Today, we are going to dive into the world of eBike motors and compare two of the leading brands: Bafang and Bosch, so you can make a better decision when looking to buy an e-bike. Both brands distribute globally, offer good performance and reliability, and receive excellent support in New Zealand.
Bafang is a globally respected Chinese electric bike motor manufacturer. They are selling more than 2 million eBike motors annually across Europe, Asia, Africa, the Americas, Australia, and NZ. Bafang offers both mid-drive motors and hub-drive motors. (What is the difference? Read our blog on hub-drive versus mid-drive motors to find out.)
Since 2003, Bafang has been developing solutions for electric transport and is renowned for producing motors with exceptional torque output. They extensively test their motors outdoors to ensure a tailored and optimal e-bike experience. This is important for e-bike owners in New Zealand who want a bike that can handle a range of conditions.
Bafang also places great emphasis on high-quality production processes, including raw material control and automation for manufacturing. Compared to similar performance products, Bafang offers lower pricing, which aligns with its commitment to expanding access to eBikes and enabling more people to experience the joy of riding. The focus on quality and affordability are two key reasons we choose Bafang Motors for all our bikes and why many customers love MeloYelo e-bikes.
Bosch, a German motor manufacturer, has been delivering innovative e-bike drive systems that offer top performance and quality for over 10 years. They offer mid-drive motors but not hub-drive motors. Bosch motors deliver smooth power assistance, providing a natural and intuitive riding experience. Their advanced sensor technology detects the rider’s pedaling force, cadence, and speed, enabling seamless integration of power for a harmonious and balanced ride. Bosch also provides multiple customisable support modes, ensuring optimised power delivery for various riding terrains and requirements. And with an extensive customer support network, Bosch is famous for its reliable after-sales service.
Do Your Comparison of Bafang vs. Bosch
The best way to choose your electric bike is through your testing process. Ride some bikes that are fitted with Bosch motors, and ride some that are equipped with Bafang motors. Then ask yourself questions like:
- Was there any noticeable performance difference for me?
- Does it matter to me that Bosch-powered bikes do not have a throttle option?
- How do I feel about the price difference between Bosch-equipped bikes and Bafang-equipped bikes?
One key difference between Bafang and Bosch motors is that thumb or twist throttles are not available on Bosch-powered bikes. Examples of where such throttles come in handy – at least for some riders – are:
- Getting moving quickly after you have stopped – for example, at a stop sign, traffic light, or at the base of a big hill. Some riders refer to the throttle as a “turbo button.” They mount their bike, push or twist the throttle to get moving quickly, and then begin pedaling.
- They provide an extra burst of motor power while climbing a long or steep hill.
MeloYelo Offers an Industry Leading 3-Year Warranty For Its Bafang-Equipped E-Bikes.
MeloYelo is the only company in NZ to offer a 3-year warranty on its e-bike motors and other components, a reassuring advantage for any customer. At MeloYelo, we took the unusual step of extending the warranty period to customers who adhere to MeloYelo’s service schedule, based on the fact that of the more than 4000 Bafang-equipped eBikes MeloYelo has sold in NZ since 2016, motor reliability has proven to be more than 99.5%. And, in those rare events with a motor issue, MeloYelo keeps an inventory of motors and parts right here in New Zealand, ensuring that any problems can be quickly rectified.
Conclusion
You cannot go wrong with either Bafang or Bosch, but there are some differences to consider. The most important differences between Bosch-powered e-bikes and Bafang-powered bikes are:
- Bafang-powered e-bikes typically include a throttle that can power the bike without pedaling or boost pedaling power for short distances. This can be a huge help if you are commuting or biking on hills.
- Bafang-powered e-bikes will typically be less expensive than Bosch-powered e-bikes. This is not a reflection of performance or reliability differences, and it’s primarily the perceived difference in value between a German brand and a Chinese brand.
At MeloYelo, we pride ourselves on our service and non-pushy sales approach. Why not book an e-bike test ride to experience the Bafang motor? There’s no obligation to buy, and if it helps you make a better decision about your electric bike purchase, you’ll be glad you tried it. Our friendly agents are across NZ, so you should find a MeloYelo agent near you.
