The Tech That Makes EBikes Tick?Â
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Choosing the Best E-Bike Motor for Your Needs
Instead of asking which motor is 'best', consider which e-bike drive system best suits your budget and lifestyle.
Pros and Cons of Mid-Drive Systems
Pros
- Efficiency and Range: Mid-drive motors tend to be more efficient than hub drives, offering greater battery range. This efficiency is ideal for those who plan longer rides around Brisbane.
- Torque and Hill Climbing: Known for generating higher torque, mid-drive motors excel in hill climbing. Paired with bike gearing, they easily tackle steep gradients, demonstrated by Haibike's impressive Olympic Ski Jump ascent in 2019 when Bosch's initial Gen 1 Bosch CX motor with 75Nm torque was released .
- Natural 'Cycling Feel' Riding Experience: With torque sensors and sophisticated technology, mid-drives offer intuitive and smooth power delivery, mimicking the feel of a naturally strong rider—a preferred choice for those who genuinely enjoy cycling.
- Lower Maintenance and Wear and Tear: A mid-drive motor is located in the bottom bracket (vs in a wheel hub). Wheels in particular benefit from this design and your maintenance and upkeep in the long run will be reduced as a result eg. changing a tire is much more straightforward.Â
- Leading Brands and Variety: Bosch leads in mid-drive systems, with over five motor models now catering to various e-bike categories, including city cruisers and performance-oriented bikes. There is significant investment by manufacturers in mid-drive technology which ensures future service and support.Â
Cons
The advanced technology in mid-drive systems typically comes at a higher price, impacting the overall cost of the e-bike.
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Should You Consider Hub-Drive Electric Bikes?
Yes of course!Â
Hub-drive electric bikes remain popular, and several brands, like Orbea, offer sophisticated and lightweight models that have gained attention.Â
Pros
- Robust 'No Sweat' Assistance: Hub-drive bikes provide robust power delivery regardless of your pedaling effort. This is perfect for a no-sweat commute if you prefer to not put in your own effort to pedal—ideal for commuting in work attire.
- More affordable
Cons
- Power surge:Â hub-drive motors are known for their strong surges in power when starting off or when changing speeds. For inexperienced riders this can be hard to manage.Â
- Maintenance: Hub-drive e-bikes, particularly those with larger motors, will require more maintenance eg wheel replacements.
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Our Range of E-Bikes at Electric Bikes Brisbane
Explore the full range of e-bikes sold and serviced at Electric Bikes Brisbane.Â
Do our handy eBikeFinder and let us help you and find your perfect e-bike, whether it's a hub-drive or mid-drive model, and enjoy the many benefits of electric biking!
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