Torque Sensor vs. Cadence Sensor on Ebikes: What’s the Difference?

The important part of an e-bike is the sensor. The sensor reads the pedal input and tells the e-bike's speed controller to power the motor, which determines how much help the motor provides to achieve acceleration.

There are two main types of sensors used in e-bikes, cadence sensors and torque sensors. Cadence sensors work based on pedaling speed, while torque sensors work by measuring the force of pedaling on the pedals.

Different sensors can provide different riding experiences, so let's take a look at what each sensor does and why they are important to your e-bike.

Comparing Torque vs Cadence Sensors

1. Defining Torque and Cadence Sensors

• Torque Sensors:Torque sensors detect the rider's force on the pedals, cranks, or bottom bracket. This provides a highly responsive experience, particularly during uphill rides or low-speed situations where extra effort is needed. Unlike cadence sensors, torque sensors closely mimic the natural sensation of riding a traditional bike.
• Cadence Sensors: Cadence sensors activate motor assistance based on pedaling speed. Regardless of how hard you’re pedaling, they maintain a stable power output. When you reach a certain pedal speed, they signal the motor to provide a set level of assistance.

2.Key Differences Between Torque and Cadence Sensors

Advantages and Disadvantages of Torque Sensors

Advantages of Torque Sensors

1. Natural Riding Feel: Torque sensors make ebikes feel more like traditional bikes by adjusting motor assistance based on the rider's pedal force. This setup creates a seamless, natural ride where the power feels like an extension of your effort, especially noticeable when climbing hills or accelerating.
2. Efficient Power Usage: Torque sensors are designed to adjust power output based on the effort exerted, resulting in improved battery life on varied terrains. This efficiency can be particularly beneficial for riders who often encounter hills, as the motor provides more power when you need it, but conserves battery when cruising.
3. Dynamic Control: With torque sensors, the motor power is sensitive to any increase or decrease in pedal force. This feature offers riders better control over their speed and acceleration, making it ideal for those who prefer an active, involved riding experience.
4. Great for Physical Fitness: Since the assistance adjusts based on pedal pressure, torque-sensor ebikes encourage riders to put in some physical effort. This setup allows users to balance getting a workout with enjoying electric assistance, making it popular among fitness-focused riders.

Disadvantages of Torque Sensors

1. Higher Cost: Torque sensors require more advanced technology and are generally more expensive to produce and maintain. This means that ebikes with torque sensors are often priced higher, making them less accessible for budget-conscious buyers.
2. Increased Maintenance: Due to their sensitivity and complexity, torque sensors may need more frequent maintenance to keep them functioning accurately. Regular calibration is often required to ensure the sensor responds correctly, which might add to the upkeep costs over time.
3. Potentially Overly Sensitive for Casual Riders: For casual riders or beginners, the responsiveness of a torque sensor can feel too sensitive, especially in stop-and-go city riding. Riders may find that even small changes in pedal force lead to noticeable changes in power output, which may be more control than some want.

Advantages and Disadvantages of Cadence Sensors

Advantages of Cadence Sensors

1. Consistent and Predictable Power Output: Cadence sensors activate motor assistance based on pedaling speed, which means once you reach a certain pedal speed, the motor kicks in at a set level. This provides a smooth, consistent boost, making ebikes with cadence sensors easy to ride for those new to ebiking.
2. Cost-Effective: Cadence sensors are less complex than torque sensors, making them more affordable to manufacture. This lower cost translates to more budget-friendly ebike models, which is ideal for those looking to try ebiking without a significant investment.
3. Ideal for Casual and Commuter Riders: For riders focused on getting from point A to B, a cadence sensor’s stable output offers a relaxed, low-effort experience. It’s well-suited for commuting on flatter routes or leisurely rides where high control and dynamic assistance aren’t priorities.
4. Low Maintenance Needs: Since cadence sensors work based on pedaling motion rather than force, they typically don’t require the same level of calibration or upkeep as torque sensors. This makes them a convenient, low-maintenance choice for riders.

Disadvantages of Cadence Sensors

1. Less Responsive Ride Feel: Unlike torque sensors, cadence sensors don’t respond to how hard you’re pedaling, meaning the power output can feel less intuitive. Riders looking for an experience that mirrors traditional cycling may find the assistance to be less connected to their effort, especially when accelerating or climbing.
2. Potential for Faster Battery Drain: Since cadence sensors don’t adjust assistance based on effort, they can sometimes drain the battery faster, especially on hilly or variable terrain. With a cadence sensor, the motor provides the same level of assistance regardless of terrain or effort, which may lead to more frequent recharging.
3. Limited Performance on Steeper Terrains: For riders tackling hills or varied terrain, the fixed assistance level may lack the flexibility and power variation that a torque sensor provides. Riders may notice a lag in response during climbs, as the motor doesn’t increase power based on increased pedaling force.

Conclusion

When choosing an electric bike equipped with either a torque or cadence sensor, consider which sensor feels more comfortable for you, your budget, and where you’ll be riding. Some bikes even allow you to switch between sensors, so you can try both types to see which one suits you best.

If you’re after a natural, responsive riding experience, a torque sensor might be the better option. Rattan ebike offers three models with torque sensors: the Pinus, which is foldable, the Quercus, known for its high load capacity, and the Sequoia, which is ideal for off-road adventures.

However, if affordability and reliable commuting are your priorities, a cadence sensor could be an excellent choice. Rattan ebike’s LF/LM 750 PRO delivers incredible value, featuring a cadence sensor, multiple frame options, and foldability, all for under $900—making it a perfect commuter bike.