The brain of the e-bike: Background information on e-bike software
Author: Press Service Bicycle
What does the software do on an e-bike? In short, the software ensures that an e-bike does what it is supposed to do. The individual drive components, i.e. sensors, motor, remote unit and even the battery, communicate with each other via the software. Each component has its own software; all of them are bundled together in one firmware. This simplifies handling. The characteristics of the drive system are characterised by the software settings. The software can be used to control, for example, how high the maximum power of a system should be, how the driving modes are designed and how much motor power is made available. The firmware is regularly updated, improved and made available as an update.
What are the development challenges?
A major challenge in the development of software for e-bikes and pedelecs is the coordination between man and machine, the interaction. In contrast to other electric devices, the human factor is essential for the functioning of the system. The software has to process the information produced by a human (what force the cyclist applies to the pedals and what conclusions this means for the overall system). The systems react very sensitively to the rider's input. "This is the fine art of the industry, recognising and covering a wide range of different factors, purposes and user groups," says Dirk Menze, Head of Marketing and Design at drive manufacturer Pinion. Improvements based on error analyses are therefore part of the essential work in software development. "Nobody in the e-bike market has reached the zenith. We can all still work on interaction," says Pascal Ketterer, software developer at drive manufacturer Fazua.
Why do you need regular updates?
The aim is always to further develop the system and provide a better product. When a new e-bike drive is launched on the market, it has been sufficiently tested and checked, but things can always come to light in practical use that cannot be simulated on a test bench. Software updates can rectify the problems identified without having to repair the bike or take it to the workshop for a long time. Manufacturers are also constantly working on optimisations and on what users really need in the end. They are also constantly introducing new functions. "We learn from the mistakes we make," says Pascal Ketterer.
How does the software learn?
The analysis is based on the reading of anonymous data by the manufacturers. This involves analysing the power ranges in which a motor is used, which support modes are used and the average pedalling frequency. Possible errors are analysed and corrected on the basis of these values. Personal data such as address and place of residence are not analysed. What is striking about the data analysis is that most e-bikers ride in a battery-saving mode. Part of the work also involves making the systems even more individualised. For example, sporty riders pedal at a higher frequency and therefore need a more harmonious motor that rides like a bike. Those who only cycle occasionally tend to have a lower pedalling frequency, but need more motor support. Such individual differences can also be regulated via software settings.
How do I get a software update?
There are various solutions here. For example, manufacturers provide updates via a mobile phone app. Simply connect the mobile phone to the e-bike and install the update via the app. Other systems require a connection to a computer via a USB-C cable. "You don't have to be afraid to do it yourself," says Pascal Ketterer. There are also manufacturers who involve the specialist dealer in the update process. This means the bike can be checked for defects straight away. You can usually find out whether there is a current update via the provider's newsletter or on their website.
How often is there an update?
It depends on the respective manufacturer whether they install small updates regularly or prefer to bundle them. Major updates with far-reaching changes are released approximately every six months.
What happens if I don't update?
Nothing really. You don't have to worry that the e-bike will stop working due to a lack of updates. There is also no risk of losing guarantee and warranty claims. The updates are only used to improve the software or to install new functions. Nevertheless, you should have the e-bike software read out regularly, similar to a car, so that possible errors can be analysed.
Do I notice any differences after an update?
This depends on the scope of the update. Some updates have a direct impact on the driving behaviour, for example by unlocking more engine power or integrating an additional driving mode and thus influencing the driving behaviour. Smaller technical updates, on the other hand, are hardly or not at all noticeable. An example of a major update can be found at Pinion. In autumn 2024, the company released a software update that enables an automatic shifting function for all previous systems. Instead of replacing the hardware, the function could simply be enabled via software.
What does automatic shifting mean for e-bikes?
Automatic shifting means that the gears change automatically. The cadence is decisive for this. Users can enter their desired cadence and the system uses this as the basis for gear selection. Pinion goes even further: The cyclist can override the automatic system using the gear knob if required and thus make their own individual setting. The system memorises the changed gear changes and adapts them for the next automated processes. "Self-learning is probably still the wrong term. We as an entire industry are not yet ready to talk about it. But certain assumptions and stored logics are already very close to AI and improve the system," explains Dirk Menze.
Is it possible to increase the performance with an update?
Yes, this is possible and is currently being practised by some manufacturers. Both torque and maximum power can be increased through updates. As long as the system stops providing assistance at 25 km/h and the rated continuous power is limited to 250 watts, it is possible to adjust the software for more peak power without the pedelec losing its status as a bicycle. How sensible this is must be questioned. After all, the components are not designed for the higher motor power and can wear out more quickly. In addition, a motor overheats more quickly in a high maximum power range and is then reduced to a lower power range. Higher power also means higher energy consumption, which in turn results in a larger battery that makes the e-bike heavier.
How long are updates available for a system?
E-bike drive systems are not products that are subject to an annual model change, but are available for several years or older versions are still available on the market - similar to smartphones. In addition, the systems are designed for the life cycle of an e-bike. This is defined as around ten years or even longer. Updates are also made available for this long. Fazua, for example, presented an update for an old drive system that is no longer in production in 2024. If you buy a new drive system, you should therefore assume that it will continue to be supplied with updates for a long time to come. If you are buying second-hand, however, it is important to check again whether the system is really still supported.
Just like a smartphone or computer, the software of an e-bike also needs an update every now and then. This makes perfect sense, as the systems are becoming more and more technically sophisticated. This makes it easy to install new features without having to replace the entire bike. - Thomas Geisler, Editor
