As e-bikes continue to grow rapidly around the world, choosing the right motor system has become a key decision for both riders and e-bike brands. The two most common options — mid-drive and rear hub motors — each have their own advantages.
In this post, we’ll explore how they work, their strengths, and which one best fits your riding or business needs.
1. How Each Motor Works
Mid-Drive Motors
Mounted between the pedals, a mid-drive motor delivers power directly through the chain, multiplying your pedaling force.
Typical brands: Bafang M620, Bosch Performance Line, Ananda M80
Rear Hub Motors
Installed in the rear wheel, a hub motor powers the wheel directly — independent of your pedaling.
Typical brands: Bafang H620, Ananda RM G04, Shimano E5000
2. Power & Performance
- Mid-drive motors offer better torque and hill-climbing ability, perfect for mountain or cargo e-bikes.
- Rear hub motors deliver smooth, quiet acceleration — ideal for flat city commuting.
Example:
- Bafang M620 (1000W) can climb steep trails.
- Ananda RM G04 (500W) runs efficiently on city roads.
3. Battery Efficiency & Range
Mid-drive systems are 10–20% more efficient than rear hubs on hilly terrain because they leverage the bike’s gears.
However, rear hubs are more efficient on flat roads, since they maintain a constant RPM without using the drivetrain.
4. Maintenance & Durability
| Feature | Mid-Drive Motor | Rear Hub Motor |
|---|---|---|
| Drivetrain wear | Higher | Lower |
| Ease of maintenance | More complex | Easier |
| Weight balance | Centered | Rear-heavy |
| Ride feeling | Natural | Smooth but less dynamic |
5. Price & Value
- Mid-drive systems cost 20–40% more, but provide better performance and power delivery.
- Rear hub motors are cost-effective, ideal for entry-level or high-volume production bikes.
If you’re developing your own e-bike brand, a rear hub setup from Bafang or Ananda offers great balance between price and reliability.
6. Which Should You Choose?
| Rider Type | Recommended Motor |
|---|---|
| Mountain / Off-Road | Mid-Drive (Bosch, Bafang M620) |
| City Commuter | Rear Hub (Ananda, Shimano E5000) |
| Cargo / Delivery | Mid-Drive |
| Budget E-Bike | Rear Hub |
7. Final Thoughts
Both motor systems have their strengths — it depends on your riding needs and market positioning.
At HD-Ebike, we design and manufacture customized e-bikes using both mid-drive and rear hub systems. Whether you’re building a premium off-road model or an affordable city commuter, we can help you design and produce the perfect solution.
Learn more: https://hd-ebike.com