July 25, 2024

Hub Drive Bikes, or Underpowered Electric Mopeds

At Black Tie Bike Rentals of Sun Valley, we rent several types of bikes optimized for different things, either by application or price.  Within the many use cases, the bikes can be divided into two main types whose distinction is opaque to most customers:  hub drive bikes vs. mid drive bikes.

Hub Drive Bikes vs. Mid Drive Bikes

Almost all hub drive bikes are Class 2, unless you remove the throttle (but only a monster would do that).  One or more of the wheel hubs are replaced with a motor and a planetary gear set (for torque multiplication), although some are direct drive.  When you actuate the motor, either by starting to pedal or twisting the throttle, after some delay built in by the manufacturer the electric motor gets going and you accelerate, wheee!  There is a very distinct on/off. The cruise mode is set to a specific torque or power level rather than a specific speed, so it feels like you are always speeding up or coasting down.  The overall effect is very fun, and the more effort you put in the less electricity you use, making a big difference in the range.

This very simple, easily packaged drivetrain is a fantastic solution for an ebike used for transportation around town.  Pedaling efficiency is not a major factor for these bikes, allowing for design choices that make them easy to ride, easy to park, and with a large cargo capacity.  Our opinion on hub drive bikes is that less is more for a better experience.  

 

Examples of Hub Drive Bikes

RadMission:

A very basic hybrid bike with a motor.  It is quick, nimble, and balanced.  It looks like the form factor of a bike that has evolved for over a 100 years to be efficient and quick.  A confident rider will have as much fun on this as their regular bike, but with an additional 500 watts of power available by twisting your right wrist.  Our least expensive ebike rental option, and a favorite of the staff.

RadRunner 2:

The same basic motor setup, but in a form factor designed to be accessible for novice riders.  We love this bike because it truly takes advantage of the electric technology to make a very useful thing. However, it would be awful if it wasn’t for the motor.  If you look at the RadMission and think it looks uncomfortable, the Runner is for you.  Why do we rent the Runner2 instead of the “Plus” models?  Because the more complex ones are not better.  You don’t need the complication of gears with a hub drive motor.  You don’t need a heavy clunky suspension fork if you have a soft, high volume tire to smooth things out.  Enjoy the simplicity.

To check out the full catalogue of bikes at Black Tie Sun Valley or to make a booking, please visit https://www.blacktiebikes.com/sun-valley/.

By Black Tie Skis of Sun Valley Owner Harry Oettinger