A “mid drive” system is an ebike that has a motor that powers the bikes cranks, rather than directly driving one of the wheels, as with a hub motor. Both rider and motor power go through the bikes drivetrain.
What is a mid drive system?
There are several advantages to mid drive systems compared to hub motors. Due to a mid-drives gear reduction, the motor weight can be much lower for equivalent torque. The weight of a mid drive system is more centered on the bike providing a more balanced bike. Rear hub systems are more prone to broken spokes and flats due to the extra weight directly in your rear wheel. Speaking of flats, changing a flat on your bike will be no different than a regular bike, unlike a hub motor which likely needs wrenches and wiring moved to remove the rear wheel.
What are the advantages of mid drive ebikes?
will it work on my bike?
Our kit is designed with versatility in mind and will fit most bikes out there. However, there is no such thing as a universal fit. Consult our Fit Guide page to determine if our motor kit will work on your bike. Still not sure? Send us an email with photos of your bike and we will gladly help.
How fast can it go?
Our kits are designed to comply with your local regulations meaning the max speed that can be achieved with motor assist is adjusted before shipping to you. For example in California, the limits are 20 mph/32 kph (Class I) or 28 mph/45 kph (Class III). We will ship the kit so that the max speed in “road” mode is not to exceed the speed limit in your state. In “offroad” mode the speed limit is set to 28 mph unless otherwise requested or required for local regulations.
How long does the battery last?
This is a very common question regarding ebikes and there are a lot of factors at play in determining battery range. Bike and rider weight, terrain, wind speed, wheel size tire/pressure, power setting and how hard you pedal all influence how many miles of assist one can expect from our kit. That being said we have found that our batteries range is anywhere from 20-60 miles. Since the kit adds minimal weight to your bike, pedaling without power is much easier than a typical 55+lb ebike.
How many watts is your motor?
Our kit has five power settings that provide different wattage output from 100W (level 1) to 450W (level 5)
With the use of standard bicycle tools the installation procedure is not much more difficult than replacing a bottom bracket. The bottom bracket shell does need a 10mm hole to be drilled in order for the torque sensor cable to exit the frame. For this reason we recommend seeking the service of a professional bike shop.
How hard is it to install?
Depending on your mechanical capabilities, perhaps. If you are comfortable with replacing the bottom bracket and drilling your frame, then you should be able to do it yourself. If that is above your comfort level, we strongly encourage you to bring it into a professional bike shop.
Can I install it myself?
Yes, but the kit is optimized for 1 chainring. More info coming soon.
Can I use more than one chainring?
The battery is fully potted and is incredibly resistant to all environmental conditions it should see. The motor is well sealed, and can withstand riding in all weather. We do not recommend submerging the motor or bottom bracket in water.
Is it waterproof?
We want to do everything we can to get you out riding again as quickly as possible. All Revel products have a 1 year warranty valid for the original owner. Normal wear from riding is not covered under warranty. If you purchased directly from our website and need to submit a warranty claim see below.
To help us process your warranty as quickly as possible please include ALL of the following information:
Your Name:
Order Number: This is in the subject line of your order confirmation email we sent you.
Current Shipping Address:
Date of purchase:
Product:
Description of issue:
Photos: Please include detailed photos of any defective or broken part. (Medium sized photos please!).
Please email info@revelpropulsion.com
what is the warranty?
At this time we are only selling direct to customers, if and when that changes we will have a list of dealers on available on the website.
Can i buy your kit from a bike shop?
If you have available water bottle cage mounts and enough clearance for more batteries than yes. If you have room for more batteries, but no water bottle mounts, you can use a “Bottle Bob” from ebikes.ca. We can sell you a splitter cable so that both batteries can be plugged into the system simultaneously. Another option is to carry a second battery in a bag and manually swap it when the first is depleted.
Can I use multiple batteries?
Yes, as long as it is a 36V nominal battery, and can deliver 450W, and does not exceed 42V
Can I use a different battery?
Cargo bikes are a great application for our motor kit. Most likely the answer is yes, but please email us so we can discuss the specifics of your bike and whether or not our kit will work. Keep in mind the more weight you haul the shorter the range will be, you may need more than one battery.
Can i use your kit on a cargo bike?
Does it have a throttle?
No. The torque sensing bottom bracket controls how much power to deliver. This allows conversions to become a class III ebike, which is allowed to go 28mph under motor power. We feel that the sensor is a much more intuitive way to control the bike. More like a bike, less like a scooter. We understand that not all riders have the mobility and fitness to pedal. There are many other brands that offer kits that have throttles.