Guide
Getting started with SmartBrake for cyclists
SmartBrake is an assistive braking system. This guide covers receiving and operating the system. Use the instructions for use for the product and setup.
This guide is for:
- cyclists
- parents
- companions
- carers
If you are installing the complete brake system on the bicycle, use the Technician Guide instead.
1. What is in the box?
The SmartBrake package may include:
- SmartBrake unit
- one or more controllers
- charger
- straps or mounts
- support card with QR code
Some setups also include a physical brake lever and brake components that are already installed or ready for installation.
2. Get to know the controller
SmartBrake can be supplied with one or more controllers.
Hand Controller
A wireless remote control often used by a companion to brake when needed.
Brake Lever Slim
A brake lever for operating SmartBrake.
Thumb Brake
A wireless brake activated with the thumb. Some cyclists find this easier and more natural than pulling a lever.
3. How to switch on SmartBrake
Press the button on the SmartBrake unit once.
When SmartBrake starts:
- red lights come on
- the system carries out a safety check
- fail-safe is active at startup
This means the wheels may remain locked until you activate the controller.
4. Release fail-safe before cycling
If fail-safe cannot be resolved, stop using the equipment and contact SmartGroup or a qualified professional. Follow the user manual for your configuration.
5. Test the brakes before every ride
Before the first ride, and regularly afterwards, carry out a simple brake check.
Quick test
- walk beside the bicycle
- push it slowly forwards
- activate the controller
- check that the bicycle clearly brakes or stops
First ride
Test the brakes at a very low speed in a safe area without traffic or pedestrians.
If the brake feels weak, slow or abnormal, stop and contact support.
6. Switch off SmartBrake after your ride
To switch off SmartBrake, hold down the button on the unit for approximately 3 seconds until the light indicates that the system is switching off.
If SmartBrake is left on for more than 1 hour without the brake being used, the system switches off automatically to save power. When this happens, the parking brake is activated at the same time.
7. Keep the battery charged
The SmartBrake unit must be charged regularly. If the battery level becomes low, the system indicates this with lights.
A low battery level can affect how the system behaves and, in some cases, cause fail-safe to activate.
Older versions of the brake unit use Micro USB, while versions supplied from May 2026 use USB-C. Remember that the controllers also have their own batteries, which must be replaced when needed.
Low battery — unit
Low battery — controller
Charging the unit
8. If you are unsure about power or the battery
If SmartBrake does not respond as expected:
- check that the unit is switched on
- check the battery status
- check that the controller has battery power and is connected
See the separate guides to charging, light signals and troubleshooting if you need more help.
Important points to remember
- Charge the SmartBrake unit regularly
- Replace the controller battery when needed
- If the wheel remains locked, see the fail-safe guide
- If the controller does not connect, see the pairing guide
- If you see warning lights, see the light signals guide
Need help?
If you contact support, include:
- SmartBrake serial number
- bicycle make and model
- a brief description of the problem
- a short video, if possible