Hi VFR
Yes I think the Motus will have a lower bottom ratio which will help on hills although I’ve not checked that out. My thought is that by having the gears between the motor and the wheel a crank drive can be run closer to its peak efficiency so using more power to drive you forward and less as wasted heat without compromising its performance in higher gears on the flat. Therefore for riding in hilly areas I expect a crank drive may have an advantage.
Despite owning one I’m not a diehard crank drive person but rather I feel it’s a case of 'swings and roundabouts', with good and bad points on both types.
Regards Frank
It's not as simple as that. 20" wheeled bikes with hub-motors can run very efficiently when climbing. For bikes with bigger wheels, there's more truth in what you're saying because most such bikes have hub-motors of around 260 rpm max speed, but a lower speed one would be fair competition, and a Xiongda 2-speed would blitz yours in a hill-climbing contest - maybe even tow you up when you're struggling.
Anyway, you can test it. Put the folder in bottom gear, then put yours in second gear and see if they go the same distance with one turn of the crank, then, if they do (approx), ride up in those gears to see who struggles the most. You might be right.
