The Cyclone motors up to 500 watts can perform ok, though I'd normally recommend limiting the choice to the 360 watt version at most. The 180 watt version is unacceptably weak. Of the two mountings, the forward one driving through a second chainwheel is preferable. They are slightly noisy, sound levels similar to the Currie motor on the old Izip bikes. In preference to the batteries Cyclone sell, I'd buy a Li Ping LiFePO4 version.
These kit motors do need to have some waterproofing in our climate, particularly because the rust proofing isn't very good and the mounting positions are very exposed to front tyre spray. It's a good idea to fabricate a simple shield from alloy or plastic to deflect that spray before it hits the motor.
Since they drive through the chain and therefore utilise the bike's gears, they are both good at hill climbing and higher than normal assist speeds, not a common combination in e-bikes.
Some members own Cyclones and they've largely been happy with them. Agents like Cyclemaster/Oxford Gearbox punting grossly overpowered versions do them no favours of course. The high power versions are really intended for the USA leisure market where e-bikes are largely treated as fun toys, only rarely as serious transport.
.
