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Hub Motors & Mid-Drive Motors for E-bikes

CE-certified BLDC hub motors and geared mid-drive motors for electric bicycles, cargo e-bikes, and light e-mobility.

E-bike Motor Market Overview

The e-bike market reached 50 million units annually in 2024 and continues growing at 10%+ per year globally — with Europe and Asia-Pacific as the dominant markets. Each e-bike requires one traction motor plus several smaller auxiliary motors (display, light, lock actuator). This makes e-bikes one of the fastest-growing volume segments for BLDC motors.

E-bike motors split into two main architectures: hub motors (motor integrated into the wheel hub) and mid-drive motors (motor at the bottom bracket, driving the chain). Hub motors dominate in cost-sensitive commuter and city bikes; mid-drive systems are preferred in performance e-MTB and e-cargo bikes due to better weight distribution and natural pedal feel.

Regulatory compliance is critical: EU EN 15194 limits pedelec motor power to 250W continuous (with 500W peak assistance) at speeds up to 25 km/h. Speed pedelecs (S-Pedelec) allow up to 45 km/h. US Class 1/2/3 regulations specify different speed limits by state.

Hub Motor vs Mid-Drive — Choosing the Right Architecture

Rear Hub Motor (Geared)

Geared hub motors use internal planetary reduction to allow a smaller, higher-RPM motor — lighter, more efficient at lower speeds, and with freewheel capability (no drag when not powered). Best for city commuter and folding e-bikes.

  • 250W (EU legal) / 500W
  • 36V or 48V input
  • Internal 4:1–7:1 planetary gear
  • Freewheel design
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Rear Hub Motor (Direct Drive)

No gears — stator is fixed to axle, rotor is the wheel shell. Heavier but supports regenerative braking and higher sustained power. Popular for throttle-assist bikes and cargo e-bikes.

  • 250W–1500W options
  • 36V / 48V / 52V
  • Regenerative braking capable
  • High sustained power
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Mid-Drive Motor

Motor drives the crank/chain, leveraging the bike's existing gearing for optimal efficiency across terrain. Better weight distribution for full-suspension e-MTB. Torque sensor integration standard.

  • 250W–750W nominal
  • 36V / 48V systems
  • Torque sensor compatible
  • Bottom bracket mount
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between 36V and 48V hub motors?

48V systems deliver higher power at lower current than 36V — meaning thinner wiring, less heat, and better hill-climbing at the same rated wattage. Most modern e-bikes have moved to 48V. 36V remains common in budget commuter bikes and older designs. If you are designing a new e-bike, 48V is the recommended choice for any bike above 250W.

Does your hub motor comply with EU EN 15194 (pedelec standard)?

Our 250W rated hub motors comply with EU Regulation 168/2013 and EN 15194 for pedelec classification (power assist up to 25 km/h, 250W nominal). We provide CE Declaration of Conformity and can support your type-approval testing with motor technical documentation.

What controller is compatible with your hub motors?

Our hub motors use standard 3-phase brushless with hall sensors (120° spacing). They are compatible with KT, Lishui, Votol, VESC, and BAC controllers. We can recommend a matched controller for your voltage, power, and display protocol (KT LCD, 860C, etc.).

Can I order hub motors with custom spoke count or axle width?

Yes — 32H and 36H spoke drilling, and axle widths of 100mm (front) / 135mm / 142mm (rear quick-release and thru-axle) are available. Custom configurations have a MOQ of 50 units and 4–6 week lead time.

Ready to source motors for your e-bike project?

Browse our full catalog or send us your specs — we respond within 48 hours worldwide.