E-Bike Displays Compared: DPC18, DPC245, Nucular On-Board Computer and Cycle Analyst V3
The right e-bike display depends less on screen size than on what is underneath it. A display has to speak the same language as your controller, so the first question is always which system you are running. This guide compares the four displays HPC sells: the Bafang DPC18, the Bafang DPC245, the Nucular On-Board Computer 2.0 and the Cycle Analyst V3. It lays out prices, what each one connects to, and which build each suits.
Displays at a glance
| Display | Price | Works with | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bafang DPC18 | $120 | Bafang M560, M600 and M620 Ultra, plus many Bafang motors with the triangle waterproof plug | Mid-drive builds on 31.8mm bars that want a clock and a separate control pad |
| Bafang DP C245 | $140 | Any Bafang CANBUS motor and controller unit; compatible with all HPC Trailblazer models | Trailblazer and other Bafang CANBUS builds, 31.8mm or 35mm bars |
| Nucular Tech On-Board Computer 2.0 | $130 (Revolution version $150) | All Nucular controllers | Nucular builds, including the Nucular X6F, where it is also the programming tool |
| Cycle Analyst V3 | $220 | Sits between throttle and controller; HPC versions are preprogrammed for specific bikes and kits | Data-focused builders who want detailed telemetry and limit control |
Prices and compatibility are from the product pages and can change.
Bafang DPC18: color display for the M560, M600 and M620
The DPC18 is one of Bafang's newer displays. It has a full-color screen with a speedometer layout and shows the time, power assist level, trip distance and speed. HPC's listing also highlights a more accurate battery gauge (percentage or voltage), up to 9 pedal assist levels, an easy error code list, and a USB output for charging a phone or other small devices (5V, around 0.5A). It comes with a separate plus, minus and power control pad, is plug and play on most UART systems with a green 5-pin female connection, and HPC will program it for you free of charge to match your system. HPC's DPC18 vs DPC245 comparison notes it is designed for 31.8mm handlebars.
Choose it if you run a Bafang mid-drive, have 31.8mm bars and want a clock and a dedicated control pad.
Bafang DPC245: the high-contrast CANBUS option
The DP C245 has a large, high-contrast TFT screen that stays easy to read in direct sunlight, and an extremely robust remote that is simple to use. It has a USB port for mobile devices, and optional Bluetooth connects to the Bafang Go app. It works with 36V, 48V and 52V controllers and with any Bafang CANBUS motor and controller unit, and it is compatible with all HPC Trailblazer models. It fits both 31.8mm and 35mm bars and takes up less room on the cockpit, but it does not show the time.
Choose it if you are building or maintaining a Trailblazer or another Bafang CANBUS bike, run 35mm bars, or want a cleaner cockpit. Stock on this item can vary, so check the product page for current availability. The full head-to-head is in Bafang DPC18 vs DPC245, and there is a closer look at the DP C245 Trailblazer display.
Nucular Tech On-Board Computer 2.0: display and programming tool
HPC describes the On-Board Computer 2.0 as the newest version, with a recent firmware update. It is both an intuitive display and the tool you use to program your Nucular controller, and it works with all Nucular controllers. The kit includes the computer with the latest firmware in English, a GoPro fork mount, four PHD 2.0 4-pin connectors, one 6-pin, one 8-pin and 26 crimp pins. A Revolution option is plug and play for the 9000W and 10000W Revolution, Revolution X, Revolution X9 and Revolution XX.
It is the display HPC pairs with the Nucular X6F, the controller now used in every new HPC build and kit. You can adjust power, throttle feel and battery settings from the handlebar instead of a laptop. If you prefer your phone, the Nucular Bluetooth module can be used instead of, or alongside, the display. Read more in The Nucular On-Board Computer 2.0 and our Nucular X6F specs and wiring guide.
Choose it if you run any Nucular controller. It is not optional there, since the controller needs a Nucular display or the Bluetooth module for programming.
Cycle Analyst V3: maximum data and control
The Cycle Analyst V3 is described on HPC's product page as the most feature-packed display on the market. It does more than monitor. It intercepts the throttle, brake cutoff and pedal sensor signals, then sends one throttle output to the controller. Features HPC lists include:
- Thermal rollback, which scales power back as the motor heats up when a temperature sensor is connected.
- PAS and torque sensor inputs, and e-brake inputs.
- Throttle modes, throttle input mapping and throttle ramps to soften the kick of a high-power system.
- On-the-fly limit adjustments for current, power, speed or pedal assist.
- Three mode presets, plus a battery state-of-charge estimator and low voltage cutoffs.
One warning from the product page: systems of 72V and above with a PAS or torque sensor wired directly to the CA's PAS input will very likely damage the CA and sometimes the sensor, so a DC-DC converter and some extra wiring are needed.
HPC sells three versions. The Cycle Analyst V3 Intelligent LCD Display (with mount) is $220. The Cycle Analyst V3 with Control Pod is $220 and is preprogrammed and connectorized to be plug and play for the Black Lightning (2022 to present) and HPC kits from 2023 to present. You must tell HPC which bike or kit you have so the right firmware and settings are loaded. There is also a custom version for the Revolution and Revolution X. For what the numbers mean, see E-Bike Displays and the Cycle Analyst.
Choose it if you want detailed telemetry and fine control, or you own one of the HPC bikes and kits it was preprogrammed for.
How to choose
- Start with your controller. Bafang mid-drive: DPC18 or DP C245. Nucular controller: the On-Board Computer 2.0. A Cycle Analyst setup: the CA V3 in the version made for your bike.
- Check your handlebars. The DPC18 is for 31.8mm bars. The DP C245 fits 31.8mm and 35mm.
- Decide how much data you want. A casual rider may be happy with speed and battery level. A tuner wants volts, amps and watts.
- Ask before you order. Tell HPC your motor, controller and bike so the display is programmed correctly, especially for the Cycle Analyst and DPC18.
If you are replacing a display on a current HPC build, ask HPC which one your bike uses. Newer builds pair the Nucular X6F with the Nucular On-Board Computer 2.0, as described in Nucular X6F vs Our Previous Controllers, while older builds may use a Cycle Analyst.
A note on stock
All four displays are active products, but stock changes. Check each product page for current availability, and contact HPC with your setup if you are unsure what fits.
Ride responsibly
A display that shows your speed and power does not change the rules of the road. Keep speeds and power within the limits that apply where you ride, save full power for private land and closed courses, and check your local laws.
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