Which E-Bike Motor Is the Best?

Which E-Bike Motor Is the Best?

The motor is the heart of the e-bike. The battery serves as the energy source for the motor, supplying it with electrical power. The motor provides greater convenience while riding. The rider does not need to exert their own muscle power to move the e-bike.

The Motor – The Heart of Every Electric Bike

Currently, there are three different types of e-bike motors: the hub motor, which can be used as a front or rear motor, and the mid-drive motor. These motor types differ in their level of assistance. The mid-drive motor provides the best propulsion power. More than 90 percent of all e-bikes are equipped with this type of motor. The motor type significantly influences riding behavior, noise level, and efficiency. Each type of motor has its unique characteristics.

The front motor can be combined with all types of gears and is known for its durability. The rear motor, on the other hand, is quiet, fast, and powerful at the same time. It ensures a high-speed riding experience. The mid-drive motor guarantees a smooth ride and high efficiency. Thanks to the mid-drive motor, changing tires is quick and easy.

Basic Types of Electric Bike Motors

The E-Bike Front Motor

The front motor provides comprehensive support during the ride, regardless of the gear. This motor type is located on the front axle of the e-bike. For a long time, the front motor was perfectly compatible with hub gears and coaster brakes. Nowadays, mid-drive motors also offer this compatibility. However, front motors are now found in only a few e-bikes, mainly in affordable city bikes designed for short distances.

The main disadvantage of the front motor is its weight, which puts pressure on the e-bike’s fork. This negatively affects handling, especially on wet roads or in curves, where controlling the e-bike is crucial.

The E-Bike Rear Motor

The rear motor is a very powerful drive system. It is located in the rear hub, ensuring an unaffected riding experience. The rear motor provides strong propulsion, which is why it is commonly used in high-performance e-bikes.

A key advantage is regenerative braking: braking energy is converted into electrical energy and transferred back to the battery, increasing its capacity.

The downsides of the rear motor include its high maintenance requirements and the additional load on the rear part of the bike due to the motor's weight. Additionally, changing the rear tire is more complicated.

The E-Bike Mid-Drive Motor

The mid-drive motor is the most popular type of motor for e-bikes. It can be used with both hub and derailleur gears. Its central position ensures optimal weight distribution.

However, wear and tear on the chain and sprockets is higher with mid-drive motors. They also require more maintenance. In most cases, mid-drive motors cannot be retrofitted. Compared to other types, mid-drive motors are also the most expensive.

Motor Performance Criteria – What Matters

• Power: The rear motor is the most powerful. It can reach a maximum speed of up to 45 km/h. Most pedelecs are equipped with a rear motor.

• Torque: The mid-drive motor has the highest torque. The front and rear motors have similar torque levels.

• Efficiency: The mid-drive motor is the most efficient due to its direct power transmission.

• Noise Level: The rear motor produces the least noise. It is very quiet and powerful. The front and mid-drive motors have similar noise levels.

• Weight: Weight has a significant impact on riding performance. The front motor is relatively heavy and may negatively affect handling. The mid-drive motor is optimal not only because of its weight but also due to its central positioning, which does not affect riding performance.

Before choosing a suitable model, it is advisable to compare the different motor types. A heavier weight can negatively affect riding performance and battery life.

Comparison of Different Motor Brands

There are many different motor brands. Here is a summary of the most well-known ones:

Bosch E-Bike Motors

Bosch e-bike motors are known for their strong performance and modern connectivity. Bosch has a vast dealer network, making maintenance quick and easy. The downside of Bosch motors is that their batteries are not compatible with third-party manufacturers.

A highly sought-after model is the Bosch Cargo Line motor, commonly used in applications where people or cargo need to be transported. The motor's internal components consist of a large Performance Line motor equipped with specialized software. The thermal management system ensures optimal power adjustment.

Bosch motors can be used in both trekking e-bikes and city e-bikes.

The maximum power of Bosch motors is 586 watts, with a torque of 40 Nm. The batteries come in different variations, such as 300 Wh, 400 Wh, and 625 Wh. Unique features of Bosch motors include optional coaster brakes and an ABS system.

Shimano – E-Bike Motors

One of the most well-known manufacturers of bicycle components is Shimano. In terms of performance, Shimano motors are comparable to Bosch motors. They are known for their comfortable, smooth, and efficient drive, making them ideal for longer rides. Shimano e-motors can be seamlessly combined with all braking systems.

A disadvantage of Shimano motors is that they are not suitable for mountain rides with continuous inclines.

Shimano motors are frequently used in trekking e-bikes, city bikes, and gravel e-bikes. The motor provides assistance up to 25 km/h. A key feature of these motors is their compatibility with automatic hub gears. The maximum torque is 50 Nm.

AEG Motors for Electric Bicycles

AEG motors stand out for their 250-watt power assistance. The AEG Eco Drive motor operates at 36 volts and features a starting aid and five different support levels.

Most AEG motors are mid-drive motors, offering a lightweight design.

These motors are used in city bikes, urban e-bikes, and gravel e-bikes. They are powerful and can cover long distances without needing a recharge.

Motor Technology of Fiido Electric Bicycles

Fiido electric bicycles are equipped with different types of motors. Fiido motors include Max, Akma, Jiabo, and Xiongda. Each motor type meets different riding needs. It is advisable to determine your riding requirements in advance.

Akma motors are primarily used in commuter e-bikes and road bikes. They are very lightweight and powerful. This type of motor is also installed in cargo e-bikes.

Jiabo motors are used in gravel bikes. They are also powerful and ensure the necessary motor performance on rough terrain.

The Xiongda motor is popular for its durability and low maintenance. It is ideal for off-road conditions.

Introduction of the Fiido D11 with Akma SX85

The Fiido D11 e-bike is equipped with a 250-watt battery, providing a range of up to 100 km. The Fiido D11 e-bike can be quickly and easily folded. The motor used is a mid-drive motor, located directly in the frame of the e-bike. The motor has a torque of 32 Nm.

Introduction of the Fiido Air with Max M070

The Fiido Air e-bike is equipped with a Max M070 motor. The battery has a capacity of 208.8 Wh and an average charging time of three hours. The Fiido Air is a sporty recreational bike that can be used in various ways. This city bike is lightweight and suitable for both young and older riders. It is available as both a men's and women's e-bike.

User Experience and Market Feedback

1. Marie: I am completely satisfied with my Fiido D11 e-bike. This is not only due to its high-quality build but also its powerful motor. It supports pedaling effectively and is perfect for urban commuting.

2. Lars: I recently bought a Fiido gravel bike. The Jiabo motor installed supports me in every situation. I use it daily. The battery charges quickly and ensures a perfect riding experience.

Conclusion

Each motor type has its unique characteristics and advantages. It is advisable to research the appropriate motor type in advance.

Fiido motors are not only powerful but also stand out due to their high quality. They generally require little maintenance.

To ensure optimal performance, it is important to charge the battery correctly. Fiido motors are reliable and guarantee a high level of safety.

Call to Action

If you are still looking for the right e-bike, you should visit the website of the bicycle manufacturer Fiido. There, you will find a wide selection of models, including lightweight electric bicycles and gravel e-bikes. The e-bikes presented there meet the needs of every rider.