Electric bikes continue to grow in popularity in New Zealand. For riders over 60 years old, ebikes are hugely popular for getting out and exploring New Zealand’s amazing system of trails, taking them to parts of the country they would not otherwise have seen. For younger riders, they are exploding in popularity both for urban commuting and for weekend thrills.
At the heart of every ebike is its motor, and three brands dominate the NZ market: Shimano, Bosch, and Bafang. Here’s a comparison to help you decide which most is best for you.
Shimano Ebike Motors
Shimano is a household name amongst cyclists, renowned for both traditional bike components and its advanced ebike systems. Shimano’s flagship motors, such as the STEPS E6100, offer:
- Smooth power delivery, ideal for city commuting or recreational rides;
- Natural pedaling feel that suits riders who want their ebike to feel like a regular bicycle;
- Quiet operation;
- Seamless integration with Shimano’s own drivetrains and displays;
- Reliable after-sales support in NZ
Pros
- Trusted brand with excellent reputation
- Balanced performance for urban and light trail use
- Broad dealer and service network
Cons
- Lower torque compared to some competitors
- Premium pricing on some models
Bosch Ebike Motors
Bosch motors power a large proportion of the world’s premium electric bikes. In New Zealand, their Performance Line and CX motors are especially popular, and offer:
- Impressive torque (up to 85Nm) for tough hills and off-road adventures;
- Reliable and efficient battery management;
- High-tech displays, and connectivity via the Bosch ebike Connect app;
- Strong dealer support across NZ
Pros
- Market leader for power and reliability
- Wide range of motor and battery options for different needs
- Excellent service network
Cons
- Motor can be heavier than Shimano units
- Generally found on more expensive ebikes
Bafang Ebike Motors
Bafang is a major player in the international ebike scene, with a focus on value and versatility. In New Zealand, popular ebike brands such as MeloYelo use the Bafang motor system. Bafang offers:
- A broad range of models, including hub and mid-drive motors;
- Great torque (up to 95Nm);
- Impressive reliability;
- Easily serviced motors, with widely available replacement parts
Pros
- Cost effective and versatile
- More power output (torque) than Shimano or Bosch
- Throttle-compatible. For example, all of the MeloYelo ebikes are fitted with a thumb throttle which can help riders get moving from a standstill, and also provide additional motor assistance when climbing hills
- Strong service network
Cons
- Not as refined as Shimano or Bosch in terms of integration
- Slightly noisier operation
New Zealand E-Bike Motor Market: 2025 Snapshot
| Motor brand | Typical use | Strengths | Weaknesses |
| Shimano | City/light trail | Smooth ride, reliable support | Less torque, premium price |
| Bosch | All terrain | Strong power, efficiency | Heavier, higher price |
| Bafang | All terrain | Excellent torque, affordable | Less refined user interface |
Which should you choose?
All of these motors offer reliability and a good service network in New Zealand. If you’re open-minded about brands, then the best approach is to test-ride ebikes with the different brands of motors, and see if one option feels better to you than the others.
If the idea of a thumb throttle (aka the “turbo button”) appeals to you, then you’ll definitely want to look at Bafang-equipped brands like MeloYelo. It is also reassuring to know that, while bikes equipped with Shimano and Bosch motors offer a 2-year warranty on their electrical system, MeloYelo offers a 3-year/3000km warranty on its Bafang-equipped electric system.
