brose
AcquiredOverview
Brose e-bike systems, a division of Brose SE launched in 2014, specialized in mid-drive e-bike motors known for smooth, natural power delivery derived from automotive technology.15 It produced over two million units by 2023, supplying brands like Specialized, Bulls, and Raleigh in Europe, North America, and Asia.15 The division was sold to Yamaha Motor eBike Systems GmbH in 2025 as part of Brose's strategic refocus on core automotive businesses.3
History
The e-bike division of Brose SE was established in 2014, building on the company's automotive expertise in electric motors, with its first product, the Brose C16162, launched that year.15 It reached one million drives in about seven years and the second million by 2023 at its Berlin facility.1 In March 2025, Brose SE announced the sale of the e-bike drives business to Yamaha Motor eBike Systems GmbH, subject to antitrust approval, to concentrate on automotive sectors.34
Product Lines
| Product Line | Positioning | Price Range |
|---|---|---|
| Drive S Mag | High-torque mid-drive for performance e-bikes | $800 - $1,500 |
| Drive T Mag | Lightweight mid-drive for premium touring bikes | $1,000 - $1,800 |
| Drive S | Versatile mid-drive for mid-range e-MTBs | $600 - $1,200 |
Manufacturing
Products were manufactured at Brose's facility in Berlin, Germany, leveraging industrial-scale production capabilities for over 100 million electric motors annually across Brose Group sites.18 Post-acquisition by Yamaha in 2025, operations continue in Berlin with around 120 employees handling development, production, and sales.34
Notable Products
- Brose Drive S Mag - High-performance mid-drive motor with up to 90 Nm torque and magnesium casing for lightweight e-MTBs.
- Brose Drive T Mag - Compact 250W mid-drive tuned for smooth, quiet assistance in premium e-bikes.
- Brose C16162 - First-generation motor launched in 2014, adapted from automotive power steering tech.
Reputation
Enthusiasts praise Brose motors for their silent operation, natural pedal feel, and automotive-grade reliability, often comparing them favorably to Bosch in premium segments.59 Professionals note strong integration with brands like Specialized but highlight higher service costs and limited aftermarket support as drawbacks.5 The 2025 sale to Yamaha raises questions on future innovation continuity, though it promises enhanced European development.34
Sources (9)
- https://www.brose.com/us-en/brose-americas/press/2023/brose-celebrates-two-million-ebike-drives.html
- https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brose_Fahrzeugteile
- https://www.brose.com/us-en/brose-americas/press/brose-sells-its-ebike-drives-business-to-yamaha.html
- https://www.ebike24.com/blog/ebike-brose-yamaha-sale
- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2o1G_btRb9g
- https://www.brose.com/de-en/
- https://www.brose.com/de-en/products/
- https://www.bike-eu.com/27878/brose-e-bike-components-manufacturing-on-an-industrial-scale
- https://www.messingschlager.com/en/brands/brose