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Torque Sensor vs Cadence Sensor

The core technology that determines your riding experience. Understand why P.wheel chose the superior path.

Technical Comparison

Feature
Cadence Sensor
Torque Sensor
Input Signal
Pedal rotation speed (RPM)
Pedal force (Nm)
Response Type
Binary (0 or 100%)
Proportional (0-100%)
Riding Feel
Robotic, jerky
Natural, seamless
Hill Climbing
Poor response
Adapts to effort
Climbing Stamina
Uses more battery
Efficient power use
Cost
Lower
Higher

⚙️
Cadence Sensor

Working Principle
"Fast pedaling = Need speed"
🦶
Rider pedals at 80 RPM
📡
Sensor detects rotation speed
🤖
"RPM > threshold" → 100% power
🚀
Motor pushes at full power

The system assumes: fast pedaling = fast riding. This assumption is often wrong.

💪
Torque Sensor

Working Principle
"Hard pedaling = Need power"
🦶
Rider applies 45 Nm force
📡
Sensor measures pedal force in real-time
🧠
FOC algorithm calculates optimal power
✨
Motor assists proportionally

The system reads your actual intent—no assumptions, just responsive power.

💡 Only torque sensors can truly reflect the rider's intent.

Real-World Scenarios

🚴 Climbing a steep hill (small chainring, large cassette)
Cadence Sensor
High RPM detected → Full power → Wastes battery on slow climb
Torque Sensor
High force detected → Proportional power → Efficient climbing
🏃 Accelerating from stop
Cadence Sensor
RPM too low → No assistance → Must pedal unassisted until threshold
Torque Sensor
Force detected → Immediate assist → Smooth start every time
🚵 Sprinting on flat ground
Cadence Sensor
Moderate RPM → Moderate power → Feels "held back"
Torque Sensor
Maximum force → Maximum assist → Explosive acceleration
🌊 Coasting downhill
Cadence Sensor
RPM = 0 → Motor may jerk on restart
Torque Sensor
No force → No assist → Zero-drag coasting

P.wheel 3.0: Torque Sensor + FOC Vector Control

The torque sensor is only half the story. P.wheel combines it with Field-Oriented Control (FOC) algorithm—the same technology used in electric vehicles—for millisecond-level power response and whisper-quiet operation.

⚡ Traditional E-bike with Torque Sensor

Response time: 100-200ms

Uses conventional control algorithm — noticeable lag between pedaling and motor response

⚡ P.wheel with FOC Vector Control

Response time: 0.02s (20ms)

FOC algorithm processes torque data instantly — motor responds as fast as you think

Why faster? The torque sensor detects your pedaling force → FOC algorithm calculates optimal power → Motor assists instantly. No delay, no lag.

45 Nm Torque 250W Continuous 700W Peak 85% Efficiency

Experience the Difference

Feel what real power assistance feels like. P.wheel 3.0 with torque sensor—coming soon.

Learn More About P.wheel