Mid-Drive Motors vs. Falco eDrive: Mid-Drive Hype, No Heart, No Soul? – A Critical Examination

Mid-Drive Motors vs. Falco eDrive: Mid-Drive Hype, No Heart, No Soul? – A Critical Examination

1. Cost: Advanced Mid drive systems such as Bosch and Shimano are more expensive than Falco eDrive, which is a direct drive system. The additional initial cost and subsequent repair costs are not worth considering Mid-Drives.

2. Maintenance and Durability: Mid-drive systems are more complex and require more maintenance than Falco eDrive. Due to the motor's integration, the increased wear and tear on the bike's chain and drivetrain leads to higher maintenance costs and more frequent part replacements.

3. Installation and Repair Complexity: Mid-drive motors are more difficult to install and repair than Falco eDrive. This complexity results in higher labor costs for repairs and maintenance and potential difficulties. It is not worth it.

4. Noise Levels: Mid-drive motors are often noisier. The motor and drivetrain noise detracts from the overall riding experience. It is not worth it.

5. Weight Distribution: Mid-drives add weight to the bike's center, which is a disadvantage. The increased weight makes the bike feel more cumbersome, especially when maneuvering it at low speeds or lifting it for transport. On trikes, they elevate the center of gravity, making them less stable. It is not worth it.

6. Balance and Handling: Falco eDrive Placement Options: Falco eDrive achieves excellent weight distribution for balanced handling in bikes and trikes.

7. Battery Consumption: Mid-drives consume more battery period. They can never achieve the range anywhere close to Falco eDrive.

8. Efficiency: While mid-drives may maintain optimal RPM in some situations, real-world riding often involves frequent gear changes and stop-and-go situations that negate this advantage. In these scenarios, Falco eDrive with lower drag is exceptionally efficient. Battery Drain from Complexity:  The additional gears, components, and sensors in a mid-drive system contribute to an increase in overall energy consumption compared to a simpler Falco eDrive design.

8. Terrain Specificity: Mid-drive motors are touted for their performance on steep, hilly terrains and off-road conditions; most riders use their Falco eDrive on moderately hilly, flat, or urban streets. In such cases, the advantages of mid-drive motors are not there, making Falco eDrive the most suitable and cost-effective choice.

9. Torque: Falco eDrive Options:  Falco eDrive is catching up regarding torque output. They are sufficient for most riders, especially on moderately hilly terrain. Gearing Impact:  The lack of full gearing on a mid-drive bike limits the usable torque. Even a powerful mid-drive might struggle to overcome steeps in very low gears, requiring the rider to put in significant effort.

10. Natural Feel: Falco eDrive Advancements:  Modern Falco eDrive with advanced controller offers smoother and more natural-feeling pedal assist. Rider Input Matters: A well-tuned Falco eDrive with proper rider input, regardless of motor type, provides an immensely satisfying riding experience.

 These factors do not include the loss of throttle and regeneration function when using Mid-drives.