The philosophy: "Less is More"

Let's be honest: not everyone wants an e-bike that looks like an electric scooter and weighs 28 kilograms. Sometimes you just want a bike that's easy to carry up stairs and doesn't look like it came straight out of the future. That's where Hyena makes the difference.

Hyena's goal is to design lightweight and efficient systems. Like Trek puts it so well, it's about offering "just the right amount of pedal assistance." We're not talking about raw power that propels you up a hill effortlessly, but rather refined support that mitigates the effects of headwinds and climbs.

The engine

The heart of most Hyena systems found in the Benelux countries is the HyDrive hub motor (hub motor). Unlike the bulky central motors located at the bottom bracket, this motor is discreetly integrated into the rear wheel, behind the cassette.

Key features

• Power: 250 watts as standard. This is the legal requirement, but the key factor is how this power is delivered.

• Torque: 40 Nm. For those in the know: this is less than powerful MTB motors, but more than enough for urban commuting and leisure rides. It allows for dynamic starts at traffic lights.

• Compact and quiet: The motor is so quiet that it is almost unnoticeable. The system is renowned for its quiet operation and smooth ride.

Another major advantage: no resistance when the motor is turned off. Is your battery flat, or do you want to ride without assistance? Your e-bike will then behave like a conventional bike, smooth and enjoyable to ride.

Technology

A motor only performs well thanks to the sensors that control it. Hyena uses an advanced torque sensor integrated into the crankset. This is a key element in achieving that "natural" pedaling feel.

The system works like a real-time motion detector. As soon as you apply pressure to the pedals, the sensor registers it and sends a signal to the controller. The Hyena algorithm then instantly calculates the level of assistance required.

The result? If you pedal hard, the motor assists you more. If you pedal gently, the assistance remains gentle. The bike never feels like it's "pulling" you forward, but rather giving you super-powered legs.

The system also includes a cadence sensor and a speed sensor to accurately measure pedal rotation and wheel speed.

Battery and autonomy

One of the great advantages of bikes equipped with a Hyena system is their low weight, largely thanks to the battery. The standard battery (e.g., the 250 Wh version) is usually elegantly integrated into the frame's down tube. As it is more compact and lighter than those found on heavier e-bikes, the bike remains maneuverable and sleek in design.

Range Extender: to go further

Worried that 250 Wh won't be enough for your Sunday ride? Don't worry. Hyena and Trek offer an ingenious solution: the Range Extender. This is an additional battery (often the size of a water bottle) that you can easily attach to the frame. The result: your range is almost doubled.

• Safety: The batteries are UL certified and rigorously tested for safety and fire hazards.

• Recharging: The internal battery is recharged via a port built into the frame. If the Range Extender is installed, the internal battery is recharged first, and while riding, the Range Extender is discharged first. A well-designed system.
  
  

Controls: simple and smart

At Hyena, there are no large color screens filled with menus on the handlebars. The philosophy is minimalist. The controls (HMI), such as the LED Chip or the Vivid , are compact and usually located on the left side of the handlebars.

With a few simple buttons, you can adjust the assistance level (+ and -) and check the battery status using LED indicators. The idea is clear: enjoy the scenery, not a screen.

The app: your smartphone as a screen

Still want to check your trip data? The Hyena Rider Assistant app (or HyDrive App) is there for that. Connect your smartphone to your bike via Bluetooth, and voilà: you have a full screen with navigation, range estimation, and trip history.

Via the app, you can also update your bike's software and even customize the motor's behavior if the default settings don't suit you perfectly.

On which bikes can Hyena be found?

Hyena collaborates with major brands. This system is mainly found on sporty city bikes and hybrid models. Popular models include:

• Trek FX+: a lightweight city bike for commuting.

• Trek Dual Sport+: a versatile hybrid bike for different types of terrain.

• Trek Verve+ 1: the entry-level version of the comfortable Verve series.

• Electra Go!: stylish cruisers with a little electric boost.

• Cannondale Compact Neo: also available with this system.

Conclusion

Hyena e-bike motors are an excellent choice for modern cyclists who don't want to sacrifice style or riding experience. They offer smooth, quiet, and natural assistance, ideal for both city riding and leisurely rides.

You enjoy the benefits of electric assistance without having to carry around a heavy, bulky bike.

Whether you want to commute to work without breaking a sweat or go for a weekend ride with a Range Extender, a Hyena system is a safe bet. It's "technology from the automotive industry" integrated into a stylish bike.

Ready to take the plunge? Discover the latest models equipped with the Hyena motor and experience just how light and enjoyable an electric bike can be.