Want to climb a hill? Not enough power, you have to push it halfway through the ride. Want longer battery life? The battery drains quickly, so you have to find a charging port halfway through the ride. Unstable control, troublesome repairs, spending a lot of money on the wrong configuration... Choosing the wrong mid-mounted or rear-drive motor may turn your electric bike experience from enjoyment to torture! Which one is more suitable for your riding needs? Let's compare and analyze in detail.
First, understand the relationship between torque and motor
The motor affects many aspects, such as endurance, handling stability, and maintenance costs. But the most direct reflection of the motor's performance is torque.
Torque is a key parameter to measure the output rotational force of the motor, which determines the strength of its driving force. Simply put, the greater the torque, the stronger the driving force provided by the motor, and the vehicle can still maintain sufficient power at low speed or high load. On the contrary, if the torque is insufficient, the start will appear weak, and it will be easier to feel strenuous when climbing and carrying. Usually, the torque of entry-level e-bikes is usually between 30Nm and 50Nm, while the torque of multi-purpose electric bicycles such as hybrid and travel e-bikes is generally between 50Nm and 70Nm, which can cope with medium slopes or occasional steep slopes. Some high-demand models usually have a torque of 80NM or even more than 100Nm.
Mid-Drive VS Rear Hub Drive: Work Difference
1：Mid-Drive is installed in the center of the frame and works with the pedals and the transmission system, so it can adjust the torque according to different terrains and achieve efficient power output. For example, on steep slopes, you can increase the torque by lowering the gear to improve climbing ability, while when cruising on flat roads, you can increase the gear and maintain the speed with lower energy consumption to extend the endurance.
To put it simply: working with the pedals means that if you are riding an electric bicycle with a mid-mounted motor and enter a steep slope from a flat road, the torque sensor will sense your pedaling force. If you pedal lightly, the motor will output less power; if you pedal heavily, the motor will provide more assistance. If it is a cadence sensor, it will also detect your pedaling speed to help the motor adjust the power.
Working with the transmission system: When going uphill, if you switch to a low gear, the motor will amplify the torque (increase power) and let you climb the hill easily. When cruising on a flat road, you can switch to a high gear, and the motor will reduce the torque output, reduce energy consumption, and improve endurance.
2：In contrast, the Rear Hub uses a direct drive wheel method, and the power output is more direct and smooth, providing a stable riding experience. Its torque output is fixed and does not rely on the transmission system for adjustment. Therefore, a higher current is required to provide sufficient power when starting. When driving on a flat road, since there is no need for too much current, the power transmission is efficient, which can provide a quieter and smoother riding experience, and is very suitable for urban commuting and short-distance travel. However, the rear wheel hub motor car will be used with a torque sensor (or speed sensor). The sensor can sense the state of riding and give the motor the corresponding current, so that the motor can give the corresponding power output. In other words, under this cooperation, the motor can also adjust the current output to achieve the effect of improving work efficiency and extending battery life.
Mid-Drive VS Rear Hub Drive: Pros and Cons
Mid-Drive Motor
Pros:
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Provides higher torque
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Utilizes an additional gear system to optimize energy consumption and extend range
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Balanced weight distribution for improved handling
Cons:
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More complex structure, leading to higher maintenance costs
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More expensive—Mid-Drive motors are typically 50% to 200% more expensive than Rear Hub motors. For example, if a mid-range Rear Hub e-bike costs $1,000, a comparable Mid-Drive model may range between $2,000 and $3,000, making it 100%-200% more expensive
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The drivetrain is more prone to wear and requires more frequent maintenance
Rear Hub Motor
Pros:
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Simple structure, easy installation, and low maintenance costs
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Lighter and does not interfere with the bike frame design, making it ideal for foldable e-bikes
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More affordable with better cost-effectiveness
Cons:
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Typically lower torque compared to Mid-Drive motors
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Cannot be adjusted using a gear system
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Weight is focused on the rear wheel, which may slightly affect braking stability at high speeds.
Mid-Drive VS Rear Hub Drive: On what Ebike models
It is also important to understand which models different motors are usually suitable for to truly unleash the potential of electric bicycles.
1: If you need a heavy-duty electric bicycle specifically for off-road, the Mid-Drive motor may be suitable for you, because generally speaking, its maximum torque value will be higher than that of the rear hub motor, and it can cope with steeper terrain.
2: If you need a versatile electric bicycle for commuting or weekend adventures, the rear hub motor will be more suitable because it is lighter, simpler in structure, and easier to maintain. At the same time, it can provide stable power without relying on the speed change system, reducing the risk of failure. Its design is more compact and suitable for folding electric bicycles, urban electric bicycles and economical electric bicycles, Of course, more and more off-road vehicles on the market will also use rear-wheel hub electric bicycles, because it can also provide enough power and conquer off-road steep slopes through the combination of shock absorber system and battery capacity.
What is your best option
If you want to buy a motor yourself and retrofit it, then you can take a look at this table summary, if you want to buy a brand new e-bike then please read on.
| Feature | Mid-Drive Motor | Rear Hub Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Installation Position | Central frame, connected to the crankset | Rear wheel hub |
| Power Transmission | Transmitted through the chain and gears | Directly drives the wheel |
| Weight | Requires a gear system and a reinforced frame, making the overall bike possibly heavier than Rear Hub models | Simple structure makes the bike relatively lightweight |
| Battery Efficiency & Range | More energy-efficient, offering longer range | Higher power consumption, relatively shorter range |
| Handling & Stability | Balanced weight distribution | Weight concentrated at the rear |
| Maintenance Requirements | Requires regular maintenance of the chain and drivetrain | Easier maintenance with fewer wear-prone parts |
| Price | Typically more expensive, costing 50% to 200% more than Rear Hub motors | More budget-friendly, ideal for cost-effective choices |
| Suitable Bike Types | E-MTB (electric mountain bikes), touring e-bikes, cargo e-bikes | City commuter e-bikes, foldable e-bikes, entry-level e-bikes |
Looking for a New Mid-Drive or Rear Hub E-Bike?
Are you looking to buy a new mid-drive or rear-drive electric bike? Here are some recommended electric bikes for your situation:
Fiido C11 Pro City E-bike takes full advantage of the rear wheel hub motor, providing 55Nm torque, torque sensing that helps output and pedal force in sync, and smooth, efficient riding without abrupt power intervention. Its lightweight frame weighs only 24.5kg, a shorter 40mm front suspension, and hydraulic disc brakes ensure comfort and easy control. With an assisted range of 104 kilometers, it provides long-distance performance and easy control. Let you ride stress-free on city streets, parks, rural areas, and trails
Fiido C11 Pro City E-bike
£999.00 £1,635.00
Trusted by 10000+ riders, Fiido C11 is now even better.
Currently, Fiido does not offer mid-drive e-bikes, but if you’re looking for an off-road or heavy-duty e-bike, we have a great recommendation for you.
With 70Nm torque, the Fiido Titan Robust Cargo Electric Bike offer 26x4.0-inch fat tires ensure strong traction on sand, snow, and rough trails, while the 60mm front suspension absorbs bumps for a smoother ride. Unlike mid-drive motors that rely on gears, its powerful rear hub system delivers consistent torque with low maintenance. The four-piston hydraulic brakes with power cutoff ensure precise stopping, even under full load. Plus, the optional three-battery system extends range to 400km, proving you don’t need a mid-drive to conquer extreme terrain and long rides.
Fiido Titan Robust Cargo Electric Bike
£1,545,00
A powerhouse with a 400 km range and 4-piston brakes, ideal for hunting and fishing trips.
Whether it is Mid-Drive or Rear Hub, the key is which motor can truly unleash the potential of electric bicycles. Each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Choosing the motor that suits you can find the best balance between power, endurance, price and control, making every ride more efficient and enjoyable!
