What's the best E-MTB motor? Article...

[Sonoboy]

Informational article discusses the top 5 mid-drives and their differences.

http://ebike-mtb.com/en/the-best-emtb-motor/

Edit: Well, 5 manufacturers, 6 drives.

 

[Trail Cruiser]

Why don't the manufacturers show their torque curves just like most car companies do?

"... Cadence and the optimal figures
Cadence has a major impact on the power delivery of a motor. Some manufacturers (Brose, Yamaha PW) are more sensitive to cadence than others. In general: if you’re riding with too low a cadence then it’s not ideal for efficiency or energy usage. The optimal cadence spectrum varies from brand to brand, and there’s actually a huge discrepancy between what the brand state is ideal and the reality. Infrequent riders often have a much lower cadence. It’s a shame that brands haven’t yet created a comprehensive and easy-to-view display that shows the optimal cadence and efficiency for the motor. In the world of cars, this is now pretty much standard. Too many or too few revs prompt red, and the optimal efficiency zone is met with green. ..."

 

[elyhim]

The ruggedness of the motor itself, armor should be a consideration as well. Moving up over rock and logs at speed hasn't even slowed my Bosch motor. At first the sound of the armor hitting the tree gave me pause but it's pretty tough.

 

[Sonoboy]

Why don't the manufacturers show their torque curves just like most car companies do?

"... Cadence and the optimal figures
Cadence has a major impact on the power delivery of a motor. Some manufacturers (Brose, Yamaha PW) are more sensitive to cadence than others. In general: if you’re riding with too low a cadence then it’s not ideal for efficiency or energy usage. The optimal cadence spectrum varies from brand to brand, and there’s actually a huge discrepancy between what the brand state is ideal and the reality. Infrequent riders often have a much lower cadence. It’s a shame that brands haven’t yet created a comprehensive and easy-to-view display that shows the optimal cadence and efficiency for the motor. In the world of cars, this is now pretty much standard. Too many or too few revs prompt red, and the optimal efficiency zone is met with green. ..."

To be fair, a third party needs to test each manufacturers product to offer an unbiased opinion. Like the SAE Net horsepower ratings in this country (USA), which then allow at least some direct comparison for the shopper. I'm really surprised this has not occurred in the EU countries, as they have embraced standards in most other facets of their lives, and since the bicycle plays such a huge role in their societies.