How Hub Motors Work

The controller is an important part of an e-bike kit. It manages the requirements of the different system components, and has some safety features built in (i.e., low-voltage cutouts to protect your battery when running flat). Hub motor systems have external controllers, which are normally housed in bags supplied with our kits, with excess cabling and plugs stashed inside too, and mounted somewhere on the bike (in the triangle or under the seat normally). Some batteries include a controller box at the front of the battery. This means it’s a simple replacement if the controller fails, and you also have somewhere to stash any excess cabling from your kit.

Controllers are internal (located within the motor) in our mid-mount systems. These are Programmable controllers, which can be plugged into our computer via USB to set various motor control parameters. We also sell external ‘Magic’ Controllers, which are multi-voltage programmable controllers, that can run virtually any e-bike motor up to 1000w (continuous output = 30amp, peak output = 60amp). Plug changes may be required to run with other motors, but they do work for most motors. These Magic controllers can be purchased with plug-compatible handlebar controls – call us if you require a complete set, or, we can fit plugs to match your existing setup if required.