Torque Sensor vs. Cadence Sensor on Electric Recumbent Trikes

Every electric trike has a PAS (Pedal Assist System) sensor that tells the motor when and how much to help you. There are two types of sensors: cadence and torque. The type of sensor determines how the motor responds to your pedaling — and whether the electric assist feels natural or mechanical. This guide explains both, helps you choose, and tells you which LBR models use which.

How Cadence Sensors Work

A cadence sensor detects whether the crank is rotating — a magnet on the crank arm passes a sensor mounted on the frame, generating a signal. When the signal is present (you’re pedaling), the controller delivers a fixed wattage corresponding to the selected PAS level. When the signal stops (you stop pedaling), motor power cuts off after a brief delay.

The experience: You start pedaling → brief delay (0.5–1 second) → motor engages at full PAS level power → you stop pedaling → brief delay → motor disengages. The power delivery is binary at each PAS level — full power when pedaling, nothing when not. This means you control intensity through PAS level selection, not through how hard you push.

Pros of cadence sensors:

• Simpler and more reliable — fewer components to fail
• Lower cost — no precision strain gauge required
• Easy to understand — select your PAS level and the motor delivers that power consistently
• Better for joint conditions — consistent power prevents sudden effort changes that stress joints

How Torque Sensors Work

A torque sensor measures the actual force you apply to the pedals — typically through a strain gauge built into the bottom bracket spindle or rear axle. The controller uses this measurement to vary motor power proportionally: push harder → more motor power, push lighter → less motor power.

The experience: Smooth, natural acceleration. The more effort you put in, the more the motor adds — as if you were suddenly much stronger. The transition between human and motor power is seamless. Many experienced cyclists describe it as “just riding a regular bike, but effortlessly fast.”

Pros of torque sensors:

• More natural feel — proportional response mirrors human muscle effort
• Better battery efficiency — motor only adds what you need
• Better exercise control — you always feel connected to your effort level
• Preferred by fitness cyclists wanting a natural ride feel

Side-by-Side Comparison

Which Should You Choose?

Choose cadence sensor if:

• You’re 60+ and want predictable, consistent assist
• You’re recovering from joint surgery and want the motor to deliver steady support without variation
• You’re a first-time e-bike rider and want simple, intuitive controls
• Budget is a consideration — cadence sensors cost $200–$400 less at equivalent quality

Choose torque sensor if:

• You’re an experienced cyclist who wants the assist to feel invisible
• You primarily ride for fitness and want your effort level to directly control speed
• You’ll ride a wide variety of terrain and want the motor to adapt dynamically
• You plan to ride primarily at PAS 1–2 and want maximum natural feel at low assist

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I upgrade from cadence to torque sensor later?

In most cases, no — the sensor type is integrated into the drivetrain and controller system. Upgrading would require replacing the bottom bracket, controller, and potentially the display. It’s more cost-effective to choose the right sensor type when purchasing. Contact our support team if you’re unsure which is right for your use case.

Does torque sensor improve my workout?

It makes the workout feel more natural, but doesn’t automatically increase calorie burn. At equivalent effort levels, torque and cadence sensors deliver similar exercise benefits. Torque sensor is preferred by fitness cyclists because it makes interval training more intuitive — sprint harder and the motor responds, ease up and it backs off — without manually adjusting PAS levels.

Why do most eTrikes use cadence sensors?

Cost and reliability. A quality cadence sensor system costs $20–$40; a quality torque sensor system costs $150–$400. For most casual and recreational riders, the cadence sensor delivers an excellent experience at lower cost. Torque sensors dominate the performance e-bike market ($3,500+) where the refined feel justifies the premium.