This page is part of the ONYX Electrical Electronics Guide
This post explains how the ONYX electrical system works at a system level. While individual guides cover wiring, displays, and accessories, this page focuses on how all electrical components interact.
Use this page to understand power flow, system structure, and how different electrical subsystems connect before working on wiring or installing components.
- Start here to understand the full electrical system
- Use this as a reference before modifying wiring
- This page connects high-voltage and low-voltage systems
Electrical System Overview
ONYX bikes operate using two primary electrical systems that run simultaneously.
| System | Voltage | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| High-voltage drivetrain | 72V / 80V | Drives the motor |
| Low-voltage system | 12V | Powers electronics and accessories |
These systems are connected through a DC-DC converter, which steps high voltage down to 12V.
Power Flow Through The Bike
At a system level, electrical energy moves through the ONYX platform in three main paths.
| Path | Flow |
|---|---|
| Drivetrain | Battery → Controller → Motor |
| Accessories | Battery → DC-DC → 12V system |
| Charging | Wall AC → Charger → Battery |
Each path operates independently but shares the same battery.
Core Electrical Components
Understanding the main components helps clarify how the system behaves.
| Component | Function | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Battery | Stores energy | 72V or 80V lithium system |
| Controller | Converts DC to 3-phase AC | Controls motor behavior |
| Motor | Produces torque | Hub motor on rear wheel |
| DC-DC Converter | Steps voltage to 12V | Powers accessories |
| Wiring Harness | Distributes power and signals | Connects all systems |
| Display | Rider interface | Shows speed and system data |
High-Voltage Drivetrain
The high-voltage system is responsible for propulsion.
| Element | Role |
|---|---|
| Battery | Supplies high-current DC power |
| Controller | Converts DC into AC waveforms |
| Motor | Converts electrical energy into motion |
This system operates at high current and should not be modified without proper understanding.
12V Accessory System
The 12V system powers all low-voltage electronics.
| Component | Example |
|---|---|
| Lighting | Headlight, taillight |
| Controls | Display, switches |
| Accessories | USB chargers, GPS, cameras |
This system is where most rider modifications occur.
DC-DC Converter Role
The DC-DC converter connects both systems.
| Input | Output |
|---|---|
| 72V / 80V battery | 12V accessory power |
Key characteristics:
- Limited current output
- Shared with factory systems
- Must be respected when adding accessories
Overloading the converter can cause instability or electrical issues.
Wiring Structure
ONYX wiring is organized through harnesses that distribute both power and signal connections.
| Harness | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Main harness | Connects battery, controller, and key systems |
| Lighting harness | Provides 12V to lights |
| Accessory taps | Used for add-ons |
Clean wiring and proper routing are critical for reliability.
Relationship To Other Guides
This page explains system-level behavior. For detailed implementation, refer to:
Use this page first, then move into detailed guides.
Common Mistakes
Electrical issues are often caused by misunderstanding system limits.
- Treating the 12V system as unlimited
- Overloading the DC-DC converter
- Mixing high-voltage and low-voltage wiring incorrectly
- Skipping fuse protection
Understanding system structure prevents most problems.
Where To Start
If you are new to ONYX electrical systems:
- Review this system overview
- Read the ONYX Wiring Guide
- Plan accessory power requirements
- Add components gradually and test
This approach reduces risk and keeps the system stable.
Quick Reference
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| What powers the motor? | High-voltage battery through controller |
| What powers accessories? | 12V system via DC-DC converter |
| Where should I modify wiring? | 12V system only |
| What connects everything? | Wiring harness |
| What converts voltage? | DC-DC converter |