Smart Ebike

Ecosystem

December 13, 2025

Smart Ebike Ecosystem

Now that Smarty Bikes has explored over thirty different e-bike models, I thought it would be useful to create a precise inventory of the entire smart e-bike ecosystem featured here—from data collection all the way to cloud connectivity.

It’s not exactly a simple task. Brands tend to build their own proprietary ecosystems and use “in-house” names for standard components. They also customize functionalities to create a riding experience that stands out from the competition.

The embedded technology in smart e-bikes draws from the automotive sector, motorcycles, and smartphones, blending perfectly with the " Celestial Mechanics " of traditional bicycles.

To really understand the technology powering these machines, it is essential to follow the flow of information through five key stages: Perception, Processing, Interaction, Connection, and Security.

Smart Ebike Ecosystem in 5 Steps

The Core Role of Sensors in eBike Functionality

Sensors are the essential foundation of modern electric bicycles, delivering an unbelievably smooth and intuitive riding experience. They form the critical interface between the rider's intentions and the motor's power, constantly collecting data to radically optimize performance, enhance safety, and drive efficiency. Without these sophisticated instruments, today's eBikes would simply lack the essential automation and seamless control that defines their groundbreaking operation. This introductory exploration will delve into the specific mechanisms and types of sensors that govern these critical functions.

Key functions of integrated sensors:

Power and Range Optimization: By guaranteeing assistance is only deployed when truly necessary, sensors actively conserve battery power. Furthermore, they optimize the motor's power output instantly based on how the rider is performing and the terrain, significantly maximizing range efficiency.
Enhanced Safety: With real-time inputs on parameters like speed, cadence, and proximity, sensors allow eBike systems to instantly optimize power delivery, maintain superior stability, and engage vital safety protocols, driving down the likelihood of accidents.
Personalization and Control: Through sensors, the bike's entire range of functions can be precisely controlled and tailored.

1- Perception : The Smart Ebike's "Senses"

The Perception is the collection of raw data from the rider's and the ebike's environment. These essential information flows are emitted by sensors, ranging from simple to the most sophisticated designs. This myriad of sensors acts as the bike's senses, constantly scrutinizing the rider, the machine, and its environment.

Torque Sensor

The Torque Sensor is a cornerstone, one of the most critical components of Pedal Assist Systems (PAS). It measures the force applied to the pedals in real time. The fluidity of the assistance depends on its precision: the harder you push, the more the motor adapts its power naturally and intuitively.

Thanks to the torque sensor, assistance is natural and responsive: the motor adjusts its power proportionally to the rider's effort, offering a more natural, reactive, and intuitive riding experience.
By delivering power only when necessary, torque sensors optimize battery consumption, thereby extending its range.

The torque sensor is mounted either on the bottom bracket shell or, less commonly, on the frame dropout at the rear axle...

Cadence Sensor

Generally equipped on more basic electric bikes, it monitors the speed of pedal rotation to adjust assistance: if the rider pedals slowly, the motor provides more assistance; if they pedal faster, the motor may reduce or stop its assistance.

This ensures optimal efficiency and comfort throughout the ride. Uphill, an increased cadence can signal the sensor to increase assistance, making the climb more manageable.

The Cadence Sensor is located at the pedal crank (or simply: located near the cranks/pedals).

Speed Sensor

The Speed Sensor has several key functions, such as tracking the bike's speed to comply with legal speed limits, maintaining constant speeds (which allows the battery to maintain a steady discharge and thus increases range), and modulating motor assistance.

It can also support regenerative braking systems, converting the kinetic energy from braking into electricity to recharge the battery, thus improving overall efficiency.

The Speed Sensor is typically located on the frame (specifically the chainstay), where it reads the position of a magnet attached to a spoke or, in modern configurations, integrated into the brake disc housing.

Brake Sensor

The Brake Sensor is an essential safety component that immediately sends a signal to cut power to the motor when the brakes are engaged.

This prevents the motor from continuing to assist while the rider attempts to stop, significantly reducing the risk of accidents.

It can also be paired with the Speed Sensor to enable regenerative braking, slowing the bike while returning energy to the battery.

The Brake Sensor is positioned near the brake lever or integrated directly into the caliper assembly.

Throttle Position Sensor

The Throttle Position Sensor detects the position of the throttle grip or lever, translating the rider's movement into a corresponding motor power output.

It offers direct control over acceleration and assistance levels, providing instant responsiveness and flexibility in various riding scenarios. For example, it allows for smooth acceleration from a stop in urban traffic. Its manual control can be customized within the assistance levels.

The Throttle Position Sensor is integrated into the handlebar grip. It generally takes the form of a rotating half-twist grip or a thumb throttle.

Motion Sensors: Gyroscope & Accelerometer

These two types of sensors often work together to provide comprehensive data on the bike's movement and orientation. Their main function is to measure acceleration and inclination.

They enable advanced features like electronic stability control, which automatically adjusts assistance levels to prevent skidding or loss of control on difficult terrain.

The gyroscope measures the bike's orientation, tilt, and lean angles relative to gravity, while the accelerometer detects changes in acceleration along different axes.

They detect tilt and sudden movements. They are at the heart of advanced safety functions like fall detection (which can alert an emergency contact) and allow refinement of riding data, such as elevation change calculation. When combined with the motor, they enable truly intelligent assistance, such as providing more power uphill by adjusting assistance.

Application:

SOS Accident Detection: It uses the gyroscope/accelerometer (Perception) and the 4G chip (Connection) to alert emergency services. It is designed to detect accidents and potentially send alerts.

Motion Sensors (Gyroscope and Accelerometer) are often integrated into the HMI Display module. However, for advanced safety and tracking functions, they may be coupled with a hidden tracking module.

Localization Sensor: GPS

Versatile on a smart ebike, it ensures geolocation and fulfills anti-theft functions. It provides precise location and time information, enables turn-by-turn navigation on the integrated screen, tracks and records routes, and is an essential component of anti-theft tracking features. It ensures effortless route planning.

Its most crucial role is that of a powerful anti-theft tool, allowing the bike to be located at any time. The integrated GPS module allows real-time tracking of the bike's position on a map via a smartphone application, significantly increasing the chances of recovery in case of theft. It is associated with Geofencing (Alert Zone) functionalities, which establish a virtual boundary via GPS. If the bike leaves or enters this predefined zone, an instant alert is sent to the owner, acting as a powerful deterrent and recovery tool.

The GPS location has a functional duality:

HMI Display: The GPS may be integrated into the HMI display to provide real-time navigation and trip recording functions.
Hidden Security Module: In advanced systems, the anti-theft tracking function is provided by a dedicated GPS module, concealed within the frame, to ensure geolocation even if the screen is removed or damaged.

BMS (Battery Management System)

The BMS is the battery's "guardian." It ensures safety by preventing overheating, overcharging, and undercharging, which can lead to dangerous situations like battery fires. It continuously monitors the status of each cell and key metrics such as voltage, current, and temperature to ensure safety, optimize performance, and extend battery life.

The BMS (Battery Management System) is integrated into the battery.

Temperature Sensors

Temperature sensors specifically monitor temperature variations in key components (battery, motor), maintaining them within an optimal temperature range.

The placement of these sensors at hot spots is a functional safety imperative. The data transmitted to the ECU via the CAN bus enables the implementation of thermal regulation (thermal throttling). If the battery or motor temperature exceeds a critical threshold, the ECU automatically reduces assistance to protect the integrity of the components, a mechanism essential for guaranteeing the longevity of the system.

Temperature Sensors have multiple locations, directly correlated with the main heat generators of the e-bike system:

In the Battery/BMS: Integrated at the battery cell level, they actively monitor the internal temperature to prevent degradation or thermal risks.
In the Motor/ECU: They are also located in the motor housing (monitoring the windings) or the ECU (Electronic Control Unit).

Tire Pressure Sensors

Directly integrated into the valve or tire, they monitor tire pressure in real-time. This data is essential for safety, comfort, and optimizing range. Alerts the rider in case of low pressure.

Tire Pressure Monitoring System (TPMS) sensors are integrated into the valve stem of the e-bike tire. This placement is the only solution for obtaining a direct, real-time measurement of tire pressure and temperature. These sensors, often designed by specialists such as Schrader, generally communicate data via Bluetooth to the bike's HMI display.

Proximity Sensors

Proximity sensors detect nearby objects or vehicles.

V2X Communication: In more advanced systems, proximity sensors can communicate with surrounding vehicles or infrastructure via V2X (Vehicle-to-Everything) protocols, enabling collaborative collision avoidance strategies.

Proximity Sensors are integrated into the headlight assembly to meet the need for an unobstructed forward view. They are often located on the handlebars or in the headlight housing, similar to automotive sensors. These systems provide audible, visual, or haptic warnings, or can even trigger automatic braking to prevent accidents.

Rear Radar

The rear radar (millimeter-wave radar) specifically detects vehicles approaching from the rear.

Collision Prevention and Safety: They provide timely warnings or activate safety mechanisms (such as automatic braking or speed reduction) to avoid collisions.

Situational Awareness: The rear radar alerts the rider to approaching vehicles, enhancing situational awareness.

Confidence and Comfort: They improve the rider's confidence and comfort by facilitating safe maneuvers in complex urban environments.

The Rear Radar is typically integrated into the e-bike’s taillight. This positioning at the rear extremity of the bike is the most logical way to maximize its detection field and range, allowing it to precisely identify the position and speed of vehicles approaching from behind. This data is then relayed to the HMI or transmitted to the cyclist via haptic feedback to warn of an imminent overtaking maneuver.

Optical and Light Sensors - Ambient Light Sensors

They detect external light levels and automatically adjust the ebike's lighting (brightness and beam patterns) for optimal visibility and safety. The light switches on automatically at nightfall.

Advanced systems include motion detection for adaptive lighting schemes, such as alerting the rider and other road users to the presence of objects or pedestrians, temporarily increasing light intensity to improve situational awareness and reduce the risk of collisions.

Ambient Light Sensors (ALS) are generally integrated into the HMI display.

Identification Sensors

Secure the bike (fingerprint reader, smartphone recognition) and load profiles. Technologies such as fingerprint readers or smartphone recognition secure the bike and instantly load riding profile and personal preferences.

Biometric Locks (Fingerprint Scanner): These keyless security systems use the rider's unique fingerprint to unlock and activate the ebike's electronic system.
Wireless Proximity Security (AirLock): This system uses the Bluetooth connection to the owner's smartphone as a digital key. It automatically locks the motor when the phone moves away.
NFC

Identification sensors, such as the Fingerprint scanner and the NFC reader (for card or smartphone use), are integrated either into the control buttons on the handlebar, the display unit housing, or within the minimalist LED HMI interface located on the top tube

Motor/Actuator

Although it is an actuator (it produces movement), the motor is also a sensor.

It continuously sends crucial information to the control unit regarding its rotation speed (RPM) and its temperature.

2- Processing : a Bike's "Brain"

The CAN Bus (Controller Area Network) :

The CAN Bus (Controller Area Network) is a technology inherited from the automotive industry, ensures reliable and resilient communication between all system elements.

This modular architecture, made possible by the bus, allows manufacturers to integrate additional functionalities (such as intelligent lighting or external connectivity) without compromising the integrity of the main ECU.

General Protocol Specifications:

Current Version: The most common version in e-bikes is CAN 2.0A (also called Classical CAN).
Bitrate (Transmission Speed): The typical speed used in e-bikes is often around 250 kbit/s (kilobits per second) or 500 kbit/s. This speed is well below the 1 Mbit/s maximum of CAN 2.0 but is sufficient for e-bike needs and offers better robustness against electrical noise.
Physical Medium: CAN is implemented via two twisted wires (often called CAN High / CAN H and CAN Low / CAN L) for differential signaling, which makes it highly resistant to electromagnetic interference (a key advantage over the older UART protocol).
Identifier and Prioritization: CAN 2.0A uses an 11-bit standard identifier for messages. Messages with a smaller numerical identifier have higher priority and can take precedence over the bus (arbitration process). This ensures that critical real-time data, such as braking or speed information, is always transmitted first.

Data Exchange via CAN Bus

BMS (Battery Management System): The BMS continuously reports critical data such as the State of Charge (SoC), internal battery temperature, the count of charge cycles, and any relevant error codes to ensure operational safety and battery longevity.
Controller (ECU - Electronic Control Unit): The ECU manages and communicates real-time operational parameters, including ground speed, brake status (active or inactive), pedaling cadence, throttle position (if applicable), and the required motor power to modulate assistance.
Display (HMI - Human-Machine Interface): The HMI transmits user inputs like the selected Assistance Mode (PAS level) and light status. It also receives system information for display, including system diagnostics and the necessary data for the reception of Over-The-Air (OTA) updates.
Accessories: Connected accessories communicate their specific data, such as external sensor data (e.g., temperature and pressure), along with receiving and transmitting necessary lighting commands.

CAN bus wiring is integrated inside the frame tubing and is a common practice in modern e-bike design. Running the cables internally within the frame is essential for ensuring their physical protection against impacts and weather, while also contributing to the clean aesthetic of the bike.

ECU or Controller : The Brain

This onboard computer is the brain that executes the algorithms. Composed of embedded systems (hardware and software) and control algorithms, it is the manufacturer's true "Core logic." It interprets sensor data to decide, every millisecond, the exact power the motor must deliver, ensuring an optimal riding experience.

Its location primarily depends on the type of motorization selected.

The ECU and Motor Type

For high-end e-bikes, the preferred architecture is the mid-drive motor. In this case, the ECU (Electronic Control Unit) is mostly integrated directly into the motor casing, at the bottom bracket shell. This centralized integration addresses a key engineering choice: the optimization of mass distribution. Placing the heaviest components (ECU and motor) at the lowest and most central point of the frame improves dynamic stability, balance, and bike handling, offering a more natural pedaling feel.
For systems based on a hub motor, the ECU may be a separate, dedicated control box, often mounted within the frame, near the seat tube or the battery housing.The fundamental role of the ECU is to regulate the amount of energy sent from the battery to the motor based on information received from the pedaling sensors. It is also responsible for cutting off assistance when the maximum authorized speed ($25 \text{ km/h}$ or $45 \text{ km/h}$) is reached, in compliance with regulatory requirements.

3- Interaction : a Dialogue with the RIDER

Onboard Interface: HMI - Cockpit

The Human-Machine Interface is the rider's central access point to all information and controls. It can be a screen integrated into the handlebar or stem, offering a centralized interface for information and control.

It can display navigation, speed, range, music, and other crucial data within the rider's reach. It plays a dual role:

Output (Dashboard): It displays vital information at a glance (speed, range, assistance mode).
Input (Controls): It allows quick adjustments without taking your eyes off the road, such as changing the assistance level, turning on the lights, or activating walk assistance.

Navigation and Display Features:

Turn-by-Turn Navigation on the Onboard Screen (HMI): The smart screen integrated into the handlebars (cockpit) displays navigation directly, allowing the rider to follow a route without needing their phone.
Range Prediction: By using location data and battery level, the system can predict the remaining range and display it on a map, indicating the possible reach based on the assistance level.
Real-Time Traffic Updates: Advanced navigation systems can provide real-time traffic information, helping to choose the fastest routes.

The HMI (Human-Machine Interface) is generally a display screen mounted on the handlebar or stem. It can also appear in the minimalist form of a Dash Button located on the top tube of certain models.

The Control Buttons:

Physical buttons are often present on the handlebars to control functions like assistance levels, lights, and the horn. It can also be a scroll wheel mounted on the handlebars to control speed and assistance levels, and navigate the screens.

Assistance Modes and Transmission:

Features that improve the riding experience through data processing.

Customizable Assistance Modes: Pedaling assistance levels (Eco, Mid, High, Sport, Turbo) allow rider to adapt the power delivered to their needs.
Automatic Gear Shifting: Offers smooth and effortless gear changes, allowing the rider to focus on the road.

Smartphone Application

The application may come from the eBike manufacturer, from the motorization kit manufacturer of a brand other than the eBike's, or even from an external service provider specializing in the provision of white-label application models that are offered to constructors, allowing for the integration of the values, data, and parameters of the components present on the smart eBike.

The HMI is for action, the application for analysis, personalization, and security alert management.

The smartphone application acts as a second screen when one already exists on the eBike; it is a remote display, a true command center connected via Bluetooth, it offers advanced mode configuration, detailed analysis of statistics, route planning, navigation, trip history, community features, customer support, essential software updates...

Also allow integration with popular third-party applications like Apple Health, Google Maps, STRAVA, and even ChatGPT via an Open API.

App Services:

Route Tracking and Recording: Applications record detailed trip history, including distance, duration, and sometimes calories burned.
Advanced Route Planning: Mobile applications and some HMI screens display maps to visualize the bike's position, plan routes with real-time weather information, and suggest optimal paths (bike paths, alternative routes).

Integration: Open API

This is where the magic happens. The API (Application Programming Interface) is a gateway that allows the eBike to communicate with third-party services. This is how miles are automatically recorded on Strava, calories burned appear in Apple Health, the Google Maps route is displayed on the HMI, and advanced services like ChatGPT can be offered to interact.

Bluetooth Connectivity

Bluetooth is a fundamental short-range wireless technology for electric bicycle connectivity.

Main Functions:

It allows the ebike to connect to a smartphone or other nearby accessories, such as a helmet or heart rate monitor. Its functions include synchronizing trip data, controlling bike settings via an app, and playing music through integrated speakers.

Bluetooth connectivity is typically integrated into the HMI display.

Voice Command & AI

Voice command allows hands-free control of bike functions via voice instructions. Integrated AI suggests advanced smart features like adaptive assistance and predictive diagnostics.

The integration of Voice Command & AI is primarily a software function managed by the HMI's processor. However, the physical integration of the microphone is complex in a cycling environment. To achieve acceptable audio clarity despite wind and road noise, the most effective solutions focus on peripheral microphones, sometimes integrated into on-board speakers.

Haptic Interaction

Provides feedback to the rider via a vibrator integrated into the handlebars or grips. Used to notify security alerts related to mWaves radar functionalities.

Haptic Interaction (or Haptic Feedback) is integrated into the handlebar grips. Haptics serves as a non-visual warning channel. When danger is detected by peripheral sensors (such as the rear radar), the cyclist receives a vibration directly in their hands. The use of haptics for safety is prioritized because it bypasses visual interference (low light, attention focused on the road) and auditory interference (ambient noise), allowing for a rapid and instinctive alert.

4- Connection : a "Bridge" to the Digital Universe

Thanks to advanced connectivity modules (4G, IoT, Bluetooth), the smart ebike is no longer an isolated object but a platform permanently connected to the Cloud.

The RF (Radio Frequency) Integration Challenge

Internal placement within the frame presents a major engineering challenge: the attenuation of the Radio Frequency (RF) signal caused by the metal. For optimal cellular and GNSS transmission, the module must be installed in a location where the frame is as thin as possible, thereby reducing the metallic shielding. It is often positioned near the motor or the down tube, but kept away from thick aluminum masses (a carbon frame being more permissive for radio waves).

The IoT Chip (Internet of Things) & Global Connectivity (eSIM / 4G / 5G)

IoT chip is a true digital gateway, this small processor connects the bike to the Internet via an eSIM or Wi-Fi. It is the brain that orchestrates remote interactions: it allows data to be sent and received for real-time geolocation, remote diagnostics by the manufacturer, and OTA (Over-The-Air) updates.

Cellular connectivity makes the bike autonomous, without the need for a smartphone. It is fundamental for remote diagnostics, anti-theft tracking, and real-time services.

eSIM (embedded Subscriber Identity Module): A digital SIM card is integrated directly into the bike's electronics, offering a permanent and independent connection to a cellular network (like 4G or 5G). This is essential for OTA updates and advanced anti-theft alerts.

Global connectivity (IoT Chip Global Connectivity, including eSIM, 4G, 5G) is generally not integrated into the CAN Bus itself, but rather into a dedicated tracking module, which is covertly installed within the frame. This module often contains its own GPS and motion sensors (gyro/accelerometer) to ensure theft detection and location tracking.

The placement of this module inside the frame is an anti-theft security imperative. An effective tracker must be difficult for a thief to locate and remove.

Cloud Synchronization & Updates (OTA - Over-the-Air)

All trip data is automatically saved and synchronized. This history is accessible everywhere, allowing fine analysis of the rider's performance and precise monitoring of the eBike's health status, wherever the rider is.

Thanks to its eSIM/4G/5G connection, the eBike can be updated remotely. These wireless updates (firmware, security) improve performance, add new features, and correct security vulnerabilities without requiring a physical visit to a workshop.

5- Security and Safety : an enhanced Experience

Security and safety features are paramount elements that offer increased peace of mind and a safer riding experience.

Bike Protection (Anti-Theft)

These features are designed to deter theft, aid in recovery, and secure the electric bike.

GPS Tracking and Geofencing: Allows real-time localization of the bike on a map. Geofencing establishes a virtual boundary via GPS and sends an instant alert to the owner if the bike enters or leaves this predefined zone.
Motor Lock / Cloud Binding: Features that prevent the motor from functioning in case of theft.
Digital Alarms and Motion Detection: Sensors (accelerometers/gyroscopes) detect unauthorized movements. When the alarm is armed, they trigger an audible siren and/or send a notification to the smartphone.
Integrated Locks: Physical locks integrated directly into the bike's design (frame lock or battery lock).
"Find My" Integration: Compatibility with extended location networks (like Apple Find My Network).

Rider Protection

SOS Accident Detection: (see Part 1)
Active Scene Perception: A unique feature that allows the bike to intelligently adjust its actions (power, lights, locking) based on real-time road conditions and user information.

Digital Alchemy:

Where Celestial Mechanics Meets the Code's Soul.

The smart ebike ecosystem is fueled by technologies capable of infinite combinations. You can see this clearly across the models featured on Smarty Bikes: each brand sets itself apart with its own unique logic. It is a perpetual motion of reinventing mobility, where the user experience stems from a true alchemy of ' Celestial Mechanics and Technology.

I’d argue that it isn't the sheer volume of sensors and connectivity modules that makes an ebike "smarter"—heck, simple Bluetooth integration is enough to call it a smart ebike. It’s really about the application of that technology and the ingenious way those connections are woven together. That is what generates customizable, actionable data, making the user experience innovative and thrilling—topped off, of course, by the pure pleasure of a design that is bold, balanced, and sometimes downright audacious.

I have deliberately left out the proprietary technologies of the major ebike manufacturers. While these giants wield massive financial and technological power—and there’s no denying they are the vanguard of cutting-edge, embedded systems, lighting the path forward—that’s not the focus here. In the world of Smarty Bikes, I prefer to spotlight the smaller players. They may not be household names yet, but they are walking in the footsteps of the giants, delivering smart ebikes packed with quality components.

Now that you’ve got a handle on the fundamentals of the smart ebike ecosystem (and I hope this article helped clear the fog), keep in mind that not every specific tech feature is listed here. You will discover those details in the individual articles dedicated to each bike. Ultimately, I hope this guides you toward making the right call if you’re looking to buy a smart ebike of your own.

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Mini-J

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