Electric Bikes
What is a Torque Sensor?
The sensor that measures how hard you're actually pedalling.
Simplified schematic — not to scale.
In plain English
A torque sensor measures the actual force you're putting through the pedals, so the motor can add power proportionally — push harder, get more assist.
A simple analogy
“It's like a bathroom scale for your pedal stroke, measured many times a second.”
How it works
A strain gauge, usually near the bottom bracket, flexes minutely under pedalling force. That tiny flex is converted into an electrical signal the controller reads to scale the motor's output.
Signs of trouble
- ⚠Assist feels 'on-off' rather than smooth and proportional
- ⚠No assist despite pedalling hard
- ⚠Assist kicks in even with very light pedalling
Rough UK cost
£60 – £200 to replace
Always get a written quote. Prices vary by bike, region and parts brand.
Heads up: Bikeautonomy is for general guidance only. If your bike is behaving oddly or you're not confident, get it looked at by a qualified bike mechanic.