The PWR Dually is a unique e-bike because it’s equipped with features like all-wheel drive (AWD) and traction control that make it more dependable in all kinds of conditions. In this article, we’ll unpack what AWD and traction control are, and how it makes e-biking an even better experience.
AWD 101
What is AWD? Why does this technology matter for bikes?
As the name implies, all-wheel-drive systems power both the front and rear wheels all the time. power is transferred to both the rear and front wheels when you pedal. With AWD, electric motor torque is sent to both wheels. Since AWD turns both wheels instead of just one, there's that much more grip, and when the available traction is very low, you can accelerate and climb better, with less or even no tire slippage. AWD increases traction, particularly in loose, muddy conditions, and steep terrain. The bike will feel more stable and be less likely to slip, slide sideways, stall momentum or otherwise slow you down. Having the front wheel driving/turning helps the bike climb up and over ledges and rocks (rather than just the rear tire driving forward and pushing the front tire into ledges and rocks!)
Traction Control 101
What is traction control?
Traction control is an active safety feature that helps you take maximum advantage of the traction on the surface you’re riding on by limiting or preventing wheel slippage and drifting. Traction control technology works in the background to help accelerate and prevent wheel/tire slippage (or “over-spinning”) when riding on slippery surfaces. On the PWR Dually, default electric motor torque distribution is 50/50, front to rear. Sensors continuously detect the speed of each wheel and if a wheel/tire loses traction it will reduce torque and power until it regains traction. At the same time, the wheel with traction will increase power until it reaches the maximum assist level that is currently set on the bike by the rider. The key benefit of the traction control technology is it limits tire slip and tire spin. By reducing tire slip and spin, the system greatly increases stability and traction - and your confidence!
What are instances where AWD and traction control will come in handy?
Do you ride your bike in steep, loose, rocky, muddy hills, or slippery conditions?
With a bike equipped with AWD and traction control, you’ll experience greatly increased traction and stability by having both wheels driving up the hill. Having the front wheel turning helps the bike climb up and over ledges and rocks (rather than just the rear tire driving forward and pushing the front tire into ledges and rocks).
Have you ever needed to start from a stop on a loose or muddy hill?
Traction control helps prevent loss of momentum and stability from a spinning/slipping tire, and will be a huge help. It’s a great combination of technology that balances the power of two wheels driving/spinning on an ebike but in a controlled manner so you don’t get wheel spin that might make the bike slide sideways, stall momentum or otherwise cause the rider to veer off course. When you add in the available throttle to AWD and Traction control it provides a great platform for getting started in difficult terrain, whether it is steep, loose or slippery!
Have you ever encountered other loose conditions like gravel or dirt spilling onto pavement?
Having both tires driving forward increases traction and stability, particularly with the traction control technology that limits tire slip.
Have you ever tried to bike through deep sand?
AWD, traction control, throttle power and fat tires like the PWR Dually has can help you to negotiate through deep sand. Tons of grip and float from fat tires keep you in control. AWD provides balanced power and drive and traction control to keep you moving forward by reducing power to the slipping wheel and increasing power to the gripping wheel.
...Add in the PWR Dually’s grip throttle power and you’ll get that extra push to get over a big or steep hill, or loose, sandy or muddy terrain. The throttle also means you can take longer loops, do more exploring, and still have confidence you’ll make it home without a major effort. Here’s a few more awesome benefits of having a bike that’s not only equipped with AWD and traction control, but throttle power, too.
-
You can get off the bike to walk a technical section - rocky or steep, or other - and use the grip throttle to help propel the bike forward as you’re walking. E-bikes are heavy so this will help a lot!
-
You’ll experience faster starts when commuting - it’s easier to stay up with traffic.
-
You won’t have to worry about a load you might be hauling. Whether it’s a rear trailer, SUP, or bike rack full of lunch and drinks. Grip throttle will propel you along.
- It’s just plain fun to use the grip throttle!
AWD, traction control and grip throttle make the PWR Dually e-bike fun to ride. This e-bike is a dream for the adventurous explorers and daily commuters alike! It’s just as capable as you are.
