Hub Motor Electric Bike Reviews

This type of electric bike utilizes a hub motor (or two) that is built into the wheel. It’s the most affordable type of drive system and often works well with throttle operation. There are two types of hub motors: geared and gearless. Gearless tends to weigh more, provides less torque (especially at low speeds), produce some magnetic drag when not engaged, but may offer regenerative braking, and tend to be very durable and quiet. Geared hub motors tend to be compact, lightweight, and affordable, but they produce a bit of whirring noise during operation and may not be as durable over long periods of use. They freewheel efficiently without producing drag, but cannot provide regen braking. Since motor weight is positioned inside the bicycle wheel itself, it increases unsprung weight if the bike has suspension. It also requires custom spokes, wheels, and axles that bite into the frame to provide forward movement. For this reason, they may also require a torque arm to secure the axle against the frame.
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EG Kyoto 350 Review

  • MSRP: $1,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A value priced hard-tail mountain ebike that is at home on light trails or for commuting given the wide range of gearing combined with a throttle, pedal assist, and a 28mph top speed, backed by EG who has been around since 2005 and a dealer support network, a wonderful offering for $1,499. Driven by a rear hub-drive motor that is rated at a 350-500 watts, can be…...

Magnum Classic 48 Review

  • MSRP: $1,599
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A value priced step-through electric folding bike from Magnum that comes in two colors, is also feature rich with fenders, rear rack, included lights in the front and rear, front suspension fork, suspension seat post, competitively priced at just $1,599, and uses a reliable drivetrain and electrical system. Driven by a powerful Bafang rear hub-drive motor that is rated at a 500-700 watts,…...

2020 Surface 604 Rook Review

  • MSRP: $1,999
  • MODEL YEAR: 2020

A feature-rich and approachable step-through city bike available in two frame sizes and two colors, comes standard with a rear rack, fenders, and Spanninga lights, with a large dealer network in both the US and Canada for test rides and support down the road. A rare combination of a torque sensor with a rear hub motor gives a smooth…...

Magnum Mi6 Review

  • MSRP: $1,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A value priced hardtail electric bike that's trail-ready with a front suspension fork, knobby tires, and 21 gear combinations, available at a vast network of shops for great support and service. Features an upgraded 500 watt planetary geared hub motor paired with a high-capacity 48v 13ah…...

Electric Bike Technologies Electric Eco-Tad Trike Review

  • MSRP: $2,338
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A tadpole trike with a focus on value as well as stability with efficient tires, recumbent seating position, and adjustments to get you dialed in. Open platform allows you to swap battery sizes, adjust the top speed and amp flow…...

Nakto Super Cruiser Review

  • MSRP: $1,299
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A value priced fat-tire hub-drive electric bike that is not only capable but has features like a suspension fork, wide plastic fenders, battery integrated headlight, and locking ergonomic grips. Electrically powered by a 500 watt Aoma hub-drive motor that is engaged via both a…...

Rattan Fat Bear Plus Review

  • MSRP: $1,499
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A value-priced full suspension folding fat tire Ebike, with free shipping in the lower 48 states and a two-year comprehensive warranty. Comfortable ride thanks to the full suspension which is rare for a fat tire folder,…...

Propella 3.0 7-Speed Review

  • MSRP: $1,299
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A handsome and sleek yet agile, lightweight, and affordable road ebike continually upgraded and revised via Propella’s crowd funding campaign. Reliable Bafang 250 watt hub-drive with 7 speed Shimano Altus system and Shimano Tourney TX…...

Magnum Ui6 Review

  • MSRP: $1,699
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019, 2020

A beautifully designed, purpose built, affordable electric bike well suited to urban riding or commuting. Step-thru frame is easy to mount but relatively stiff thanks to a double tube mid-section,…...

Revolve 60+ Miles Review

  • MSRP: $1,950
  • MODEL YEAR: 2019

A comfortable, affordable, stable, approachable, and tough bike meant to go the distance with its dual battery setup and motorcycle/moped feel. A 500 watt planetary geared hub-motor active with either cadence based pedal assist or throttle…...