Mid Drive vs Hub E-Bike Motor: Which is right for you?

One of the best parts of e-biking is the beautiful electric boost. That's what pancakes the hills, gives you a constant tailwind, and make hauling any cargo load a breeze! Where that boost comes from - the middle "Mid Drive" or wheel hub "Hub"- makes a big difference in your riding experience. Let's dive into why...

Mid Drive - The assistance comes from the middle of your e-bike, right where your human pedal power comes. The torque is applied directly to the chain or belt creating a natural and smooth engagement. It's also passive so when you're not pedaling, you're not getting power. Coast along without a care in the world!

Hub - With the motor in the e-bike's front or rear wheel hub, the assistance feels more like a pull (front) or push (rear). Many Hub motor e-bikes have a throttle so you can enjoy a boost even when you're not pedaling. Enjoy a little braaap while kicking back and relaxing!

We're here to help you find the perfect e-bike for your needs. Come by our Hood River shop for a test ride or reach out for a consultation by:
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Text 541.293.1308

[JethroXP]

I've been spending a lot of time learning about these. Basically if you are an experienced cyclist, someone who regularly rides a traditional non-powered bike, you'll appreciate the higher speed and torque of a mid-drive. However if you are a casual rider, or someone who hasn't ridden a bike in a long time, or someone with mobility or strength limitations, you'll appreciate the ease and simplicity of a hub drive. Pedal Assistance and Throttles are increasing common on both styles, so it really comes down to price (hub drives are about 20% less expensive compared to mid-drive) and what sort of experience you are looking for. If you plan any sort of high intensity or technical riding, get a mid-drive. If you just want casual touring and trail riding you'll probably be happy with a hub drive.

[sunray]

Some things I learned about these two types of bikes. The hub drive bikes are 2x-3x less $ than mid-drive and much cheaper to repair. Some direct-to-consumer sellers have a full line of spare parts. Ex. You can buy an entire rear wheel assy with motor and tire for under $300.00. To replace a mid-drive motor would cost you upwards of $1000.00 and require bike store service. Mid-drives tend to wear out-drive train components. Another expense. A nice feature of a hub drive is the throttle. If you get tired of pedaling just throttle back. Oh, if the chain breaks on a rear hub just use the throttle.  You are toast if the chain breaks with mid-drive.

[wapperjaw]

My WTVA hub top speed goes 30mph with peddle assist or throttle. The speed depends not so much on the gear setting but on where I have the assist set at. I would like to test drive but dam there is nothing around here to see the difference.

[odlanorirom]

, ,,but mid drive has also a full-throttle mode, right?

[cristiancruz]

I want a throttle on mid drive. So I can tear through the gears.

[LiteralHitter]

It doesn't matter, as long as it's illegal...but gearless hub is a waste of energy..