Introduction
Mid-drive is a propulsion system used in electric bikes where the motor is placed in the center of the frame, somewhere around the pedal cranks. Positioning the engine this way enables even weight distribution and more efficient power output. The motor uses the e-bike’s gears to generate more torque to boost your efforts on the pedals. They are the second most commonly used in the manufacture of electric bicycles. However, they offer several advantages over other propulsion systems, including common ones like hub motors. Want to learn more about e-bikes? In this blog post, we’ll explore the advantages and differences of two of our most popular models: the Rambler and Rhino.
Mid-drive motors can use the e-bike’s other mechanical systems to add more finesse to riding. Due to this, they output more power for quicker acceleration and better climbing of steep inclines. They are the more energy-efficient option and are a popular choice for e-bikers who prefer performance and efficiency. This article explores the exceptional mid-drive motors of the electric commuter bike Himiway Rambler and Rhino, highlighting the benefits they offer commuters over other bike propulsion systems.
Specs & Features
Himiway Rambler | Himiway Rhino | |
Battery | 48V 15Ah | 48V 15Ah 2x |
Motor | 500W mid-drive motor | 1000W mid-drive motor |
Brakes | 180mm hydraulic disc brakes | 180mm hydraulic disc brakes |
Tire Size | 27″ x 2.4″ | 26″ x 4.5″ |
Range | 55+ miles | 100+ miles |
Top Speed | 20 mph | 28 mph |
Gear | Shimano 9-speed gear shift system | Shimano 10-speed gear shift system |
Step-thru | Yes | No |
Himiway Rambler
Himiway Rambler is an electric commuter bike designed with features that make it perfect for commuting in urban areas. These include thinner tires, wider wheels, and a step-thru 6061 aluminum frame. Below are some of its other features:
- High-capacity Battery
An electric bike’s battery is responsible for storing the charge it can provide to support your riding. As you proceed, you may get tired and want to switch from pedaling to a more convenient option to stay in motion. The amount of charge on the battery determines for how long either the pedal assist or throttle can be used.
The Himiway Rambler uses a 48V 15Ah LG lithium-ion battery with a capacity of 720Wh. Being of a high-quality build, it delivers excellent performance on long-range commutes. When fully charged, this battery can travel a range of 55 miles using a pedal assist.
- Mid-drive Motor
The motor is a vital part of an e-bike’s electric assist system and determines the amount of power you get to boost your efforts. Its efficiency largely depends on the type used and its position on the bike. It determines the level of assistance to complement your pedaling using sensors when you activate the pedal-assist or throttle system.
The Rambler is equipped with a 500W Bafang mid-drive motor, which provides faster acceleration and lower energy consumption. This can generate a torque of 120 Nm, which is more than enough to crush obstacles and climb steep roads with ease.
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Hydraulic disc brakes are another less commonly used component in e-bike manufacture, with many using mechanical types instead. Their braking system uses fluid pressure to transmit the force from the levers to the calipers, which offers several commuting advantages. The biggest is their sealed system which exposes them to less dirt and debris than mechanical disc or rim brakes.
The Rambler’s 180mm hydraulic disc brakes are more responsive when engaged, which gives you more control over the force applied. With this comes a better stoppage time and improved smoothness. They are also self-adjusting and designed to compensate for wear over time, ensuring more consistent braking performance.
Himiway Rhino
The mid drive ebike Himiway Rhino is one of the most impressive fat tire electric bikes out there, with super fat 4.5″ tires and a dual battery system designed to provide an extended range than most e-bikes. Other high-quality features include the following:
- Dual Battery System
The Rhino’s dual-battery system is a unique innovation that gives it added commuting edge over every other e-bike in its class and price range. It incorporates the simultaneous use of the two sources of power so that the second easily takes the place of the first if it gets depleted. These are two 48V 15Ah Samsung/LG lithium-ion batteries with a combined capacity of 1,440 Wh.
When you use this for the multi-terrain riding it is designed for, what you get is a whopping 100+ miles on a single complete charge of the battery. This is enough to get even hardcore e-bikers through an entire day of reckless enjoyment.
- Mid-drive Motor
The Himiway Rhino uses a 1000W Bafang mid-drive brushless geared hub motor. This incredible power can generate a massive torque of 160Nm, which can get you over most terrains with ease. The mid-drive motor helps with the even distribution of weight for more efficiency in climbing hills and navigating rugged terrain. It is designed to improve the control and handling of the e-bike on challenging terrain and works with the 4.5″ fat tires to provide excellent performance. This is due to its higher responsiveness, which gives riding the Rhino a more natural feel.
- Hydraulic Disc Brakes
Another feature of the Rhino which enhances its multi-terrain abilities is its hydraulic disc brakes. These use fluid pressure to squeeze the brake pad onto the rotors when the levers are pulled. Due to this, they tend to provide a more consistent, smooth, and powerful stoppage. The Rhino’s 180mm hydraulic disc brakes are precise in most road conditions and ensure you can stop smoothly without skidding or damaging the tires. They also provide top-notch modulation, improving handling and control of the bike on rocky terrain.
Performance Comparison
Both electric bikes are designed with high-quality features for multi-terrain commuting. However, their performance differs in several aspects.
Top Speed
The Himiway Rambler uses a 500W mid-drive motor with a 60 Nm torque. It has a 720 Wh battery as its only source of power, which is an efficient option. When you combine these two elements of electric assistance, you get a top speed of 20 mph. You can further increase this by pushing the pedals alongside the assist.
The Rhino uses a 1000W mid-drive motor with a torque of 120 Nm. With its battery capacity sitting at 1,440 Wh, the motor enjoys a consistent supply of power. Due to these, the e-bike can perform at a top speed of 28 mph.
Torque
The torque refers to the amount of power the motor can generate to push the e-bike. Due to this, the electric bike can ride at top speed on hilly and rugged terrain. The Himiway Rambler’s 500W mid-drive motor has a torque of 120 Nm, which improves its handling considerably and helps with climbing up hilly roads.
On the other hand, the Himiway Rhino’s 1000W mid-drive motor can generate a torque of 160 Nm. With this, it provides enough momentum to ride easily on rocky roads, mountainous regions, and up steep inclines.
Conclusion
A mid-drive motor is on the higher end of propulsion systems used in electric bikes. Its position in the frame’s center is key to the improved stability and balance enjoyed on e-bikes that use it.
Other benefits of using a mid-drive motor include better handling and a more natural experience with the pedal assist. It is not common due to limitations like its higher cost and more complex system. Both the Himiway Rambler and the Rhino use unique high-capacity mid-drive motors and long-range batteries, making them ideal for covering more miles in style. Visit our online store to learn more about each electric bicycle.