Victoria Pendleton - levels of power too crude and abrupt

[saneagle]

Yes, we had the same bike and issue - the joys of a 'cadence sensing' motor system - NOT!

It's not the cadence sensing that's the problem. You could even get the same problem with a torque sensor. The problem is the power algorithms in the controller are too crude. The KT controller also uses a cadence sensor and you're happy with it.

 

[Sturmey]

.........You may be able to change controller and display (for about £100??) and keep the battery and motor. I'm not sure about that model; somebody else will probably be able to post a more complete answer.

If I may add to above, if you are replacing the display and controller, I think you also need to change the control cable. You may need an extra long control cable for the pendleton (especially with the larger frame size earlier version) as the cable runs down along the frame down tube and then back up the seat tube channel and across to the rack. Alternatively, I have seen an extension control cable available to make replacement cable longer. Anyhow, be sure to measure the length of the cable run and check. The original PAS sensor behind chainwheel seems to work with Kt controller but I think its no harm to get a replacement with controller kit just in case.
You may also need the replacement brake levers. (The older pendleton brake levers had 2 wire 'red' plugs that are not compatible with the newer 3 wire plugs on newer control cables so you need to check this).

 

[Nealh]

Going back to the control system used, it is a basic cheap system that uses speed control. To get anything better you have use a current control controller system such as the KT system then you get some nice power levels and control, the 5 power levels give approx. 13/20/33/50 & 100% power.