Maxon Air S Motor Sets New Standard for Lightweight E-Bike Power

Switzerland-based Maxon has launched a new mid-drive e-bike motor called Air S. It is making waves in the e-bike world for its impressive blend of minimalism and muscle. 

While it closely resembles the original Air model with its discreet, frame-integrated look, the Air S brings a significant upgrade in performance. 

The new motor nearly triples the torque output, now reaching 90 Nm, yet keeps the total system weight (including the 400 Wh battery) at just 3.8 kg.

Lightweight, Yet Trail-Ready

Unlike other small motors on the market, the Air S stands out as a true mid-drive powerhouse. It is only 100 grams heavier than its predecessor but delivers up to 620W of peak power, putting it on par with some of the most robust mid-drive motors used in electric mountain bikes. 

This leap in capability means that lightweight e-bikes can now offer serious trail performance without the usual weight penalty.

Transforming The Segment?

The impact of the Air S is already visible in models like the Thömus Lightrider E-Max and Instinctiv’s Ocelot, which weigh in at just 15 kg, making them much lighter than standard full-suspension e-MTBs. 

The big increase in torque, from 30 Nm to 90 Nm, allows these bikes to tackle steep climbs and rapid acceleration with ease, a feat previously out of reach for ultra-light e-bikes.

Maxon’s split-cylinder motor design keeps the system visually subtle, while the integrated battery maintains the bike’s clean lines and low weight. 

With a 400 Wh battery standard and a 600 Wh option in development, the Air S system ensures that many e-bikes equipped with it remain indistinguishable from traditional bikes at first glance.

Maxon’s Air S motor seems to be pushing lightweight e-bikes into a new category of performance. But it remains to be seen how reliable it will be in the long run.

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