The best eMTB motor you can buy

Brose Drive S Alu

It’s not even two years after its official release and the Drive S Alu motor is already facing some serious in-house competition. However, the aluminium version of Brose’s popular motor is by no means obsolete.

Whether the housing is made from aluminium or magnesium, Drive S motors provide a very natural yet potent power delivery. In a direct comparison with its magnesium sibling, the Drive S Alu is significantly bigger and heavier. Despite the identical torque of 90 Nm, its 380 % peak support can’t quite match the assistance provided by the Drive S Mag — not to mention the TQ HPR 120s. Nonetheless, it’s easy to modulate in the highest support levels and feels very controlled even in slippery conditions. If that wasn’t enough, the Drive S Alu also works efficiently over a wide cadence range – it’s only when riding at very low cadence that you’ll notice a slight stutter. The Drive S Alu decouples very smoothly at the 25 km/h threshold and doesn’t develop any noticeable pedalling resistance — and it’s rather quiet too.

If you’re looking for a natural, unobtrusive riding experience you’ll like the Brose Drive S Alu.

As usual Brose gives manufacturers lots of freedom with the integration and tuning of their motors. Bikes with a Drive S Alu unit are available with either three or four support levels, various display options, remote units and battery capacities ranging from 400 to 800 Wh. Some bike manufacturers give you the option of adjusting the support levels via a dedicated app and certified Brose dealers can customise the support levels of the Drive S Alu too.

Conclusion

The brose Drive S Alu might not be up there with the most powerful motors, but still delivers a solid performance. If you’re after a natural, unobtrusive riding experience, that’s exactly what the Drive S Alu offers — despite some in-house sibling rivalry.

Torque 90 Nm
Motor weight 3.50 kg
Riding modes manufacturer-specific

App management yes
Walk-assist yes
System open