When buying an electric bike or scooter, one of the first challenges will be understanding the technical details that significantly affect the riding experience. Among the key components that shape the quality of the ride are the sensors, especially the torque and speed sensors. While you may have already come across these terms, what do they actually mean and how do they affect your ride? To choose the one that best suits your needs, it is important to understand the differences between these sensors, as each of them brings its own specific advantages.
What is a torque sensor?
A torque sensor is a key component for electric bikes and scooters that provide a natural and intuitive riding experience. Its role is to measure the force with which you pedal, and the motor adjusts its assistance proportionally to the effort you put in. Simply put, the harder you pedal, the more power the motor will deliver to support your ride.
PHOTO EXAMPLE: MS Energy c300 electric bike is equipped with a torque sensor (torque sensor)
Why choose a torque sensor?
- Natural riding experience : If you like a feeling similar to riding a regular bike, the torque sensor is the right choice. The motor engages smoothly and proportionally to your power, meaning you’ll feel more in control of your ride, without sudden jumps in speed.
- Ideal for mountain riding : The torque sensor is a great choice if you plan to use the bike on more demanding terrain, such as mountain trails. On the climbs, it will help you overcome the more difficult parts of the ride, because the motor automatically adjusts the power to your pedaling, making it easier to ride uphill.
- Lower energy consumption : This sensor helps in the optimal distribution of energy because the motorized assistance is not constant, but adapts to the intensity of your pedaling. This means that you will be able to enjoy driving longer because the battery will last longer.
And what is a speed sensor on an electric bike?
On the other hand, the speed sensor is a simpler type of sensor that does not measure your pedaling power, but the speed at which you move . This sensor ensures that the engine starts working when you exceed a certain speed, no matter how hard you pedal. In practice, this means that the engine provides assistance as long as you drive at a certain speed, and when you slow down, the engine’s power decreases.
PHOTO EXAMPLE: MS Energy i20 electric bicycle is equipped with a speed sensor
Why choose a speed sensor?
- Good for flat roads and city conditions : The speed sensor is ideal for those who plan to use their electric bike for fast rides on city roads and flat surfaces. If you don’t look for too much interaction between your effort and the motor’s assistance, the speed sensor will make your ride easy and enjoyable.
- Simplicity and efficiency : For users who don’t want complicated systems and prefer a simple way to control motor assistance, a speed sensor is a good choice. All you have to do is maintain a constant speed and the motor will do the work for you.
- Lower price : Electric bicycles and scooters with speed sensors are usually more affordable because they use simpler systems, so this is a great option if you want to enjoy electric riding, but at a lower price.
Torque vs Speed sensor: Which one to choose?
If you are a keen cyclist or often ride on more demanding terrain , a torque sensor could be your best choice. It offers a much more natural riding feel, especially on hilly trails, and allows for greater control over the power delivered by the motor. By measuring your pedaling power more accurately, you will be able to better utilize the potential of your motor, and your ride will be smoother. That is why all bikes with central motors like our T100 electric bike have advanced
On the other hand, if you’re more focused on city riding and simply want your electric bike or scooter to provide speed and assistance without much thought , a speed sensor is a great choice. It provides simplicity and efficiency, without the need for too much effort, and the price is often more affordable.
Conclusion: Depending on your needs
There is no one universal answer to the question of which sensor is better – it all depends on your driving style, needs and preferences. A torque sensor will give you a more natural experience and greater control, while a speed sensor can be great for simpler driving in city conditions.
Whether you choose either of these two sensors, one thing is certain: electric bikes are becoming smarter and more customizable, allowing every rider to enjoy their ride in a way that best suits their needs. Understanding the difference between torque and speed sensors will help you choose the right one for you and take your riding experience to a whole new level!
