Brose is launching a new motor for 2019 that will not only be more powerful and efficient, but also smaller and lighter. The Berlin-based motor specialist aims to achieve this quantum leap with a magnesium housing. At 2.9 kilos, it is on a par with a Shimano Steps E8000 and well below the weight of a Bosch, Yamaha or TQ drive. For our test, we used a sample bike from Brose, which we were not only able to try out in practice, but also subject to a detailed test on our test bench. We used the same procedure that we used for our motor comparison in issue 2/2018.
This gives us exact comparative values to the Brose predecessor and the competitor drives from Shimano, Bosch, Yamaha and TQ. Important to know: In contrast to Shimano or Bosch, for example, Brose's software control is subject to the bike manufacturer. The Brose motor on a Specialized bike may therefore differ from the Brose motor on a Bulls bike. Now to the results. The Brose Drive S Mag not only feels more powerful, it actually is. With a maximum output of 493 watts, it clearly outperforms its predecessor on our test bench and also leaves the competition from Bosch, Shimano and Yamaha in its wake (see table on the right). The elasticity is also outstanding: the power output does not drop either at low or high cadences. The power curve is consistent and is at a very high level at all cadences.
Uli Frieß, expert on the EMTB engine test bench
"No other drive has ever been so homogeneous on the roller. Regardless of the cadence, the motor develops its power at a high level from a pedalling power of 100 watts. The power curve is steady and does not dip anywhere. Overheating seems to be foreign to the drive."
THE FACTS
- Weight: 2.9 kg
- Measured power¹: 493 watts
- Time per 500 hm²: 19:24 min
Motors in comparison¹
¹ measured on the roller test bench in the EMTB laboratory.
² Highest support level, 130 watts of power, constant 7% gradient. Comparative values can be found in EMTB test letters.
