The e-bike industry is abuzz with the latest innovations from Avinox, a Chinese manufacturer that has shaken up the e-MTB world. Their new M2 and M2S drive units are a testament to their commitment to pushing the boundaries of power and performance. Personally, I find it fascinating how Avinox has managed to pack such impressive specifications into these motors while maintaining a competitive weight.
Power to the Pedal
The M2 and M2S motors offer an unprecedented level of power, with the M2S delivering a continuous 1,300 W and 130 Nm, and the M2 close behind at 1,100 W and 110 Nm. This is a significant leap from the already impressive M1 motor, and it raises the bar for what we can expect from e-bike motors. What makes this particularly fascinating is the potential impact on the riding experience. With this much power, riders can conquer even the steepest of climbs with ease, opening up new possibilities for off-road adventures.
Efficiency and Range
Avinox has focused on improving efficiency with these new motors. By increasing the diameter of the motor windings and using flat wires in the M2S, they've managed to boost efficiency from 82% to 84.5%. This means riders can expect slightly better range for a given level of assistance. However, it's important to note that efficiency drops at higher power outputs, which could impact overall range.
Noise and Drag
One of the notable improvements is the reduction in noise and drag. The M2S features a dual-gear meshing design to eliminate gear play noise, while the M2 uses helical gears to reduce rattling sounds. Additionally, Avinox has addressed the issue of pedalling drag by replacing a high-resistance oil seal with a low-resistance sealed bearing, resulting in a significant reduction in friction. These enhancements contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable riding experience.
Battery Options
Avinox has expanded its battery offerings with a new 700 Wh option, which boasts an impressive energy density of 220 Wh/kg. This compact battery is ideal for brands aiming for a sleek downtube design. Additionally, Avinox is introducing removable batteries with 600 and 800 Wh capacities, providing flexibility for off-bike charging and travel. The 600 Wh battery can even be used as a range extender, offering up to 1,400 Wh of energy when mounted externally.
Display and Connectivity
The 2-inch Avinox display has been upgraded to support route import from third-party navigation apps, offering turn-by-turn directions. This feature, along with the ability to pair a heart rate monitor and adjust assistance levels, adds a new layer of convenience and customization. The accompanying app allows for fine-tuning of assistance modes and battery health settings, and even includes a bike security feature that sends notifications for abnormal movements.
Initial Ride Impressions
I had the opportunity to test ride the M2S motor on two different e-bikes, and I was impressed by the system's overall refinement. The power delivery is intuitive and easy to manage, especially in Automatic mode. The motor is remarkably quiet, and I didn't experience any gear noise on descents. While the peak power may be excessive for most situations, it's a testament to Avinox's engineering prowess. I look forward to conducting a thorough range test to evaluate the battery performance with these powerful motors.
Conclusion
Avinox's M2 and M2S motors represent a significant advancement in e-bike technology, offering a perfect blend of power, efficiency, and refinement. With a growing list of bike brands adopting these drive units, we can expect to see even more innovative e-MTB designs hitting the market. The future of e-biking looks bright, and Avinox is undoubtedly a key player in shaping that future.
