Electric Bike Power: Trek's Watts Unveiled

Electric bikes are becoming an increasingly popular mode of transport, with an estimated 12 million expected to be sold in the US between 2020 and 2030. Trek offers a wide range of electric bikes, from the powerful Allant+ for long commutes to the Fuel EXe, an ultra-quiet e-MTB perfect for off-road adventures. But how many watts do these electric bikes have, and what does that mean for performance and range? The wattage of an electric bike motor varies, with 250W being sufficient for most riders on flat terrain, while 500W provides more power and 750W offers even greater performance. For those looking for a high-performance option, 1000W is also available, but it may result in a reduced battery range.

Electric bike wattage is limited to 250W to be classified as a bicycle

Electric bikes, or e-bikes, are incredibly versatile and can be used for a variety of purposes, from commuting to off-roading. When it comes to the power output of these bikes, it's important to note that wattage restrictions are in place in certain regions. For example, in Europe, there is a 250-volt limitation law for e-bikes. This means that to be classified as a bicycle, an electric bike's wattage output must not exceed 250 watts.

This 250-watt limit is significant because it ensures that e-bikes remain in a category that does not require registration, license plates, inspections, or insurance. Essentially, this limit allows e-bikes to be treated like regular bicycles in terms of regulations. However, it's important to note that the wattage limit refers to the motor's nominal power and can be affected by factors such as battery voltage.

So, why is the limit set at 250 watts? This wattage strikes a balance between providing a boost of power to riders and maintaining the experience of riding a bicycle. A 250-watt motor typically provides enough assistance for daily commuters and leisurely riders, allowing them to tackle moderate hills and higher speeds without feeling like they are riding a motorbike. It gives riders that extra kick of power when they need it while still providing the health benefits of regular cycling.

While some e-bikes offer higher wattages, such as 500 watts or even 1000 watts, these higher-powered models may be more suitable for specific use cases, such as off-roading or navigating exceptionally hilly areas. For the average rider, a 250-watt e-bike offers a "sweet spot" in terms of power and functionality, providing assistance without overwhelming the rider with excess power.

When considering an e-bike, it's important to remember that wattage isn't the only factor that determines its performance. Battery capacity, measured in Watt hours (Wh), also plays a crucial role in how far you can travel on a single charge. Additionally, features like pedal-assist modes can help conserve battery power by adjusting the level of assistance provided to the rider. Ultimately, while the 250-watt limit is an important regulatory distinction, it also strikes a balance between added power and the traditional cycling experience.

Trek offers a range extender battery of 160Wh

Trek electric bikes are pedal-assist, which means that the rider's input to the pedals and the selected ride mode determines the level of assistance provided by the motor. The watt-hour (Wh) is a measure of the battery's capacity, or, in other words, the "size of the gas tank". The higher the watt-hours, the more energy is stored in the battery.

Trek offers a range of electric bikes with varying battery sizes, such as the Powerfly, which has a battery size of 600Wh, and the Rail, which has a battery size of 800Wh. The Allant+ and Verve+ models offer battery sizes ranging from 400Wh to 625Wh.

For those looking to extend their ride, Trek offers a range extender battery of 160Wh. This compact, bottle-shaped backup battery easily fits into the existing bottle cage, providing a simple connection to the charge port. The TQ HPR Range Extender can increase your range by up to 44%, allowing for uninterrupted exploration.

Additionally, Trek offers other range-boosting options, such as the Bosch RangeBoost battery, which provides 500Wh of additional power, and the TQ and Hydrive auxiliary batteries, which are water bottle-sized and fit neatly into the bottle cage. With these options, riders can customise their Trek electric bikes to suit their specific needs and ensure they get the most out of their riding experience.

The Fetch+ model has a battery size of up to 750Wh

The Trek Fetch+ model is a car-replacement electric bike with a battery size of up to 750Wh. This means the battery can deliver up to 750 watts to the motor per hour. With a battery of this size, the Fetch+ model can assist riders in reaching speeds of up to 20 mph and travelling up to 75 miles. This is a significant advantage for those who need to carry kids, cargo, or commute long distances.

The Trek e-bike's battery capacity, or Watt hours (Wh), is a measure of how much energy is stored in the battery. A higher Watt-hour rating indicates a larger "gas tank", which translates to greater energy storage and a longer range. The Fetch+ model's 750Wh battery is impressive and becoming more common as battery technology advances.

It is worth noting that the actual power output of the e-bike motor depends on various factors. The voltage (V) supplied by the battery and the maximum current (Amps or A) flowing from the battery to the motor determine the Watt rating. For example, a 36V battery with a 15A controller would result in a 540W output. Additionally, the method used to calculate the motor output may vary among manufacturers.

The Trek e-bike's 750Wh battery offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides greater performance compared to lower-wattage options. A higher-wattage motor delivers faster acceleration, improved climbing ability, and enhanced performance for heavier riders or when carrying cargo. Secondly, the Fetch+ model allows riders to add a second battery to further increase the range, doubling the distance if both batteries are 750Wh. This flexibility is advantageous for those who need extended riding distances.

In summary, the Trek Fetch+ model's 750Wh battery offers a substantial power reserve, enabling speeds of up to 20 mph and a range of up to 75 miles. With the option to add a second battery, the Fetch+ e-bike is a versatile and powerful choice for those seeking extended distances, improved performance, and the ability to carry additional weight.

The Powerfly model offers a battery upgrade to 800Wh

The Powerfly model from Trek is a versatile and powerful e-MTB that allows riders to explore more of the off-road world. The Powerfly+ is a full-assist hardtail and full-suspension e-MTB that offers a battery upgrade to 800Wh. This upgrade provides increased battery capacity and range, making it ideal for those who want to embark on bigger rides and demanding trail adventures.

The Powerfly+ FS 6 Gen 4 2025 model, for example, features the Bosch PowerTube 800Wh battery, which offers an exceptional range. This battery can be further extended with the Bosch PowerMore 250Wh, providing even more mileage. The Powerfly+ is also compatible with the Bosch PowerMore range extender, allowing riders to take on even more miles.

The Powerfly model's battery upgrade to 800Wh not only enhances its range but also contributes to a more efficient power usage system. The bike's smart system connects via Bluetooth, allowing for completely wireless syncing and updates. The Trek-exclusive integration with the eBike Flow app provides a seamless experience, automatically recognizing the e-MTB and offering service recommendations.

Additionally, the Powerfly model's battery upgrade ensures that riders receive powerful support on steep climbs and demanding descents. The Bosch Performance Line CX Smart System motor dynamically adjusts to provide assistance when needed. This dynamic assistance, combined with the increased battery capacity, empowers riders to confidently tackle various terrain and explore further.

In conclusion, the Powerfly model's battery upgrade to 800Wh enhances its performance, range, and efficiency. With this upgrade, riders can take on more challenging trails and longer distances with the assurance of sufficient power and support. The combination of a powerful motor and a high-capacity battery exemplifies Trek's commitment to delivering exceptional electric bike experiences.

A 500W 36V rear geared hub was added to a Trek 830

Electric bikes from Trek are pedal-assist, which means that the rider must still pedal the bike, but the electric motor provides additional power to make pedalling easier. The amount of power provided by the motor depends on the ride mode selected. In eco mode, the motor provides the least amount of assistance and draws a small amount of power from the battery, while in turbo mode, the motor provides the most assistance but drains the battery more quickly.

A user on the Electric Bike Forums website reported that they had converted their Trek 830 bike to electric using a 500W 36V rear geared hub from Ebikeling. They purchased the kit for $200 in 2015 and added a $280 36V dolphin battery, resulting in a reliable electric bike. The user reported that the setup was simple, with a three-speed pedal assist sensor (PAS) and throttle, allowing them to reach speeds of 20 mph. However, they noted that the setup lacked a display and additional features.

The user considered upgrading to a five-level PAS controller with an LCD display but chose not to due to their dissatisfaction with the way the newer LCD kits worked with the geared motors. Instead, they opted to replace the electronics with KT controllers, which offered higher power direct-drive kits that could achieve speeds of 30+ mph on 48V.

It is worth noting that converting a traditional bicycle to electric can be tricky, especially when dealing with hub motors and rim brakes. The user recommended considering the type of motor and battery setup desired, as direct-drive motors and higher-end kits can significantly increase the cost. For the price of a cheap kit and battery, one could almost purchase an imported electric bike.

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