Otis Singleton
Tuning an electric bike is a complex process that can vary from one engine to another. It involves adjusting the electric assist system so that the engine runs normally, which can be done by deceiving the electronic controller with distorted data. This can be achieved through chip tuning or the use of tuning dongles, which increase the bike's maximum speed. However, it is important to note that tuning an electric bike can be illegal and dangerous, as it may damage the drive system and the bike itself. Additionally, if the tuning causes the bike to exceed the 25 km/h support limit, it is no longer considered an electric bicycle but a moped, and must comply with different requirements when travelling on public roads.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Tuning technique | Depends on the engine |
| Tuning kit | Necessary for each model of engine |
| Pedal motors | Easy to adapt |
| Hub systems | Difficult or impossible to tune |
| Tuning dongles | Increase maximum speed |
| Chip tuning | Increase maximum speed |
| Sensor for speed | Find a suitable chip to place between sensor and board |
What You'll Learn
Tuning kits
One of the risks associated with tuning kits is the potential damage they can cause to the drive system and the bike itself. Additionally, tuning an e-bike can result in losing the E-Bike status of your bike, which means you will no longer be operating an electric bicycle with equivalent status to a non-motorised bicycle. Instead, you will be riding a moped and must comply with the corresponding requirements when travelling on public roads.
Before using a tuning kit, it is important to check that your bike can be tuned (derestricted) and understand the benefits you may lose from a legal point of view. It is also worth noting that if your e-bike has an operating licence, it will generally expire after tuning. The installation and operation of a tuning product are at the user's own risk, and manufacturers and dealers accept no liability for any damage associated with the use of tuning tools. Therefore, it is crucial to talk to your insurance company beforehand to ensure your actions are protected.
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Pedal motors
Tuning an e-bike involves focusing on the motor rather than the bicycle itself. The first step is to identify the make and model of the motor. Tuning chips are available for motors produced by well-known e-bike manufacturers, such as Giant, Bafang, Brose, and Bosch. These chips are specific to the individual generations of motor types, so it's important to select the right chip for your motor.
One option for tuning an e-bike is to replace the motor, but this can be complex and, in some cases, technically impossible. A more feasible alternative is to update the motor software, which can increase performance. However, it's important to ensure that any upgrades comply with legal and technical regulations.
The FIT e-bike app provides an easy way to tune your e-bike. Under the "Expert Settings," you can adjust the assistance level and torque to suit your needs. For example, increasing the torque can provide more power for tackling steep trails.
Regular maintenance and tune-ups are essential for keeping your e-bike in optimal condition. This includes tasks such as chain and cassette cleanup, lubrication, cable adjusting, checking spoke tension, and pumping your tires correctly. Additionally, it's important to inspect the brake pads, wires, and PAS sensor regularly. After pedalling for a certain distance, a more comprehensive inspection of various parts, such as the paddles, rear carrier, display, and lights, is recommended.
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Tuning dongles
It is important to note that using a tuning dongle or any other type of tuning kit is done at the rider's own risk. Manufacturers and dealers accept no liability for any damage caused by the use of tuning tools, and it is the rider's responsibility to ensure they are complying with legal requirements. This includes checking that the bike can be tuned (derestricted) and understanding the legal benefits that may be lost (such as the ability to ride on bike paths or not requiring a helmet).
Before using a tuning dongle, it is essential to research the risks and ensure you are complying with any legal requirements. This includes checking with your insurance company to ensure your actions are protected. It is also important to always ride safely, wear protective clothing, and not put yourself or others in danger.
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Chip tuning
Tuning an electric bike involves adjusting the electric assist system so that the engine runs "normally". This can be done by “deceiving” the electronic controller by providing it with distorted data. There are different ways to do this, but one of the most common methods is chip tuning.
It is important to note that chip tuning is not legal. While it may seem like a simple modification, it changes the classification of the bike. By exceeding the 25 km/h support limit, the bike is no longer considered an electric bicycle but a moped. As such, it must comply with the requirements for mopeds when travelling on public roads.
Additionally, chip tuning and other types of manipulation can damage the drive system and the bike itself. It is also important to note that tuning techniques can vary from one engine to another. It is, therefore, essential to find out about your specific engine and choose the right tuning technique. Some engines, like most hub systems, are more difficult or even impossible to tune.
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Derestriction
Tuning an electric bike involves adjusting the electric assist system so that the engine runs "normally". This is done by “deceiving” the electronic controller by providing it with distorted data. Tuning can be done quickly on the sensor for the speed, where a suitable chip is placed between the sensor and the board. This will halve the measured speed, giving you longer motor support.
However, it is important to note that tuning can vary from one engine to another. It is essential to find out about your specific engine to choose the right tuning technique. Some engines, such as most hub systems, are more difficult or even impossible to tune. The systems that are easier to adapt are those with pedal motors.
Tuning an electric bike also comes with certain risks and legal implications. By increasing the maximum speed of the bike, you may be required to comply with different regulations when travelling on public roads. Additionally, tuning kits and other types of manipulation can potentially damage the drive system and the bike itself.
Before tuning your electric bike, it is crucial to check if your bike can be tuned (derestricted) and understand the benefits you may lose from a legal standpoint. Derestricting your bike will result in losing its E-Bike status, which may impact where you can ride and whether a helmet is required.
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Frequently asked questions
Tuning an e-bike involves adjusting the electric assist system so that the engine runs 'normally'.
You can tune your e-bike by 'deceiving' the electronic controller by providing it with distorted data.
Yes, with the help of 'tuning dongles' and chip tuning, it is possible to increase an e-bike's maximum speed. However, this is illegal in some places and may result in your e-bike being reclassified as a moped.
Yes, tuning your e-bike may result in damage to your equipment and yourself. It may also void your e-bike's operating licence and result in the loss of certain legal benefits, such as the ability to ride on bike paths and not requiring a helmet.
