Electric motorcycle motors and hub motors are the two key core components of power operation of electric motorcycles, which play a vital role in the function of electric motorcycles and the actual riding experience of users. Understanding the differences and working principles of electric motorcycle motors will help buyers make a more informed choice when purchasing or maintaining an electric motorcycle.In this article, we will analyze in detail the types of electric motorcycle hub motors and motors, the differences and principles of operation, as well as the applicable scenarios.

Basic Structure of Electric Motorcycle Motors

An electric motorcycle motor is mainly composed of a rotor inside and other parts such as a stator. The stator is composed of a winding (copper wire) and an iron core (silicon steel sheet), and the three-phase AC current passing through the winding produces a certain rotating magnetic field.Current is induced between the stator and rotor, thereby producing electromagnetic torque. End caps are used to secure and protect the motor.

Working Principle of Electric Motorcycle Motors

As the rotor spins in a magnetic field, it passes through magnetic lines of force and induces an electric current, which creates an electromagnetic torque that propels the motorcycle forward.

Basic Structure of Electric Motorcycle Hubs

The hub motor is a key working running component of an electric motorcycle, serving as a critical mounting point for the tire and providing direct friction contact with the road surface. The design and material selection of the hub motor directly affects the power efficiency and durability of the motorcycle as well as other characteristics such as stability while riding and brake initiation efficiency.

Working Principle of Hub Motors

The motorcycle controller sequentially energizes coils within the hub, generating a magnetic field that attracts and repels the permanent magnet rotor, thereby directly driving the wheel rotation.

Electric Motorcycle Motor Classification

1. DC motors: DC motors with high efficiency have the advantages of good starting performance, low starting current, high overload capacity, and simple maintenance, but they are relatively expensive due to their large size and heavy weight. This is a problem.

2. AC motors: However, the starting performance of AC motors is less operational than other clicks and requires auxiliary equipment such as starting capacitors.AC motors are suitable for electric motorcycle models with less stringent performance requirements.

Electric Motorcycle Motor Classification

1. Brushed Motors: Brushed motors have simple structures, reliable operation, and easy maintenance. However, they produce significant noise and relatively low efficiency. Brushed motors are typically used in electric motorcycle models requiring low-speed, high-torque output.

2. Brushless Motors: Brushless motors offer high efficiency, low noise, and extended lifespan. However, their complex structure makes maintenance relatively challenging. They are suitable for high-speed, high-efficiency electric motorcycle models.

Application Scenarios

Different types of electric motorcycle motors are suitable for different usage scenarios. Brushless DC motors have high power density, high efficiency, and low noise, making them ideal for high-performance electric motorcycles. On the contrary, AC brushed motors are more suitable for low-speed, high-torque applications, such as electric tricycles and so on.

Differentiation of Electric Motorcycle Hubs

By Motor Operating Principle

1. Brushless DC Hub Motor

Relying on an electronic controller to reverse the current direction in the stator windings, it generates a rotating magnetic field to drive the permanent magnet rotor. It eliminates traditional carbon brushes, offering high reliability, maintenance-free operation, and superior energy conversion efficiency. This results in extended range, enhanced durability, smooth operation, and low noise—hence its name. Precise Control: When paired with a controller, it enables more accurate speed regulation and torque control.

2. Brushed DC Hub Motor

Utilizes carbon brushes and a mechanical commutator to reverse current direction, enabling continuous motor rotation. Features a simple structure, low cost, and straightforward control: no complex controller required.

By Structure/Drive Type

1. Low-Speed Brushless Hub Motor

2. High-Speed Brushless Hub Motor

Differences Between Electric Motorcycle Hubs and Motors

1. Functional Differences: Electric motorcycle hubs primarily serve to support and protect the tires, while the electric motorcycle motor functions as the power output component of the vehicle.

2. Structural Differences: Electric motorcycle hubs mainly consist of the rim, spokes, and mounting surface, whereas electric motorcycle motors are primarily composed of the stator, rotor, and housing.

Electric Motor Hub

Mounting Position: Integrated within the wheel hub

Drive Method: Directly drives the wheel without additional chains/belts

Structural Features: Motor, hub, and brake integrated into a single unit

Key Advantages: Simple structure, low cost, maintenance-free, high transmission efficiency

Electric Motorcycle Motor

Mounting Position: Mounted at the center of the frame (at the footrest position)

Drive Method: Drives the rear wheel via chain, belt, or gears

Structural Features: The motor is an independent component, separate from the transmission system

Key Advantages: High performance, excellent handling, compatible with transmissions, superior heat dissipation