Wondering what a Hub or Mid motor is and which is right for you?
If you have done your research on eBikes, you have probably noticed there are two main motors, hub and mid. Both have their pros and cons, with the main main difference being the price.
Hub Motor
A Hub motor is placed on the center or hub of the rear or sometimes even the front wheel. The motor provides propulsion by spinning the tire on which it is mounted. The motor has no impact on the main pedal drive system.
A big difference will be price. Hub motors are more affordable and since so, you will see them on most of the more affordable eBikes (under $2,000).
The hub motor will drive the wheel itself and have no impact on the drive train.
The most noticeable difference for you ride, will be how the hub motor engages. It uses a cadence sensor for the pedal assist (using a magnet on the crank).
It engages the motor when you start to pedal, so you may need to make a half or full revolution before it engages. This isnt an issue, unless you are on a hill.
It may also take off quick, giving you a jerk when you take off.
Mid Motor
Are placed in the center of the ebike, between the pedals, giving the bike a more balanced feel and ride. They are also smaller, lighter, and quieter than their hub-motor counterparts. For propulsion, the mid motor engages your chain, instead of your wheel like the hub motor.
Mid motors have more advanced sensor systems, to provide a more natural riding experience.
The torque system regulate the motor power based on how hard you push the pedals, for a more smooth and natural feel.
They are better for heavy loads, hills and speed, as the power is channeled through the drivetrain, instead of the wheel.
These motors are more expensive, due to their higher end components. You will be hard to find them on bikes under $2,000 but there are some.
They can be hard on the drive system due to the continuous power on the drive chain.
It also has more points of failure and hare more to maintain.
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