Ultima Electric Bikes Automatic Gearbox

The Valeo Cyclee automatic gearbox: technology that transforms the Ultima Mobility electric bike experience

In the world of electric bikes, we often talk about range, battery, or motor power. But if there's one innovation that truly changes the way we pedal, without many cyclists yet fully appreciating its impact, it's the integration of the motor and transmission into a single intelligent unit.

This is exactly the choice made by Ultima Mobility, a French brand renowned for its innovative electric bikes that prioritize "simplicity and lightness," with the integration of the Valeo Cyclee automatic gearbox into its Multipath and Larrun Longtail ranges.

And this integration changes everything! Fluidity, safety, performance, accessibility, etc.

One thing is for sure, this automatic gearbox completely transforms your riding experience and ushers Ultima bikes into a new era…

What is a motor with an integrated automatic gearbox?

How the Valeo Cyclee automatic gearbox actually works: the torque sensor, the key element, it's a good understanding of the user's wishes in their environment.

To understand what makes the Valeo Cyclee system so different, we must first look at its internal workings.

A motor directly connected to the rear wheel through a gear reduction defined by the manufacturer, this prevents the torque applied to the wheel from changing during gear shifts.

A pedal assembly that passes through a gearbox and provides additional torque to the system, and this torque will vary depending on the engaged gear.

Finally, the core of this technology relies on a series of sensors and the market's torquiest(*) motor with 130Nm at startup. The sensors continuously send information to the internal intelligence to adapt the power delivered and the gear ratio to be engaged.

• an extremely precise torque sensor, capable of continuously measuring the exact force you apply to your bike's pedals.
• a "gyroscope" sensor to assess whether the bike is going over uneven terrain.
• a speed sensor to adapt the calibration to the bike's speed and also provide more torque at low speeds and ensure maximum assisted speed control.
• a throttle to allow the user to get a "boost" for overtaking, for example, and this function will only be operational if the cyclist is pedaling.
• the selection of an optimum pedaling cadence for each of our users, which will have been configured with a single click.

Finally, real-time data processing to constantly improve your experience.

This data is not just used to power electric assistance. It is processed in real time by an algorithm capable of interpreting your movement at an extremely high frequency. Thanks to this continuous analysis, the motor automatically adjusts the power it delivers, selects the most suitable gear, and smooths out every acceleration.

This internal intelligence will analyze all these factors every second to offer you the best compromise and enjoyment of use without having to understand how the derailleurs of our Tour de France champions work.

Everything is designed to avoid jolts, slipping sensations, or gear jumps. It is this instant processing that gives the impression of precise, fluid, and perfectly controlled car-like driving.

A system with a higher level of reliability than the market

Unlike some systems on the market that merely imitate an automatic gearbox via an electronic derailleur or a hybrid device, the Valeo Cyclee automatic gearbox is a true mechanical transmission fully integrated into a durable, hermetically sealed casing.

This means no exposed cables, no adjustments needed, and no synchronization for the user to manage. The motor unit thus offers a level of reliability rather rare in the electric bike world and quite similar to what is found in automobiles.

It is also important to note that the system allows for a chain that always stays in line, and it is common to see a chain or belt reach 10,000 km without replacement, thus reducing maintenance costs for the user.

How does it work for the user?

It's simple and hassle-free!

• You set your cadence with 1 click.
• If you're pedaling, the gear ratio engages as needed.
• The motor adapts by taking into account your performance preference (Eco / Turbo or Predict, which allows fluctuation between modes).
• If you exert force, it adjusts the pedaling torque and assists you more.
• If you accelerate, it shifts gears automatically.
• If you slow down, it downshifts.

The user no longer manages the technical aspects. They simply enjoy the ride with a comfort that few competing bikes can offer. But to experience it, you first have to try it, so why not visit one of our dealers and test it for yourself?

The fundamental differences with a classic transmission

When comparing Cyclee to classic systems, the distinctions are clear.

A classic derailleur: powerful but exposed

A traditional derailleur, even a high-performance one, remains exposed to shocks, rain, wear, and requires regular adjustments. It can derail, stain clothes, and forces the cyclist to anticipate each gear change. It requires annual maintenance and frequent replacements.

Internal hub: clean but still manual

Internal hub gears, on the other hand, are cleaner and require less maintenance, but they still require manual gear shifting. They can sometimes crunch when shifting gears from a standstill or under heavy load, especially on hills.

Valeo Cyclee: automatic, intelligent, integrated

With Valeo Cyclee, the approach is radically different. The user has nothing to do: no levers to manipulate, no adjustments to monitor, no unpleasant surprises. The transmission automatically selects the best gear, at the most opportune moment, regardless of the terrain or situation. The result is consistently fluid riding, enhanced durability, and constant comfort, both in the city and on the most demanding climbs.

The real benefits for the user

Unparalleled comfort: pedaling that adapts to you

One of the first benefits felt with the Cyclee automatic gearbox is this immediate sensation of comfort. Whether you have used an electric bike before or not, the difference is noticeable from your very first pedal strokes.

You just ride. The bike takes care of the rest. What more could you ask for?

The automatic gearbox adjusts the transmission to maintain a regular and pleasant cadence, giving the impression of being carried by the bike rather than having to adapt to it.

Enhanced security: lockable motor + balance bike mode

The Valeo Cyclee device not only makes the user experience smoother but also significantly more secure, which is an essential element when it comes to electric bikes.

Security is enhanced thanks to the electronic locking integrated into the transmission. From the Ultima app (available via the App Store or Google Play Store), it is possible to remotely block the motor, making the bike impossible to use or move. Combined with the balance bike mode (a padlock appears on the bike's screen), which mechanically prevents rotation, and the optional GPS, you benefit from a real barrier against theft, perfectly integrated into the bike's mechanics.

In short:

• A thief cannot "force" the transmission.
• The bike becomes impossible to ride.

More intuitive riding: who is this system for and why was it designed?

With this automatic gearbox motor, riding becomes incredibly intuitive, even for people with no electric bike experience.

• No need to understand gear ratios, or anticipate gear changes.
• No need to be athletic.
• No need to know about mechanics.

The bike does everything.

This is what makes it a perfect bike for:

• those who want an intuitive bike
• those who want a reliable and durable electric bike
• women in urban attire
• novice users
• cyclists tired of mechanical adjustments
• seniors
• daily use
• "hassle-free" mobility

In short, Ultima bikes equipped with the Valeo Cyclee system are made for those who want to enjoy a unique experience with an e-bike that naturally adapts to their pace, without the accompanying mechanical complexity.

A motor designed to last: Valeo's automotive influence

Valeo brings 100 years of automotive expertise to the electric bike world. And you can feel it when you ride bikes that incorporate this technology.

The components are designed to withstand hours of use, bad weather, temperature variations, and repeated mechanical stresses. The casing is sealed, the gears are reinforced, and the internal mechanisms benefit from electronic control comparable to that of a modern car engine.

Thanks to this industrial approach, Valeo Cyclee guarantees a much longer lifespan than traditional systems. It is not a fragile mechanism requiring monthly adjustment. In reality, it is one of the rare systems designed, from its manufacture, for daily, demanding, and durable use, while taking into account the real situations users face on the road.

Why is Ultima Mobility one of the few brands to integrate it?

A frame specially designed for this integrated motor

Integrating Cyclee into a bike is not just about adding a motor to a frame. This technological block imposes very specific constraints.

However, Ultima's monobloc frames are light, balanced, and produced using a unique manufacturing process that ideally meets these requirements, thus allowing perfect motor integration while improving bike stability. This process is explained in more detail in the appendix of our article on the lightness of Ultima frames and bikes.

A level of technological integration rare on the market

This combination of technologies (unique monobloc frame; Valeo motor + gearbox; Ultima mobile application with integrated security), uncommon on the market, places Ultima in a category apart, even among French electric bike manufacturers.

The Cyclee automatic gearbox is not a gadget, it's a new way of cycling

The integration of the Valeo Cyclee system into Ultima bikes is not a marketing argument. Today, it's a new way of experiencing mobility with:

• Superior comfort
• Maximum safety
• Integrated and clean transmission
• Powerful and durable motor
• More intuitive riding
• Automotive technology adapted to bicycles
• And a perfect balance between performance and simplicity

If you're looking for an electric bike that thinks for you, adapts to your effort, and requires no technical adjustments, then an Ultima bike equipped with the Valeo Cyclee automatic gearbox will probably be your best option!

(*) : The power of an electric motor corresponds to the torque multiplied by the rotational speed "P=CxW"