Skip to main content

What is the CANBUS protocol?


CANBUS is the acronym for Controller Area Network BUS. This is one of the standard communications protocols used in many industries especially the automotive industry.


How will it affect the eBike user?

  • The motor speed limit is fixed to a specific value and cannot be freely changed.

  • You cannot program your motor to tweak individual parameters.

  • You can upload a preset program file using a special BESST Tool to limit the top speed as per the regulatory requirement in your area.

  • The preset Program file is sent by BAFANG through BEB.

  • Presently only one file per customer is allowed once in a motor's lifecycle.

  • BEB will provide the article/ firmware uploading steps.

  • You need to buy the BESST Tool either from BEB or any aftermarket retailer.

  • The previous firmware cannot be re-installed.

  • BEB does not warranty motor malfunctioning/ bricking after/ during the firmware upload procedure by the end-user for any reason whatsoever.

  • Aftermarket programming for these controllers is not currently available, however, the eBike community has been working on it as seen on various conversations on www.endless-sphere.com

Keep on reading if you want to learn more about the UART protocol.

What is the UART Protocol?

UART is the acronym for "Universal Asynchronous Receiver-Transmitter" and is the name for one of the most commonly used eBike Motor communications protocols.

How will this affect you as an eBike rider?

  • The motor speed limit on your bike can be freely changed at any time.

  • You can program your motor to tweak individual parameters and customize your motor response to the type of riding you do using a Bafang Motor programming cable.

  • You can upload preset programming files provided by Biktrix or from other online sources.

  • You have many options for different aftermarket displays if you don't necessarily like the one that comes with your bike!

  • Changing motor settings can result in frying your controller or motor requiring these to be replaced. Before making changes you should do proper research to ensure you will not cause such damage and changes are made at your own risk. Warranty may be void if motor settings are changed beyond manufacturer limits.

Keep on scrolling for a quick summary of the main differences.

Differences Between CANBUS and UART

Check the table below for a side-by-side summary of the differences between UART and CANBUS Protocols for an eBike rider.

UART

CANBUS

Changing the Speed Limit from the display?

YES

NO

Motor Settings Customizable?

YES

NO

Swapping to a different model of display?

YES

NO