An electric system consists of a number of main components:

• The battery: integrated into the luggage carrier or or integrated with the frame (depending on the model);
• The motor: built into the frame at the bottom bracket;
• The display: fitted on the handlebar;
• Sensors: Every electric system has a speed sensor, which measures how fast the bike is moving. In addition, pedaling input is determined by a rotation sensor or a pedal force sensor depending on the model. The Impulse system has a fourth sensor, namely the shift sensor. This sensor cuts out assistance for a quarter of a second while you are shifting, which enables you to keep on pedaling while shifting.

Together the sensors determine the amount of assistance provided by the motor based on your assistance level setting and the pedal force you are applying. You set the assistance level yourself using the handlebar grip control.

How does an electric bike work?

Range is dependent on various factors. Thus, the speed at which you ride the bike will have a major impact. See below for the average range at various speeds. In addition to speed, there are other external factors that affect the range. The range advertised in our brochures and manuals is based on averages. Thus, it is assumed that the average rider weighs 70 kg or 155lbs, cycles on relatively flat terrain, and shifts gears actively. Below you will find that leading factors that affect range:

• Weight: The total weight of the bike, the rider, and load will affect the range.
• Gear-shifting behaviour: Actively shifting gears increases the range. Just like a car, when setting off from a standstill, you should start in the lowest gear. Never start in the highest gear; this will adversely affect your range.
• Type of sensor: eBikes are fitted with a pedal force sensor or a rotation sensor. A pedal force sensor amplifies your own effort, whereas a rotation sensor only provides assistance while pedaling. In other words, the rider will always get maximum assistance with a rotation sensor, which results in less range.
• Type of road surface: The surface over which you are cycling has a substantial effect on your range. Thus, cycling along an unpaved road surface will reduce your range.
• The weather: Cycling with a tailwind or into a headwind will increase or reduce your range. Temperature will also affect it. Thus, at extremely low temperatures (< 32 degrees Fahrenheit) the battery is able to store less energy, which reduces the distance you can ride. 
• Hilly terrain: You can cycle further on flat terrain than on hills. The magnitude of the impact will also depend on the type of electric system. Thus, a mid-mounted motor is better suited to hills due to the motor’s thermal stability.
• Tyre pressure: Under Inflated tires increase rolling resistance, which draws more power from the motor.

Considering that you will probably experience a number of the abovementioned factors, here are a few examples of the magnitude of their impact:

• For example, a rider weighing 210 lbs (95 kg) cycling on good pavement in hilly terrain may find the battery range reduced by up to 20% compared to what is shown for the average range.
• If you are cycling into a strong headwind, it can make a difference of up to approximately 40%.
• If you are cycling along an unpaved road, your range will be reduced by approximately 30% as compared to cycling on pavement.