Mid-drive VS hub motor: Which is better?

In modern society, more and more people use electric vehicles for commuting or entertainment. As the two types of motors commonly used in electric vehicles, mid-drive motors and hub motors have attracted more and more attention. Do you know which is better for your use? The type of motor also affects the performance of an electric vehicle. In this essay, I will discuss the similarities and differences between these two motors. I hope you found this essay useful.

What is a hub motor?

Located in the center of the wheel, hub motors are the most common form of the electric scooter motor. Hub motors can be mounted on either the front or rear wheels. There are two types of common hub motors: geared hub motors and gearless hub motors. In addition to these two types of hub motors, Lunyee's hub motors also have integrated hub motors, rear axle hub motors, wheelchair hubs, etc. Gearless motors, also commonly referred to as direct drives, are common on entry-level e-bikes. The use of geared hub motors with planetary reducers can reduce the speed of the motor.

What is a mid-motor?

The mid-drive motor is usually mounted closer to the center of the bike and transmits power from the motor to the wheels primarily through the bike's chain drive. The mid-drive motor drives the crank and sprocket as it turns, and provides power to the rear wheel via the chain. A mid-mounted motor is not a separate unit like a hub motor . Many electric bikes have a mid-drive motor with a built-in pedal assist sensor. This sensor measures the amount of force you apply to the pedals and then passes this information to the bike's control unit. The control unit then adjusts the assist level based on that measurement.

The differences between them

1. They are mounted in different locations on the e-bike. A mid-drive motor is typically located in the center of the frame, while a hub drive motor is located in one of the wheels.
2. Unlike hub motors, mid-drive motors power the e-bike through the bike's drivetrain. They apply torque to the crank, which turns the chain and rear wheel. Hub motors apply torque to the wheels and provide power directly to the wheels.
3. Hub motors are more durable and quieter in terms of performance compared to mid-mounted motors. Hub motors do not have a drivetrain connected to the bike. Therefore, the hub motor does not exert any additional stress on the chain, gears, and other parts during operation. This greatly prolongs its service life.
4. Mid-drive motors usually require special frames when mounted. Hub drive uses a standard frame for installation.
5. Mid-drive motors can sometimes provide more peak boost than hub motors, which makes them the best motor type for electric mountain bikes, and expensive high-end e-bikes often use mid-drive motors to handle more complex and variable terrain.
6. Mid-drive motors use a torque sensor in the pedal assist system, which regulates the power of the motor based on how hard the pedal is being pushed. Hub motors adjust motor speed based on pedal speed, which can cause uncoordinated problems when operating on steep terrain.

Conclusion

Although mid-drive motors and hub motors differ in many ways, each has a suitable range of use. Mid-drive motors are better suited for off-road and steep terrain. Hub motors are usually better suited for commuters and those who want a simple, reliable, and virtually maintenance-free e-bike.