Originally Posted by
2old
First time I've seen this discussion, but agree with turbo and cycleops that factory systems appear superior to bolt on units at least for ascending tortuous terrain. My BBS02, with only an rpm sensor, climbs erratically (FOR ME) on a tough, craggy hill and I need to keep my cadence smooth, sometimes difficult with a big bump or switchback in the trail, or the power shuts off. The same area on a Bosch-equipped system is much easier since the unit detects torque (as well as bike speed) and will continue to provide assistance. Also, qualitative results suggest the factory system is more efficient although I haven't done anything definitive.
This is where the BBS## thumb throttle or just a boost button (full on/off throttle) comes in handy. When climbing you can push the boost button and it prevents the power from cutting out due to slow cadence. I know you don't like throttles, but maybe puting an on/off cadence sensor override boost button won't be against your religion.
I was also reading information over on one of the independent electric bike blogs that talked about all the different settings in the BBS## controller that can be set up via a connection cable. Mine was set up by BME to what Tim thinks is the best way, so I haven't gone down that road myself to experiment (still using the thumb throttle while pedalling on the really tuff steep climbs with my 42T front / 34T rear rings).
One thing nice about climbing this way is if you need to pause your pedalling or do a slight back pedal to avoid a pedal strike, the throttle helps keep your momentum going.
