Troxus

When you’re choosing a new bike, the most important question to ask is: “Do I feel in control of my ride?” Regardless of how fancy the vehicle, your ability to manage and adjust your ride experience in real time is paramount—a philosophy that Troxus has taken to heart by incorporating its switchable sensor modes into many of its signature e-bike models.

This technology allows riders to easily switch between Cadence mode, which requires less pedaling due to a steady power-delivery system, and Torque mode, which encourages a more natural riding style, resembling that of non-electric bikes, while saving the battery. And switching between the two is easy: You just press a button on the central display interface.

You might expect this sort of dual mode in mid-drive motor e-bikes, which are historically more expensive, but Troxus has implemented them in their rear-hub motor models—thereby keeping their e-bikes accessible to a wide audience while keeping pace with those pricier models. To learn more about this technology and the various e-bikes that incorporate it, we spoke to Jean-Luc Ferre, director of product development at Troxus.

Cadence Sensor Mode

When a Troxus e-bike is in Cadence mode, it detects small crank-arm rotations of 1/4 to 1/2 turn and engages the motor in turn. Since the bike responds to the slightest pedaling movements, “you can do what we call ‘ghost pedaling,’” says Ferre. “This means that you can pedal with very little power input and the motor will keep going.” As such, Cadence sensor mode is particularly helpful for commuting, transporting items, and linear riding. Helping maintain the constant power is an intentional lag system, in which the motor stays engaged for a brief second after you’ve stopped pedaling—so you don’t experience a dip in power every time you stop pedaling for a small break.

Torque Sensor Mode

If you’re traveling on terrain with frequent stops and starts, looking to get some exercise, or need to conserve battery, Torque mode is the way to go. It makes the bike respond more directly to your pedal input, meaning that the engine engages when you’re really pedaling, and turns off when you are not. “You’re going to have a much more natural pedaling experience,” says Ferre. “It feels closer to riding a non-electric bike.” In addition to the familiar ride feel, Torque sensor mode also uses less battery than Cadence mode. “The rider is contributing more power to the bike, so the battery has to do less work,” he says. This makes it useful to slip into when you know you’ll be taking an extended ride and want to conserve as much battery as possible.

This technology is flexible enough that Troxus has been able to incorporate it into many of its 2024 e-bikes. Here are four of its signature models, and how the dual sensor modes can come in handy with each.

 Lynx Cargo E-Bike

Lynx Cargo E-bike

$2300

This flexible cargo bike is built with a front and rear rack, and designed to haul up to 500 pounds (including its rider). “When you have a heavier load, the Cadence sensor mode is useful, because power is delivered in a generous, consistent manner,” says Ferre. Additionally, the aluminum-framed bike is equipped with 80mm of fork travel, which helps soak up bumps in the road for a smoother ride. The 8-speed Shimano drivetrain allows riders to select a comfortable cruising cadence regardless of terrain, and Tektro hydraulic disc brakes offer smooth and responsive stopping power to help you control speed.

Lynx Plus

Lynx Plus 20" Fat Tire E-Bike

$1999

This mini-cargo model, capable of handling up to 400 pounds of total weight, has a slightly shorter wheelbase that’s designed to be maneuverable throughout urban environments. With this bike, you may find yourself in Torque mode as you navigate tight city corners, before slipping into Cadence mode on wider streets with designated bike lanes. As with all Troxus models, its sleek step-through profile isn’t interrupted by wires or exterior sensors; it’s all internal.

Trax Lightweight E-Bike