While we will provide information on some of the largest hub motor manufacturers out there, the full list of them is far too long for this article already, and continues to grow rapidly. The companies on this list produce some of the best hub motors on the market.
Bafang
Previously known as Suzhou Bafang (due to their home office in the city of Suzhou near Shanghai) and 8Fun, Bafang is arguably the largest manufacturer of e-bike hub motors in the world. They are well-established at this point, having been established in 2003. The company’s philosophy is a commitment to quality and innovation. While their main manufacturing center is located with their home office in China, the company has a dedicated mid-drive motor factory in Poland, as well as sales and service centers in the USA and across Europe.
In addition to producing motors, they also manufacture batteries, sensors, controllers, and HMIs (human machine interfaces – displays and button pads) for e-bikes, as well as a range of products for electric scooters. At the time of writing, Bafang offers roughly a dozen models of rear hub motor ranging from 250W to 1000W, nearly as many mid-drives, and a handful of front hub motors.
Due to their quality and affordability, Bafang products have been used on a massive range of e-bikes; from small startup companies to large name brands like Pedego, Juiced, Aventon, and Charge.
Shengyi
The Suzhou Shengyi Motor Company, usually shortened to just Shengyi, is another large and well-established company with a home office and development center in Suzhou, China. Founded in 2003, the company surpassed sales of over 800k units in 2020, and by now is likely to be approaching 1 million (if they have not passed that mark already). Shengyi has manufacturing facilities in Suzhou and Taiwan, and sales offices in Germany and Tianjin, China.
In addition to both mid-drive and hub motors for e-bikes, the company builds other motors for electric scooters and motorcycles. Currently, they have a lineup of over a dozen rear hub motors, around 10 front hub motors, a few mid-drive options, and a couple of brushless single-piece wheel units with integrated motors. These range in output from 180W up to 1000W.
Shengyi products have been found on e-bikes past and present from globally-recognized companies such as Giant, Rad Power Bikes, MFC, and Aventon.
Dapu
Dapu, also known as the Chuo Bussan Group, is a Japanese-owned company with over a decade of experience in producing e-bike components. They place a focus on making durable, powerful products with precision. Dapu has manufacturing plants in Japan, China, and Vietnam, which supply e-bike companies in the US and Europe.
Like Bafang, Dapu’s portfolio is diverse. They focus exclusively on e-bike products, but currently produce an expansive selection of front and rear hub motors, torque sensors, HMIs, controllers, and a few mid-drive models. Dapu’s catalog of nearly 20 motor models range from 250W-1000W of output.
Well-known e-bike brands such as Pedego and Evelo have used Dapu products.
MXUS
Founded originally as the Changzhou Huayuxinfeng Motor Company in 1996, this manufacturer began to focus on e-bike products in 2004. They later changed their name to the Changzhou MXUS Import and Export Company, and have since expanded throughout Asia, Europe, and both North and South America.
MXUS offers a wide range of products for both e-bikes and e-scooters. Their full catalog of e-bike components includes batteries, chargers, controllers, HMIs, throttles, and even cargo racks. When it comes to motors, the company focuses exclusively on producing front and rear hub systems. They have a total of over 25 models between the two types, in both geared and direct drive models. Interestingly, MXUS makes one of the most powerful hub motors available; their products range from 180W of output all the way up to a staggering 5000W system.
MXUS products have been seen on e-bikes from the Electric Bike Company and other brands.
Other Manufacturers
The Taiwan-based company TranzX makes a full range of e-bike components – nearly everything but frames. They offer a small selection of motors (two hub motor options and two mid-drives), some of which have been found on Raleigh folding e-bikes and models from Diamondback, Bergamont, and Lapiere.
The Aikema Electric Drive System Company, or just Aikema, is a Chinese company with a respectable selection of motors and other components. They are partnered with some recognizable names like Ampler, MAHLE (see below) and VanMoof.
A German-based manufacturer called Neodrives produces paired motor / battery / display systems that have been used with some Pegasus, Raleigh, and Rennstahl e-bikes.
Another Taiwanese manufacturer, TDCM produces e-bike hub motors as well as components for the automotive, EV, and medical industries. Their products have been used by Brompton, Stromer, Flyer, and in bike ride share programs from Lyft.
SR Suntour is originally a Japanese company known primarily for their magnesium suspension forks. Their three models of HESC (Human Electro Synergy Components) hub motors have been used with Carrera e-bikes and other brands.
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Electric bikes, or e-bikes, have swiftly become a sustainable and convenient mode of transportation. With the push for eco-friendly alternatives and the desire for effortless commuting, more and more individuals are turning to e-bikes as their preferred method of getting around.
If you are considering jumping on the bandwagon, give this guide a read. We explore the factors that you need to consider before buying a e-bike, whether you’re a commuter or a recreational cyclist.
Factors to Consider When choosing an E-bike
1. E-bike Motors
Electric bike motors come in various configurations, each with its own set of characteristics and advantages. Understanding the different types of e-bike motors is crucial for selecting the right one to suit your riding style and preferences.
Direct-Drive Hub Motors: Direct-drive hub motors are a popular choice for electric bikes due to their simplicity and reliability. These motors operate by directly driving the wheel hub, providing a smooth and quiet ride with minimal mechanical complexity. Direct-drive hub motors are prized for their robust construction and low maintenance requirements, making them ideal for everyday commuting and recreational riding.
Geared Hub Motors: Gear hub motor utilizes a system of gears to increase torque and efficiency, making them well-suited for tackling steep inclines or carrying heavier loads. While gear hub motor may produce slightly more noise than their direct-drive counterparts, they offer greater performance and versatility, particularly in challenging riding conditions. Riders seeking enhanced hill-climbing ability and responsive acceleration may prefer a geared hub motor for their e-bike.
Mid-Drive Motors: Mid-drive motors are positioned near the bike’s bottom bracket, leveraging the bike’s gears to deliver power directly to the drivetrain. This design offers several advantages over hub motors, including better weight distribution, improved handling, and increased efficiency. Mid-drive e-bikes provide a smoother and more natural riding experience, with responsive power delivery that adapts to the rider’s pedaling cadence. Additionally, the ability to utilize the bike’s gears makes mid-drive motors highly effective at climbing hills and navigating challenging terrain, making them a popular choice for adventurous riders.
Friction Drive Motors: Friction drive motors are another type of e-bike motor that operates by pressing a motorized roller against the bike’s tire to provide propulsion. While less common than hub and mid-drive motors, friction drive systems offer simplicity and versatility, allowing riders to convert virtually any bike into an electric bike with minimal modifications. Friction drive motors are typically lightweight and compact, making them a convenient option for riders seeking a portable and easy-to-install electric bike conversion kit.
2. Weight Considerations
When choosing an electric bike, it’s essential to consider the weight of the bike, including the motor and battery. The weight of an e-bike can vary significantly depending on factors such as motor type, frame material, and battery capacity. While a heavier e-bike may provide a more stable ride and better traction, it can also be more challenging to transport and maneuver, particularly when navigating tight spaces or lifting the bike onto racks or storage areas. Riders should carefully consider their own strength and mobility when selecting an e-bike, opting for a balance between performance and practicality that suits their individual needs.
3. Power Output
The power output of an electric bike motor is a crucial factor that directly impacts the bike’s performance and capabilities. E-bike motors are typically rated in terms of wattage, with higher wattage motors providing greater assistance and acceleration. When choosing an e-bike, it’s essential to consider your intended usage and riding preferences to determine the appropriate power output for your needs. For casual riders and commuters, a lower wattage motor may suffice for everyday riding on flat terrain.
However, for more demanding riding conditions or heavier loads, a higher wattage motor may be necessary to provide sufficient power and torque. Riders should also consider factors such as motor efficiency and heat dissipation to ensure optimal performance and longevity of their e-bike motor.
4. Battery Life and Range
The battery life and range of an electric bike are critical considerations that directly impact the bike’s usability and convenience. E-bike batteries come in various capacities, typically measured in watt-hours (Wh), which determine the amount of energy stored and the distance the bike can travel on a single charge. When selecting an e-bike, it’s essential to consider your typical riding habits and commute distance to choose a battery with adequate range to meet your needs.
Factors such as terrain, rider weight, and assist level can also affect battery life and range, so it’s essential to factor in these variables when estimating the distance you can travel on a single charge.
5. Classes of Electric Bikes
Electric bikes are categorized into different classes based on their level of motor assistance and speed capabilities. Understanding the various classes of e-bikes can help riders choose the right model to comply with local regulations and meet their specific riding needs.
Class 1: e-bikes provide pedal-assist only, with no throttle assistance, and are limited to a top speed of 20 mph. These bikes are ideal for use on bike paths and multi-use trails where traditional bicycles are permitted.
Class 2: e-bikes are equipped with a throttle that provides electric assistance without the need for pedaling. Like Class 1 e-bikes, they are limited to a top speed of 20 mph and are suitable for use on bike paths and multi-use trails.
Class 3: e-bikes offer pedal-assist up to 28 mph and are commonly referred to as speed pedelecs. These bikes provide a higher level of assistance and are suitable for commuting and recreational riding on roads and bike lanes.
Understanding the different classes of e-bikes can help riders select the right model to comply with local regulations and ensure a safe and enjoyable riding experience.
6. Cost Considerations
The cost of electric bikes can vary widely depending on factors such as brand, quality, features, and motor type. While some e-bikes are priced affordably for budget-conscious consumers, others may come with a higher price tag due to premium components and advanced technology.
In addition to the initial purchase price, riders should also factor in ongoing maintenance and operating costs, such as battery replacement and repairs. While e-bikes are generally more affordable to maintain than cars or motorcycles, it’s essential to budget for routine maintenance and occasional repairs to keep your bike in optimal condition.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the right electric bike motor involves considering a variety of factors such as motor type, weight, power output, battery life, bike class, and cost. Each of these factors plays a crucial role in determining the performance, usability, and overall riding experience of an e-bike. By carefully evaluating these features and considering your individual needs and preferences, you can choose an electric bike that aligns with your lifestyle and provides a seamless and enjoyable riding experience.