Question: I heard Bosch and Shimano are making headway with auto shifting ebikes. Can you explain this and are there any real world benefits? – Taylor, Green River, UT
Answer: Automatic e-bike shifting is a feature that allows ebikes to automatically change gears without manual intervention from the rider. This technology aims to enhance the riding experience by optimizing gear shifts based on various parameters such as speed, cadence (pedal rotation rate), terrain, and rider input. Here’s how it works and its advantages:
How Automatic E-Bike Shifting Works
- Sensors: The e-bike is equipped with various sensors that monitor factors such as speed, cadence, torque (force applied to the pedals), and sometimes even terrain inclination.
- Controller: The e-bike’s control unit processes data from the sensors and determines the optimal gear for the current riding conditions.
- Actuator: An electronic actuator mechanism changes the gears automatically based on the controller’s instructions.
Advantages of Automatic E-Bike Shifting
- Convenience: Riders don’t need to manually shift gears, making the riding experience more seamless and less distracting, especially in changing conditions.
- Efficiency: The system can optimize gear shifts to maintain an efficient pedaling cadence, which can help in conserving the rider’s energy and maximizing the battery range.
- Smooth Ride: Automatic shifting can provide smoother transitions between gears, reducing the chances of jerky movements or gear skipping.
Considerations
- Cost: E-bikes with automatic shifting systems tend to be more expensive due to the additional technology and components.
- Maintenance: The added complexity of the system may require more specialized maintenance or repairs.
Example of Auto Shifting on the Market:
- Shimano Di2: Shimano offers an electronic shifting system that can be set to automatic mode, where it decides when to shift gears based on rider input and conditions.
- Enviolo: Enviolo’s automatic shifting system continuously adjusts the gear ratio to maintain an optimal pedaling cadence.
- Bosch eShift: Bosch has integrated automatic shifting into their e-bike systems, working with different transmission systems like Rohloff and Shimano.
Personally, outside of the newer Bosch systems I’m not a huge fan of them. The main problem is the very high costs dwarf the small added benefit. I think auto shifting bikes would benefit newer ebike riders the most allowing one less thing to think about. While some systems have a cool factor with improved feel I can think of many other ways to spend money on my bikes. Overall I still prefer the control and customization of manual shifting.
Ludwig Von Heinrich (AKA Dr. Dirt) is a German-American born PHD engineer, cycling historian and author who serves as our experienced mentor on all things bicycle. Dr. Dirt has cycled on all 7 continents (yes even Antarctica!) and has been credited with repairing over 10,000 bikes over his career. Dr. Dirt was an early fan of e-bikes and even had one of the first Montage folding e-bikes from the early 1990’s.
While not on staff Dr. Dirt does provide valuable guidance, motivation, and feedback for what we are trying to accomplish here. If you have a cycling or e-bike question please drop him a note at drdirt@dirtrevo.com.