Mid-drive
Mid-drive motors are located in the middle of the bike where you pedal. They are available in a range of different power capacities and provide a stable center of gravity and smooth support that feels more natural when pedaling.
Your guide to ebikes by electric bike specialists - Trek Bikes
We’re your electric bike specialists
Starting your journey into the world of electric bikes can be intimidating. Here, we’ll answer all your questions, like:
What is an electric bike?
Electric bikes (also known as ebikes and electric assist bikes) amplify your pedaling power thanks to an electric drive system. There are many kinds of ebikes, but all of them use an electric motor and battery to help you power your bike.
No matter if you’re new to bikes or well-seasoned on two wheels, electric bikes allow you to go farther and explore more. Whether you’re looking to ride to work, keep up on the group ride, climb those steep hills, or just have fun — ebikes are the answer.
How do electric bikes work?
Let’s explore the anatomy of an ebike! Below is a quick, beginner-friendly guide to the main components that make an ebike feel smooth, powerful, and fun to ride.
2. Motor
The motor is the heart of your electric bike. When you pedal, it adds power to your ride so hills feel smaller and long distances feel easier. Motors vary in weight, power, and efficiency, but most ebikes use one of two styles: mid-drive or hub-drive.
Hub-drive
Hub-drive motors sit inside the rear wheel. They’re usually more budget-friendly and lightweight, which makes them a great entry point for new riders. Some hub-drive systems also include throttle assist, giving you power without pedaling, so all you have to do is hop on and go.
Learn about Hyena hub-drive motors
What’s torque?
Torque is the turning force that helps your motor push you forward. More torque means quicker acceleration and better hill-climbing power. Less torque feels smoother and more natural. Torque is measured in Newton meters (Nm).
Quick guide:
• Under 50Nm = low-torque, smoother feel
• Over 65Nm = high-torque, stronger bursts of power
• The most important thing to know: Higher torque isn’t always better — choose what matches your riding needs, terrain, and comfort.
What’s power?
Power is what moves your ebike motor and keeps it in motion. It’s measured in watts (W). In most regions, ebike motors are legally limited to 250W, which keeps them classified as bicycles rather than motor vehicles.
What’s an ebike's battery capacity?
Battery capacity is how much energy your battery can store. It’s measured in watt-hours (Wh) — a number you get by multiplying amp-hours (Ah) by volts (V).
Why it matters:
A higher Wh number means you can ride farther before recharging, though larger batteries also weigh more.
What’s an ebike's charge cycle:
A charge cycle is one full “empty and recharge” of your battery. Most ebike batteries last 800 – 1000 charge cycles, which often equals 10,000+ miles of supported riding.
How to extend battery life:
• Store it in a cool, dry place
• Keep up with regular service
• Recycle it responsibly when it reaches end-of-life.
What is the range of an ebike?
Range is the total distance you can ride with motor assistance before the battery runs out. Although batteries play a big role, real-world range also depends on terrain, wind, tire pressure, rider weight, and support mode.
Some ebike systems even estimate your remaining range in real time, and many can pair with range extender batteries if you want to go farther.
What different ebike categories are there?
Electric city and fitness bikes
Ride through town, power up your workout, or cruise through commutes with e-city bikes built for paths and pavement.
Electric road bikes
Soar up canyons and enjoy your own personal tailwind wherever you roll with e-road bikes.
Electric mountain bikes
Turn steep, rocky climbs into good vibes and high fives with the grin-inducing power of mountain ebikes.
Cargo and family ebikes
Cargo bikes have specifically designed frames, accessories, and parts to carry everything that’s important to you — from your kids to your pets and more.
Shop cargo ebikes