Tag Archive for: hunting bike

Rear Hub Motors: The Unsung Powerhouses of Modern E-Bikes

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From Subpar to Supercharged

WaterProof | Sensor Swap | Pros-Cons

Not long ago, rear hub motors had a reputation problem. They were seen as entry-level—lacking torque, overheating under stress, and unable to match the smooth, efficient feel of mid-drive systems. But technology doesn’t sit still. Over the past few years, hub motor engineering has leapt forward, turning what was once a compromise into a highly capable and reliable option for most riders.

Today, e-bikes equipped with advanced rear hub motors are closing the performance gap with mid-drives—delivering serious wattage, peak output boosts, thermal management, and rugged dependability that works for 90% of everyday riders and off-road adventurers.

The Evolution of Hub Motors

1. Early Hub Motor Limitations

  • Low continuous power: Early hub motors often ran at 250–500W, which felt underwhelming on trails or hills.
  • Overheating issues: Lack of thermal design led to power fade on long climbs.
  • Basic controllers: Limited ability to handle peak bursts of power.

2. Modern Breakthroughs in Hub Motor Design

  • Higher wattage capacity: Today’s hub motors can comfortably run at 750W nominal (the federal Class 2 and Class 3 legal standard) while peaking at 1,200–1,400W for short bursts.
  • Advanced MOSFET controllers: Smart controllers regulate current draw, delivering smooth ramp-ups and protecting against thermal overload.
  • Improved stator/rotor efficiency: Better copper windings and high-grade magnets increase torque density without adding bulk.
  • Thermal management: Finned casings, higher-temp insulation, and software-based thermal rollbacks keep motors cooler under load.

The Velotric N2X pushes 750W nominal / 1400W peak, giving riders immediate torque for steep hills or fast acceleration—without cooking the motor.

Why Peak Power Matters

Many riders see “750W” on a spec sheet and assume that’s the limit. But what makes modern hub motors exciting is their ability to peak well beyond nominal ratings.

  • Nominal Power (750W): The steady-state power level a motor can handle continuously without overheating.
  • Peak Power (up to 1400W): The short-term maximum output for acceleration, hill climbing, or carrying heavy loads.

This “reserve” power is why hub motors no longer feel anemic. When you push hard—like tackling a steep climb—the motor delivers that surge, then falls back to nominal for efficiency and cooling.

Technical Advantages of Rear Hub Motors

  1. Simplicity and Reliability
    Hub motors bypass the chain and drivetrain. If your chain snaps deep in the woods, the motor alone can still get you back to the trailhead. This is a game-changer for hunters, commuters, or backcountry riders.
  2. Cooler Operation
    With better thermal pathways, modern hub motors shed heat more effectively, even under heavy loads. Internal sensors ensure that if temps rise, power delivery tapers smoothly instead of cooking components.
  3. Low Maintenance
    No extra gears or internal reduction drives—just a sealed, self-contained motor. Fewer moving parts = fewer chances of failure.
  4. Silent Operation
    Advances in winding geometry and magnetic spacing make today’s rear hub motors quieter, with only a faint electric hum.

Practical Benefits for Riders

  • Trail-legal performance: 750W nominal keeps you compliant on most U.S. federal and state-managed trails.
  • Affordable power: Hub-driven bikes typically cost less than mid-drive models, without sacrificing trail-ready performance.
  • Emergency backup: Even with drivetrain failure, your motor alone can power you out.
  • Balanced performance for 90% of riders: Unless you’re tackling extremely technical mountain bike terrain, modern hub motors deliver everything you need.

The Downsides of Rear Hub Motors

No technology is perfect. Riders should be aware of a few trade-offs:

  • Rear-weight bias: A hub motor adds extra weight to the back wheel, which can affect handling and suspension feel.
  • Flat tire hassle: Changing a rear tube means unplugging motor wires—an extra step compared to mid-drives.
  • Less torque scaling: Mid-drives leverage your bike’s gears for ultra-efficient torque. Hub motors rely on raw wattage, which may feel less “natural” on extremely steep technical climbs. But some rear hub ebikes have sensor swap technology that mimics a mid drive bike…to a point (read below)

Pro Tips for Rear Hub Motor Riders

  1. Carry quick-disconnect tools for motor wiring when tackling long backcountry rides.
  2. Check connectors regularly—dust, water, and mud can cause corrosion if not cleaned.
  3. Monitor tire pressure more carefully—extra rear weight makes proper PSI critical for traction and rim protection.
  4. Use regen braking (if supported): Some hub systems allow regenerative braking, extending battery life on long descents.

Rear Hub Motors Are No Longer Second-Class

The old stigma that “real riders use mid-drives” no longer holds up. Today’s rear hub motors—like the 750W/1400W system on the Velotric N2X—are proof that hub technology has matured into a legit powerhouse for e-bikes.

For 90% of riders—commuters, hunters, adventurers, and weekend warriors—a rear hub motor offers the perfect blend of power, reliability, and simplicity. Sure, mid-drives still have their place for hardcore mountain bikers and gear purists. But for most of us, the modern rear hub motor isn’t just good enough—it’s exceptional.

What Riders Used to Say About Older Hub Motors

  • “They’re fine on flat pavement, but as soon as I hit a hill, the motor just bogs down.”
  • “My hub motor overheated halfway up the climb—I had to stop and let it cool off.”
  • “The power delivery is like an on/off switch, no finesse. It just surges.”
  • “Once my chain snapped, I was stuck walking—hub motors just didn’t have the grunt to pull me.”
  • “They’re heavy and make the back of the bike feel sloppy.”
  • “Changing a flat was a nightmare—fishing with that wire connector in the mud.”

What Riders Say About Modern Rear Hub Motors (like 750W/1400W systems)

  • “I expected it to feel sluggish, but the torque hits hard and actually gets me up hills without breaking a sweat.”
  • “I rode 5 miles out into the woods and broke my chain—motor still pulled me back to the truck no problem.”
  • “The controller lets it peak at 1400W and you can really feel that surge on steep climbs.”
  • “This isn’t the noisy hum I remember—it’s whisper quiet.”
  • “I used to think mid-drives were the only serious option, but this hub feels almost the same, just simpler.”
  • “After 20 miles of riding, the motor casing was warm but never too hot—older ones would’ve been frying.”
  • “Swapped a flat on the trail in 10 minutes. Unplugging the cable was way easier than I thought and previous connections.”

Smart Sensors: Cadence vs. Torque Sensing in Rear Hub Motors

One of the biggest leaps in rear hub motor technology isn’t just raw power — it’s the brains of the system. Older hub motors relied almost exclusively on cadence sensors, which detect when the pedals are turning and then apply a fixed level of assistance. While simple and reliable, cadence-only setups often felt “all or nothing” — either too jerky when power kicked in, or too delayed when you needed instant help.

Enter Hybrid Sensor Systems

Modern rear hub motors now feature dual-sensor or swappable sensor technology, allowing the bike to use:

  • Cadence sensing: Measures pedal revolutions. Smooth, steady power delivery that’s great for cruising or casual commuting.
  • Torque sensing: Measures how hard you’re pressing on the pedals. Power scales up or down in real time, giving a much more natural, mid-drive-like feel — especially useful on trails or when climbing.

Many high-end hub systems let riders switch between these modes on the fly, giving you the best of both worlds. For example:

  • On paved paths: Switch to cadence for effortless cruising at consistent speeds.
  • On technical trails: Switch to torque sensing for instant response and precise control.

Real-World Impact for Riders

  • “I thought hub motors were always laggy. With torque sensing, it reacts like it’s reading my legs — way smoother than I expected.”
  • “I use cadence mode when I’m commuting in jeans, but switch to torque when I’m on the singletrack. Feels like two bikes in one.”

Why This Matters for Rear Hub Motors

This sensor tech closes one of the last gaps between rear hubs and mid-drives. Riders get a responsive, intuitive pedaling experience, but without the drivetrain stress that comes from mid-drive systems constantly tugging on the chain and cassette.

Waterproofing & IP Ratings: What Riders Need to Know

Modern rear hub motors are far more weather-resistant than their early counterparts. Most reputable e-bike brands now certify their hub systems to IPX5 or higher, meaning they’re tested to withstand sustained low-pressure water jets and heavy rain. In real-world terms, you can:

  • Ride confidently in downpours, mud, or snow without worrying about water intrusion.
  • Hose off your bike gently to clear off dirt and debris.
  • Trust that the motor casing and sealed connectors are designed for rugged outdoor use.

But Here’s the Catch: What Not to Do

  • Do not pressure wash: High-pressure water can force past seals and damage internal electronics or bearings.
  • Avoid submerging: Hub motors aren’t meant for river crossings or dunking — even if the casing looks solid.
  • Mind the connectors: Waterproof plugs keep out most water, but always check and dry them after wet rides.

Rider Tip

Think of IPX ratings like rain gear: perfect for weather, not for fire hoses. Treat your rear hub motor with the same respect, and it’ll last for thousands of miles.

Waterproofing & IP Ratings: What Riders Need to Know

Why the Multi-Terrain Camo N2X Might Be the Best Hunting Electric Bike You Can Buy

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If you’ve ever tried hauling gear through thick woods before daylight, or dragging a deer out of a ridge bottom after an evening sit, you already know — a good hunting e-bike isn’t a luxury. It’s a necessity. When choosing one, you surely want the best hunting electric bike available because not all of them are created equal.

We’ve spent the last year riding, testing, and refining what we think is the best hunting electric bike on the market right now: the Multi-Terrain Camo N2X, finished in our own MTC – Multi-Terrain Camo. It’s been in and out of tree stands, over rocky gas line cuts, through snow, rain, and heavy leaf cover. We’ve used it for real scouting, real hunting, and real hauling.

This isn’t a fluff piece or a bunch of tech specs copy-pasted from a product page. This is a breakdown of what actually makes this bike worth every penny — and how it performs when it counts.

ALSO it was Designed by Hunters, Not Just Engineers

Both the Stealth Mode system and the proprietary Multi-Terrain Camo (MTC) pattern were co-designed by Steve Smolenski, founder of JoltBike Design House in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, USA and Velotric. With decades of experience in both engineering and backcountry hunting, Steve led the design process to ensure the N2X didn’t just look the part — it performed under real conditions. From pre-dawn scouting rides to post-harvest hauls, every detail was tested and refined right here in Western PA’s rugged terrain.

Real-World Stealth You Can Count On

The whole point of using an e-bike for hunting is to get in quieter, faster, and with less scent. But a lot of bikes fall short on the “quiet” part. Some are just plain noisy — rattling racks, whining motors, glowing displays that light up the woods like a headlamp.

We built the N2X with “Stealth Mode” for exactly that reason. When you hit that button, the screen goes dark, the lights cut off, and the motor switches to a low-noise power delivery mode. It’s subtle, but man — it makes a difference. You don’t realize how much sound you’re making until it’s gone.

I’ve ridden this bike to within 50 yards of bedded deer more than once. On one morning last fall, I slid it in along the edge of a frost-covered cornfield, parked it under a log, and climbed into my stand without ever breaking the silence. When the woods are still, that silence means everything.

BUY ONLINE OR IN OUR SHOP AND TEST RIDE ONE!!!

Multi-Terrain Camo That Actually Works

We call it MTC – Multi-Terrain Camo, but honestly it could just as well stand for “Made To Conceal.” It’s not just a paint job. This pattern was developed in-house to blend into real hunting environments — hardwoods, cut fields, pine edges, even snowy trails in late season.

I’ve left the N2X leaned up against a tree while hanging a cam or slipping into a stand, and more than once I had to take a second look to even spot it again. We purposely designed it to break up the frame silhouette whether it’s parked or in motion.

It’s not tactical. It’s not flashy. It’s functional, and that’s what matters when you’re leaving $2,000+ worth of gear stashed under a leaf pile 800 yards from the truck.

Multi-Terrain Camo N2X electric hunting bike parked in the woods, showcasing its camouflage frame and fat tires.

BUY ONLINE OR IN OUR SHOP AND TEST RIDE ONE!!!

Suspension That Actually Does Something

You can slap fat tires on a frame and call it “trail-ready,” but if the suspension is junk, your back will feel it before your second ridge. The N2X runs a 120mm air fork up front and 80mm rear travel, which makes a huge difference when you’re crossing rough terrain loaded with gear.

This past October, I was pulling a deer cart with tree stands and still gliding over wet roots and rocks like I was riding in a truck. You don’t bounce. You don’t rattle. You just float over the gnarly stuff. That smoothness is critical when you’re trying to stay quiet and keep your gear from banging around.

Built-In Strength Where It Counts — Including Towing Capacity

This isn’t a cookie-cutter rack bolted on after the fact. The rear rack on the N2X is welded and bolted to the top of the rear frame, fully integrated, and rated to handle serious weight of 120lbs. I’ve strapped everything from climbing sticks and blinds to climber tree stands back there — and yes, I’ve hooked up a trailer and dragged out a buck with it.

Here’s where it gets even better: the Multi-Terrain Camo N2X can tow up to 1000 pounds on a properly balanced trailer, and it doesn’t even flinch. Whether you’re hauling a fully dressed deer, quartered elk (if you’re out west), or a heavy-duty game cart with meat, pack, and weapon, this bike can handle it.

No fish-tailing. No burning out the motor. Just steady, reliable torque.

I personally use a two-wheel cart that clips into the N2X’s trailer mount, and I’ve pulled over 120 pounds of treestands, trail cameras, pack, and gear across mixed terrain — up gravel grades, through wet leaves, even over a frozen creek bed. The bike didn’t struggle. The motor kept a steady pull the whole way out, and I didn’t need to hike back for a second trip.

You don’t realize how much time and effort this saves until you do it once. No dragging. No strapping a buck to your back. No borrowed ATV. Just ride out, load up, and roll home.

Electric hunting bike towing a game trailer through forest terrain, highlighting hauling capabilities.
Electric hunting bike towing a game trailer through forest terrain, highlighting hauling capabilities.

If Things Go Wrong, It Still Gets You Out

Chain breaks. Derailleur gets bent. Mud clogs up your cassette. It happens. And when it does, most mid-drive e-bikes leave you stranded.

Not the N2X MTC.

Because it’s powered by a rear hub motor that peaks to 1400W, even if your drivetrain fails, you can still use the throttle or walk mode to get you and your gear out. I’ve had it save my butt on a late-season scout mission when I snapped a chain 3 miles in — flipped on walk mode and let the motor do the work. Try that on a mid-drive.

It’s a System — Not Just a Bike

Everything on this build is intentional:

  • The fat tires give you grip without chewing up the land.
  • The air suspension keeps your ride smooth and quiet.
  • The frame-integrated rack hauls gear like a pack mule.
  • Stealth Mode turns off everything you don’t need.
  • Apple Find My integration gives you peace of mind when you stash it.
  • Green LED Handlebar Light gives you light when you don’t want light.

And we didn’t forget the small stuff. There are mounts for lights and GoPros. An optional front rack. A clean cockpit layout so nothing gets in your way. Even the grips were chosen to reduce hand fatigue on longer rides.

This isn’t a gimmick e-bike with camo stickers. It’s a machine built by people who hunt, scout, and spend real time in the woods. We didn’t guess what hunters wanted — we used it, tested it, and built it from the ground up.

So… Is It Really the Best Hunting Electric Bike?

For me, yes. Without question. It helped me harvest this 15 point buck in Pennsylvania last year.

The Multi-Terrain Camo N2X has replaced my ATV for most of my hunts. It gets me farther in with less noise, leaves almost no scent trail, and lets me haul out meat, gear, and stands without a second trip. It’s saved me time, energy, sweating, and probably a couple blown hunts.

Could someone come along and try to copy it? Sure. But they won’t get the details right — because this bike wasn’t made for Instagram posts or product launches. It was made for that moment at 5:45 AM when you slip in quiet, climb into your stand, and know you’ve done everything right.

Full Build Specs Below: Nomad N2X (MTC Edition)

Looking under the hood? Here’s the full breakdown of the Velotric Nomad 2X – Multi-Terrain Camo edition, co-developed with JoltBike Design House for serious off-road and backcountry use.

Camouflaged electric bike with full air suspension and a rugged rear cargo rack for hauling gear.

BUY ONLINE OR IN OUR SHOP AND TEST RIDE ONE!!!

General Information

  • Model Name: Velotric Nomad 2X
  • Available Colors: Obsidian, Royal Blue, Fig, Sage, Multi-Terrain Camo (MTC)
  • Frame Types: High-Step & Step-Through
  • Sizes:
    • Regular (Step-Through): 4’11” – 5’10”
    • Large (High-Step): 5’10” – 6’5″

Electronics

  • Motor: 750W rear hub, 105Nm torque
  • Battery: 48V 16.7Ah (801.6Wh), removable, IPX7 & UL 2271 certified
  • Battery Cells: Samsung/LG 21700, UL 2580 certified
  • Display: 3.5″ full-color, high-brightness, angle-adjustable
  • Sensor: SensorSwap™ (Torque/Cadence)
  • Throttle: Trigger-style, removable
  • Pedal Assist: 3 riding modes × 5 PAS levels
  • Front Light: Auto-sensing, 130 Lux / 500 LM LED
  • Water Resistance: IPX6 (whole bike)
  • USB Charging Port: USB Type-C
  • Connectivity: Velotric App + Apple Find My™ integration

Frameset & Suspension

  • Frame: Triple-butted aluminum alloy, 80mm rear wheel travel
  • Front Fork: Air suspension, 120mm travel, lock-out + rebound adjust
  • Rear Shock: DNM air shock, 38mm stroke, 80mm travel

Speed & Range

  • Top Speed: 28 MPH max (adjustable), ships at 20 MPH
  • Class Rating: Class 1/2/3 configurable
  • Throttle Range: Up to 50 miles
  • Pedal Assist Range: Up to 75 miles

Brakes

  • System: Tektro hydraulic disc brakes
  • Rotors: 203mm front / 180mm rear

Drivetrain

  • Chainring: 48T
  • Crankset: 170mm aluminum alloy
  • Freewheel: 11–40T
  • Derailleur: SHIMANO 8-speed
  • Shifter: SHIMANO 8-speed

Weight & Load

  • Bike Weight: 80 lbs
  • Max Payload: 560 lbs (rider + gear + trailer)
  • Rear Rack Load: 120 lbs
  • Towing Capacity: 1,000 lbs (balanced trailer, optimal conditions)

Cockpit & Comfort

  • Handlebars: 700mm aluminum alloy, ø31.8mm
  • Grips: Lockable ergonomic grips
  • Stem: Adjustable – 60mm (Step-Through) / 90mm (High-Step)
  • Saddle: Velotric ergonomic comfort seat

Wheels & Tires

  • Rims: Aluminum alloy
  • Tires: Kenda 26″ × 4.0″, puncture-resistant e-bike specific
  • Front Hub: Aluminum alloy, nutted

Additional Features

  • Fenders: Full coverage, front & rear
  • Rear Rack: Integrated aluminum alloy, MIK HD-compatible
  • Kickstand: Rear-mounted aluminum alloy
  • Pedals: Wide plastic platform pedals

Certifications & Standards

  • UL Certification: UL 2849 & UL 2271
  • Battery Cell Standard: UL 2580
  • International Compliance: ISO 4210 safety standard

UBCO Electric Bikes: The Best Electric Adventure Bike

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UBCO: Pioneering Electric Adventure Vehicles

Since its inception in 2015, UBCO has been at the forefront of electric mobility. Founded in New Zealand, the company has rapidly evolved into a globally recognized brand, offering a range of innovative electric bikes and utility vehicles. In our opinion they are the best Electric Adventure Bike made. UBCO designed a bike with an affordable price-point that works for all farmers, hunters, outdoorsmen, and adventure seekers. Here’s why UBCO stands out:

Quality Craftsmanship and Durability

  1. Robust Frame Design:
    • All UBCO bikes are built on heavy-duty welded steel frames. These frames provide the backbone for their rugged performance, ensuring they can handle the toughest terrains.
    • The alloy 3D frame construction is weatherproof, rust-resistant, and ready for any adventure.
  2. Stainless Steel Spokes and Alloy Components:
    • UBCO pays attention to every detail. Stainless steel spokes enhance durability, making the wheels resilient to impacts and wear.
    • Aluminum alloy components contribute to the bikes’ lightweight yet sturdy build.
  3. Weather-Resistant Construction:
    • Whether you’re riding through mud, rain, or dust, UBCO bikes are up to the challenge. Their weatherproof design ensures longevity and reliability.

Proprietary Lithium-Ion KXH Power Supply

  1. Improved Torque and Traction:
    • UBCO’s 2021 line of electric bikes features the proprietary lithium-ion KXH Power Supply. This technology enhances torque, power, and traction.
    • With power sent to a 1 kWh motor built into the hub of each wheel, the front and rear wheels dig in for unrivaled traction.
  2. Regenerative Braking:
    • Both wheels provide regenerative braking, helping preserve range and improve overall efficiency.
    • Whether you’re accelerating or slowing down, UBCO bikes optimize energy usage.

Versatility and Performance

  1. 2X2 Work Bike:
    • The off-road workhorse, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and farmers.
    • Fully blacked-out, lightweight, and equipped with hand guards and aggressive knobby tires.
    • Roam well off the beaten path with confidence.
  2. 2X2 Adventure Bike:
    • Versatile for both on- and off-road riding.
    • Ideal for commuters, around-towners, and weekend wanderers.
    • Can be fitted with the UBCO telematics platform for full fleet management and connectivity.

Stand-Alone KXH Power Supply

  1. Customize Your Ride:
    • UBCO offers the stand-alone KXH Power Supply in three capacities: 2.1 kWh, 2.6 kWh, and 3.1 kWh.
    • Choose the model and power supply combo that best meets your needs.
  2. Improved Efficiency and Range:
    • UBCO e-bikes now boast a 10% increase in motor efficiency and 23% more battery capacity.
    • Enjoy a 33% increase in range at top speed—up to 80 miles on a single charge.

UBCO Models: A Closer Look

1. 2X2 Work Bike:

  • Purely off-road workhorse
  • Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and farmers
  • Lightweight, tough, and fully blacked-out
  • Features hand guards and aggressive knobby tires

2. 2X2 Adventure Bike:

  • On- or off-road versatility
  • Ideal for commuters, around-towners, and weekend wanderers
  • Can be fitted with UBCO telematics platform for fleet management
  • Regenerative braking for extended range

3. 2X2 Special Edition (SE):

  • Reflects your adventurous life
  • Comfortable, tough, and durable
  • Accessorized and ready for any adventure
  • Includes features like phone mount, carry-all, and Pronghorn straps™

4. 2X2 Hunt Edition:

  • Designed specifically for hunters
  • All-wheel drive electric motorbike built for the wild
  • High-torque 1.7kW peak power hub motor in each wheel
  • Boost Mode for top speed of 40mph

Get the best electric adventure bike at JoltBike!

Visit JoltBike in Uniontown, Pennsylvania, to explore UBCO electric bikes. Our knowledgeable team will help you find the perfect model for your needs. Whether you’re commuting, adventuring, or going off-road, UBCO bikes will take you farther, faster, and with zero emissions.

Don’t miss out! Experience the future of transportation with UBCO electric bikes. 🚲🔌