Raymon with ZF Centrix Motor: A Game-Changer for E-MTBs?
Reading time: 3 minutes
If you’ve been following the latest in e-MTB tech, you know that motor performance can make or break the ride. All while more and more motor companies are entering the market. Recently, we got our hands on a bike equipped with the new ZF CentriX motor, and the initial impressions are honestly impressive. Maybe it is not all about raw power—this motor is all about refined control, seamless traction, and a ride feel that’s more like a natural extension of your pedaling than a bolted-on power boost.
Key facts
Compact design
90 Nm torque (Update to 105 Nm to follow)
600 W peak power (Update to 750 W to follow)
Optimized software settings for challenging riding conditions
2.5 kg
756 Wh battery
The Ride: Smooth, Responsive, and Surprisingly Capable
Right from the first pedal stroke, the ZF motor stands out with its unique sound and ultra-smooth power delivery. Unlike some motors that rely heavily on cadence sensing, the ZF feels deeply connected to the rider’s input, much like Bosch’s latest systems.
Modes: With Eco, Active, Sport, and Boost, there’s a setting for every need.
Sport mode emerged as the sweet spot—plenty of power without feeling overwhelming or hectic.
Boost mode? Frankly: Almost too powerful for technical climbs, proving for me that 90 Nm of torque is more than enough when delivered this efficiently.
Traction Like Never Before
What really sets the ZF apart is its traction control. On steep, rocky climbs where other motors might spin out or feel jerky, this system modulates power intelligently, keeping the rear wheel hooked up.
"This motor knows what the rear wheel is doing. It’s not just dumping power—it’s adjusting in real-time for maximum grip." – Alex Boyce
Compared to high-torque rivals like the DJI or Bosch Performance Line CX, the ZF feels more refined, especially on loose or technical terrain.
A dedicated preset will help you ride on specific conditions.
Heat Management & Real-World Performance
I have been testing in the current 35°C italian heat, the motor did quite warm—but never to the point of cutting power. That’s a good sign for riders tackling long, sustained climbs.
The Verdict: Do You Really Need More Power?
The e-bike world has been obsessed with big numbers—120 Nm, 1000W peaks—but the ZF motor proves that control matters more than brute force.
90 Nm feels ample when delivered this smoothly.
Boost mode is almost overkill—Sport provides more than enough for most trails.
Feels like a natural bike, not a motor strapped to a frame.
Final Thoughts: A Strong Contender in the E-MTB Motor Wars?
It is time to understand that on e-MTB it is not all about higher numbers to have the better ride experience. The debate between the ZIV and LEVA EU is heated currently on what to regulate. You may want to listen to the podcast with Claus Fleischer about this.
We want to take an objective view from the customer side and are glad to see that companies can improve the ride experience via a more controlled power output. This means the riding experience is influenced rather via software than brute force. So if you’re looking for a new e-MTB, the ZF motor should be on your radar. It’s compact, efficient, and offers some of the best traction control we’ve tested. While it may not have the highest torque numbers, it delivers power in a way that enhances the ride rather than overpowering it.
Would we choose it over a Bosch, Shimano, or DJI system? For technical trail riding, absolutely. It’s proof that smart engineering beats raw power every time.
Video review ZF Centrix
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Author – Alex Boyce
Alex Boyce
Height: 183 cm
Weight: 90 kg
Riding style: It is not all about the fastest time or the racing line to enjoy a bike ride. A bike is a tool to enjoy your time out on the trails. Not necessarily with a motor, but it will help.
Motivation: Alex's background on technology pushes him into the details of everything. How are e-bike motors built? How is software affecting a ride experience? What are current industry norms? All these are his passions.