Bafang Motor vs. MXUS Motor (A Handy Chart)
The MXUS motor caught my interest since it is comparable to the Bafang motor on my electric bike. So I took the initiative to make a side-by-side comparison of these two motors across several aspects, such as their initial cost, power, torque, maintenance cost, running cost, and reliability.
As a general rule, Bafang and MXUS electric bike motors are both reliable and efficient. These brands have several models you can choose from that provide different power outputs. In addition, their motor conversion kits (depending on the manufacturer) can be purchased from around $160 to a bit over $1,000.
As a whole, if you are interested in purchasing a motor with the highest rated power, you should choose the MXUS DDR-5K. This motor has a rated power of 5000W, making it ideal for off-road biking and private use.
On average, if you are looking for an e-bike motor with the highest torque, you can choose between the Bafang M620, the Bafang M615, and the Bafang BBSHD. These electric bike motors can provide a maximum torque of 160 Nm, which can help propel your e-bike up the steepest of inclines.
We have created a table summarizing the differences and similarities between Bafang and MXUS e-bike motors across various critical aspects. We will also answer some more specific questions related to these e-bike motors.
Bafang Motor vs. MXUS Motor
eBike Motor | Bafang eBike Motor | Mxus eBike Motor |
| Cost of Purchase | Approximately $260 to $960 | Approximately $160 to $1,040 |
| Rated Power | 200W-1000W | 250W-5000W |
| Torque | 28 Nm-160 Nm | 30 Nm-150 Nm |
| Maintenance Cost | $150 | $150 |
| Running Cost | $0 | $0 |
| Reliability | Reliable when properly maintained | Reliable when properly maintained |
Cost of Purchase: Bafang Motor vs. Mxus Motor
As a general rule, both Bafang and MXUS electric bike motors’ costs range from around $160 to a bit over $1,000, depending on the type of motor.
Several verified dealers sell Bafang and MXUS e-bike motors at different price ranges. Here are a few Bafang and MXUS electric bike motors which you can buy on Amazon and eBay.
Based on our research, you can find more affordable conversion kits of MXUS motors than Bafang on eBay.
Motor Rated Power: Bafang Motor vs. MXUS Motor
As a whole, the rated power of Bafang and MXUS e-bike motors varies depending on the model. Bafang electric bike motors range from 220W-1000W, whereas the rated power of MXUS e-bike motors ranges from 180W-5000W.
The Bafang motor with the lowest rated power is the Bafang M800. It is a mid-drive motor with a rated power of 200W, making it ideal as an electric road bike.
On the other hand, the Bafang motors with the highest-rated power are the Bafang M620, the Bafang M615, the Bafang H640, the Bafang H550, and the Bafang BBSHD. These motors have a rated power of 1000W, making them ideal for electric mountain bikes and electric cargo bikes. You can visit Bafang’s website to learn more about their motors. You can also check each motor’s specifications in the Bafang Workbook 2022.
The MXUS e-bike motor with the lowest rated power is the GDF-11. It is a front-geared motor with a rated power of 180W-250W, making it ideal for electric city bikes.
On the other hand, the MXUS motor with the highest-rated power is the DDR-5K. It is a gearless motor with a rated power of 5000W. This motor is best used on electric bikes intended for off-road riding. To learn more about MXUS e-bike motors, visit the MXUS website.
“The best motor isn’t always the most powerful. It’s the one which can meet your needs and help you enjoy your ride.”
-Electric Ride Owner
Torque: Bafang Motor vs. MXUS Motor
As a general rule, each Bafang and MXUS electric bike motor model has a different level of torque. Bafang electric bike motors can deliver a torque of 28 Nm-160 Nm. On the other hand, the MXUS e-bike motors can provide a torque of 30 Nm-150 Nm.
Torque is a measure of the ability of your e-bike motor to rotate the wheels. This is important because it can help propel your electric bike, especially on inclines or when carrying a heavy load.
The Bafang motors that deliver the highest torque are the Bafang M620, the Bafang M615, and the Bafang BBSHD. These motors can provide up to 160 Nm torque, which makes climbing hills much easier. Visit Bafang’s website to learn more about their motors. You can also check each motor’s specifications in the Bafang Workbook 2022.
The MXUS e-bike motor that can deliver the highest torque is the DDR-5K. This electric bike motor can provide up to 150 Nm. To learn more about the specifications of MXUS e-bike motors, visit the MXUS website.
To learn more about electric bike torque, check out our article “Electric Bike Torque: The Ultimate Guide To eBike Torque.”
Maintenance Cost: Bafang Motor vs. MXUS Motor
On average, both Bafang and MXUS electric bike motors have an estimated maintenance cost of $150 per year. This fee may be lower or higher depending on how well you maintain your eBike motor.
Like the other parts of an electric bike, your e-bike motor naturally wears and tears. Fortunately, a newly bought, high-quality motor can last around 5-10 years with proper usage and maintenance. The efficiency and performance of your motor should remain at its peak when properly cared for, allowing it to work at its full potential and capability.
A simple e-bike motor maintenance, such as a deep cleaning, may cost less than $150, whereas the costs of repairing a motor may be much higher.
Fortunately, cleaning an electric bike motor isn’t that hard. It is easy enough that you can do it yourself. But, you will need the proper tools. We recommend using this Muc-Off e-bike Ultra-Corrosion Defence Spray from Amazon to clean your e-bike motor. It would also be best practice to lubricate the exterior of your motor.
If you don’t know how to clean your motor properly, you can take a look at the video below, which demonstrates step-by-step how to deep-clean your electric bike motor.
Cleaning an e-bike motor is quite simple. However, repairing it is another thing. You need to be knowledgeable enough about its components in order to fix most issues correctly. If you mess up your motor, it could result in a much higher repair cost.
Remember, when your e-bike is not being actively used, it is advisable to store it. Read our article “17 Electric Bike Storage Ideas You Can Actually Use (Home, Garage, Outside)” to learn how to properly store your eBike.
Running Cost: Bafang Motor vs. MXUS Motor
As a general rule, there is no significant difference in the running cost between Bafang and MXUS electric bike motors. Electric bike motors rely on the e-bike’s battery to work, so the cost of charging the battery is the same as the running cost of the motor.
Your electric bike’s running cost depends on how frequently you charge your e-bike battery. E-bike motors significantly contribute to your battery’s draining time. For instance, an e-bike motor with a higher power output will drain your battery much more quickly than an e-bike motor with a lower power output. Thus, you might have to charge your battery more frequently with a higher-wattage eBike motor.
If you have a high-powered e-bike motor, it would be best to utilize a high-capacity battery. You can also choose to charge your e-bike battery on the go. Read our article “Charging eBike on the Go (Car Battery, Inverter, Power Bank, Solar)” to learn more about charging your eBike when you are out and about.
Reliability: Bafang Motor vs. MXUS Motor
As a whole, there is no significant difference in the reliability of Bafang and MXUS e-bike motors. These motors are highly reliable, especially when properly used and maintained. In addition, ride owners have not experienced major issues with these motors.
If there is an issue with your motor when received, it would be best to contact the store where you bought it and follow their guidelines on returning and replacing your motor.
Are Bafang Motors Good?
As a general rule, Bafang e-bike motors are good. Bafang has been in the industry since 2003. It has now become one of the most well-known manufacturers of powerful and highly-reliable motors. Furthermore, Bafang motors provide impressive pedal assist.
Each model of Bafang eBike motors offers different levels of power and torque, depending on your needs. For instance, if you use your e-bike primarily on city rides, a 200W-500W motor is adequate. On the other hand, if you mostly carry heavy loads or love mountain biking, the 750W-1000W motor would be a better choice for you.
Another good thing about Bafang motors is that most of them have IP65 rating protection. That means they are highly resistant to water jets and low-pressure raindrops. Even so, soaking them in water is strictly prohibited because it could damage your motor beyond repair. Additionally, when not in use, it is best to store your e-bike properly to protect the motor and other components. Check out our article “17 Electric Bike Storage Ideas You Can Actually Use (Home, Garage, Outside)” to learn more.
If you are interested in purchasing a Bafang Mid-Drive Conversion Kit, we recommend this Bafang mid-drive conversion kit sold on Amazon. You can also get this Bafang Rear Hub Motor Conversion Kit on Amazon.
How Long Will a Bafang Hub Motor Last?
As a general rule, Bafang hub-drive e-bike motors will last between 10,000 miles-15,000 miles (16,093 km-24,140 km) of riding. Bafang motors are high quality, so they will last between 3-10 years. Proper maintenance and usage play a significant role in the longevity of your motor.
Hub motors can be placed on the front or rear wheel. Since the motor’s weight is added to the wheel mass, you will observe an improper weight distribution in your e-bike, which could stress out your motor when ridden on uneven surfaces. Because of this fact, hub motors have a shorter lifespan than mid-drive motors.
If you want to learn the difference between the front and rear hub motors, read our article “Front Wheel Vs. Rear Wheel (Best Place for eBike Hub Motor)”.
What is the Most Efficient eBike Motor?
As a whole, the most efficient electric bike motor is the one that provides sufficient power that satisfies your needs. There are lots of well-known companies that manufacture powerful, efficient, and reliable electric bike motors. You will have to decide which motor works best for you.
Which Hub Motor is Best?
As a general rule, the best electric bike hub-drive motors are Bafang, MXUS, Mahle, and eBikeBC. Picking a specific hub motor depends on your own needs when it comes to efficiency, reliability, and power.
If you are interested in the differences between hub-drive and mid-drive motors, check out our article “Hub Motor Vs. Mid-Drive Motor (The Real Difference)” https://electricrideowner.com/hub-motor-vs-mid-drive-motor/
