Take Your E-cycling Journey to New Heights!
eBike, the best mid-drive electric bike, in particular, has become popular over the last few years. What started as a novelty has turned into a necessity for a lot of people. Especially at the height of the pandemic, most individuals sought out safer ways to get from one place to another. While regular bikes are great for short distances, it is tiring to cycle for hours under the sun’s heat. Moreover, not everyone is built like an athlete.
eBikes help riders get to their destination faster and with ease. It is poised to replace motorcycles and other forms of transportation because it is less bulky, better for the environment, and more enjoyable to use.
In general, there are two types of eBikes available in the market today - hub-drive and mid-drive bikes. This article will explore mid-drive bikes - their benefits, how they compare to hub-drive options, and the best ones to consider.
What is a mid-drive electric bike?
The difference between a mid-drive and hub-drive bike lies in the location of their motors. As the name suggests, the motor of a mid-drive ebike is found in the middle of the bike itself. However, this makes the best mid-drive electric bikes a little more expensive than the cheaper hub-drive bikes. Nevertheless, what it asks for in costs, it makes up for in performance.
Mid-drive motors are notoriously light. The weight that it adds to a bike is negligible, primarily attributed to the motor’s positioning. Mid-drive eBikes perform best during long trips with plenty of elevation since the motor works well with the bike’s gears. Overall, riding a mid-drive bike feels more natural and balanced than other eBike options.
Does Mid-drive Ebikes have a throttle?
Throttle in mid-drive ebikes is uncommon. If you prefer a bike that has throttle, then hub-drive options are the best for you.
How does a mid-drive electric bike work?
Mid-drive eBikes are designed to direct the pedal and transfer power from the motor to the rear wheels through the chain drive. This process makes for a quieter, smoother, and more natural feeling ride.
Which is better? Hub drive or mid-drive electric bike?
Again, the choice between a mid-drive and hub-drive electric bike is personal. There are pros and cons to both types. It all depends on what fits you and your family’s lifestyle.
For the most part, hub-drive eBikes are less expensive than the mid-drive option. Their mechanism is simple and can be retrofitted to any traditional bike. They are great for people who have only started dabbling into eBikes. However, they are also heavier than the best mid-drive electric bikes. Moreover, there are limited options for customization, and repairing a flat tire can be a lengthy process considering the placement of the motor.
Consequently, mid-drive eBikes are a significant step up from hub-drive vehicles. They perform better and are generally lighter than their hub-drive counterparts. It is easier to maintain, and flat tires aren’t a problem since the motor is not located near the wheels. Although they are more expensive, their price is definitely worth the performance.
What are the best mid-drive electric bikes?
The best mid-drive electric bikes are those that fit your lifestyle. Below are our top picks:
Most Affordable: Hollandia Mobilit e 36v 250w 700c Aluminum Electric Commuter Bike 11310
Interested in buying a mid-drive bike of your own but your budget is limited? The Hollandia Mobilit e 36v 250w 700c Aluminum Electric Commuter Bike 11310 is the best option for you. You get all the bells and whistles of a stunning mid-drive electric bike for half the cost.
The Hollandia Mobilit e 36v 250w 700c Aluminum Electric Commuter Bike 11310 is equipped with a powerful 250-watt battery with a range of over 50 miles. Likewise, this affordable eBike comes with a 7-speed rear wheel, and a multi-level pedal assist that ensures your rides are fast, safe, and fun.
Best for Commuters: Dahon k One Plus 36v 8 7ah 250w Mid-drive folding electric bike 92-2-07
Commuting can be such a hassle, especially if you have to lug around a big piece of metal. So if you are looking for an eBike you can take anywhere, you don’t have to search any further. The Dahon k One Plus 36v 8 7ah 250w Mid-drive folding electric bike 92-2-07 is the compact, lightweight, and foldable mid-drive bike you are looking for.
While small and easy to bring along, that doesn’t mean that the Dahon k One Plus 36v 8 7ah 250w Mid-drive folding electric bike 92-2-07 doesn’t pack a punch. Like most mid-drive bikes, it has a 250-watt battery perfect for urban cruising. It doesn’t hurt that folded up this bike only clocks in at 42 lbs! Truly a great city bike!
Best for Long Drives: Belize e Rider Suburban 48v 14ah 500w Mid-drive Electric Bike 27020
The Belize e Rider Suburban 48v 14ah 500w Mid-drive Electric Bike 27020 doesn’t come to play! This mid-drive electric bike comes packed with a 500-watt motor - that is double the wattage of the eBikes featured in this very list!
With a lightweight aluminum frame and a 7-speed derailleur, the Belize e Rider Suburban 48v 14ah 500w Mid-drive Electric Bike 27020 can be taken on trips that span more than 75 miles! It doesn’t hurt that this brand and model come in three colors - classic black, fiery red, and vibrant blue! This bike is truly the perfect marriage between form and function!
Best for Off-Road Biking: Rambo Bikes The Nomad 48v 11 6ah fat tire electric hunting bike 750 xpc11
Are you more of an off-road biker? Then the Rambo Bikes The Nomad 48v 11 6ah fat tire electric hunting bike 750 xpc11 is for you! Equipped with a fat tire and an even fatter motor, this mid-drive option has been tested for both city, urban driving, and off-terrain fun!
More than the fat tires, the Rambo Bikes The Nomad 48v 11 6ah fat tire electric hunting bike 750 xpc11 comes with a 750-watt battery and a premium air fork suspension. It truly is made to blaze the trails with ease!
Best for Off-Road Biking on a Budget: Rambo Bikes the Pursuit 48v 750w Fat Tire Electric Hunting Bike 750-26
Off-terrain shouldn’t mean an ugly design. Rambo Bikes the Pursuit 48v 750w Fat Tire Electric Hunting Bike 750-26 proves precisely that point with its classic, no-frills look! But don’t let this bike fool you! It is as robust as other mid-drive off-road bikes but without the exorbitant price tag and tacky finish.
The Rambo Bikes the Pursuit 48v 750w Fat Tire Electric Hunting Bike 750-26 is equipped with a powerful 750-watt battery, an Aluminum alloy 6061 frame, and Kenda Krusade Anit-Puncture wheels.
While hub-drive eBikes remain the most popular electric bike option, there is no denying how mid-drive bikes are a step up from the basic option. The choice of mid-drive eBike for you and your household is a personal one. Nevertheless, we hope that the list we provided above can steer you towards the right decision.