Motorcycles are changing as more electric models enter the market. This shift is driven by cleaner energy, lower running costs, and easier maintenance. At the center of every electric motorcycle is the motor, which directly affects speed, riding comfort, range, and overall cost.
One popular option today is the motorcycle hub motor, which is built directly into the wheel. Because its simple structure and efficient power delivery, it has become a common choice for electric motorcycles. In this article, we explain how a motorcycle hub motor works, its main parts, and its advantages and limitations in a clear and easy way.
Check: Top 10 motorcycle hub motor manufacturers in the World
Main content:
- What is a hub motor?
- How does a motorcycle hub motor work?
- What are the main parts of a motorcycle hub motor?
- The advantages of motorcycle hub motors?
- Considerations and Limitations of motorcycle hub motors?
- Hub motor vs side-mounted motor vs mid-drive motor: which one should you choose?
- What is a side-mounted motor?
- What is a mid-drive motor?
- How do hub, side-mounted, and mid-drive motors compare?
- How do you choose the right motor for your motorcycle?
- Conclusion
- FAQs
What is a hub motor?
A hub motor is an electric motor that is built directly into the wheel of a motorcycle. Instead of using chains, belts, or gears to transfer power, the motor spins the wheel itself.
In simple terms, the wheel is the motor.
On motorcycles, hub motors are usually placed in the rear wheel, but some designs use a front-wheel hub motor. Because the motor is inside the wheel, the design is compact and straightforward.
How does a motorcycle hub motor work?
- Power supply: The motorcycle battery sends electricity to the motor through a controller. The controller changes the power into the right form so the motor can run smoothly.
- Magnetic field: Electricity flows through the motor’s coils and creates a moving magnetic field.
- Motor rotation: This magnetic field pushes against magnets inside the motor, causing the motor to spin.
- Wheel movement: Because the motor is inside the wheel, the spinning motor turns the wheel directly. There is no need for chains or gears.
Most motorcycle hub motors use brushless motors, such as BLDC or PMSM types. These motors are efficient, reliable, and need very little maintenance, which makes them great for beginners.
What are the main parts of a motorcycle hub motor?
Understanding the main parts helps you see how a motorcycle hub motor works and what affects its performance. Each part has a simple but important job.
- Stator: The fixed part with copper windings that creates a magnetic field.
- Rotor: The moving part with magnets that spins the wheel.
- Bearings: Help the wheel rotate smoothly with less friction.
- Motor Shell (Hub): Holds and protects all motor parts inside the wheel.
- Cooling System: Removes heat to prevent overheating.
- Sensors: Monitor speed and temperature for safe operation.
- Controller: Controls speed and power based on throttle input.
These parts make the motorcycle hub motor efficient, reliable, and easy to maintain.
Explore: Motorcycle safety tips
The advantages of motorcycle hub motors?
Let’s look deeper at why many riders choose hub motors.
- Easy maintenance: Because there are no chains, sprockets, or gearboxes, maintenance is minimal. This is ideal for beginners who want a stress-free riding experience.
- Quiet riding: Hub motors operate almost silently. This makes rides more comfortable and reduces noise pollution.
- Compact design: The motor does not take up frame space, allowing simpler motorcycle designs.
- High efficiency: Direct power transfer reduces energy loss, especially at steady speeds.
- Beginner friendly: Many electric motorcycles with hub motors are easy to ride and control, making them perfect for new riders.
These advantages explain why the motorcycle hub motor is widely used in urban electric motorcycles.
Considerations and Limitations of motorcycle hub motors?
While hub motors are great, they are not perfect for every rider.
- Increased unsprung weight: Because the motor is inside the wheel, it adds weight that affects suspension performance.
- Heat dissipation: At high speeds or heavy loads, heat can build up inside the motor.
- Limited performance upgrades: Compared to mid-drive motors, hub motors offer fewer tuning options.
- Not ideal for fff-road: Rough terrain can stress the wheel and motor housing.
Knowing these limits helps you decide if a motorcycle hub motor fits your riding style.
Hub motor vs side-mounted motor vs mid-drive motor: which one should you choose?
Electric motorcycles use three main motor layouts. Each has its own strengths.
- Hub motor: built into the wheel
- Side-mounted motor: attached near the rear wheel
- Mid-drive motor: mounted at the center frame
Choosing the right one depends on how and where you ride.
Read: Mid drive motor vs hub motor
What is a side-mounted motor?
A side-mounted motor is installed near the rear wheel and drives the wheel using a chain or belt. This setup is similar to traditional gasoline motorcycles, making it easier to understand and repair.
Compared to hub motors, side-mounted motors usually have better cooling because they are more exposed to air. They are also easier to replace if something goes wrong. However, their performance is moderate, and the off-center placement can affect balance. This type of motor is often used in electric motorcycles that aim to balance cost and performance.
What is a mid-drive motor?
A mid-drive motor is placed in the center of the motorcycle frame and sends power to the rear wheel through gears or a chain. This central position helps balance the motorcycle’s weight, improving handling and stability.
Mid-drive motors are known for their high torque, which makes them very good for climbing hills and riding off-road. Because of their strong performance and efficient power use, they are commonly found in high-performance electric motorcycles. However, they are more complex and usually more expensive than other motor types.
How do hub, side-mounted, and mid-drive motors compare?
| Motor Type | Hub Motor | Side-Mounted Motor | Mid-Drive Motor |
| Basic Description | Motor built directly into the front or rear wheel | Motor attached on one side of the frame near the rear wheel | Motor mounted in the center of the frame |
| Position | Integrated inside the wheel hub (front or rear) | Mounted on one side of the rear wheel | Mounted centrally, power sent to wheel by chain or belt |
| Common Motor Types | BLDC, PMSM | BLDC | BLDC, PMSM |
| Pros | Compact design Direct drive (no chains or belts) Low maintenance Cost-effective Good for mass production |
Simple structure Easy to install and repair Low manufacturing cost |
Balanced weight High torque for hills Works with gears efficiently Excellent cooling |
| Cons | Adds unsprung weight Heat buildup under heavy load Lower torque |
Off-center weight affects balance Average torque and efficiency Noisier and older technology |
Complex system Higher cost More maintenance needed |
| Best Applications | E-bikes and light electric motorcycles Urban commuting on flat roads |
Older or low-end commuter motorcycles | High-performance electric motorcycles Mountain riding and long-range use |
How do you choose the right motor for your motorcycle?
Here are key questions to ask before buying:
1. How Will You Ride?
- City commuting → hub motor
- Mixed riding → side-mounted motor
- Off-road or performance → mid-drive motor
2. What is your budget?: Hub motors are usually the most affordable.
3. Maintenance preference: If you want low maintenance, hub motors are ideal.
4. Riding experience: Beginners often feel more comfortable with smooth, predictable power delivery.
By answering these questions, you can decide if a motorcycle hub motor meets your needs.
Conclusion
Electric motorcycles offer many choices, but understanding motor types makes decision-making easier. Hub motors stand out for their simple design, quiet operation, and low maintenance needs. While they may not be perfect for high-performance or off-road riding, they are excellent for urban commuting and everyday use.
The motorcycle hub motor provides a reliable, cost-effective, and easy-to-use solution that makes electric riding enjoyable and stress-free.
FAQs
How fast can a 2000W hub motor go?
A 2000W 72V hub motor usually reaches speeds between 30 and 60 mph, depending on setup, rider weight, and road conditions. Many riders experience real-world speeds around 40–50 mph.
How fast is a 5000W hub motor?
A 5000W hub motor can typically reach speeds of about 40–60 mph (64–96 km/h). Actual speed depends on factors like bike design, battery voltage, and riding conditions.
Can a hub motor handle hills?
Yes, hub motors can handle mild to moderate hills without problems. Very steep hills are easier for mid-drive motors because they provide higher torque.
How long does a hub motor last?
With proper use and basic maintenance, a hub motor can last for many years. Fewer moving parts mean less wear and longer service life.
Are hub motors expensive to repair?
Minor repairs are usually simple and affordable. However, if the motor is heavily damaged, replacing the entire hub unit can be more costly.
Is a motorcycle hub motor suitable for long-distance riding?
Yes, a motorcycle hub motor works well for long-distance riding if the battery capacity is sufficient. Good cooling also helps maintain performance on longer trips.
