Ebike Throttle/ Pedal Assist Not Working? What to Do

If the throttle of your e-bike is not working, it is likely due to misalignment in your brake system, or other technical issues like a loose or disconnected wire, controller issues, or a faulty throttle. 

If your ebike is fine, has not suffered any damage, and yet, both the throttle and the pedal assist system are not working or failing to respond, the brakes are likely misaligned. 

To fix a throttle problem on an ebike, first determine whether the issue is caused by a misalignment of the brakes. If it is, adjust the braking system to correct any misalignment. 

When the brakes are properly aligned, both the throttle and pedal-assist functions should work again. A misaligned brake can prevent your e-bike’s throttle and pedal assist from operating.

Ebike Throttle Not Responding: How to Fix It

The throttle and pedal-assist system on an e-bike won’t work if the brakes are misaligned because of safety cutoffs built into the system.

• Brake sensors detect when the brake levers are engaged.
• If the brakes are misaligned or constantly pressing against the disc, the sensors think the brakes are always applied.
• The e-bike’s controller then disables the throttle and pedal assist to prevent accidental acceleration while braking.

In short, proper brake alignment ensures the sensors can correctly detect when the brakes are being used, allowing the throttle and pedal-assist to function normally. 

Step #1: Put the bike in Pedal Assist Level 1-5. 

If your bike is at pedal assist level 0, switch to pedal assist level 1-5. At PAS level 0, there is no pedal assist, so the pedal assist system will not work anyway. To figure out the problem, switch to pedal assist level 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5 (any would do). 

Step #2. Check the Brake Lights

Next, check the brake lights. The brake lights( also known as tail lights) are located at the back, under the seat, above the back tire. 

• If the brake lights are not on, then the problem is not with the braking system. There are many reasons why your throttle is not working. If the lights remain off, even when pedal assist is on, then the braking system is not to blame.
• If the brake light is on, even while you are not touching the throttle, then the problem is the braking system. 

Step #3: Identify Which Brake Needs to Be Adjusted

The next step is to figure out which of the brakes (left side or right side) needs to be adjusted. To do so, locate the throttle cables on each side of the handlebars and find the connection. 

Then, beginning with the right side, unplug the connection (the plug on the wire), and see if the light goes off.

• If the light goes off, the issue is on the right brake.
• If the light stays on, reconnect it and repeat the process on the left side.
• If the light goes off after disconnecting the left side, the problem lies with the left brake.

Step #4: Adjust The Braking System

The process of adjusting the brake system differs, depending on the type of brakes and the model of the bike.

If you are riding a Viribus Electric bicycle, or any other bicycle that uses mechanical disc brakes, you can follow this guide on how to adjust mechanical disc brakes .

Adjusting the braking system will regulate the brake’s sensitivity: you set the brake such that it does not constantly touch the disc. 

Reducing the sensitivity in this way will prevent unnecessary drag, ensure smoother riding, and allow the throttle and pedal-assist systems to function properly without interference from the brakes.

Step #5: Restart the Ebike

Once the brakes are properly aligned, turn the e-bike back on and set the pedal-assist level between 1 and 5. The throttle should start responding, and the pedal-assist system will return to normal operation.

5 Other Reasons for the Throttle Not Working and What To Do

1. Loose or disconnected wiring

• The wire connecting the throttle to the controller is loose or disconnected
• Check the throttle connection to the controller.

2. The throttle is faulty

• Sometimes, internal wear or damage can prevent the throttle from sending signals.
• Check the controller, inspect for damage, and replace if needed

3. Controller issues 

• A malfunctioning motor controller can block throttle input, causing the throttle not to respond.
• Check the controller, and call in a professional if troubleshooting doesn't work.

4. Low battery voltage 

• Some e-bikes won’t allow throttle operation if the battery is nearly drained.
• Recharge your battery, and the throttle will start working again

5. Faulty PAS (pedal-assist sensor). 

• On some Electric bicycles, a malfunctioning PAS can interfere with throttle operation.
• Check the pedal assist system and ensure it is working properly

Conclusion

The key is to diagnose the problem step by step rather than replacing parts blindly. Regular inspection, safe handling of electrical components, and timely maintenance will not only solve throttle issues but also keep your e-bike running smoothly.

By paying attention to these details, you can get back to enjoying effortless rides with confidence.  You may also be interested in the differences in how mechanical disc brakes and hydraulic brakes work on an adult bike.