Front or Rear Power

[Cyclezee]

I am forwarding this thread from Diane as she is not getting any respose in that section http://www.pedelecs.co.uk/forum/faqs/11539-rear-front-wheel-power.html#post138503

 

[flecc]

I have answered John and probably others have as well. Unfortunately posts in that FAQ section have to be approved by admin before appearing, and that seems to take days.

However, here's an answer for this thread:

Front drive has the advantage of two wheel traction, pedals driving rear and motor at front, useful in poor road conditions. It has the disadvantage of less comfortable ride due to the high front wheel weight. Suspension forks alleviate the effects of that to some extent. Traction can also be lost on poor or slippery surfaces with a powerful motor when pulling a trailer uphill. The extra weight in the front wheel can also affect handling a little.

Rear motors have the advantage of greater comfort, no ill effect on handling and better trailer control. The disadvantages are poor weight distribution, usually much of the weight at the rear, and often gearing limitations. For example, no hub gears possible, and derailleurs limited to using freewheel sprocket clusters. These are much more limited in range than cassette systems and are weaker as well.

Most frames/forks take either motor type without structural problems.

 

[funkylyn]

As well as just forwarding Dianes post, John, .... what would you say ?

I havent any experience of a front hub motor, but I understand they can be problematic on 'iffy' surfaces.

Or is it really just a case of personal preference or 'horses for courses' ?

Lynda

 

[Cyclezee]

I have answered John and probably others have as well. Unfortunately posts in that FAQ section have to be approved by admin before appearing, and that seems to take days.

However, here's an answer for this thread:

Front drive has the advantage of two wheel traction, pedals driving rear and motor at front, useful in poor road conditions. It has the disadvantage of less comfortable ride due to the high front wheel weight. Suspension forks alleviate the effects of that to some extent. Traction can also be lost on poor or slippery surfaces with a powerful motor when pulling a trailer uphill. The extra weight in the front wheel can also affect handling a little.

Rear motors have the advantage of greater comfort, no ill effect on handling and better trailer control. The disadvantages are poor weight distribution, usually much of the weight at the rear, and often gearing limitations. For example, no hub gears possible, and derailleurs limited to using freewheel sprocket clusters. These are much more limited in range than cassette systems and are weaker as well.

Most frames/forks take either motor type without structural problems.

Hi Tony,

I did respond to Diane's enquiry in the original thread and pointed her towards this one, but as you say, she will not see it for a while.

 

[eddieo]

happy with either to be honest as long as a decent bike...But do prefer the weight distribution with front motor, as long as battery within frame. This arrangement also means I can have 27 XT gears.You end up with a better balanced bike in my view.