Mid-drive motors vs. hub motors, do you know the difference?

In modern society, the popularity and usage of e-bikes are increasing. This is due to the fact that the motors used on e-bikes are able to provide the rider with additional pedal assist force, so they will be more energy efficient when riding. For e-bikes, different motors will also have an impact on the performance of e-bikes, and the motors currently used on e-bikes are mainly hub motors and center-mounted motors. This paper compares these two types of motors and analyzes their respective advantages and disadvantages.

Advantages of Hub Motors

  1. Simple structure and maintenance free

    The hub motor has a simple structure, usually consisting of a coil, a rotating shaft, a magnet, and a housing. Due to its simple structure, the hub motor has a relatively low failure rate, so it basically requires no maintenance. It is independent of the pedal-drive system.

  2. Low price, high efficiency

    The production technology requirements for hub motors are not high, so the manufacturing cost is low. The cost of a regular hub motor is only 200 yuan, while motors priced above 500 yuan have regenerative braking functions. In addition, hub motors provide direct rear wheel drive, low energy consumption, low noise during operation, and minimal wear and tear.

Disadvantages

Of course, hub motors are not always advantageous, they also have disadvantages.
  1. Comfort

    Many two-wheeled electric vehicles on the market now use rear-wheel hub drive, which results in poor vehicle handling, insufficient smoothness in shock absorption, decreased riding comfort, and is more suitable for low-speed commuting.

  2. Replacement cost

    Due to the hub motor technology integrating the hub and motor inside the vehicle's wheel hub, although the maintenance requirements for the hub are minimal, once an issue arises, the entire hub section needs to be replaced.

  3. Heat Dissipation

    The hub motor is prone to generating a large amount of heat during high-speed operation, and it is difficult to dissipate heat. This not only easily leads to demagnetization of the motor but also may burn out the tires.

Advantages of mid-drive motor

  1. High torque

    The biggest advantage of a mid-drive motor compared to a hub motor is its gear ratio. Riders can provide power to the rear wheel through the same chain and gear set as the pedals, so they can choose low gears to provide power on steep hills. A mid-drive motor in low gear performs better climbing hills than a hub motor of similar power.

  2. Even distribution of weight

    The mid-drive motor is installed in the middle of the vehicle and has a relatively balanced load-bearing capacity, which can maximize the balance of the electric bicycle, making it easier for the rider to control the vehicle and improving stability.

Disadvantages

  1. Complex structure, high price

    The internal structure of the mid-mounted motor is complex, in addition to the motor, it also requires components such as a clutch, transmission shaft, transmission chain, gearbox, differential, etc., therefore, the cost is higher, and the motor price is relatively expensive. In addition, these components are prone to failure, so regular maintenance and upkeep are necessary, and the difficulty of repair and replacement costs is also high.

  2. Parts are easy to wear

    Due to the fact that the mid-drive motor needs to transmit power to the rear wheel through the chainring and chain, this will accelerate the wear of the chainring and chain. Therefore, the chain should be replaced when significant wear is observed, otherwise, the vehicle will not be able to operate properly.

Conclusion

Mid-drive motors are generally used in high-end electric bicycles and are more suitable for vehicles with high-performance requirements, such as off-road sports. Hub motors have price advantages, low maintenance costs, environmental protection, and affordability, which are sufficient for daily travel and commuting.

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