Over 20 million e-bikes run on Bafang motors: what it means for your next e-bike

If you're looking at e-bikes, new or second-hand, there's a good chance one of them has a Bafang motor. The brand has gone from pioneer to one of the big names in the industry: its motors now power more than 20 million e-bikes, according to MTBpro, which has looked back at its history, its eMTB systems, its automatic shifting patents and its plans to grow in the Spanish market.

For you, as a rider, that figure has a practical meaning: this isn't a niche brand. It's a motor you'll find in plenty of listings, and it pays to know what to ask when it shows up in the spec sheet.

Why the Bafang motor matters when you choose an e-bike

The motor is the heart of an e-bike. It decides how it pushes you uphill, how it responds when you pedal and what kind of servicing you'll need over the years. A manufacturer with that much volume usually means more bikes to choose from and more workshops that already know it.

According to the report, Bafang isn't limited to city bikes: it has dedicated eMTB systems. In other words, if you're after an e-bike for the mountains, you may also find its motor on models built for technical trails and tracks, not just the commute.

Automatic shifting: the idea that wants to take one worry off your mind

One of the points the source highlights is its automatic shifting patents. The idea behind it is simple: let the bike handle the gearing for you so you can focus on your line, your cadence and enjoying the ride.

What does that mean for the way you ride? On a technical climb, forgetting about the shifter can help you concentrate. In town, you pull away from the lights in the right gear every time. That said, since the news doesn't say which models use it or how each system works, if you're interested, ask the shop or the seller exactly what the specific bike you're looking at has.

If you buy a second-hand e-bike with a Bafang motor

In the second-hand e-bike market, the motor carries the most value along with the battery. Before you pay, run through this:

• Exact motor model: ask the seller or look for it engraved on the casing. It tells you whether it's built for the city or for the mountains.
• Noises and play: on a short test ride, climb a hill in the highest assist mode and listen. An odd whine or knocking at the cranks is a reason to ask questions.
• Battery condition: charge cycles, age and whether it still gives the range you're promised.
• Display and remote: it should switch on without errors and change modes without glitches.
• Workshop history: receipts for services or updates say a lot about how well it's been looked after.
• If it has automatic shifting: check while riding that it shifts smoothly and at the right moment.

If you're going to ride it hard off-road, check the suspension and brakes too: on an eMTB they work harder than on a bike without a motor. You can compare prices in the mountain bike listings, where trail and enduro e-bikes also appear.

A brand that wants to grow closer to you

The report mentions expansion plans in the Spanish market. For anyone riding in Spain, that points to a more visible brand presence and, if it happens, easier access to support. We'll have to see the details when they're announced, but it's a good sign if you already own, or are considering, a bike with this motor.

And if you're thinking of switching to an e-bike and your current bike is gathering dust in the garage, you can post your listing for free and put the money towards your next purchase. Then go and find a good hill to try out the assist.