Torque Sensor vs Cadence Sensor: What Your Riders Will Feel
Both sensor types appear across this catalogue, sometimes on the same model. What each measures, how the ride differs, and which models use which.
What the Sensors Measure
A cadence sensor detects that the pedals are turning (typically with a magnet ring — 12-magnet systems are specified on the B1 and M8) and calls for the assistance level the rider selected. A torque sensor measures how hard the rider is pushing and scales motor output to match, moment by moment. A speed sensor (often paired with torque, as on the E18-A, B11 and E18-B) governs cut-off behavior.
The Ride Difference
Torque sensing feels like stronger legs: push harder, get more, with no surge when you start and no run-on when you stop. It rewards good pedaling and is the specification premium riders pay for — which is why it appears on the catalogue's flagships (E18-A, E23), the carbon city bikes (EC2, EC3-NEW) and the better trail bikes (M10, M9). Cadence sensing feels like a switch: assistance arrives at the set level once the cranks turn. For city commuting, delivery and utility riding that simplicity is a feature — predictable, cheap and robust — and it is the standard across the city and folding lines. Several models publish dual sensing (torque + speed, or torque + cadence on the M3 and M10), combining proportional response with a cadence fallback.
Which Models Use Which
| Sensor Format | Example Models | Where It Sits |
|---|---|---|
| Torque (+ speed) | E18-A, B11, E23, M9, E18-B | Flagship fat and trail models with published torque + speed sensing |
| Torque | EC2, EC3-NEW | Carbon city bikes |
| Torque + cadence | M3 (500W hub), M10 (dual listed) | Hub trail bike and M600 trail build |
| Cadence | B1 and M8 (12-magnet), C18 cargo | Value fat, road and cargo models |
| 1:1 intelligent assist | B17, C9, M16/M16A class | The manufacturer's published 1:1 assist format on these models |
Specifying for Your Market
If your retail story is ride quality, anchor on torque-sensor models and say so in your range plan. If it is price or fleet utility, cadence models will not disappoint your riders. Either way, name the sensor expectation in the inquiry — sensor format is part of a model's build sheet and can differ between same-name variants.
Questions Buyers Ask
Can I order samples first?
Yes — under the factory's published sample policy, spare units can be provided for sampling; the sample fee and courier cost are paid by the buyer. Confirm availability for the models you want when you inquire.
How long does production take?
The published lead time is 30–60 days after the advance payment is received, depending on the product category and order quantity. Ask us to confirm the schedule for the exact models in your inquiry.
What certificates do the products carry?
Certificates available upon request. Send your target market in the inquiry and we will confirm which documentation can be provided for the models you are sourcing.
A two-minute test-ride protocol settles what pages of explanation cannot. Ride the same short loop on both sensor types: include one standing start, one gentle hill and one stop-start section. On the torque-sensor bike, notice that assistance follows your pressure — push and it answers, ease and it fades. On the cadence bike, notice the assistance arriving at its set level once the cranks turn and holding there. Neither sensation is wrong; riders reliably prefer one within a single loop. Retailers should run exactly this loop with undecided customers instead of debating the technology at the counter.