...

Ask Optibike!: What's the deal with "boost", eco mode, and FAST mode?

The question is:

“I’ve noticed the best way to climb moderate hills in Eco mode is to
make rapid upgear changes probably every couple of seconds so as not
to let the bike settle into the low-power state before you get to the
top of your descent.

When does the bike change to the low-power state in Eco mode? Is the
duration of the boost phase constant or does it change according to
any variable?
Thanks, Sam”

Great question.  Let me begin by explaining what Eco mode is, and then what “Boost” is so we all have a frame of reference.

Eco mode is one of the two modes offerered on every Optibike, the other mode is FAST mode.  Eco mode is a reduced power mode that delivers about half power so you can ride you Optibike for twice as long.  To be more specific, on an Optibike 800Li the runtime is about 50 minutes in fast mode and is 2 hours and 15 minutes in eco mode.

Boost is a reference to the patented Derivative Power Control (DPC) that is (partially) responsible for the unmatched efficiency and acceleration of the Optibike.  Essentially, whenever you shift the Optibike or first accelerate from a stop, you feel the “boost” kick in.  The “boost” is an approximately several second burst of power that accelerates you “through” the gear you are in- up to a cruising speed, very quickly.  Once you are at cruising speed, you do not need as much power to keep you there- so the boost backs off.

The duration of the boost changes in accordance with a proprietary computer alogrithim developed by Optibike.  In other words, I could tell you but I would have to kill you. 🙂

Tricking the boost is what Sam was referring to when he was rapidly shifting going up hill.  If you feather the throttle or shift up and down rapidly, the Optibike will be very fast because it will never leave boost mode.  This causes the battery to drain much faster than normal (because of the increased power drain), and will eventually result in the Motorized Bottom Brackett (MBB) to begin “missing” which is an overheat default function meant to help cool the MBB to prevent permanent damage.  While this is a fun way to ride because the bike is VERY fast- your range is much shorter and overheating may result- leaving you waiting a few minutes for things to cool off.

My suggestion: When riding on terrain (or in circumstances) where you need more power- going uphill, start and stop traffic, blasting past roadies in spandex, etc; ride your Optibike in FAST mode.  This will keep you from constantly tapping into the boost feature and will extend your total ride time.  Of course, if you want to keep boosting- please do.  🙂

Recent Posts

Why We Use Rohloff Hubs

Why We Use Rohloff Hubs

The Rohloff Speedhub is an internally geared hub for bicycles. Developed and patented by Rohloff AG in Germany. It’s a great alternative to a derailleur for riders that want an extremely durable and also low maintenance option. Wide Range With 14 evenly spaced gears...

Electric Bikes vs Mopeds

Electric Bikes vs Mopeds

The Differences between an E-Bike, Moped, and Scooter There is often confusion about the differences among electric bicycles, mopeds, scooters, electric scooters, electric motorcycles, and motorcycles. These are all two-wheeled vehicles but are very different on legal...

Recent Posts

Why We Use Rohloff Hubs

Why We Use Rohloff Hubs

The Rohloff Speedhub is an internally geared hub for bicycles. Developed and patented by Rohloff AG in Germany. It’s a great alternative to a derailleur for riders that want an extremely durable and also low maintenance option. Wide Range With 14 evenly spaced gears...

Electric Bikes vs Mopeds

Electric Bikes vs Mopeds

The Differences between an E-Bike, Moped, and Scooter There is often confusion about the differences among electric bicycles, mopeds, scooters, electric scooters, electric motorcycles, and motorcycles. These are all two-wheeled vehicles but are very different on legal...

Related Posts

Optibike R15C Electric Bike Range Testing and Review

Optibike R15C Electric Bike Range Testing and Review

[toc] In this article we review the ranges for the Optibike R15C electric bike. The maximum range is 181 miles on a charge which makes the R15C the leader in long range touring. The tests show the ranges at 15, 20, 28, and 36 mph. Range tests are made with both...

read more
Optibike R15C Electric Bike Fit and Sizing

Optibike R15C Electric Bike Fit and Sizing

Optibike R15C Electric Bike Fit and Sizing [toc] The Optibike R15C Electric Bike is designed to fit a wide range of rider heights and weight. The versatile frame has the lowest stand over of any bike with a huge 1500 watt hour battery. The frame is slim and easy to...

read more

What is Torque in an Electric Bike?

There has been a lot of discussion in the news lately about electric bikes and torque. For most people, the term "Torque" has little or no meaning. In this first of 3 articles on torque, I will go over the basics of torque. In Part 2, I will discuss torque and how it...

read more

Optibike

February 25, 2009

0 Comments

Submit a Comment