Electric Bike Motor Comparison:
TQ HPR60, Shimano EP801, Bosch SX, Bosch CX-R, Bosch CX, Avinox M1 and MAHLE M40
The latest generation of e‑MTB motors covers everything from ultra‑light, natural‑feeling systems to full‑power units built for racing. Each motor has its own character, strengths and ideal rider. Below is a clear but simple breakdown of the most important systems on the market and what makes each one unique.
TQ HPR60
The TQ HPR60 is designed as the benchmark for natural, harmonious support in the lightweight e‑bike category. It is ultra‑compact, exceptionally quiet and blends almost invisibly into the frame. This motor is aimed at riders who value subtle integration and a natural ride feel over headline power figures.
Key Highlights
- 60 Nm torque
- Extremely compact and quiet
- Natural, seamless support
- Ideal for lightweight trail bikes
Best For
Riders who want the quietest, most discreet and most natural‑feeling assistance possible.
Shimano EP801
The Shimano EP801 is one of the most established motors in the e‑MTB world. It is known for smooth, finely tuned power delivery and dependable climbing performance. Features like Auto Shift and Di2 integration make it a comfortable and reliable choice for long days on the trail.
Key Highlights
- Up to 85 Nm torque
- Smooth, predictable power
- Auto Shift and Di2 compatibility
- Proven reliability
Best For
Riders who want a balanced, efficient and customisable motor with a refined trail feel.
Bosch Performance Line SX
The Bosch SX is the lightweight option in the Bosch lineup. It is designed for sporty riders who prefer higher cadences and a more subtle, less intrusive ride feel. While not the most compact motor in the light category, it benefits from the full Bosch Smart System ecosystem.
Key Highlights
- 55 Nm torque
- Lightweight and responsive
- High‑cadence support
- Full Bosch Smart System compatibility
Best For
Riders who want a lively, agile e‑MTB with a modern, lightweight Bosch setup.
Bosch Performance Line CX-R
The Bosch CX-R is the race‑focused version of the CX. It is ultra‑responsive, aggressive and built for riders who want maximum performance. Paired with the Bosch ecosystem, it offers manufacturers a wide range of batteries, displays and remotes, but the motor itself is clearly aimed at speed and competition.
Key Highlights
- 95 Nm torque
- Race‑tuned responsiveness
- Lightweight for a full‑power unit
- Designed for competitive riding
Best For
Riders who want the sharpest, most aggressive Bosch motor for racing and fast trail riding.
Bosch Performance Line CX
The Bosch CX is the classic all‑rounder and one of the most widely used full‑power motors in e‑MTBs. It may not dominate any single category, but it is a mature, well‑rounded system with strong hardware, smooth power delivery and excellent global support.
Key Highlights
- 85 to 120 Nm torque depending on version (upgradeable through a firmware update in the flow app)
- Strong, predictable assistance
- Huge ecosystem and service network
- Proven reliability
Best For
Riders who want a dependable, full‑power motor for all‑mountain and enduro riding.
Avinox M2
The Avinox M2 is a lightweight, full‑power drive unit engineered for riders who want strong, consistent support without unnecessary bulk. Weighing just 2.65 kg, it maintains a clear weight advantage while delivering meaningful performance gains over the previous generation. With increased power density, refined thermal management, and smoother assistance delivery, the M2 offers a highly efficient and responsive ride feel across a wide range of terrain.
Advanced sensor integration and adaptive control algorithms ensure natural, predictable support, while multiple assistance modes allow riders to fine‑tune power output for long climbs, technical features, or fast‑paced trail sessions. The compact design also contributes to quieter operation and improved frame integration.
Key Highlights
- 130 Nm nominal torque
- 150 Nm peak torque
- Increased power density (+4.6% vs previous generation)
- Ultra‑compact 2.65 kg design
- Adaptive support with intelligent assistance modes
- Smooth, efficient power delivery
Best For
Riders who want a lightweight, full‑power motor with strong torque, improved efficiency, and refined ride feel—ideal for modern eMTBs designed to balance power, handling, and all‑day capability.
Avinox M2S
The Avinox M2S is a next‑generation full‑power motor designed for riders who want maximum performance without the weight penalty. Delivering 130 Nm nominal torque, 150 Nm peak torque and up to 1500 watts of peak power from a remarkably compact 2.59 kg unit, it offers one of the highest power‑to‑weight ratios in the full‑power category. Advanced sensors and adaptive algorithms provide smooth, natural assistance, while Auto Mode and Boost Mode give riders intelligent support and instant full output when needed. With operating noise as low as 45 dBA, the M2S is also one of the quietest full‑power motors available.
Key Highlights
- 130 Nm nominal torque
- 150 Nm peak Up to 1500 W peak power
- Ultra‑compact 2.59 kg design
- Adaptive support with Auto Mode and Boost Mode
- Whisper‑quiet 45 dBA operation
Best For
Riders who want full‑power performance, huge torque and advanced smart‑assist features in one of the lightest and quietest full‑power motors on the market.
MAHLE M40
The MAHLE M40 marks the brand’s move into the full‑power mid‑drive category. Compact, punchy and tuned for sensitive support, it aims to shift MAHLE’s reputation from hub motors to a serious contender in the lightweight full‑power segment.
Key Highlights
- 90 Nm torque
- Compact for a full‑power motor
- Smooth, sensitive support
- Designed for modern full‑power e‑MTBs
Best For
Riders who want a compact full‑power motor with a refined, modern ride feel.
Motor Comparison Overview
| Motor |
Torque |
Category |
Ride Feel |
Best For |
| TQ HPR60 |
60 Nm |
Lightweight |
Ultra quiet and natural |
Riders wanting subtle, seamless support |
| Shimano EP801 |
Up to 85 Nm |
Mid weight |
Smooth and predictable |
Versatile trail riding |
| Bosch SX |
55 Nm |
Lightweight |
Sporty, high cadence |
Agile, fast trail riding |
| Bosch CX‑R |
95 Nm |
Full power |
Aggressive and race tuned |
Competitive riders |
| Bosch CX |
85 to 100 Nm |
Full power |
Balanced and reliable |
All‑round e‑MTB performance |
| Avinox M1 |
Up to 120 Nm |
Full power |
Strong and tech focused |
Riders wanting maximum torque |
| MAHLE M40 |
90 Nm |
Full power |
Compact and refined |
Lightweight full‑power builds |
| Avinox M2 |
130 Nm nominal / 150 Nm peak |
Full power |
Efficient, responsive, lightweight |
Riders wanting strong torque in a compact 2.65 kg unit |
| Avinox M2S |
130 Nm nominal / 150 Nm peak |
Full power |
High power‑to‑weight, adaptive, ultra‑quiet |
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