TQ, a renowned German company known for producing lightweight and quiet e-bike motors, has once again raised the bar with the introduction of their latest innovation – the HPR40. This new mid-drive motor is not only the lightest on the market but also boasts impressive efficiency.
Weighing in at just 1.17 kg (2.6 lb), the HPR40 is significantly lighter than its predecessor, the HPR60, which weighed 1.92 kg (4.2 lb). Despite its smaller size, the HPR40 delivers 40 Nm of torque and up to 200W of peak power, making it ideal for riders seeking subtle assistance rather than raw power.
Designed specifically for road and gravel e-bikes, the HPR40 is tailored to blend seamlessly into the bike’s bottom bracket, with controls discreetly hidden inside the handlebar. This results in a drive system that not only performs well but also integrates effortlessly with the bike’s overall design.
The heart of the HPR motor is TQ’s Harmonic Pin-Ring Transmission, a refined drivetrain that eliminates noisy gears, reduces friction, and provides instant engagement with zero lag. Paired with a 290Wh battery weighing just 1.46 kg (3.2 lb) and a range extender option, the total system weight remains under 2.7 kg (6 lbs), making it one of the lightest fully integrated e-bike systems available.
Controlled via a hidden handlebar remote and sleek end-cap LED display, the HPR40 offers a minimalist interface that prioritizes the rider’s experience. This focus on simplicity and performance is evident in the new Canyon Endurace:ONFly e-road bike, which features the HPR40 motor and weighs under 10 kg (22 lb).
The high torque density of the HPR40 allows riders to double their pedaling output with a modest 200W boost, resulting in better climbs, longer rides, and a natural ride feel. This blend of power and lightweight design signifies a shift in electric bike engineering towards more intuitive and seamless power systems.
TQ’s HPR40 is not just a technical advancement but a signal of the future direction of e-bike technology. As riders seek a balance between traditional biking and electric assistance, innovations like the HPR40 pave the way for a new era of e-bikes that feel less electric and more akin to traditional bicycles.
With TQ leading the charge with their subtle, smart, and purpose-built approach, the future of e-bikes looks promising. As other brands take note of this trend towards lightweight and efficient motors, we can expect to see a new wave of e-bikes that offer a seamless blend of traditional biking and electric assistance.
