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Without a motor and a battery, an electric bike can not work. Different brands have a range of different motor systems. The choice of each motor often depends on its performance characteristics and how well it suits the intended use of each electric bicycle model.
The vast majority of electric bicycles will place the motor in one of three different positions.
Front Hub Motor
Front hub motors are often common configurations for electric bicycles designed specifically for commuting, and they are also common configurations for inexpensive electric bicycles. Many electric bicycle conversion kits also use front hub motors.
Mid-Drive Motor
Mid-drive motors are located in the area where the bottom bracket usually resides.
Mid-drive motors are suitable for all different types of electric bicycles. They are particularly well-suited for electric mountain bikes because the weight is centrally and low positioned.
Rear Hub Motor
Rear hub motors are commonly used in hybrid bicycles.
Rear hub motors look very stylish, and at first glance, it is often difficult to tell if the bicycle they are mounted on is electric.
Electric bike motors' power output is usually measured in watts.
Most countries' electric bicycle laws require that the continuous power output of the motor must be limited to 250 watts. Most motors can output more than the allowed 250 watts, providing fairly high peak power for a short time.
The maximum torque of the motor is a more important performance indicator. The peak torque that the motor can provide also varies significantly between motor systems. Expressed in Nm , it measures the rotational force exerted by the motor.
On electric mountain bikes, having ample torque at your disposal is crucial, helping you quickly get over obstacles and climb steep slopes.
The best electric mountain bikes are usually equipped with higher-spec motor systems with higher torque outputs, and the same applies to electric cargo bikes.
Electric gravel bikes or road bikes may not require such powerful motors, or manufacturers may opt for smaller spec motors to provide a more natural riding feel.
Electric bike motors' systems are usually equipped with a separate controller so you can set the desired level of assist. There are typically three to five assist levels that provide increasing power, as well as the option to pedal without assist.
As you might expect, the smaller the assist level, the longer the battery life of the electric bicycle. It is best to crank it up when encountering obstacles like hills or stop/start riding and dial it back down again when the terrain is easier.
Some systems have an option called“Boost” or “Turbo” mode. This can give you extra power beyond 250 watts to help you quickly start or climb steep terrain.
The display on an electric bicycle will tell you the current mode, riding speed, and remaining battery power.
The controller is usually located on the handlebar of the bicycle, although some controllers are mounted in the top tube. Designs vary, ranging from screens that give you plenty of stats (sometimes including navigation) to minimalist single buttons and LED showing the battery and assist levels.
Most electric bike motors' systems come with an app that you can use to monitor its status and battery life.
Some allow you to change settings, such as the assistance you get at each level, while others use smartphones as the controller for the electric bicycle. Many apps also provide you with navigation, ride stats, and other data.