Electric Bike Hub Motor Kits

What are Electric Bike Hub Motor Kits

An ebike hub motor kit is a set of components that you can install on your existing bike to make it an electric one. It’s an easy to install, electric engine for bike. The kit includes a hub motor, a battery, a controller, and often a throttle, all of which work together to provide electric assistance to your pedaling.

The hub motor is the central component of the kit. It’s a motor that is housed in the hub of one of the wheels of your bike, typically the rear wheel. It doesn’t connect to your bikes gear system at all. That’s why it’s really easy to install. So even if you’re not a mechanical genius, you can still give it a go. You don’t have to be an expert to install it, and it won’t require any special tools or equipment.

The motor works to provide an electric assist to your pedaling, giving you an extra boost of power when you need it. The battery provides the power source for the motor, and the controller manages the flow of electricity between the battery and the motor.

Best Electric Bike Hub Motor Kits

Why would you choose a Hub Motor for Ebike?

In 95% of the cases, our opinion is that a hub motor is the best choice. If you do lots of off-road biking with steep hills, you might want to look into other options. On other circumstances, it’s a great choice. Here are some advantages of using a hub motor system that should be considered when deciding whether to use it.

Hub Motor Kits are affordable

A Hub Motor Kit is far cheaper than for example a mid drive conversion kit.

A Hub Motor Works Independently

We all have had many issues with our bikes. Sometimes they are not easy to fix on the road. If the chain breaks, derailleur gets jammed or what not, the hub motor can still bring you home. It works independently and is not connected to the drive chain, unlike for example a mid-drive motor.

Hub Motor Kits are easy to install

Nothing is quite as easy to fit as a front hub motor, where you are simply taking off the original wheel and replacing it with a motorized one. A rear hub motor requires a bit more wiring, but it’s a breeze to install as well.

Ebike with hub motor is easy to drive

With a hub motor, you can enjoy uninterrupted power through all your gear transitions. No need to constantly back off and reapply motor power between each change of gears. You can generally leave the bike in a high gear and let the motor do the heavy lifting. No need to fuss around with downshifting and up-shifting at every stop and go.

Geared Hub Motors vs Direct Drive Hub Motors

First off, let’s talk about geared hub motors. These motors are more efficient and have better torque, which means they can climb hills more easily. They’re also lighter and smaller than direct drive motors, which makes them a great option for those looking for a more compact and maneuverable ebike.

However, there are some downsides to geared hub motors. They can be noisy, especially when you’re going uphill or when you’re pedaling hard. They can also be less reliable than direct drive motors, and they require more maintenance due to the presence of gears that need to be lubricated and checked periodically.

Direct drive hub motors on the other hand are known for their quietness and durability. They are also very smooth and easy to ride, making them a great option for those who want a more relaxed and comfortable ride. They don’t require much maintenance, and they are generally more reliable than geared hub motors.

However, there are some downsides to direct drive hub motors as well. They’re heavier and larger than geared hub motors, which can make them a bit more cumbersome to handle. They also have less torque and are generally less efficient than geared hub motors, which can make them less suitable for hilly terrain.

So, which one should you choose? It really depends on your personal preferences and the type of riding you plan to do. If you’re looking for a lightweight and maneuverable ebike that can handle steep hills with ease, a geared hub motor might be your best bet. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a smooth and quiet ride with minimal maintenance requirements, a direct drive hub motor might be a better option for you. Ultimately, it’s all about finding the right balance between performance, reliability, and convenience.

Front Hub Motor Kit vs Rear Hub Motor Kit

A front hub motor is mounted on the front wheel of the bike, while a rear hub motor is mounted on the rear wheel.

So, which one is better? Well, it again depends on what you’re looking for.

A front hub motor tends to be easier to install and can be a good option if you’re looking for a low-maintenance ebike. Since the motor is located on the front wheel, it doesn’t interfere with the bike’s gears or derailleur, so you don’t have to worry about shifting as much. It also provides better traction on slippery surfaces, as the weight of the motor is over the front wheel.

On the other hand, a rear hub motor tends to provide a smoother ride and better handling. Since the motor is located on the rear wheel, it can be more balanced and provide a more natural feel. It can also provide better hill-climbing power and acceleration, as the weight of the rider is over the rear wheel.

However, there are some downsides to consider. A rear hub motor can be more challenging to install, as it requires more adjustments to the bike’s existing components. It can also put more strain on the rear wheel, which can cause issues with spokes and rims.

Installation and maintenance of a hub motor kit

It’s crucial to choose a high-quality hub motor kit that’s compatible with your bike’s frame and wheels. Most kits come with detailed instructions, but it’s still important to do your research and make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment. Some popular brands to consider include Bafang, Tongsheng, and MXUS.

When it comes to installation, the process varies depending on the type of motor and your bike’s specific frame and components. Generally speaking, installation involves removing your bike’s rear wheel or front wheel and replacing it with the hub motor wheel. You’ll also need to mount the battery and controller, connect the wiring, and make sure everything is securely fastened.

Maintenance of a hub motor kit involves regular cleaning and inspection of the motor, battery, and controller. It’s important to keep the motor and battery clean and dry, as moisture can cause damage and reduce performance. Checking the wiring and connections regularly is also a good idea to ensure everything is working properly. If you live in extremely cold climate, it’s a good idea to keep the battery in a warm place while not using it.

If you’re not confident in your ability to install or maintain an electric bike hub motor kit, it’s always best to seek the help of a professional. Many bike shops offer installation and maintenance services for a reasonable fee, which can give you peace of mind and save you time and frustration.

In conclusion, installing and maintaining an electric bike hub motor kit requires some knowledge and effort, but it’s not an insurmountable task. With the right equipment and instructions, you can do it yourself and enjoy the benefits of an electric bike without breaking the bank. And if you’re not up for the challenge, seeking the help of a professional is always an option.