What does torque mean on an e-bike?
Torque is one of the key factors for an e-bike's performance. It determines how much power is transferred to the wheel and has a direct impact on acceleration and starting behavior. While a lower torque of around 35-45 Nm is sufficient for city traffic, sporty riders and those carrying cargo benefit from higher values between 85 and 100 Nm. You can find more information on this topic in these related articles:
E-bike torque table: Which value is suitable for which application?
Anyone considering buying an e-bike will sooner or later come across torque specifications in Newton meters (Nm). But what do 40, 60, or even 100 Nm actually mean in everyday riding? The following e-bike torque table provides a quick overview of which value is suitable for which purpose:
| Torque (Nm) |
Purpose |
E-bike type |
remark |
| 35–45 Nm |
City rides, flat routes |
City e-bike, urban bike |
Sufficient for comfortable everyday driving |
| 50–60 Nm |
Gentle hills, touring bike |
Trekking e-bike |
Good balance between power and range |
| 60–75 Nm |
Low mountain range, frequent climbs |
Trekking and SUV e-bikes |
More support on climbs, even with luggage |
| 75–90 Nm |
Mountains, trails, heavy loads |
E-MTB, cargo bike |
Strong support for sporty or heavy driving |
| 100+ Nm |
Extreme climbs, challenging trails |
High-end e-MTB, S-Pedelec |
Maximum power for challenging terrain |
How much torque makes sense?
The choice of the optimal torque depends on the intended use of the e-bike:
- City and trekking e-bikes: 40-70 Nm are usually sufficient to comfortably handle city traffic or easy tours.
- E-mountain bikes (E-MTBs): 70-100 Nm are useful here to master steep climbs and also to get optimal support off-road.
- Cargo e-bikes: 80-100 Nm are recommended to be able to transport heavy loads easily, even on inclines.
Comparison with electric cars: Where does the e-bike stand?
For a better understanding, it is worth taking a look at the torque values of electric cars:
- VW Golf eTSI: approx. 200 Nm
- Mercedes EQS: approx. 568 Nm
- Porsche Taycan Turbo S: up to 1050 Nm
- Rimac Nevera: maximum 2,360 Nm
In comparison, 100 Nm of torque on an e-bike may seem small at first. However, the weight ratio is crucial: An e-bike weighs about 25 kg, while an electric car weighs over 2,000 kg. Relative to its mass, the torque of an e-bike is therefore extremely powerful and provides noticeable acceleration.
Development of battery capacity and its influence on the motor
The battery capacity of e-bikes has steadily improved in recent years. While older models were often equipped with 300-400 Wh, 500-750 Wh is now standard, and high-end models even offer batteries with over 800-1,000 Wh. One reason for this is the increasing performance of the motors. The higher the torque, the more energy the motor needs to provide consistent and powerful assistance. A powerful motor with 100 Nm can drain the battery faster than a weaker motor with 50 Nm. Therefore, it is important to choose the battery size in relation to the motor power to ensure an adequate range.
How does high torque affect the material?
With the increasing power of e-bike motors, bicycle chains have also evolved. While conventional chains for regular bicycles are usually made of steel and have to withstand comparatively low loads, e-bike chains today are more robust and durable. Manufacturers use reinforced steels and special coatings to withstand the increased forces.
Particularly with motors with high torques of 85 Nm or more, considerable forces act on the chain. Therefore , e-bike chains are often thicker and wider than standard bicycle chains. This adaptation ensures longer durability and reduces wear. Modern e-bike chains also have a hardened surface or are coated with special lubricants to withstand the high loads over many kilometers.
Tip: Which parts of the bike are subject to wear and tear?
Higher torque means more stress on the frame, chain, and drivetrain. Important points to consider:
- Frame stability: High-quality frame materials such as aluminum or carbon are better suited to absorb high forces.
- Chain and gears: A robust chain and a reinforced rear derailleur are essential to withstand the higher forces.
- Engine control: Well-coordinated engine management prevents sudden loads and increases the service life of the components.
What should you look for when buying a high-torque e-bike?
Anyone who chooses a powerful e-bike with high torque should consider the following aspects:
- Motor manufacturers: Bosch, Shimano, Bafang, Brose or Yamaha offer high-quality motors with up to 100 Nm.
- Battery capacity: A more powerful motor consumes more energy – a battery with at least 500 Wh is recommended.
- Driving style and application: If you primarily drive in the city, you don't need 100 Nm of torque. However, it's essential for hill climbing and carrying loads.
- Transmission and gearshift: A continuously variable or electronic gearshift can help to transfer power optimally.
Driving experience: More power, more fun?
High torque provides a lively ride and makes riding an e-bike even more dynamic. The additional power is particularly noticeable on steep climbs or during fast acceleration. However, you should ensure that the motor control system responds sensitively to ensure smooth assistance.
A torque of 100 Nm can transform an e-bike into a true powerhouse, but it's not necessary for every purpose. While touring and city riders often get by with less power, e-MTBs and SUV e-bikes benefit enormously from the extra power. If you choose an e-bike with high torque, you should also pay attention to the quality of the materials and the motor's tuning – then nothing will stand in the way of maximum riding pleasure!
