In 2025, more riders are turning to ebike conversion kits to electrify their existing bicycles. But one big question remains: mid-drive ebike conversion or hub motor ebike conversion—which is right for you?
Both conversion types have unique benefits depending on your ride style, terrain, and performance needs. This guide compares the best ebike conversion type, exploring motor placement and the key differences in the mid-drive vs hub motor pros and cons using real examples from trusted kits like KirbEbike's 36V 48V 500W 750W Mid Motor Kit and 52V 2000W MTX Rim Ebike Kit.
Let’s dive into how each system works, what makes them different, and which one fits your ride goals best in 2025.
Understanding Ebike Motor Placement: Mid-Drive vs Hub Motor
One of the most important decisions when choosing an ebike conversion kit is the ebike motor placement. The location of the motor mid-drive or hub motor affects power delivery, balance, and how your bike handles on different terrains.
Mid-Drive Ebike Conversion
In a mid-drive ebike conversion, the motor is placed at the center of the bike, connected directly to the crank. This setup provides:
- Better weight distribution, making your ride more stable
- Higher torque for hill climbing
-
Improved efficiency on challenging terrain
KirbEbike’s 36V 48V 500W 750W Mid Motor Kit is a great example. Priced at £620.00, it’s available in 36V 500W or 48V 750W, and includes a 48V 16AH lithium battery with a 2A charger. Its torque-sensored system delivers smooth, responsive power perfect for those who ride uphill or carry heavy loads.
Hub Motor Ebike Conversion
A hub motor ebike conversion places the motor directly in the front or rear wheel hub. It’s known for:
- Simpler installation
- Less wear on the drivetrain
-
Quiet, low-maintenance operation
For raw power and speed, KirbEbike’s 52V 2000W MTX Rim Ebike Kit shines. Priced at £823.65, it uses a 2000W brushless direct drive motor and supports speeds of 50-60KM/h. The included 52V 20AH or 30AH lithium battery delivers an estimated 40-80KM range. Wheel size options include 26" to 29" and 700C, compatible with both cassette and freewheel systems.
Mid-Drive vs Hub Motor: Pros and Cons with Kit Comparison
When choosing between a mid-drive ebike conversion and a hub motor ebike conversion, it’s essential to understand the pros and cons of each type—especially in real product scenarios. Below is a comparison of two top-rated kits from KirbEbike, tailored to different rider needs in 2025.
Mid-Drive Ebike Conversion Kit (KirbEbike 36V/48V Mid Motor Kit – £620.00)
- Central ebike motor placement offers better weight balance
- Ideal for climbing hills and carrying loads with strong torque
- Uses bike’s gears for improved efficiency and power transfer
- Slightly more complex installation
-
Requires more drivetrain maintenance over time
Product Highlights:
- Motor Options: 36V 500W or 48V 750W
- Battery: 48V 16AH lithium battery with 2A charger
- Torque-sensored design for smooth acceleration
-
Best suited for: mountain, cargo, or touring bike conversions
Hub Motor Ebike Conversion Kit (KirbEbike 52V 2000W MTX Rim Kit – £823.65)
- Easier to install on most bikes
- Delivers high top speed of 50-60KM/h
- Minimal stress on drivetrain components
- Less efficient on steep hills compared to mid-drive
- Ebike motor placement in the wheel can affect balance slightly
Product Highlights:
- Power: 2000W brushless direct drive motor
- Battery: Choose 52V 20AH or 52V 30AH lithium battery
- Range: 40–80KM
- Wheel Sizes: 26", 27.5", 28", 29", 700C (cassette or freewheel compatible)
-
Best suited for: commuting, city riding, and high-speed cruising
Which Is the Best Ebike Conversion Type for You in 2025?
- Choose the mid-drive ebike conversion if you want efficiency, hill-climbing ability, and better overall bike handling.
-
Choose the hub motor ebike conversion if you prefer easy installation, higher speeds, and less drivetrain wear.
Both options from KirbEbike the Mid Motor Kit (£620.00) and MTX Rim Kit (£823.65)—are excellent choices depending on your riding needs.
Comparison: KirbEbike Mid-Drive vs. Hub Motor Kits
|
Feature |
KirbEbike Mid-Drive Ebike Conversion Kit (36V/48V Mid Motor – £620.00) |
KirbEbike Hub Motor Ebike Conversion Kit (52V 2000W MTX Rim – £823.65) |
|
Motor Type |
Mid-drive ebike conversion |
Hub motor ebike conversion |
|
Power Options |
36V 500W / 48V 750W |
52V 2000W |
|
Battery |
48V 16AH Lithium Battery |
52V 20AH or 52V 30AH Lithium Battery |
|
Top Speed |
Depends on pedal assist + gear system |
50–60KM/h |
|
Range (Est.) |
Varies with terrain and rider input |
40–80KM |
|
Ideal Use |
Hills, off-road, cargo, touring |
Commuting, city cruising, flat terrain |
|
Ebike Motor Placement |
Center of the frame (crank area) |
Rear wheel (hub motor) |
|
Installation Difficulty |
Moderate (requires fitting into crank system) |
Easier (plug-and-play motor wheel system) |
|
Weight Distribution |
Central, better balance |
Rear-weighted |
|
Drivetrain Wear |
More (uses gears) |
Less (independent from drivetrain) |
|
Price |
£620.00 |
£823.65 |
Ebike Motor Placement & Installation Tips
Understanding ebike motor placement is key when choosing the best ebike conversion type. Whether you're considering a mid-drive ebike conversion or a hub motor ebike conversion, installation and motor position directly affect ride feel, performance, and ease of setup.
Mid-Drive Motor Placement & Installation
In a mid-drive ebike conversion, the motor is mounted at the bike’s crank area, centralizing the weight. This setup gives better balance, improved torque on hills, and more efficient energy use—making it ideal for off-road, touring, and hilly rides.
The Tongsheng TSD-Z8 mid-drive kit is a strong example of this style. Its installation process involves removing the bottom bracket and fitting the motor into the crank system. While slightly more technical, it offers excellent integration and performance.
Compared to the Bafang BBS02, the TSD-Z8 delivers quieter operation and refined torque sensing great for riders seeking a natural pedal-assist feel.
Hub Motor Placement & Installation
With a hub motor ebike conversion, the motor is located inside the wheel hub, either front or rear. KirbEbike’s 52V 2000W MTX Rim Kit is a powerful rear hub option.
This design is popular for its simplicity. To install, just swap out the rear wheel, connect the wiring harness, and mount the display and throttle.
This plug-and-play approach makes hub motor ebike conversions ideal for beginners or commuters needing a fast, straightforward upgrade.
How to Choose the Best Ebike Conversion Type for 2025
Choosing the best ebike conversion type in 2025 starts with understanding your riding style, terrain, and motor needs. Two leading options dominate the market: the mid-drive ebike conversion and the hub motor ebike conversion. Each has unique benefits based on your preferences.
Mid-Drive Ebike Conversion: Power & Efficiency
A mid-drive ebike conversion places the motor near the pedals, offering balanced weight distribution and high climbing torque. If you often ride on hills, trails, or long commutes, this is the smarter choice.
KirbEbike’s 36V/48V Mid Motor Kit (£620.00) is designed for this style. Available in 36V 500W and 48V 750W, it uses torque sensing to provide smooth pedal assist, making it feel more natural and responsive. Paired with a 48V 16AH lithium battery, this setup delivers efficient power and solid range—perfect for those seeking a premium, balanced ride.
Hub Motor Ebike Conversion: Speed & Simplicity
A hub motor ebike conversion positions the motor in the wheel hub—ideal for flat terrain and daily commuting. It’s easy to install and offers powerful direct drive performance.
The KirbEbike 52V 2000W MTX Rim Kit (£823.65) is a top-tier choice in this category. With speeds up to 50–60KM/h and a range of 40–80KM, it’s built for riders who want maximum power and high-speed performance. It supports multiple wheel sizes (26” to 700C) and comes with a 52V 20AH or 30AH lithium battery option.
Whether you're focused on trail riding or daily commuting, choosing the right ebike motor placement is essential. For hills and torque, go mid-drive. For speed and ease, go hub motor. Both options from KirbEbike offer top performance for 2025.
