Do you know the electric bikes you are riding with style on your city roads and off-roading tracks are controlled by a single component named e bike controller? It is also called the brain of an e-bike because it works as a communication hub for the vehicle in translating signals to required actions.

Every electrically powered bicycle comes with a controller making the vehicle work systematically or preventing it from malfunctioning by identifying and solving errors. Smart manufacturers are using this component in their products. For example, we, Engwe, is using the best available 'electric bike brain' in every product be it Engwe LE20, C20 Pro, E26, and so on.

Let's see how electric bike controllers work, their functions, types and more to better know the compenent and e-bikes.

How Does an E-bike Controller Work?

When you increase the throttle speed while riding an electric bicycle, the brain of your vehicle gets active and sends the message to the electric motor and sensors connected with its complex circuit board to increase the output in order to meet the response required by the throttle boost.

When you want to turn on even the LCD display of your bike, the controller turns the display on by commanding the components attached to it, to release the power for turning the LCD on. All in all, it is connected to every major component of the ride like the electric motor, sensors, brake lever, throttle, LCD, etc.

It just makes sure that every component is in order and makes everything work in order on the basis of signals received from the rider.

an e bike controller and lcd display

In What Kinds of Electric Motors Controller Works?

Electric cycle controllers work with every kind of electric motor installed in the electric bike. It can easily work with different types of electric motors because of the cross-functionality feature.

The specifications may differ according to the motor type like a hub, mid-drive, crank drive, brushed or brushless, and so on for electric cycle controllers, but the functionality will remain the same be it 48v e bike controller attached with the mid-drive or 36v ebike controller attached with a hub motor. Its core function is to manage the ratio between power and torque according to the requirements programmed in it.

Is There Any Relationship Between E-bike Controllers and Sensors?

There is a very critical relationship between the e bike controller and the sensors installed in the bike. It is the main device that translates the signals of sensors to reduce or increase the motor power according to the rider's requirement to ensure a smooth riding experience. The e bike torque output and limiting the maximum speed to 25 Km/h set by the company is being done by these smart controllers.

Functions Electric Bike Controller Plays

The E bike controller plays several important functions from managing smooth rides to maintaining security standards solely using a complex circuit board placed in it. It performs different functions at one time by managing the power flow to ensure anti-theft.

Let's explore major functionalities separately for a better understanding of the importance of this component.

electric cycle controller

1. Interpret Messages

When you change the level of pedal assistance output while riding on your electric bike using the button, it automatically sends a message to the controller. Then, it interprets the command and gets the work done from the electric motor and battery to provide the desired assistance level to you.

2. Regulates Power Flow

Another major function this small component plays is the regulation of power flow between the electric motor and battery cells. It makes sure to give the required power output to the motor not less or more for frictionless rides.

3. Controls Power Delivery

It works in collaboration with sensors or other components of an e-bike to adjust the power delivery according to the terrain on which you are riding. For example, if you are riding on gravel roads, it will automatically give you the boost for a flawless riding experience.

4. Monitors System Functioning

The key functionality of the vehicle's brain is to keep monitoring the working mechanism of each component to do error detection and handling on time. It also gives you signals in case of any error detection like the battery going to be in deep discharge condition or malfunctioning of the electric motor.

5. Acts As A Security Layer

Ensuring the safety of the rider or the bike is the most critical function of the e bike controller because it works as a protective layer for both. For example, the immobilisers don't let your bike move an inch away without the right key you have. You can also consider buying the anti theft lock alarms for extra protection of your vehicle.

anti theft lock alarm

6. Battery Management

It also manages the battery by getting protective measures at work to avoid overcharging the cells by automatically cutting off the power input on charge completion. It also notifies the rider to recharge the battery timely to prevent the battery cells from going into a deep discharging state for an increased life span.

7. Manages Instant Braking

When you are riding the electric bike at a higher speed, it is understood that you need responsive brakes as well to avoid collision with other vehicles on the road. In modern e-bikes like Engwe LE20, riders get instantly responsive brakes just because of the smart management of the e bike controller.

engwe le20 electric cargo bike

Different Types of Electric Cycle Controllers

There are different types of electric cycle controllers available in the market, but the functionality remains the same. No matter if you have an 48v or 36v electric bicycle controller, it will convert the DC voltage of your bike's battery pack into alternating current to spin the electric motor for power generation.

It also makes sure to continuously adjust the voltage levels from 0v to the full capacity if the battery pack is installed in the vehicle in accordance with the riders' throttle signal, pedal sensors, etc.

Conclusion

While choosing an electric bike for your daily commute or weekend trips, make sure to consider the efficiency of the e bike controller installed in it for optimum riding experience. The more efficient the controller will be, the smoother riding experience you will get.

To get the best e-bike in Europe, make sure to visit the Engwes' official website and bring home the ride for life.

You may also want to know:

Discover Benefits of Electric Bike Hub Motor in Riding

Comprehensive Guide to E-Bike Laws in Europe

Convert Bikes To Electric: Complete Guide

Buy Electric Cargo Bike - A One in All Commuting Solution

Cargo E-Bikes Comparison Review: Engwe LE20 vs Decathlon R500 vs Tern GSD S10

oktober 15, 2024 — TangIcey