Motor/Kit recommendations

[Afrikaaner]

This will be my first build. I think I want a 1-1.5KW motor running at 48v, geared rear wheel compatible with my existing 7 gear cassette. 700cx32mm wheel to match the existing setup. The goal would be about 25-30 mile range, and budget of around 1500 or less ideally, but I have some wiggle room. Top speed isn’t too important, probably something in the mid 20s is sufficient. Quiet operation would be valued.

So any suggestions? I had originally been looking at the Bafang hub motor, but I think I want something a little beefier to zip up hills. I love the small size of the Bafang, and I briefly thought about a dual motor setup, but that seems cost prohibitive.

I’m not strictly against a front wheel drive option, I just like the aesthetics of rear wheel better.

 

[Tommm]

You might want to look at the mxus hub discussed here. Kit complete with battery for $580, you need torque arms and a freewheel threaded cassette though. Also it isn't quiet at all, medium mid drive level noise.
https://endless-sphere.com/forums/viewtopic.php?f=3&t=103169&start=25

 

[dogman dan]

Quietest will be a direct drive motor. The smaller 500w rated ones handle 1500w with ease, and the cheaper 48v 1000w kits with those motors tend to come with 30 amps controllers, which get you into 1500w peak at start up. At max speed around 30 mph, they draw 1000w. To clarify, the motor is rated 500w, not the kit.

A 48v 15 ah battery will get you 20 miles range, at 25 mph. Big hills or stiff wind will shorten your range, but you can get it back to 20 miles by slowing to 20 mph. 18 mph is a real good speed for maximizing range when you need it.

 

[AHicks]

Check out the MAC motors. If speed isn't important and you can find one (they seem to be in short supply at the moment) the 12t model is a well known high quality "torque monster". Rated at 1000w+ and 100nm. The MAC is also offered in 6, 8, and 10t versions. The number of turns determins torque vs. speed. Lower numbers are faster, with less torque. My 12t is nearly silent. I ride with my wife most of the time, and she's on a bike with a 1500w direct drive. Not much difference in the noise levels between the 2 bikes, even while accelerating....