Criticism of DJI's motor power: What Avinox says about the performance discussion

The new Avinox M2S has pushed the boundaries of e-bike motors with its extreme performance. The unit delivers 1500 watts and 150 newton metres at its peak. Pedelecs have never been so powerful. What is technically enormously impressive on the one hand, is criticised on the other. We, too, have not only praised the blatant power of the new motor, as this comment, for example, shows: "Come on Avinox, that's better!" We are not alone in our criticism. Whether industry, press or comment columns - the feedback is mixed across the board. Now the Chinese manufacturer has responded and formulated its view of things in a statement. The statement is admittedly somewhat one-sided and contains a lot of marketing-speak. Nevertheless, we would like to share Avinox's arguments here.

The Avinox statement in full

19 May, Shenzhen, China - Power is often misunderstood in mountain biking. For some, higher motor power raises concerns about safety, impact on trails or component wear. For Avinox, power is not about excess, it's about opportunity. Power can help more people ride further, climb steeper and tackle terrain that would otherwise be out of reach.

Our approach to performance is based on a simple principle: technology should expand access to mountain biking while maintaining safety, reliability and rider control.
Performance means ability, not speed.

When people hear that an eMTB motor delivers high power, they often express concerns about the danger and assume that higher power means higher speed. In reality, these are two very different things. Speed ultimately determines the safety risk. Power is the force that helps riders accelerate, especially at low speeds and in demanding situations such as steep climbs, technical ascents and when manoeuvring around obstacles.

Avinox systems fully comply with all current speed regulations and we strongly support the introduction and enforcement of speed limits. This means that our high power output is not designed to make drivers go faster than permitted. It is designed to make difficult terrain more manageable. Whether it's negotiating a rocky ledge, climbing a steep incline or helping a less experienced rider maintain momentum, more power can make mountain biking both easier and safer.

Safety is a question of control

Any bike can reach considerable speed on a descent, whether motorised or not. This is not unique to eMTBs. The safety challenge in mountain biking is to control speed, maintain traction and give riders the confidence to overcome high resistance obstacles in complex terrain.
Avinox focuses on delivering power exactly when it's needed. Our intelligent assist algorithms provide smooth, predictable assistance that helps riders stay in control in a variety of situations. In many cases, more available power improves safety by reducing the likelihood of stalling, losing balance or being forced to dismount in difficult terrain.

Flexible performance for real driving

Different riders face different challenges. A steep technical climb requires a different level of support than a flowing cross-country trail. A loaded cargo bike climbing a hill has different needs than a light commuter.
Avinox addresses this with customisable riding modes and user-adjustable settings that allow riders to tailor support - including maximum power - to the terrain and their personal preferences. This flexibility provides support when it matters most, while maintaining efficiency and control.

Democratisation of mountain biking

Mountain biking should be accessible to more people, regardless of fitness level, body type, age or physical limitations. High-performance systems help to make this vision a reality.

With greater support, drivers can:

• Mastering steep climbs
• Travelling longer distances
• Explore more challenging trails
• Recover more easily from technical errors
• Build trust more quickly

For heavier drivers, drivers with disabilities and those transporting cargo, higher power can be seen as essential, not a luxury. A rigid, standardised power limit risks excluding the drivers who would benefit most from additional support.

Designed to protect the bike

Performance only counts if the system remains reliable. Avinox carefully balances performance with durability, avoiding the trap of increasing power just to claim bigger numbers. Advanced sensors and software continuously monitor driving conditions and adjust torque output to protect key components.
For example, the system automatically reduces power during gear changes, minimises drivetrain stress and extends the life of chains, cassettes and derailleurs. Smooth, precisely controlled power delivery also reduces wear on tyres, brakes and wheelsets.

Optimisation at system level

A high-performance motor cannot be developed in isolation. Avinox takes a holistic systems approach and optimises the entire bike platform to handle increased power output, including:

• Tyres
• Brakes
• Impellers
• Frame design
• Battery architecture
• Charging systems
• Software controls

This integrated development ensures that drivers benefit from maximum performance without compromising safety or reliability.

Higher output does not threaten the industry

Some argue that offering more powerful engines could invite regulatory scrutiny or harm the industry. We believe this view oversimplifies a much more complex issue. Avinox supports responsible regulation and strict compliance with all applicable laws. At the same time, we believe that innovation should not be constrained by arbitrary performance limits that have no clearly stated basis.
The industry benefits when manufacturers focus on solving real driver challenges and respect the diverse needs of users. Progress should be driven by safety, performance and accessibility, not by assumptions that more power is inherently problematic.

Beyond performance: the complete Avinox advantage

Performance is only part of what makes Avinox different. Our commitment to innovation is reflected in every aspect of the system, including:

• Compact and lightweight motor design
• Outstanding power-to-weight ratio
• Seamless hardware and software integration
• Intelligent support algorithms
• Lightweight, high-capacity batteries
• Fast charging capabilities
• Sophisticated system controls

Together, these technologies create a driving experience that feels intuitive, natural and remarkably powerful.

The future of eMTB performance

At Avinox, maximising performance is not about pushing boundaries for the sake of headlines. It's about enabling more riders to experience mountain biking in a way that is safer, more enjoyable and more inclusive. By combining high performance with intelligent control, system-level engineering and rider-centred innovation, Avinox is redefining what an eBike motor can do. Because when technology is developed thoughtfully, more power means more possibilities.

Opinion of the BIKE editorial team

Even if the statement is clearly marketing-driven, there is of course at least some truth to most of Avinox's arguments - as always, there is not just black and white. For us, one thing is certain: the Avinox M2S is an absolutely successful product, and not just because of its extreme power. But we mountain bikers would definitely be better off with a less performance-focussed development. The arms race is missing the point.

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