When buying an electric bike, cyclists are faced with many questions, and confusion is not uncommon. None of us are technicians! Concepts like power, torque, or riding modes often remind us of the automotive world.
Beginners with electric bikes can easily feel confused. How do you choose the best electric bike? One question, in particular, can be tricky: what motor torque should an e-bike have? Should an e-bike have high torque, or are fewer Newton-meters enough to ensure smooth riding? Does high motor torque always make sense? What exactly is the torque of an electric bike, and how powerful should the motor be? You’ll find answers to all these questions in this
article.
What Is the Motor Torque of an Electric Bike?
The motor torque of a folding electric bike or any other type of e-bike refers to a physical quantity measured in Newton-meters. This value indicates the effect of a force on a rotating body. The greater the force, the higher the torque.
For an electric bike, this means that the higher the motor torque, the stronger the assistance. It’s not uncommon for modern e-bike motors to offer up to 85 Newton-meters of torque.
But should torque be the main factor when buying a new e-bike? The answer is clearly no, because more torque does not necessarily mean you are buying a better e-bike or will have a more enjoyable riding experience.
High Motor Torque on an E-Bike: A Priority?
Overpowering an e-bike provides no real advantage. The best electric bike is not the one with the most impressive motor torque figures. The best e-bike is the one that suits your needs.
As with cars, excessive power is not an advantage for electric bikes. When buying a new bike, stay critical and focused on your personal requirements, without being swayed by the seller’s arguments. It all depends on how you plan to use your electric bike. You also need the right frame size, good components, and a price that fits your budget.
That said, motor torque should not be overlooked. On hilly terrain or when riding against a constant headwind, higher torque significantly improves riding comfort.
What Torque in Newton-Meters Should an Electric Bike Have?
As previously mentioned, the motor torque should be adapted to the intended use. A torque of 40 Newton-meters is sufficient for electric bikes used mainly in urban environments, while 50 Newton-meters is recommended for light touring.
For more demanding rides, a more powerful electric bike motor is needed due to the terrain and route type. A motor torque of around 75 Newton-meters is advisable. Mountain biking places particularly high demands on both the rider and the equipment. With a torque of 85 Newton-meters or more, the rider can tackle even the steepest climbs.
| Usage | Motor Torque |
|---|---|
| City | 40 Nm |
| Suburban areas and easy rides | 50 Nm |
| Trekking, hikes | 60 - 75 Nm |
| Mountain biking on rough terrain | 75 - 85 Nm or more |
Are there electric mountain bikes with less than 85 Nm of torque?
Yes, absolutely. These models are often based on a new design philosophy for electric bikes. The manufacturer considers not only power and range, but also steering and weight as part of an integrated system.
The riding experience relies on synergy to provide smooth and natural assistance in all riding situations. When extra power is needed, motor torque up to 60 Nm delivers sufficient boost.
This approach has its advantages, allowing riders to handle demanding terrain while maintaining a sporty feel. There are also compact drive systems that combine motor and battery, offering excellent performance for lightweight electric bikes.
Motor torque in Fiido e-bikes
Fiido offers electric bikes with excellent value for money. One example is the Fiido C11 lightweight electric bike, a lightweight e-bike with 55 Nm of torque. This makes it suitable for urban commutes as well as leisure rides.
Fiido C11 City E-bike
Fiido C11 - the best electric bike for a dynamic and safe city adventure.
Reminder: Prices are subject to the product detail page ,some earlier card details may have been updated.
The Fiido D3 Pro mini electric bike is a compact and versatile electric bike, perfect for women or anyone looking for a lightweight and practical way to get around. Equipped with a 250W motor and a top speed of 25 km/h, the D3 Pro delivers just the right amount of power for urban commuting or relaxed riding. Its foldable design makes it easy to transport and store, whether you live in a small apartment or need to take public transportation.
Fiido D3 Pro Mini Electric Bike
Frequently Asked Questions About E-Bike Motor Torque
1. What is motor torque on an electric bike and why is it important?
Motor torque, measured in Newton-meters (Nm), determines how much force the motor can apply. It affects acceleration, hill-climbing ability, and ride comfort.
2. Is higher torque always better for e-bikes?
Not necessarily. While high torque helps on hills or with heavy loads, too much torque can be unnecessary for flat urban routes. It’s best to match torque to your needs.
3. How much torque is ideal for city e-bikes?
For urban commuting, around 40 Nm is usually sufficient. It ensures smooth acceleration without consuming too much battery power.
4. What torque range is best for mountain biking?
Mountain biking typically requires 75–85 Nm or more, especially for steep climbs and rough terrain.
5. Do Fiido e-bikes offer good motor torque for the price?
Yes. For example, the Fiido C11 delivers 55 Nm, great for cities and light touring, while the compact D3 Pro with 35 Nm offers affordable performance for everyday urban use.
