Why Torque Matters on an E-Bike? Torque VS Power

I am currently in the middle of reviewing the Engwe Engine Pro 2.0  eBike, which is advertised as a high-torque fat tyre folding bike.

But why is toque important on an eBike? Does it justify the increased price, for example, the Engwe Engine Pro 2.0  costs £1400 with a toque of 75 Nm but you can get the EP-2 Pro for £500 less, but this has a torque of 55 Nm.

Torque is actually a crucial factor in e-bike performance, often more important than power when considering an e-bike’s capabilities.

Definition

Torque and power are two key concepts that describe an e-bike’s performance:

Torque

Torque is the rotational force produced by the motor. It’s measured in Newton-metres (Nm) and determines:

• How quickly the bike accelerates
• How easily it climbs hills
• Its ability to overcome resistance

Think of torque as the ‘oomph’ you feel when you start pedalling or tackle a steep incline. Higher torque means more immediate power delivery, especially at lower speeds.

Power

Power, measured in Watts (W), represents the rate at which energy is transferred by the motor. It determines:

• The overall energy output of the motor
• The bike’s ability to maintain higher speeds

Power is often limited by regulations (e.g., 250W in the UK for road-legal e-bikes) and is more relevant to the bike’s top speed and sustained performance.

In simple terms, torque is about the strength of the initial push, while power is about maintaining that push over time. For most everyday riding situations, especially in hilly areas or when carrying loads, torque is often more noticeable and impactful on the riding experience.

Here’s why torque matters and how it compares to power:

Why Torque Matters

Acceleration and Hill Climbing

Torque directly influences an e-bike’s ability to accelerate and climb hills. Higher torque allows for:

• Quicker starts from a standstill
• Faster acceleration when in motion
• Easier ascents on steep inclines
• Maintaining speed while climbing

For example, an e-bike with 70-90 Nm of torque will feel very responsive, while one with 35-50 Nm won’t have the same immediate power delivery.

Off-Road Performance

Higher torque is particularly beneficial for off-road riding. It enables:

• Climbing over rough terrain or obstacles
• Preventing motor stalling on challenging surfaces

Load Carrying

E-bikes with higher torque can better handle additional weight, which is useful for:

• Carrying heavy loads
• Accommodating heavier riders
• Pulling trailers or child seats

Torque vs Power

While both torque and power are important, they affect e-bike performance differently:

Torque (measured in Nm)

• Determines rotational force
• Crucial for acceleration and hill climbing
• More noticeable at lower speeds

Power (measured in Watts)

• Determines overall energy output
• Important for maintaining high speeds
• Often limited by regulations (e.g., 250W in the UK)

It’s possible to have high torque with lower power, which is why torque is often a better indicator of an e-bike’s real-world performance.

Torque Considerations

When choosing an e-bike, consider the following torque ranges based on your needs:

• Flat urban areas: 40-60 Nm
• Hilly terrain: 60-80 Nm
• Off-road/Mountain biking: 80+ Nm
• Heavy load carrying: 70-100 Nm

Keep in mind that higher torque can lead to reduced battery efficiency, so balance your needs with range requirements.

In conclusion, while power is important, torque is often the key factor in determining an e-bike’s performance, especially in challenging conditions or when quick acceleration is needed. When comparing e-bikes, pay close attention to the torque figures to ensure you get the performance you require.

James Smythe( Editor-in-chief )

I am James, a UK-based tech enthusiast and the Editor and Owner of Mighty Gadget, which I’ve proudly run since 2007. Passionate about all things technology, my expertise spans from computers and networking to mobile, wearables, and smart home devices.

As a fitness fanatic who loves running and cycling, I also have a keen interest in fitness-related technology, and I take every opportunity to cover this niche on my blog. My diverse interests allow me to bring a unique perspective to tech blogging, merging lifestyle, fitness, and the latest tech trends.

In my academic pursuits, I earned a BSc in Information Systems Design from UCLAN, before advancing my learning with a Master’s Degree in Computing. This advanced study also included Cisco CCNA accreditation, further demonstrating my commitment to understanding and staying ahead of the technology curve.

I’m proud to share that Vuelio has consistently ranked Mighty Gadget as one of the top technology blogs in the UK. With my dedication to technology and drive to share my insights, I aim to continue providing my readers with engaging and informative content.