All the bike shops tell you that centre drive is a better system, and as long as you’re getting assistance it probably is. The problem is that one you’re over the assist speed a centre drive is a nightmare to ride, whereas a rear wheel drive, like my mate’s Cannondale, is just like a heavy road bike (c13kg, so about the same as a non-electric MTB). He keeps up on the flat and beats us all on hills I hate him.
Also consider if you ever want to get the bike into the boot of a car then weight really matters.
Also consider if you ever want to get the bike into the boot of a car then weight really matters.