The Varstrom ts-dz8 48V 750W mid drive conversion kit is an updated version of the popular TSDZ2 by using a higher powered TONG-SHENG TS-DZ8 motor with an additional 250 watts of peak power beyond what the original TSDZ2 produced. All too often, conversion kits in this price class utilize cadence sensors, resulting in jerky or slow response times once pedaling begins. The ts-dz8 has a unique feature that allows it to respond to how much force you apply to the pedals, rather than just detecting when they begin to spin. Therefore, it provides a much more natural “feel” when you’re using it. This is particularly important when navigating tight turns, technical inclines or other areas where smooth power delivery is crucial.
In addition, the bottom bracket of the kit accepts either a 68 mm or 73 mm shell size. With these two sizes accounting for the overwhelming majority of all bicycle frames available today, this provides broad compatibility. Furthermore, the maximum Torque generated by the ts-dz8 is 140 nm. This is a tremendous amount of Torque for any 750 w mid drive conversion kit. By comparison, most 750 w hub motor systems generate approximately 80 – 90 nm. Even the Bafang bbs02 produces 120 nm. Thus, the ts-dz8’s 140 nm generates plenty of Torque to make it an effective climbing tool, while minimizing the need to down-shift or pedal excessively to maintain momentum.
specifications
As a replacement for the TSDZ2, Varstrom has made several upgrades to the new ts-dz8. The motor for the ts-dz8 is rated at 750 w of continuous power and has a peak power of 1056 w. As previously stated, peak power is perhaps most critical during starts-up when transitioning from standing still to moving. However, peak power is also critical for climbing steep inclines.
The bottom bracket shell size accepted by the ts-dz8 is a standard 68 mm or 73 mm, providing an inner diameter of 1.34 inches. These dimensions will accommodate virtually every type of bike frame on the market. The motor unit of the kit includes a compact mid-drive design that installs in place of your existing bottom bracket. During Installation, the entire bottom bracket assembly and crank-set are replaced with the new motor unit.
Torque sensor
The headlining feature of the ts-dz8 is its Torque sensor. Unlike most cadence-sensing kits that simply detect whether the pedals are spinning (and therefore provide a constant level of power regardless of how fast the rider spins them), the ts-dz8 senses the actual force applied to the pedals. Therefore, if you push on the pedals harder, the motor will produce more power. Conversely, if you pedal lightly, the motor will produce less power. This results in a truly natural ride feel that closely mimics that of a traditional bicycle.
Many riders migrate away from cadence-sensing kits due to their binary nature. In many cases, such kits turn on and off abruptly depending upon whether or not the pedals are spinning. The Torque sensing provided by the ts-dz8 completely removes this issue. Therefore, riders will find that their bike feels extremely responsive and intuitive when using this kit. Such responsiveness will be particularly noticeable when cornering tightly, climbing technical terrain or navigating urban environments where smooth application of power is paramount.
maximum Torque
Varstrom claims that the maximum Torque output of the ts-dz8 is 140 nm. To put this number into perspective, most 750 w hub motor kits typically produce in excess of 80 – 90 nm. While the Bafang bbs02 has a maximum Torque of 120 nm, the ts-dz8’s 140 nm provides a considerable amount of additional Torque output, making it suitable for serious hill climbing without requiring you to shift gears or pedal aggressively to maintain your momentum.
Weight distribution
Mid-mount designs for electric bicycles offer an inherent advantage in terms of handling relative to hub motor-based conversions. Because the motor mounts below the bottom bracket, it reduces the center-of-gravity of the bike and positions it relatively close to centerline. This creates a far more stable and predictable steering environment than hub motors do, allowing you to still easily lift your front tire over curb stones or navigate uneven terrain without losing control.
Additionally, despite producing similar amounts of total system Weight as a TSDZ2 conversion kit (approximately 7 pounds), the central placement of the motor and battery will not overly affect your bike’s balance, preserving a consistent and predictable Riding position.
modes
Like most modern ebike conversion kits, the ts-dz8 comes equipped with multiple programmable Riding modes. Your ability to select among various levels of assist will ultimately depend on your chosen display and controller configurations. However, based on typical configurations, you’ll likely have access to an eco-mode designed for extended range operation. trail-mode for everyday Riding. and power-mode for tackling very steep inclines or carrying heavy loads. Those who are familiar with using TSDZ2 kits will appreciate the familiarity of selecting among these three modes, plus appreciate the additional responsiveness delivered via the Torque sensor.
ride quality & Performance
By far and above, the greatest contributor to your perception of how your bike performs is going to be the Torque sensor included within this kit. Rather than waiting for your cadence sensor to trigger a burst of power at each revolution of your pedals, you will feel power flow smoothly and proportionate to your input. This translates into fewer jarring stops at intersections and reduced likelihood of suddenly accelerating in situations where you would simply like to creep slowly. On flat ground, you will feel responsive power without feeling overwhelmed. Once you encounter a hill, however, your increased effort will prompt an increase in assistive power proportional to that effort, again thanks to the Torque sensor, enabling you to maintain a consistent cadence up grades that would otherwise require you to walk a regular bicycle.
Your ability to customize assistive power will also provide you flexibility in your Riding. Using an eco-mode, you can extend your range while keeping your assistive efforts very subtle. Alternatively, using high-power mode enables you to deliver as much assistive power as possible when you really need it, i.e., when encountering severe grades or when running behind schedule.
DIY builders who are comfortable with working with wrenches will likely receive the most out of this kit. Installing this kit is certainly involved, but most DIY builders will find it manageable with basic hand tools and basic knowledge of mechanics. Additionally, since this is a mid-drive conversion kit, and therefore preserves your existing wheels and drivetrain, you’ll save money over purchasing a complete hub motor wheel.
what other riders say about their experience with the Varstrom ts-dz8
Amazon review comments for the Varstrom ts-dz8 mid drive conversion kit overwhelmingly praise its Torque sensor as the distinguishing characteristic separating it from cadence-sensing kits used in prior conversion kits. Many commentors attest that its ability to sense and reactively deliver power based on pedal force input provides a distinctly natural-feeling pedal assist, something that none could achieve with their former cadence-sensing conversion kits.
Multiple review commentors praise the superior hill climbing capabilities provided by this kit. Commentors repeatedly state that steep incline climbing is significantly easier with this kit compared to their old hub motor conversion kits, citing the massive amount of Torque generated (140 nm) as the primary contributing factor.
Finally, commentors who have converted from hub motor kits emphasize that mid-mount design greatly improves stability and handling, particularly when navigating mountainous or rough terrain. They credit this improvement primarily to lower and centralized Weight distribution (the motor/battery combination). Commentors also indicate that while they weigh roughly the same as TSDZ2 kits, their presence has had almost negligible effects on their bike’s handling characteristics.
Who Is This Kit For
The TSDZ8 is an excellent choice for riders who want a natural pedaling feel with the torque sensor assist. It works well for commuters, recreational riders, and anyone who wants smooth power delivery.
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frequently asked questions
What is the difference between the TSDZ2 and TSDZ8?
The TSDZ8 is the newer generation with a higher power rating and improved torque sensor calibration. It also features a more robust internal gear reduction that handles higher continuous loads compared to the TSDZ2.
Is the TSDZ8 compatible with the TSDZ2 display?
Yes, the TSDZ8 uses the same display connector and protocol as the TSDZ2. If you already own a TSDZ2 display, it will work with the TSDZ8 without modifications.
Do I need a special battery for the TSDZ8?
No, the TSDZ8 accepts standard 36V, 48V, and 52V battery configurations. You can use your existing ebike battery as long as it falls within the supported voltage range.
How does the torque sensor compare to a cadence sensor?
The torque sensor measures how hard you are pedaling and adjusts motor output proportionally. This provides a much more natural riding experience compared to cadence sensors which simply detect that you are pedaling.
What tools do I need for installation?
You will need bottom bracket tools, crank puller, pedal wrench, and basic allen keys. The installation is similar to other mid-drive kits and takes approximately 2-4 hours.
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will the ts-dz8 fit my bike’s bottom bracket?
The kit will fit both standard sized 68 mm and 73 mm bottom brackets with an inside diameter of 1.34 inches, covering nearly all types of bike frames currently manufactured. If your bike has a large bottom bracket (such as pf30 or bb90), you will need to purchase adapters separately or potentially modify your bike extensively before installing this kit.
how does the Torque sensor differ from a cadence sensor?
Unlike most cadence-sensing kits which merely detect whether your pedals are rotating (thus delivering equal power regardless of how quickly they rotate), a Torque sensor determines exactly how much force you are applying to your pedals and adjusts engine output accordingly. Therefore if you press harder on your pedals, you’ll receive more power. Likewise if you pedal lightly, you’ll receive less power. Most riders who’ve tried both claim they prefer the feel of a Torque sensor when commuting/racing/etc.
what battery do i need with this kit?
To properly operate this kit, you’ll need a 48 v battery capable of supporting at least the maximum current draw capability of the motor. Based on manufacturer specifications, we suggest a minimum 13 ah / 25 amp battery for casual Riding and a minimum 20 ah / 40 amp battery for heavy-duty usage. Visit our [ebike battery comparison table ](/ebike-batteries/)to browse compatible 48V batteries.
is the Installation process difficult?
While difficult, most riders will find it manageable. To successfully install this kit you’ll need to remove your existing bottom bracket and crank-set, then replace them with the new bottom bracket supplied with the ts-d-z8 kit, then attach the motor housing, then run all electrical connections between the motor/controller/display units, finally, install any accompanying accessories (i.e. Mounting hardware, protective shrouds, etc.). Depending on your comfort-level with wrench work, plan on 2 – 4 hours for completion of this process, assuming this is your first time installing an ebike conversion kit. We recommend viewing online video tutorials to supplement your understanding of how-to accomplish this task.
how does the ts-dz8 compare to the Bafang bbs02?
The main difference between these two kits lies in how they determine when to activate their respective engines. The ts-dz8 utilizes a Torque sensor which reacts according to how much force you’re applying to your pedals. whereas, Bafang bbs02 employs a cadence sensor which only monitors rotation rate. Although neither kit provides perfect climbing Performance on extreme inclines, many riders agree that although they both share identical continuous ratings (750W), the ts-dz8 produces noticeably stronger bursts of power (up to 1056W) as needed vs. Bafang’s bbs02 which tops-out at slightly weaker bursts (120w) per rev.
If you want purely throttle-only driving experience, e.g.: twisting-the-throttle-on-a-motorcycle-style-experience, a hub motor kit employing a cadence sensor or possibly One featuring an integrated throttle would probably serve you better.
Similarly if you lack an interest in doing-it-yourself and/or cannot find local shops capable of performing custom mid-mount ebike conversions, building a completely assembled ebike might be more appealing.
Check our blog section for ebike conversion tips/guides/products reviewed