Electric bike with central motor or rear wheel motor?

The choice between a central motor and a rear-wheel motor is one of the most important when buying an electric-assist bike. Yet it's not always easy to understand the strengths and weaknesses of the different types of motor. In this article, we'll outline these advantages and disadvantages to guide you towards the best choice for you. So strap on your helmet, put on your gloves and get ready to discover the differences between these two types of electric motor!

The main differences between the central motor and the rear-wheel motor lie in their positioning on the electric bike, their behavior on the road, their efficiency and their cost.

The rear-wheel motor is integrated into the wheel, facilitating installation and maintenance, and offering better control on flat terrain. The central motor is located on the frame, offering balanced weight distribution and better traction on hilly terrain. Assistance is also much smoother with this type of motor.

However, central motors are generally more expensive and require more maintenance than rear-wheel motors. 

The central motor is a type of electric motor that is integrated into the bicycle frame, usually located close to the bottom bracket. Unlike the rear-wheel motor, the central motor does not drive the wheel directly. Instead, assistance passes through the transmission (i.e. the chain, cranksets and sprockets) to drive the rear wheel.

The operation of the central motor is quite simple: when the rider starts pedaling, the pedaling sensor detects the movement and activates the motor to provide electric assistance. The central motor offers a more natural and regular assistance, as the power is transmitted directly to the rear wheel sprockets, providing better traction and weight distribution. In fact, on this type of electric bike, the impression is that the rider's natural power is increased tenfold.

Central motors are generally more efficient than rear-wheel motors. They offer better torque and power at low speeds, making them ideal for climbing hills or mountains. However, they can be more expensive and also require more maintenance than rear-wheel motors.

Ultimately, the choice between a pedal motor and a rear-wheel motor will depend on your personal preferences and riding style. If you're planning more challenging rides, or need regular assistance on hilly terrain, a central motor might be the ideal choice for you. On more straightforward terrain, a rear hub assist will suffice.

The rear-wheel motor is integrated directly into the electric bike's rear wheel. Unlike the central motor, it doesn't use the chain to transmit power from the motor to the wheel, but rather an integrated hub system that turns the wheel.

Its operation is also very simple: when the cyclist starts pedaling, a speed sensor detects the movement and activates the motor to provide electric assistance.

The rear-wheel motor is easier to install on a conventional bike than the central motor, as it doesn't require major frame modifications. That's why you can find electrification kits for mechanical on the market.

What's more, it offers better control on flat terrain and faster acceleration (because it's not proportional to the rider's power output).

However, rear-wheel motors do have their limitations. They can be less efficient than central motors on hilly or mountainous terrain, as they tend to lose traction on steeper slopes. In addition, they necessarily have an impact on weight distribution: the load on the rear makes them less maneuverable.

If you're looking for a VAE for everyday use or trips over flat terrain, a rear-wheel motor may be an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you're looking for a more powerful assistance system for hilly or mountainous terrain, a mid-mounted motor might be more appropriate.

Rear-wheel motors are often less expensive than central motors, but they also have a weight advantage. Because they don't require the complex cogs of central motors, rear-wheel motor-equipped VAEs are often lighter . This is an important criterion for those who often have to carry their bikes (public transportstaircases, towing, etc.). What's more, rear-wheel motors require less power and battery capacity for journeys in flat areas. This is an advantage for some users, notably velotaf enthusiasts.

The rear-wheel motor is also interesting if you need to feel that sensation of immediate traction when starting off. For example, when you're driving around town and have to stop and restart frequently (at red lights, stop signs, traffic circles, etc.).

Discreet, this technology preserves the aesthetics of the bikes it equips. Last but not least, the rear-wheel motor doesn't put much more strain on the transmission's wear parts than a conventional bike, which can reduce maintenance costs for users. On the other hand, since an electric bike allows you to go a little faster than a conventional bike, the brakes are put under greater strain.

Electric bikes with a central motor are heavier than their counterparts. This can be a disadvantage if you need to carry your bike up and down stairs, for example. What's more, central motors tend to be more powerful, which means that the brakes and transmission are put under greater strain and wear out more quickly. This can lead to higher maintenance costs and a selection from a higher range.

Ultimately, it's important to consider these drawbacks when choosing between a mid-engine and a rear-wheel engine to ensure you choose the type of engine that best suits your needs and driving style.

The choice between a rear-wheel or mid-mounted motor depends on a number of criteria, including budget. However, weight and maneuverability are also important. If you need to transport your EAB regularly, opt for a rear-wheel motor, as it will be lighter. The Cannondale Treadwell Neo 2 EQfor example, is ideal for less rugged routes. What's more, by saving on the motor, you'll be able to invest in more complete equipment.

On the other hand, if you're traveling in mountainous regions, choose a more powerful mid-mounted model. Although more expensive, they offer optimum driving comfort in conditions more difficult than urban use.

Finally, rear hub motors have a more sober appearance and simpler control consoles for those who prefer simplicity. In the end, it's important to take all these criteria into account when choosing the power-assisted bike that best suits your needs and riding style.

The central motor is located near the crankset and transmits power via the chain, while the rear-wheel motor is located in the rear wheel and drives the wheel directly.

In general, center motors are more powerful than rear wheel motors.

Rear wheel motors are often lighter than center motors.

The rear wheel motor is generally easier to repair, as it doesn't require removal of the chain and cassette. On the other hand, a wheel change will be more difficult because the wheels are different from those on a standard bike.

Mid-motors are generally better suited to hilly terrain as they offer more powerful and natural assistance.

Rear-wheel motors are generally better suited to flat terrain, as they are lighter and require less power. In town, however, they can be a little less agile.

Central motors are generally more expensive than rear-wheel motors. This is because they are more powerful, and their assistance is more natural.