P100

Gobao P100 is the motor that proves the budget gap has closed. Built by a Chinese e-controller specialist and fitted to direct-sell brands like Hepha, it claims 100 Nm and a 750 W maximum (740 W held to 70 rpm), with a published 87% peak efficiency. On the ebike-lab dyno it returned 512 W from only 100 W of rider input and almost 700 W at peak, ranking behind just the Shimano EP801 and Avinox M1 in the sub-100 W rider-input band. Velomotion placed its maximum output level with the Sachs RS and ahead of Bosch's newest unit, a remarkable result for a value-tier motor.

Its real signature is heat. Across 15-20 minutes of continuous full load it showed no measurable power loss and the magnesium housing stayed below 80 C, putting its thermal stability among the very best on test. Where it gives ground is cadence: output is strong from 50 rpm and the manufacturer holds peak to about 70 rpm, but it tails off above 100 rpm and drops sharply by 120 rpm, so spin-happy riders lose out. Velomotion also flagged a roughly half-second engagement delay, a loud rattle in the freewheel and the absence of a progressive assist mode.

Physically it is a 2.8 kg, 36 V magnesium unit with a standard Q-factor and a three-point frame mount, a footprint Velomotion put on par with Bosch and Shimano. The OEM app exposes three named modes - Eco, Tour and Turbo - each with adjustable maximum torque, support percentage and start assist, paired with a bright stem-side colour display (a 3.5" trekking display is also offered). Take it for what it is and it is excellent value: a Bosch-CX-class torque figure and bulletproof heat management at a lower price, best for riders who grind a steady 60-90 rpm rather than chase a high cadence.