Electric bikes
Electric bikes
E-bikes are becoming ever more popular: In Switzerland, one in seven bicycles sold is an electric bike. So-called Pedelecs, bicycles where the rider’s pedalling is assisted by an electric motor (up to 25km/h), are the most popular. But what types of transmission exist and what is the difference between them?
Front wheel motors are easy to install and relatively inexpensive. However, they offer less traction for hill starts and on unpaved roads compared to the other two transmission types. E-bikes with mid-drive motors offer well-balanced and safe cycling as their centre of gravity remains practically unchanged. Back wheel motors feature direct power transmission and good grip, thereby providing considerable security.