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Why Most E-Bikes Share the Same 5 Motors (And Why Brands Don't Matter Much)

Ebiker

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Many electric bikes may look completely different, but underneath the frame, a surprising number rely on the same handful of motor platforms. Instead of focusing only on the badge or brand name, understanding the motor, controller, battery, torque, and overall system can tell you much more about how an e-bike will actually perform.

In this video, we'll explore why so many e-bikes share similar motors, which motor systems dominate the market, and why the brand name may matter less than you think. We'll also explain what to look for when comparing e-bikes so you can spend your money on the features that actually make a difference.

18 Comments

@MHH3180 1 month ago

The premise of this video is false. I work on every brand in my shop daily. We represent 20 major name brands. Cheap brands use what ever peripheriferals are available, at the lowest price, on a given day. Quality is whay the mfg spec's. I routinely see abafang motors rated at 47 volts and 750 watts nominal running a no name controller stamped as 36 volt and 13amps, but firmware programmed for more. They burn out quickly. On the higher end, I see the same controller issue, though seldom so rediculously and most use a 36 volt motor on motors up to 52 volts. It spins faster for more torque. I personally have swapped 36 volt motors into TSDZ2's and others with no problems at all. The planetary gears on Bafang and other hub motors are exactly the same between 250 and 2k watts. I have swapped them. Better bikes and better motors control everything from components to assembly. I suspect this may be why Giant bikes, with Shimano motors. I certainly will never promote the excellent quality of Bosch systems because they should be sued under right to repair. BTW, Star Union builds for every mfg you mention including Bosch, Brose, Yamaha and Shimano...oh yeah, Shimano makes both the very best and thr very worst components. Brand spec is everything.

@carlosortega8357 1 month ago (edited)

To me the Crown Jewel is the Pinion MGU, a unit that encloses a 12 speed gear system and the electric motor, and is located between the pedals for a low center of gravity. Several upscale brands use it. (Isy bikes, Falkenjagd Bikes, Haibike bikes.... jewels)

@bebopkirby 1 month ago

A just as interesting video would be a step by step look at who made this video, why it was made, how it was made, and what if any are the financial rewards for making it.

@Gwen-x6d 1 month ago (edited)

I have had several ebikes and I say the Bosch set up is the best or at least UL listed. My worst fear is the lithium batteries. Currently looking for a regular bike with a drop frame.

@zsoltpocman6673 4 weeks ago

I have been using a Bosch e-bike for 14 years, (1,2,4-gen) I have had no problems with it, I have ridden them for about 20 thousand km. The motor and the battery are both made here in Hungary.

@montalp1 1 month ago

I have a Trek Commuter S 8 with a Bosch Performance motor. No problems and 12k miles

@videobob 1 month ago (edited)

Excellent video. What tech e-bike forum do you recommend?

@Mark-zp3fg 1 month ago

Why do so many of these YouTube videos has the same pattern?

@IThee-hw8oj 1 month ago

Flyer (Made in Switserland) with a Panasonic eco system. It just goes and goes and goes...... Top brand with top brand electric components (motor/battery/controller).

@kamolhengkiatisak 4 weeks ago

For the last 2 years, DJI mid-frame motor at 2.5kg is favorite among high-end ebike brands including its own Amflow. Very soon, I believe DJI can even exceed Yamaha in volume and value.

@123benley 1 month ago

I would look for which is still rideable once that battery is off. Because you still need to get back

@USNUSA 1 month ago

Good video. Good info. My e-bike has an ANANDA motor.

@DayffddBeorum-o8v3w 1 month ago

So what? AI's don't ride bikes. They just generate alarmist crap like this.

@curtwuollet2912 4 weeks ago

Yeah, you forget Plenty and Truckrun.

@Interglacial_optimist 1 month ago

Buy your e bike now before all bikes will be connected.

@19metube52 4 weeks ago

The bosch motor may be a good motor but the companies that use them refuse to give the public what they want.....
Bosch is way underpowered

@dcvideo2 1 month ago

Great videos. Problem is, most of your commentary audio is out of sync with the videos. I've seen it across many of your postings. I'm an editor. Drives me crazy. I can't focus on your face cuz your lips don't match the audio I'm hearing. I just sort of gaze at the screen and cut away shots instead.