2018 version.
eMTB magazine thinks, the new Brose S Drive is the best, followed closely by Shimano E8000.
http://ebike-mtb.com/en/best-emtb-motor-2018-review/
What’s the most powerful motor on the market?
If this is the one aspect you’re interested in, the answer is simple: the TQ 120S. With its massive torque of 120 Nm, this full-blooded Bavarian power-pack smokes the entire competition. Not many brands are using it just yet, but we’re sure this will change later on this year.
Second place goes to the brand-new Brose Drive S, which finally managed to overtake the Bosch Performance CX and Shimano thanks to its recent update. Generally speaking, all motors have more than enough power to climb even the steepest of hills. However, there is more to motors than just raw power.
Power is nothing without control
Spinning wheels are not just an issue for cars, as eMTBs have this problem too – maximum power doesn’t get you anywhere if it’s not properly transferred into the ground. Especially when starting up or riding on technical terrain, the power delivery of a motor needs to be both consistent and not overly vigorous. The motor that does this best is the Brose Drive S, closely followed by the Shimano STEPS E8000 in “Trail mode” and the Bosch Performance CX in “eMTB mode.” The Yamaha PW-X pushes forward powerfully from the first pedal-stroke, making starts on steep terrain much more pleasant. On loose terrain and steep gradients we recommend reducing the support level of the Yamaha to prevent the rear wheel from spinning. Despite its enormous power, the TQ 120S is surprisingly easy to modulate. In slippery conditions and on steep starts we still recommend reducing the support level.
Shimano’s STEPS E8000 motor offers the fewest compromises and suits a wider range of applications. Its intuitive operation system and well-balanced power delivery (especially in Trail mode) are truly pleasant – plus the compact design and light weight are the ideal prerequisites for manufacturers to design the perfect eMTB.
The brand-new Brose Drive S motor offers the most natural and controllable ride. If its predecessor was lacking power, the updated version of the Brose motor stands right behind the TQ motor. On top of this, it runs very quietly, can be finely modulated even in the higher support levels, and presents virtually no resistance at speeds above 25 km/h.
However, the motor is only half of the story. Factors such as geometry, suspension, and spec of a bike are the keys to a comfortable, safe, and pleasant ride. When deciding on a bike you should consider all of these decisive factors carefully.