Torque Sensor vs. Cadence Sensor: Which eBike Assist is Best for You?

Finally! A way to make getting around fun! Eco-friendly commutes. Exciting weekend off-road explorations. And a far more enjoyable way to pick up some groceries. Yes… ebikes with pedal assist are all the rage!

Which pedal assist sensor your ebike uses makes a big difference. Why? Because they control the level of motor assistance you get when you ride.

Let’s break down the workings of torque and cadence sensors and the pros and cons so you know which is best for you.

What is a Torque Sensor on an eBike?

A torque sensor measures how hard you’re pedalling, not just if you’re pedalling. A torque sensor senses the force you apply to the pedals. Then, it adjusts the motor power for a natural, dynamic riding experience.

How Does a Torque Sensor Work?

A torque sensor detects the pressure on the pedals by measuring the force on the crankshaft or bottom bracket. Then, it sends the data to the ebike’s controller.

The controller delivers assistance from the motor. If you pedal lightly, the motor helps less. When you push harder, the motor gives you more power to navigate hills or cover long distances. The harder you pedal, the more help you get to boost your effort when you need it most.

Advantages of a Torque Sensor

• More Control: You have more control over speed and how much assistance you get for a more personalized riding experience.
• Better on Hills: Torque sensors shine going uphill or on uneven paths. The power boosts in proportion to how hard you work, so climbing hills is less strenuous.
• Smooth Ride: The torque sensor measures how hard you’re pedalling. It then adjusts the motor output to match, so riders say the boost feels more natural. The precise feedback from the torque sensor is highly responsive, with a fluid feel, much like riding a conventional bike.
• Better Workout: The torque sensor requires you to work harder for more motor assistance. So, riders adopt a more active pedalling style for a better workout.

Disadvantages of a Torque Sensor

• Higher Cost: The complex technology of a torque sensor is more expensive than simpler cadence sensors.
• More Effort: Torque sensors give you a better workout by demanding more physical effort before giving you a boost. This might be tiring if you prefer a more laid-back ride.
• Sensitive to Input: Even small changes in pedalling are picked up by a torque sensor, which varies the power output. You might find it an adjustment if you’re used to steady pedal assistance from a cadence sensor.

What is a Cadence Sensor on an eBike?

A cadence sensor measures the speed you pedal and boosts motor assistance based on that. It doesn’t measure how hard you’re pedalling, just how fast the pedals move.

How Does a Cadence Sensor Work?

Cadence sensors are simpler. They detect rotation of the pedals using magnets or sensors on the crank. As you pedal, the cadence sensor tells the motor to give you the preset amount of assistance.

As you pedal faster, the assistance becomes more continuous. But the boost is not based on how hard you’re working. As long as you keep pedalling, the motor keeps the same boost.

Advantages of a Cadence Sensor

• Affordable: Cadence sensors are more budget-friendly.
• No Getting Used To: Consistent assistance is easier to use. You pedal gently and still get good motor support.
• Less Effort: The steady boost is ideal for a relaxed, low-effort experience.
• Simplicity: Straightforward and easy to use. Once you start off pedalling, you get a boost of motor assistance without worrying about how hard you pedal.

Disadvantages of a Cadence Sensor

• Less Natural Ride: The assistance isn’t tied to how hard you pedal, so the transition between motor and human power might be abrupt or jerk, especially starting and stopping.
• Less Control: Less control can make it harder to maintain consistent speeds.
• Okay on Hills: Cadence sensors are only okay on hills because they don’t adjust the power based on how hard you pedal.

Which Sensor Offers Better Battery Efficiency?

Yes, the sensor makes a difference in how fast your ebike battery drains. So, it’s important to consider your choice of cadence sensor vs torque sensor.

Torque sensors are better for battery efficiency than cadence sensors. That’s because the motor power only activates to match your pedalling efforts. Cadence sensors drain the battery more quickly with constant assistance.

Factors to Consider When Choosing the Right Sensor for Your E-bike

To choose a torque sensor or a cadence sensor, consider:

• Your Riding Style: Are you a more active and engaged rider? The natural, proportional motor assistance of a torque sensor is ideal. For a relaxed, steady assist with less pedalling, go for a cadence sensor.
• Where You Ride: If your commute is uphill both ways, a torque sensor is better. On flat routes, a cadence sensor will work just fine.
• Budget: Money matters. Torque sensors are more expensive. Choose a cadence sensor for a more affordable option.
• Workouts: Do you want to ride your ebike to get more exercise? A torque sensor encourages you to pedal harder. If you want a no-sweat commute, a cadence sensor makes sense.

Final Thoughts

For most ebike riders, it’s an easy choice between torque and cadence sensors. Go for a torque sensor if you want a natural, responsive, challenging ride. If you prefer consistent assistance and less effort on leisurely rides, go for a cadence sensor.

Consider your riding style, where you ride, and your budget to finalize which ebike sensor is your best fit.