Electric bicycles combine traditional cycling with electric propulsion, offering an efficient and eco-friendly transportation solution. This guide breaks down their core components—motor, battery, controller, and sensors—and explains how they work together to enhance your ride.
Core Components of an E-Bike
Electric bicycles rely on four key elements: the motor, battery, controller, and sensors. The motor provides propulsion, typically rated between 250W to 750W, while the battery (often lithium-ion) stores energy. The controller acts as the "brain," regulating power flow based on input from torque or cadence sensors.
Motor Types and Placement
Hub motors (front/rear wheel) offer simplicity, while mid-drive motors (crank position) optimize weight distribution and efficiency. For example, a high-performance mid-drive excels in hilly terrain by leveraging the bike’s gears.
Battery Technology
Modern e-bikes use 36V–48V lithium-ion packs with 400–700Wh capacity. Factors like cell quality and thermal management impact longevity. A 500Wh battery typically delivers 40–80 km per charge, depending on assist level and terrain.
How Power Delivery Works
When you pedal, sensors detect motion or force and signal the controller to engage the motor. Torque sensors measure pedaling effort for proportional assistance, while cadence sensors trigger fixed power
