Understanding Motor Types: Geared Hub vs. Direct Drive

If you’ve spent any time exploring our selection, you’ve likely observed that our top-notch electric bikes are crafted to accommodate any lifestyle.

Our team of engineers takes painstaking measures to ensure that each model caters to the specific needs of different riders. This sometimes entails pinpointing the optimal tire size, determining the ideal width for the handlebar, or even designing a more accessible frame from scratch.

However, one of their biggest considerations is ensuring that each type of bike is equipped with the most suitable motor.

Consequently, some of our ebikes feature geared hub motors, while others are equipped with direct drive hub motors.

If you’ve ever questioned why your ride possesses one type rather than the other, allow us to explain:

Geared Hub

For the adventurous souls in pursuit of sunsets and thrilling escapades, Rolling Stone hailed the RadRover 6 Plus as the “next generation of personal transportation.” A geared hub motor offers ample low-end power, which proves advantageous when traversing dirt paths, sandy terrain, or conquering steep inclines.

The combination of power and the motor’s overall durability makes it an ideal choice for bicycles designed for both off-road adventures and urban environments.

That’s precisely why it is paired with the RadRover 6 Plus, a fantastic option for riders who crave the great outdoors.

It also explains why it is featured on the RadExpand, RadMission, RadRunner, and RadRunner Plus.

And as for 2021, we have introduced a geared hub motor to the RadCity 5 Plus, enhancing its hill-climbing capabilities.

Each of these bikes is built with utility and versatility in mind, making them go-to options for individuals who rely on them for both errands and leisurely weekend rides.

Looking for the perfect ebike for you?

Direct Drive

Electrek hailed the RadCity as “the ultimate commuter e-bike from Rad Power Bikes.” Daily commuters navigating bustling urban settings often gravitate toward the RadCity or the RadCity Step-Thru.

These models operate by using direct drive motors, which prove to be more efficient when covering long distances and traveling at higher speeds.

The motor, located within the rear hub of the wheel, employs a magnetic system to propel the bicycle. One of the noteworthy advantages of this magnetic system is its incorporation of a regenerative braking feature.

This implies that when you apply the brakes, it harnesses some of the bike’s momentum, converting it into electricity to recharge the battery. By utilizing the direct drive motor as a generator, it redirects some of the energy that would otherwise be lost back into the battery, thereby enhancing your riding range, particularly when transporting heavy cargo.

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