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How to Perform a Hill Start on FONZ Vehicles with Regenerative Braking

FONZ electric scooters and motorcycles are equipped with regenerative braking (regen) that is activated through the front and rear brake levers. This setup improves power efficiency and control, but it does change the technique required for hill starts compared to petrol vehicles. This article explains why hill starts feel different, how to do them smoothly, and what options you have if you prefer a different setup.

Understanding Regen on FONZ Vehicles

  • The front and rear brake levers activate regenerative braking when you lightly engage the brakes

  • When regen is engaged, the motor will not deliver drive torque

  • This means if the rear brake is on, the bike will not move forward, even if you apply throttle

On a hill, this can feel like the bike is “holding back” until the timing is right.

 
Hill Start Technique (With Regen Enabled)

To perform a smooth hill start, you’ll need to coordinate the rear brake release and throttle input.

Step-by-Step

  1. Stop on the hill using the rear brake

    • Keep the rear brake engaged to prevent rolling backward

  2. Prepare the throttle

    • Gently apply a very small amount of throttle

    • Think pre-loading the throttle rather than accelerating

    • You may twist the throttle slightly above zero, but do not open it aggressively

  3. Release the rear brake smoothly

    • As you release the brake, regen disengages

    • The motor will immediately begin delivering torque

    • Once the bike starts moving, apply throttle normally and ride away

      Continue rolling on the throttle 

TIP: the bike will only drive forward once the rear brake (regen) is released

Common Mistakes to Avoid

❌ Holding the rear brake while opening the throttle fully

❌ Snapping the brake off suddenly

❌ Expecting the bike to creep forward while regen is engaged

 

TIP: Smoothness and timing are more important than throttle strength

 

Optional: Disabling Regen on the Rear Brake

If you prefer a more traditional hill-start feel, regen on the rear brake can be disabled.

When regen is disabled:

  • You can hold the rear brake

  • Apply light throttle at the same time

  • The motor will deliver torque even while the brake is engaged

This setup allows hill starts that feel closer to:

  • A petrol motorcycle however you will lose regenerative power recovery on brake sensor

If you’re interested in this option, contact FONZ Service to discuss whether it’s suitable for your riding style and vehicle model.