Frequently Asked Questions

FAQ

Answer

What makes your electric conversion system better than other systems that cost less? 

• Torque and Cadence sensor, that senses rotation, rotational direction, and torque at the bottom bracket
• Bluetooth controller to allow riders complete control of the level of assistance received from the ARCC e²-pod Intelligent Drive System whilst on the go. – this is also available as an app.
• Launch control which provides a three-second boost to assist with moving away from traffic lights and crossings in heavy traffic.
• Inclinometer / accelerometer sensor which detects hills and gradients and provides compensation accordingly.
• Compatible with 4.0Ah, 6.0Ah and 9.0Ah Bosch batteries, which when compared to other e-bike batteries on the market, are a lot more affordable and accessible.
• Compatible with most Brompton bags.
• UK-made for fast delivery and customised requirements.
• 5-year warranty on the ARCC Intelligent Drive System, we will also honour the remainder of your existing Brompton warranty. 

Which lighting systems work with the ARCC e²-pod?

Lighting systems that do not interfere with the position of the e²-pod, and also don’t use a front hub dynamo, can be used with the system.

You can use any of the USB-C ports on the e²-pod to charge battery-powered lights which charge through USB. You can use the USB cable supplied for charging the Bluetooth Remote, if the lights have a USB Micro-B connector.

For our Brompton customers, we recommend the Cateye Volt400, available from Brompton.

Are you developing or planning to add lighting options to your system?

We are working on a number of new developments to complement the e²-pod Intelligent Drive System. However, there are no immediate plans to release any lighting options, and we recommend that anybody who needs lights should purchase an independent product.

What is the difference between the e²-pod Gen I and e²-pod Gen II?

Both generations of the e²-pod feature the same state-of-the-art technology developed by ARCC at our Research and Development facility in Cambridge.

The main differences between the models are:

The e²-pod Gen I can be removed from the bike, and also has physical red control dials located on the top of the pod.

The e²-pod Gen II is fixed to the bike, and is controlled by a removable Bluetooth controller, rather than any physical dials.

I have a Gen I  e²-pod - how should I clean the pins / connections?

 We advise that you use a dry soft brush to clean the pins and contacts. Do not use any liquids, chemicals or WD40.

Both the M and A mode allow the rider to have complete control over the assist level. The torque sensor allows the system to detect a harder pedalling motion, and automatically provide more assistance within the chosen assist level setting. This results in a very natural cycling action, but with the sensation of being given a gentle boost.

The A mode utilises the in-built Inclinometer / Accelerometer sensor which allows the e²-pod to recognise hills and gradients, and provide automatic compensation accordingly, by increasing or decreasing the power delivered. This results in the riders exertion levels remaining virtually constant, as if travelling on the flat, even when tackling hills.

Is the Bluetooth controller included with the e²-pod Intelligent Drive System?

The Bluetooth controller can be bought as an optional extra for the e²-pod Gen I.

 It is included as standard with the e²-pod Gen II.

What is the range of the e²-pod with the 4Ah battery fitted?

Up to 35km depending on riding style.

What is the range of the e²-pod with the 6Ah battery fitted?

Up to 50km depending on riding style.

What is the range of the e²-pod with the 9Ah battery fitted?

Up to 75km depending on riding style.

How long does it take to charge the battery?

4.0Ah – 35-80 Minutes full charge dependant on charger
used. Please refer to the Bosch documentation supplied with the user guide for further information.

6.0Ah – 50-105 Mins full charge dependant on charger used
Please refer to the Bosch documentation supplied with the
user guide for further information.

9.0Ah – up to 50 Mins full charge using suggested charger.

Can I take my bike fitted with the ARCC system on an airplane?

Yes - up to two 4.0Ah batteries are currently allowed for travel with most airlines.

For up to date information, please check the restricted items list for the airline you are travelling with.

How long does the Bluetooth remote last before needing re-charge

A fully charged Bluetooth remote will last for at least 30 hours. Remember to turn it off after use, as it will continue to use the same amount of power even when disconnected from the bike.

How long does it take to charge the Bluetooth remote?

A completely discharged battery should recharge between 1-2 hours.

What warranty / guarantee does my bike / system have

All ARCC Bikes and, e²-pod Intelligent Drive Systems come complete with a 5-year frame warranty. For Brompton conversions we take on the remainder of the Brompton warranty.

For full terms please see our Terms Of Service.

Can I use my existing Brompton bag, with the system on my bike?

Yes – you can purchase the bag conversion kit here.

Can you fit the system to my Brompton superlight (titanium forks)

Yes

Is the maximum speed limited?

The speed is not limited, but the electric motor will not assist you when you’re travelling more than 25 km/h (15.5mph).

Can the e²-pod be removed for 'off-road' use?

The speed permitted abides by current UK legislation (harmonised with EU Directive 2002/24/EC), and we have not provided for modification for 'off-road' use.

The blue light on the Bluetooth remote sometimes goes out when riding - is this a problem?

If this happens, you will not be able to change the assistance setting until the blue light is back on. However, this will not interfere with your ride, and you will be able to continue on the same setting as previously selected.

Do you need to modify the fork on Brompton bikes, to fit the system?

No

Do you have an App?

Yes - we currently have an app, although this is only available on Apple devices.

Can I bring my ARCC bike to you for a service?

Yes - please email info@arcc.co.uk or call 01223 893 290 to book in.

Can I fit the e²-pod system to my bike myself?

No - the system is fitted at the ARCC Bikes in Cambridge, by our team of trusted experts.

Can the e²-pod be fitted to any bike?

No - the system can currently be fitted to Brompton, Moulton TSR and Airnimal Joey bikes as standard, but please contact us for bespoke enquiries and we will help where possible.