Why Mid-Drive E-Bikes Outperform Hub Motor Models

So you’re looking for an e-bike that can handle all the terrain you want to cover, give you a smooth ride, and go the distance without frequent charging. Each bike is advertised with a lot of different specs and technical details, and you’re not sure which ones really matter. Here’s a detail you will want to check: whether the bike has hub or mid-drive motor.

Hub and mid-drive motors are the two main types of motors in the e-bike world. The most obvious difference between them is where they’re located on the bike, but that location and a few other characteristics can have a major impact on your riding experience.

How Hub Motor E-Bikes Work

A hub motor or hub drive motor e-bike has its motor near one of the wheels of the bike, usually the rear wheel. It powers the motion of the wheel directly. These bikes often have both throttle and pedal assist modes, but they tend to have either no gearing system or clunky shifting.

Hub motors don’t directly translate to easier pedaling. The mechanism for movement works more like a motorcycle or a motor-driven scooter, with your legs adding assistance to the motor’s power. That makes the ride feel less natural, especially on hills.

How Mid-Drive E-Bikes Work

A mid-drive motor e-bike has its motor underneath you, near the pedals. It powers the cranks and pushes through the drivetrain in a similar way to how you would move it with your legs. 

Since this system works in a similar way to leg power and combines well with your pedaling, it makes you feel like you’ve simply added strength to your legs. You get a smoother, more consistent ride feeling that is similar to riding a non-electric bike.

Why Mid-Drive E-Bikes Give You Better Performance

Mid-drive e-bikes are more efficient, lighter weight, and longer range than hub motor bikes. The mid-drive system combines beautifully with a gearing system, which makes it easy to tackle hills. All of these qualities make them a better choice for uneven terrain and longer trips, which is why they’re becoming increasingly popular.

Hub motor bikes are less expensive and often need less maintenance, but they’re simply not built as well for hills or longer rides. Having the motor positioned near the wheel hub often leads to a rear-heavy bike, which can make the bike less stable during turns or other maneuvers. They have a lower range, often weigh more, don’t give you smooth gearing, and have more uneven power output, which can make the riding experience less pleasant.

If you want a high-performing e-bike, a mid-drive motor is the best way to go. You can travel quite far on a single charge, even on challenging terrain. The riding experience closely mimics traditional cycling while giving you extra power as needed.

Get a High-Performing Mid-Drive E-Bike Today

Tygart Mountain Sports sells several high-quality e-mountain bike models, all with mid-drive motor systems:

• The Cannondale 29 U Moterra Neo 4 is an aluminum e-mountain bike optimized for steep descents and touch climbs on trails. With 12-speed shifting and a low center of gravity, the handling is great. With a 75-mile range, you can ride anything and anywhere.

• The Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 3 Remixte Commuter E-Bike is an on-road/off-road bike designed for speed, efficiency, and comfort. It’s a relatively affordable option that doesn’t compromise on performance.

• The Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 3 Commuter E-Bike is designed for gravel and open roads. It has a 9-speed drivetrain and big 29” wheels to help you stay in control while going deeper and further.

• The Cannondale 650 U Adventure Neo 4 is a comfy, bump-absorbing option for both city streets and open backroads, giving you up to 65 miles of range on a single charge and pedal assist up to 20 mph. This is a great bike for cyclists who want to get around and enjoy the day.

• The Kona Remote 160 Electric Full Suspension Mountain Bike gives you the exact amount of power you want, when you want it. The ultra-powerful hydraulic disc brakes and 200mmm front and rear rotors give you controlled stopping even on steep terrain.

Visit our shop to purchase an e-bike today.

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