Pedal Assist Sensor Installation: A Guide For Electric Bikes

Installing a pedal assist sensor on your electric bike can transform your riding experience, making cycling more enjoyable and less exhausting. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to successfully install a pedal assist sensor and get your bike ready for action. We will cover everything from preparing your bike and removing the necessary parts to attaching the sensor and testing the system. By following these steps, you can ensure that your pedal assist sensor is properly installed and functioning smoothly, allowing you to enhance your electric bike's performance and make the most of your riding experience.

How to test the system

To test the system, first ensure that your bike's battery is charged and properly connected. If the battery is low or not connected correctly, the pedal assist may not work properly. Check the battery voltage and connections to ensure everything is in order.

Next, examine the wiring. Look for loose or damaged connections in the wiring. Check the cable connections between the sensor and the motor. If you find any loose or damaged connections, tighten or replace them as necessary.

Then, inspect the sensors. The pedal assist sensor is responsible for detecting the movement of the pedals and sending a signal to the motor to provide assistance. Check the alignment and cleanliness of the sensor and magnet. If the sensor is misaligned or dirty, it may not work properly. Clean the sensor and magnet with a damp cloth to remove dirt or debris that might interfere with their functionality. Ensure the magnet wheel is close to the sensor and that the sensor's light is on.

If the motor is making strange noises or feels hot to the touch, it may be damaged and need to be replaced. You can also test the motor by disconnecting the front and rear brake cables, then lifting the bike off the ground and rotating the crank clockwise. If the motor moves normally, the problem may be with the pedal assist sensor.

Removing the battery

To start, ensure your electric bike is stable and switched off. Then, remove the battery. Position your bike so that you have easy access to the bottom bracket and pedals.

With the battery removed, you can now access the bottom bracket and pedals to install the pedal assist sensor. This will involve detaching the crank arm and attaching the sensor to the bike's frame near the bottom bracket.

Once the sensor is installed, you can reinstall the battery and turn on your e-bike to test the system. Spin the pedals with your hand to verify that the sensor is correctly detecting the pedal movement and that the electric assist is engaging.

If your e-bike has settings for pedal assist, check that they are configured correctly. You may need to adjust the sensitivity or assist levels to match your riding preferences.

Positioning the bike

Once you have removed the pedal, you can detach the crank arm. This step may require a crank puller, depending on your bike model. The crank arm should be aligned with the spindle, ensuring it sits at a 180-degree angle from the opposite crank arm for balanced pedalling.

Now you can attach the pedal assist sensor to the bike's frame near the bottom bracket. Once the magnetic disc and sensor are correctly installed, you can reinstall the crank arm. Securely tighten the crank arm bolt using an Allen wrench, ensuring there is no looseness or play in the crank arm. This is crucial to the overall performance of your electric bike's pedal assist system and could cause damage or create unsafe riding conditions if not done properly.

Detaching the crank arm

First, ensure your bike is stable and switched off. Remove the battery to prevent any electrical hazards while you work. Position your bike so that you have easy access to the bottom bracket and pedals. This will give you the necessary space and visibility to detach the crank arm effectively.

Next, you'll need to remove the pedal nearest to the sensor's intended location. This step will require the use of appropriate tools, such as an Allen wrench or a crank puller, depending on your bike's design. Carefully follow the manufacturer's instructions or seek guidance from a professional if you're unsure about the specific tools or techniques required for your bike model.

Once the pedal is removed, you can focus on detaching the crank arm. If your bike uses a crank puller, align the tool with the crank arm and apply gentle force to remove it. Ensure you have a firm grip on the crank arm and the puller to avoid any damage or injury. If your bike doesn't require a crank puller, simply use the appropriate tool to loosen and remove the crank arm bolt.

After detaching the crank arm, set it aside safely. Remember to keep all your removed components organised and easily accessible for when you need to reinstall them. With the crank arm detached, you can now proceed to attach the pedal assist sensor to the bike's frame near the bottom bracket.

Finally, before reassembling your bike, take the opportunity to inspect the crank arm for any signs of wear or damage. Ensure that the crank arm is in good condition and securely attached to the spindle during reinstallation. By following these steps carefully, you'll be able to successfully detach the crank arm and continue with the installation of your pedal assist sensor.

Reinstalling the crank arm

Firstly, ensure that the magnetic disc and sensor are correctly installed. This is essential for the proper functioning of the pedal assist system. Once that's done, you can move on to reinstalling the crank arm.

To begin, align the crank arm with the spindle. It's important to ensure that the crank arm sits at a 180-degree angle from the opposite crank arm. This will ensure balanced pedalling. Use an Allen wrench to securely tighten the crank arm bolt. Make sure there's no looseness or play in the crank arm, as this could lead to damage or unsafe riding conditions.

Before you hit the road, it's important to test the system. Reinstall the battery, turn on your e-bike, and spin the pedals with your hand. Verify that the sensor is correctly detecting the pedal movement and that the electric assist is engaging. Check the settings on your e-bike's display and adjust the sensitivity or assist levels to match your riding preferences.

Finally, conduct a careful test ride in a secure environment. Pay close attention to the new pedal assist function and confirm that it reacts as expected during pedalling. If everything operates smoothly, you're good to go! Remember, proper alignment and secure mounting of the sensor are key to a seamless riding experience with your electric bike's pedal assist system.

Frequently asked questions