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Step 4: Throttle and controller

In this step we mount the throttle on the handlebars and set up the controller.

Overview​

┌────────────────────────────────────────────────────┐
│  4.1  Prepare the right grip                       │
│  4.2  Plan throttle placement                       │
│  4.3  Mount throttle and shifter                   │
│  4.4  Mount left-side components (optional)        │
│  4.5  Replace the shift cable (if applicable)      │
│  4.6  Mount the controller                         │
└────────────────────────────────────────────────────┘

Estimated time: 20 to 30 minutes

Step 4.1 - Prepare the right grip​

First we need to create space on the right side of the handlebar for the throttle.

Remove existing components​

  1. Loosen the grip screw if it is locked in place
  2. Pull off the grip - twist and pull at the same time
  3. Loosen the brake lever clamp screw - move it inward if needed
  4. Loosen the shifter clamp screw - slide it inward or remove it completely
A grip that is stuck

If the grip is hard to remove, spray a little soapy water underneath it and twist. Never use tools that can damage the grip or handlebar.

Step 4.2 - Plan throttle placement​

Before mounting, plan where everything should sit.

Thumb throttle - placement options​

PositionAdvantagesDisadvantages
Inside the shifterClose to the thumb, intuitiveMay interfere with shifting
Outside the shifterClear of the shifterLonger reach for the thumb

Twist throttle​

If you chose a twist throttle, it replaces the grip and sits at the outer end of the handlebar.

Personal preference

The best placement depends on your hands and riding style. Try different positions before tightening the screws fully.

Step 4.3 - Mount throttle and shifter​

Slide on the components​

Mount in this order, from the inside out:

  1. Brake lever if it was moved
  2. Throttle (thumb throttle), or skip to item 5 if using a twist throttle
  3. Shifter (original or new)
  4. Grip
  5. Twist throttle if selected, it replaces the grip

Adjust the positions​

  1. Position each part so it is comfortable to reach
  2. Check the angle - the throttle should be natural to press or twist
  3. Make sure nothing collides when you shift or brake

Tighten the screws​

  1. Tighten the brake lever screw - snug, but not overly tight
  2. Tighten the throttle screw - it should sit firmly but still be adjustable later
  3. Tighten the shifter screw
  4. If using a twist throttle: make sure it rotates freely without hitting anything

Step 4.4 - Mount left-side components (optional)​

If your kit includes components for the left side of the handlebar:

Possible components​

  • 3-speed button - for changing assist level
  • Separate power switch - on/off button
  • Display - shows speed, battery, etc.

Mounting process​

  1. Remove existing components from the left grip
  2. Slide on the new components in a suitable order
  3. Adjust positions for easy access
  4. Tighten the screws

Step 4.5 - Replace the shift cable (if applicable)​

When is this needed?

Only if you chose to replace the old shifter with a new one included in the kit.

Replace the shift cable​

  1. Loosen the screw that secures the old shift cable in the rear derailleur
  2. Pull the old cable out of the housing all the way up to the shifter
  3. Feed the new cable in from the new shifter, through the housing, down to the rear derailleur
  4. Set the shifter to the desired gear, for example the middle gear
  5. Pull the cable so the rear derailleur sits in the corresponding position
  6. Tighten the screw that secures the cable in the rear derailleur
  7. Test shifting by turning the pedals and shifting through all gears
  8. Fine tune with the adjustment screw on the shifter if needed

Step 4.6 - Mount the controller​

The controller is the brain of the system and controls the motor power.

Choose a mounting location​

The controller needs to be mounted where it is:

  • Protected from rain and spray
  • Ventilated - the controller gets warm during use
  • Accessible for the cables from the motor, battery, and controls
  • Safe from damage while riding

Common mounting locations:

LocationAdvantagesDisadvantages
Under the saddleProtected, centralCan be cramped
On the seat tubeEasy to accessVisible
In the frame triangleProtectedCable routing can be long
In a bag or boxWater resistantRequires extra accessories

Attach the controller​

With zip ties:

  1. Choose the mounting position
  2. Place the controller against the frame or tube
  3. Thread zip ties through the controller mounting tabs
  4. Wrap around the frame and back through the mounting tab
  5. Tighten the zip ties firmly
  6. Trim the excess zip tie ends

With screw mounts, if available:

  1. Use existing mounting points on the frame, such as bottle cage screws
  2. Screw the controller bracket in place
  3. Attach the controller to the bracket
Protection from vibration

Place a piece of rubber or foam between the controller and the frame to dampen vibration.

Checklist​

After this step you should have:

  • Throttle mounted and placed comfortably
  • Shifter in place and working
  • Any left-side components mounted
  • Controller securely attached to the bike

Common problems​

The throttle does not fit on the handlebar​

  • Check the handlebar diameter, 22.2 mm is standard for bicycle handlebars
  • Use the included adapters if available
  • Contact support for alternative mounts

The shifter is in the way​

  • Try a different component order
  • Move the brake lever inward to create space

The controller gets too hot​

  • Move it to a location with better airflow
  • Avoid wrapping it in material that insulates heat

➡️ Next step: Step 5 - Install the motor wheel and finish