Bafang BBS01 and Tongsheng TSDZ2B 250w motors: what’s the difference? How to choose?
If you’re looking for a motor for your electric kit, you’ve probably heard of the Bafang and Tongsheng brands. These two brands are market leaders in electric kit motors, and their BBS01 and TSDZ2B 250w models are particularly popular.
But how do you choose between these two models? What are the major differences? In this article, we’ll compare the Bafang BBS01 and Tongsheng TSDZ2B 250w motors from different angles, such as design, features and reliability. We’ll also be looking at the weight and size of the motors, as well as their speed control and pedaling assistance. Finally, we’ll give you recommendations for choosing the best motor for your electric kit (spoiler🫣 it’s ours and we’ve got 10 totally objective reasons to prove it 😂 ) based on your needs and preferences. Whether you’re a keen cyclist or an occasional user, this article will help you make an informed choice and get the most out of your electric bike.
The importance of choosing the right motor for your electric bike kit
The choice of motor is one of the most important elements in the purchase of an electric kit.
It determines your bike’s power, speed and range. So it’s essential to understand the differences between the motors so you can choose the one that best suits your needs.
There are two types of motor for electric bikes: hub motors and pedal motors. Hub motors are placed in the front or rear wheel and are easier to install and maintain. Pedal motors, on the other hand, are integrated into the frame and offer more natural assistance.
In terms of power, pedal motors are generally more torquey and offer more effective assistance when climbing. Hub motors, on the other hand, are better suited to travel on flat terrain and with light loads.
Reliability is also an important criterion when choosing an engine. High-quality motors last longer and require less maintenance.
In conclusion, choosing the right motor for your electric bike is crucial to ensuring a safe and enjoyable riding experience. It’s important to consider your needs in terms of power, reliability and autonomy to make the most suitable choice.
Introducing the two brands
Tongsheng and Bafang are two well-known Chinese brands in the world of electric bicycles that have experienced significant growth in recent years. Both brands offer quality products at competitive prices, making them popular with electric bike manufacturers.
Tongsheng equipment is renowned for its reliability and durability. They are also highly efficient and offer good autonomy. Tongsheng motors are often used on electric city and trekking bikes.
Bafang, on the other hand, stands out for the innovation and performance of its equipment. Bafang pedal motors are very powerful and can reach high speeds. They are often used on electric mountain bikes such as MTBs and Fat Bikes.
The BBS01 is manufactured by the Chinese brand Bafang. It was introduced in 2014 and has since become one of the most popular motorizations for electric bike kits. The Bafang BBS01 motor is a central drive unit, mounted on the bottom bracket axle. It is compatible with most bicycles, provided the frame is suitable.
The TSDZ2 is manufactured by the Chinese brand Tongsheng. It was introduced in 2018 and has become very popular among cyclists looking to convert their bikes to electric. The Tongsheng TSDZ2 is also a central drive unit, mounted on the bottom bracket axle. It is compatible with most bicycle frames, provided the frame is suitable (see here how to check compatibility).
In conclusion, both Tongsheng and Bafang offer quality electric bike motors at competitive prices. While Tongsheng motors are known for their reliability and efficiency, Bafang motors are known for their power and innovation. The choice between the two ultimately depends on the rider’s specific needs and preferences.
Power, 250W for driving anywhere in France and Europe
Rated and peak power
Rated power and maximum power are two important terms to understand when it comes to choosing a motorization for an electric bike. Rated power represents the maximum power that the actuator can deliver consistently over an extended period, while peak power represents the maximum power that the actuator can deliver over a short period. Motors with a higher power rating are generally more powerful and offer stronger assistance, while motors with a higher peak power can provide stronger assistance when starting and climbing.
The impact of nominal and peak power on electric assist operation, motor durability and range depends on a number of factors. Firstly, motors with a higher power rating tend to heat up more quickly, which can shorten their service life. In addition, motorizations with higher peak power can also cause additional stress on components, which can also reduce their service life.
As far as range is concerned, engines with a higher power rating can consume more energy, which can reduce battery life. Similarly, engines with higher maximum power can also consume more energy, which can also reduce battery life.
Comparison of pedal motor power ratings
The Bafang BBS01 is a 250-Watt, 36V motor that can deliver up to 80 Nm of torque and 750W of maximum power.
The Tongsheng TSDZ2b is a 250-Watt, 36V motor that can deliver up to 80 Nm of torque and max power of 675W.
In short, the two engines are virtually identical. equivalent in terms of rated power and peak power, with a slight advantage for the Bafang BBS01 (We’re not taking into account its big brother the BBS02 500W or 750W, nor the monster BBSHD 1000W, which are obviously more powerful. but prohibited on public roads in France and Europe) .
The main design differences
Speed, cadence and torque sensors are key elements in the operation of an electric bike motor. Each of these sensors has a different impact on battery life, performance and driving comfort.
The different types of sensors used in electric kit drives
The speed sensor measures the speed at which the bike is moving and sends this information to the motor to provide the necessary power. This sensor is used on most entry-level electric bikes and is considered the least accurate of the three. It does not take into account the effort made by the cyclist, and can therefore be less efficient in terms of battery life.
The cadence sensor measures the number of pedal revolutions per minute and sends this information to the motor to provide the necessary power. This sensor is more precise than the speed sensor and takes into account the effort made by the cyclist. However, it does not measure the force applied to the pedals, which can make the ride less smooth and enjoyable.
The torque sensor measures the force applied to the pedals and sends this information to the motor to provide the necessary power. This sensor is considered to be the most accurate of the three, ensuring a smooth, pleasant ride. It takes into account the effort made by the cyclist and enables more efficient use of the battery, which can increase range.
In terms of autonomy, the torque sensor is the most efficient because it allows more precise use of the battery. However, it is also the most expensive and is often used on high-end electric bikes.
Comparison of sensors and algorithms (FOC and not F**k)
The Bafang BBS01 is equipped with a cadence sensor, which measures the rider’s pedaling speed and adjusts power accordingly. The Bafang BBS01 is also equipped with a speed sensor, which monitors the bike’s speed and provides speed-dependent pedaling assistance.
In addition to the cadence sensor, the Tonsheng TSDZ2 is equipped with a torque sensor, which measures the rider’s pedaling force and adjusts power accordingly. The Tongsheng TSDZ2 is also equipped with a speed sensor, which monitors the bike’s speed and provides speed-dependent pedaling assistance.
FOC (Field Oriented Control) is an electric motor control system that enables greater efficiency and precision in power management. One of the key advantages of the FOC is that it can be used with a torque sensor, which measures the force applied to the crankset and automatically adjusts motor power accordingly. This makes for smoother, more natural driving, as well as better battery management. All in all, the FOC with torque sensor is an ideal choice for cyclists looking to maximize performance and comfort on their electric bikes.
Our Open Source Firmware algorithm (FOC) also eliminates the need for a brake sensor. In fact, these are compulsory on other engines, to prevent the engine powering up while the brakes are applied. Brake sensors are therefore a necessary step on Bafang BBS01 ( and BBS02 and BBSHD), which lengthens installation time and can sometimes cause problems (compatibility of brake levers with the braking system).
The TSDZ2 has a big advantage in this essential design point, bringing it even closer to top-of-the-range electric bike motors.
Weight and size of pedal motors
The size and weight of a central drive are key factors to consider when choosing a motor for your electric motor kit. A motor that’s too big or too heavy can affect the bike’s aesthetics and reduce ground clearance, which can be a problem when riding in town or on uneven terrain. So it’s important to choose a motor that suits the size and weight of your bike for an optimal riding experience.
The BBS01 is heavier and bulkier than the TSDZ2. The BBS01 weighs around 4.2 kg and measures 213 mm in length, 110 mm in width and 135 mm in height, while the TSDZ2 weighs just 3.6 kg and measures 214 mm in length, 110 mm in width and 100 mm in height.
In this respect, the TSDZ2 is lighter, and both powerplants are roughly the same size with their 42T chainrings. But without their trays, it’s the TSDZ2 that’s smaller and therefore more discreet.
Very different firmware
The TSDZ2 benefits from a large community of developers who have created hyper-customizable firmware to get the most out of the torque sensor, but also to better manage the battery.
The Bafang firmware, on the other hand, is notoriously simplistic in its parameterization, requiring a change of settings via a USB cable to be plugged into a PC to fine-tune the motor’s behavior.
The TSDZ2 with Open Source Firmware offers a wealth of additional information compared with the Bafang, such as battery voltage, motor current, human power (thanks to the torque sensor), average consumption in Wh and rotation speed (RPM)…
Here is a small example:
Reliability and reparability: aspects too often avoided in the electric bike industry
The reliability and repairability of electric bike motors are essential criteria to take into account when choosing a motor. In fact, a reliable, easily repairable motor guarantees trouble-free use and a longer service life for your electric motor kit. That’s why it’s important to find out about engine quality before making your choice.
Comparing the reliability of the two engines
The reliability and repairability of electric bike drives are essential criteria to consider when buying an electric bike. TSDZ2 and BBS01 are interesting options, as they are known for their robustness and ease of repair. Unlike drives from major brands such as Bosch or Shimano, spare parts for the TSDZ2 and BBS01 are easily accessible and can be replaced without the need for a specialist technician. This ease of repair enables users to extend the life of their electric bike and reduce long-term maintenance costs.
Both engines are equally reputable.
Service life and maintenance of pedal motors
Both engines have the advantage of a simple, robust design, ensuring long-term reliability. What’s more, maintenance is relatively easy and inexpensive, as most spare parts are readily available on the market.
Compared with drives from major brands such as Bosch or Shimano, the TSDZ2 and BBS01 offer greater flexibility in terms of maintenance and repair. Indeed, spare parts for Bosch motors are often hard to find and can be expensive, which can make maintenance more complicated and costly.
All in all, if you’re looking for a motorization system for your electric kit that offers great durability and easy maintenance, the TSDZ2 and BBS01 are interesting options to consider. They offer an economical and reliable alternative to the big-brand motorizations, while allowing you to enjoy your electric bike with complete peace of mind.
Both engines are very easy to maintain and last a very long time.
Conclusion: a real difference between the two pedal motors?
Summary of the major differences between the two engines
Choosing the right drivetrain for your electric bike is crucial for an optimal riding experience. Two interesting options are the TSDZ2 and BBS01. The former is smaller and more discreet, while the latter offers higher maximum power.
Both powertrains feature a complete engine management algorithm, for smoother driving and better battery management. However, thanks to its torque sensor, the TSDZ2 is on a par with high-end motorizations when it comes to the flexibility of electric assistance. The Bafang BBS01 (also the case for the other BBS02 and BBSHD motorizations) behaves a little more like an electric moped, with a range of pedaling speeds to be maintained to avoid jerking the assistance.
In terms of weight, the TSDZ2 is lighter and smaller than the BBS01, which can be an advantage for journeys around town or over rough terrain.
In terms of reliability and repairability, both engines are renowned for their robustness and ease of repair, with spare parts readily available and inexpensive. Compared with drives from major brands such as Bosch or Shimano, the TSDZ2 and BBS01 offer an economical and reliable alternative.
In short, the choice between these two engines will depend on individual preferences in terms of power, size and weight, but both options offer great durability and easy maintenance.
10 reasons why we chose the TSDZ2 over the BBS01 👍
- Better energy efficiency: The TSDZ2 is more efficient in terms of battery energy use, which means you can cover more distance on one battery charge.
- Lighter : The TSDZ2 is lighter than the BBS01, which can be an advantage for cyclists looking to reduce the weight of their electric bike.
- Cheaper: The TSDZ2 is generally less expensive than the BBS01, which can be an advantage for cyclists looking to save money.
- Easier to install : The TSDZ2 is easier to install than the BBS01 because it doesn’t require a brake sensor, which can be an advantage for cyclists who aren’t mechanical experts.
- More pleasant assistanceThe TSDZ2 offers 9 levels of assistance that can be set from the display thanks to Open Source Firmware while the BBS01 (also with up to 9 levels) requires more tedious parameter setting from a PC, but where the TSDZ2 offers a superior experience is thanks to torque-dependent assistance (a motor worthy of top-of-the-range bikes, we tell you 😉 ).
- More sensors: The TSDZ2 uses more sensors than the BBS01, which can improve the precision of electric assistance, especially the torque sensor as we’ve just seen.
- More features : The TSDZ2 offers more features than the BBS01, including the ability to monitor consumption precisely in Wh and display it on a graph via the Expert screen .
- More compatibility : The TSDZ2 is compatible with a wider range of bikes than the BBS01, including back-pedal brake bikes (we don’t yet offer this option at Syklo), which are very common on old Dutch bikes.
- More reliability: The TSDZ2 is said to be more reliable than the BBS01, which can be an advantage for cyclists looking for a durable, low-maintenance electric motor.
- Quieter: The TSDZ2 is known to be slightly quieter than the BBS01, an advantage for cyclists who prefer a quieter riding experience.
Find 10 more reasons to choose Syklo for your bike electrification kit here, and our Decathlon bike electrification review 🚴♀️👌 here.
