A mid drive eBike has a motor positioned at the bottom bracket and crankset, providing different levels of pedal assistance to the rider. The assistance levels are a magnification of the rider's pedaling effort.
Mid drive motors tend to be more consistent and have a more natural pedaling feel, though they are also more expensive and complex. You'll find mid drive motors on high end bicycles because they tend to add significant cost.
But if you pursue more performance and better handling, look for a mid drive electric bike, They are more sleeker, more powerful, less of a drain on your battery, and quite efficient. The weight is focused low on the bike, which improves handling, and it isn't rotational weight like a hub drive system. You'll pay more for a mid drive ebike, but if you're looking for refined performance, a mid-drive will likely be your choice.
Mid-drive e-bikes have advantage during maintenance as the motor is positioned near the bike's drivetrain. This makes it easier to access and work on the motor and the accompanying components.
Mid-drive e-bikes are more energy-efficient as they use the bike's gears to amplify the power generated by the motor. By leveraging the gears, the motor can operate at its optimal RPM range, delivering more torque, better hill climbing ability, and overall greater efficiency.
Unlike hub-drive e-bikes, which have the motor located on the front or rear wheel, mid-drive e-bikes have the motor positioned near the bike's center. This central placement ensures a more balanced weight distribution, providing better stability and handling.
Mid-drive e-bikes offer enhanced performance, especially in challenging terrains and steep hills. The centralized motor's power delivery through the drive train allows for better traction, maintaining a consistent speed even in demanding conditions.
Mid-drive e-bikes closely mimic the feel of conventional bicycles as the motor's power is transferred directly through the bike's chain and gears. This results in a more natural riding experience, with smooth acceleration and the ability to shift gears to match varying inclines.
The use of gears on mid-drive e-bikes allows for more effective energy usage. As the motor can output power more efficiently, the battery's charge can last longer, thus providing an extended range for riding.