How Mid Drive Motors Work

This system works in conjunction with the gears on the bike, so when different gears are selected, the motor gives a different level of performance. Just like a car with a manual gearbox, low gears are for high torque (for take-offs and hill climbing), and higher gears give higher speeds. Therefore, the performance of mid-drive systems are broader in their scope than hub motors of the equivalent power output. There are two alternative methods for Mid-Drive motors to provide power.

Torque Sensing

These motors sense how much effort, in terms of pedalling power, is being produced and add the motor power to the rider effort. More rider effort equals more motor power. They intuitively ease-off when rider reduces pedalling power, when changing gear for example. This flexibility of response combined with the torque available in each gear is why this system is particularly popular with mountain bike riders.

Cadence Sensing

Pedalling speed or cadence sensing motors rely upon measuring the cranks being turned to provide additional power. So, you could spin the pedals without much force to almost trick the motor into providing more power. Cadence sensing motors offer a predictable power response which can be increased via a throttle for those days when the rider has less power.