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YAMAHA REVEAL THEIR NEWEST ELECTRIC BIKE MOTORS
Like Bosch eBike Systems the focus appears to be on the integration and response rather than providing more power. Both companies appear to believe more power in terms of a torque output is either of little benefit or detrimental to the durability of the system. So lets take a look at Yahama e-Bike Systems for 2020.
0Yamaha PW-X2
A big focus for 2020 appears to be the leisure or sport markets where technical leadership can be demonstrated at the cutting edge of what’s possible with motors, lithium batteries and sensor arrays feeding into clever algorithms. Indeed in a time where manufacturing and classical engineering expertise rarely exclusively differentiate one product from another the algorithms can be the key to success, along with distribution prowess and marketing skills of course.
On this front Yamaha are claiming their 4 sensor design offers an edge over Bosch and the increasing array of eBike motor brands.
Yamaha eBike Gradient Response
One of the more interesting features of the the PW-X2 is the gradient sensor. This will increase the assistance automatically when climbing and reduce it automatically when on the flat. On an all terrain eMTB this may prove to be an awesome feature saving valuable time and distraction switching between assist levels manually.
You can also see from the 1st graph above that the PW-X2 offers up to 50% more power at 100 rpm. This is no mean feat and will result in easier climbs especially when combined with lower gear ratios. Yamaha are one of the very few motor systems paired with more than 11 speed transmission groupsets. Haibike have been offering 20 speed transmissions with Yamaha motor systems for a number fo years.
EXPW
We think the current PW-X motor in Extra Power Mode is amazing. It delivers smooth power in a range of difficult eMTB scenarios where other motors struggle to respond to your needs without additional interventions by the rider.
PW-X2 also delivers the extra torque for longer which results in more adventurous uphill rides. You’ll definitely tackle manoeuvres you otherwise wouldn’t and probably couldn’t.
Mechanical Improvements on the 2020 Yamaha Electric Bike Motor
Yamaha have switched to an ISIS BB which is great news. It’s pretty much the high end eMTB standard now. They’ve also managed to reduce the motor weight by 380 grams by redesigning the internal gearing and changing to a hollow axle.
All in the improvements demonstrate that the oneupmanship between Yamaha (the crank drive Pioneer) and Bosch (effectively the cheeky new kid on the block) are driving each others designs forward. With electric bike market growth predicted to continue at it’s epic pace there’s a lot to fight for and everyone stands to benefit from the rivalry between these two giant and revered engineering firms.
Bosch eBike Versus Yamaha eBike
Both Yamaha and Bosch claim to create the most natural motor response. The technical challenges involved are not insignificant. The goal to make a system respond to millions of different riders and seamlessly integrate the power so that the rider cannot differentiate between their own effort and the assistance requires a high level of sophisticated design.
This makes electric bikes far more sophisticated than other electric vehicles such as electric cars where very predictable and simple input is required from the operator. Machines that feel like they’re a part of you! Where will this go?
Visit one of our stores for a test ride and you’ll get some idea 🙂
