Hub motor za električni bicikl - motor u kotaču ili srednji motor

Mid-Drive vs Hub Motor: Which E-Bike is for you?

Electric bikes typically come with one of two main motor types: a mid-drive motor or a hub motor.
On paper, both do the same thing — help you pedal — but in reality they feel completely different on the road.

The difference shows up in power, efficiency, riding experience, maintenance, and overall feel on various terrains.
In this guide, we break down the advantages and disadvantages of each system and help you decide which e-bike is the right fit for your needs.

1. How the Two Motor Types Work

Mid-Drive Motor

  • located in the center of the bike, driving the crank axle
  • transfers power through the chain and chainring
  • uses your gears for maximum efficiency

A mid-drive motor feels like stronger, more powerful pedaling — which makes the ride natural and smooth while using the battery efficiently.

Hub Motor

It’s excellent for flat terrain and city riding, but shows limitations on hills and under heavy load.

2. Pedal Sensors: How the Motor Knows When to Help

This is one of the most important factors that affect how an e-bike actually feels while riding.

Cadence Sensor (pedal rotation sensor)

Most common on e-bikes with hub motors.

How it works:
The motor turns on when the pedals start moving — it doesn’t know how strongly you are pushing.

Advantages:

  • simple and affordable
  • good for city riding
  • can be “tricked” into assisting with very light pedaling in low gears, making the bike feel like it rides by itself

Disadvantages:

  • less natural feeling
  • slower motor response

Torque Sensor (pedal pressure sensor)

Standard on e-bikes with mid-drive motors.

How it works:
The motor measures how hard you press the pedals and increases assistance proportionally.

Advantages:

  • the most natural pedaling feel
  • very quick response
  • efficient use of battery — adds more power only when needed
  • excellent for hills and longer rides

Disadvantage:

  • higher price

3. Mid-Drive Motor: Pros and Cons

Pros

  • excellent climbing performance
  • uses the bike’s gears for optimal power transfer
  • natural pedal feel
  • better weight distribution
  • more efficient battery usage
  • ideal for: hills, off-road, longer trips, sportier riding styles

Cons

  • higher price
  • more wear on the chain and cassette
  • needs more regular servicing that is often more expensive

4. Hub Motor: Pros and Cons

Pros

  • more affordable
  • simple to maintain
  • quiet operation
  • less stress on drivetrain components
  • ideal for: flat terrain, everyday city commuting, casual riding

Cons

  • weaker performance on hills
  • heavier wheel and less balanced weight distribution
  • less natural riding feel
  • removing the wheel for tyre service is more complicated

5. Power, Battery and Real-World Efficiency

A mid-drive motor uses the bike’s gears, which allows the motor to stay in its optimal efficiency range — especially on climbs.
On long hills, the difference in performance becomes very noticeable.

A hub motor consumes more energy when it’s under load, such as on inclines or when carrying extra weight.
On flat roads, however, it can be very efficient.

6. Which Motor Type Is Right for You?

Choose a mid-drive motor if:

  • you often ride hills or uneven terrain
  • you want the most natural pedaling feel
  • you want a higher-quality e-bike
  • you ride longer distances

Choose a hub motor if:

  • you ride mostly in the city
  • you want a more budget-friendly option
  • you want minimal maintenance
  • you rarely ride uphill

Conclusion

Both mid-drive and hub motors have clear strengths — but the right choice depends on your route, riding style and budget.

For riders who want quality, natural pedal feel and long-term efficiency, a mid-drive motor is generally the better option.
For simple, everyday urban riding on flat terrain, a hub motor offers excellent value for the money.

If you're unsure which option suits you best, visit the Batronik bike shop and service — you can try both systems, and we’ll help you choose the perfect model for your needs.

📍 Batronik – Bike Shop & Service
Trnjanska cesta 39, Zagreb
📞 +385 95 6262 320

Back to blog