An expert in gearboxes for cars and trucks, the German manufacturer ZF is launching its first motor for electric bikes, the CentriX, which is as powerful as it is compact. We now know all the details.
While the world of e-bike motors may seem limited to Bosch, Shimano, Yamaha and Bafang, there are a host of new entrants coming to Eurobike 2024, which takes place in Frankfurt from July 3 to 7. Europe’s largest bicycle trade show is hosting a number of new drive systems this year, including one from ZF. The automotive and heavy-duty component maker – one of Bosch’s biggest competitors – is getting into the e-bike space with a new motor.
Mini size but maximum torque for the ZF bicycle engine
The ZF CentriX is a compact (8.8 cm in diameter!) mid-drive motor, weighing 2.5 kg, with a maximum torque of 90 Nm. That’s more than the Bosch Performance Line CX (85 Nm) and as much as a Brose Drive T. It also delivers 600 W peak power (identical to Bosch), while a toned-down CentriX 75 version limits torque to 75 Nm and 450 W.
- ZF CentriX 90 : 90 Nm, 600 W maximum ;
- ZF CentriX 75 : 75 Nm, 450 W maximum.
“This allows manufacturers to offer their customers high-performance e-bikes that are similar in weight and appearance to light-assist e-bikes,” says ZF’s director of micromobility, Daniel Haerter. Indeed, this ZF CentriX motor seems to be targeting electric mountain bikes, starting with the future full-suspension Raymon Tarok model launched in early 2025 (photo).
An ecosystem including battery, connectivity and screen
The ZF CentriX universe is an entire ecosystem, including the battery with a capacity of 504 or 756 Wh, as desired. This battery is tube-shaped, integrated into the frame, while the base console will be mounted on the top tube with a few indicator lights (battery levels, mode engaged, etc.).
Electric city bikes and hybrid bikes will prefer the 2.8-inch touchscreen option, but both will have connectivity for a full range of functions: complete information on the e-bike, recorded journeys, navigation, etc.
The ZF Centrix e-bike motor also promises low maintenance and “components replaceable in minutes.” To find out more, stay connected, because Frandroid will soon be taking this engine into its own hands at the Eurobike show.
