1. Introduction
The Varstrom VD18MT is a state-of-the-art color touchscreen e-bike display designed to provide intuitive control and comprehensive ride information. Featuring a responsive 1.45-inch TFT screen, robust IP67 waterproofing, and Bluetooth connectivity, it offers a smart upgrade for modern e-bike riders. This manual provides detailed instructions for installation, operation, maintenance, and troubleshooting to ensure optimal performance and user experience.
2. Safety Precautions
- Always ensure the display is securely mounted before riding.
- Do not attempt to adjust settings or operate the display in a way that distracts you from riding.
- Avoid using electrical or pneumatic tools for assembly, as excessive torque can damage parts.
- Do not adjust the viewing angle before loosening the mounting screws.
- The display is IP67 waterproof, but avoid prolonged submersion or high-pressure water jets.
- If the display is set with a start password, it will only function normally after the correct password is entered.
- In case of error codes, refer to the troubleshooting section and address the issue before continuing to ride.
3. Specifications
The Varstrom VD18MT display offers the following technical specifications:
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Product Model | VD18MT |
| Display Type | 1.45-inch TFT screen (IPS 172*320 pixel), Capacitive single-touch screen |
| Operating Voltage (Low Voltage Version) | 24V/36V/48V/52V |
| Operating Voltage (High Voltage Version) | 48V/52V/60V/72V |
| Maximum Output Current to Controller | 1A, off-leakage current <5µA |
| Operating Temperature | -15°C ~ 40°C |
| Storage Temperature | -20°C ~ 50°C |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 |
| Compliance | EN15194/2017, RoHS |
| Shell Material | ABS+PC |
| Panel Material | Tempered glass |
| Holder Size | φ22.2mm |
| Default Advanced Settings Password | 1919 |
4. Setup
4.1. Assembly Instructions
- Mount the VD18MT display on your handlebar. The holder is designed for a φ22.2mm handlebar.
- Connect the display cable to your e-bike's controller. Ensure the connector type matches your device.
- Tighten the mounting screws. Pay attention to the torque value: Standard (STD) = 0.50 N.M, Maximum (MAX) = 0.70 N.M. Exceeding the maximum torque can damage the part.
- Do not adjust the viewing angle before loosening the screws.
4.2. APP Installation (for Bluetooth features)
The VD18MT display supports Bluetooth connectivity with the "I-Bike" mobile application for enhanced features like navigation and ride data. To install the app:
- Scan the QR code provided in the original manual or visit www.aptdevelop.com via your mobile browser. The download link is available at the bottom of the page.
4.3. Bluetooth Pairing
To pair your VD18MT display with the "I-Bike" app:
- Ensure Bluetooth is enabled on your mobile phone.
- Open the "I-Bike" app and tap "Pairing".
- The app will search for available displays. Select your VD18MT display from the list.
- A "Bluetooth pairing request" dialog box will appear. Enter the 6-digit pairing key displayed on the Bluetooth interface of your VD18MT display.
- Tap "OK" to complete the pairing process.
Once successfully paired, a Bluetooth icon will appear in blue on the display, and the "I-Bike" app will enter its main interface. The display can then show reminder icons for incoming calls or messages.
4.4. Initial Settings
After powering on, you can access the menu to configure various settings. Swipe down from the top of the screen on the Main interface to enter the MENU settings. Use touch screen controls to adjust parameters.
4.4.1. Language
The default language is English and cannot be adjusted.
4.4.2. System (Metric/Imperial)
Navigate to EBike settings > System to select between Metric (KM) or Imperial (MILE) units.
4.4.3. Wheelsize
In EBike settings > Wheelsize, select your wheel diameter from 4.0 to 35.0 inches. Incorrect selection can lead to inaccurate speed readings.
4.4.4. Voltage
In EBike settings > Voltage, select your battery voltage setting: Controller/36V/48V/52V (or other supported voltages based on your display version).
4.4.5. Battery Indication
In EBike settings > Battery Ind, set how the battery remaining charge is displayed on the main interface: 'Off', 'Voltage', or 'Percentage'.
4.4.6. Power Indication
In EBike settings > Pow Ind, set the power indicator on the Main Page to 'Off', 'Power(W)', or 'Current(A)'. Note: This indicates the battery's output power, not the motor's.
5. Operation
5.1. Power On/Off
Press and hold the POWER button for 2 seconds to turn the display on or off. The display will automatically turn off if there is no operation or riding for 5 minutes (this auto-off time can be adjusted in settings).
5.2. User Interface Navigation
The display features a touch screen for easy navigation. Swipe left or right on the screen to switch between the General Interface, Minimalist Interface, Information Interface, and Bluetooth Interface.
5.3. Main Interface Information
The main display provides comprehensive ride data:
- Battery/Voltage: Capacity (percentage) or voltage.
- Battery Indication: Provides a reliable battery power indicator.
- Headlight: Headlight on/off status.
- Brake: Displayed when braking.
- Power: Real-time Power or Current.
- Speed/Mileage/Riding-time: Includes TRIP A (resets after power-off), TRIP B (saved after power-off), Odometer, AVG Speed, MAX Speed, RANGE (controller support required), TIME A (resets after power-off), TIME B (saved after power-off), TOTAL TIME.
- Speed Value: Real-time Speed, Km/h or MPH.
- Speed Limit Sign: Displayed when the "25 km/h Quick-Set Speed Limit" function is enabled.
- Errors Code: Displayed when checking errors.
- Bluetooth Indication: Displays Bluetooth connection status.
5.4. Assist Level Adjustment
Click the UP/DOWN buttons on the integrated physical control to change the assist level. The default setting is 5 levels, with 0 for neutral. Level quantities can be adjusted (3-level/5-level/9-level/UBE) in the EBike settings.
5.5. Speed & Mileage Mode
Click the POWER button to cycle through speed and mileage information on the General interface.
5.6. Headlight/Display Mode
Press and hold the UP button for 2 seconds to turn the headlight on/off. The display will switch between corresponding Day or Night modes.
5.7. Walking Mode (6 km/h)
Press and hold the DOWN button for 2 seconds to activate the 6 km/h walking assist mode. The display will show a walking icon. Release the button to exit walking mode.
5.8. 25 km/h Quick-Set Speed Limit
To quickly enable the 25 km/h speed limit function, press and hold the DOWN and POWER buttons together for 2 seconds. Once activated, the "Speed Limit" option in advanced settings will be set to "25 km/h" and locked. To deactivate, press and hold DOWN and POWER again for 2 seconds; the speed limit setting will revert to its previous configuration.
5.9. Advanced Settings
Advanced settings are password-protected to prevent unauthorized modifications. The default password is '1919'.
5.9.1. Accessing Advanced Settings
From the Main interface, swipe down from the top of the screen to enter the MENU settings. Then navigate to "EBike settings" or "Advanced setting". You will be prompted to enter the password.
5.9.2. Password Management
You can enable/disable a power-on password and set a 4-digit password. If a power-on password is set, it must be entered before the display powers on. If the correct password is not entered within the specified time or is entered incorrectly three times, the display will automatically shut down.
Password Recovery Tip: If you forget your password, try pressing the '-' button five times, then the '+' button once.
5.9.3. Speed Limit
This setting allows you to define a speed limit range from 10.0 km/h to 60.0 km/h, or 99.0 km/h (6.2 Mph to 37.2 Mph, or 61.4 Mph).
5.9.4. Data Cleanup
You can clear ride data via the following options:
- TRIP Clear: Clears 'TRIP B', 'TIME B', 'AVG', and 'MAX' data.
- ODO Clear: Clears 'TRIP B', 'TIME B', 'AVG', 'MAX', 'ODO', and 'TOTAL TIME' data.
Note: Temporary data is automatically saved when power is off. Abnormal power outages may result in data loss. TRIP A and TIME A reset after power-off. ODO and TOTAL TIME reset to zero if total mileage exceeds 99999. TRIP B and TIME B reset to zero if TRIP B exceeds 9999.9.
5.9.5. Factory Setting
Selecting 'OK' in the Factory Setting menu will restore factory defaults for TRIP B, TIME B, AVG, and MAX data, and reset all menu settings.
5.10. CAN BUS System Advanced Settings
For displays connected to a CAN BUS system (compatible with EKD01, VD04, VD18MT, DPC080, DPC010), you can program your motor directly from the screen without a USB cable. Access these settings via the Advanced Settings menu:
- Speed up Character: Adjusts the throttle response curve (smooth or punchy).
- Max Output Power: Sets the peak wattage.
- Speed limit in Gear: Allows for separate speed caps per gear.
- Start up Angel: Controls how quickly assist kicks in from a standstill.
- Information: Provides real-time Battery Info (voltage, health, capacity).
6. Maintenance
- Clean the display regularly with a soft, damp cloth. Avoid abrasive cleaners or solvents.
- The display is IP67 waterproof, meaning it is protected against dust and temporary immersion in water. However, do not intentionally submerge it for extended periods or expose it to high-pressure water jets.
- Ensure all connections are secure and free from corrosion.
- Periodically check mounting screws for tightness.
7. Troubleshooting
7.1. Error Codes
The display shows error codes at the top of the screen when the system detects an abnormality. Refer to the table below for common error codes and their descriptions:
| Error Code | Error Description |
|---|---|
| 04 | The throttle does not return |
| 05 | The throttle fault |
| 06 | Low voltage protection |
| 07 | Over voltage protection |
| 08 | The motor Hall signal line fault |
| 09 | Motor phase wire fault |
| 10 | Controller temperature is high and has reached the protection point |
| 11 | Controller temperature sensor fault |
| 12 | Current sensor fault |
| 13 | Malfunction of Battery temperature |
| 14 | Motor temperature sensor fault |
| 21 | Controller temperature sensor fault |
| 22 | BMS Communication fault |
| 23 | Headlight fault |
| 24 | Headlight sensor fault |
| 25 | Torque sensor signal fault |
| 26 | Torque sensor speed fault |
| 30 | Communication fault (The Display automatically detects communication faults and the controller does not upload this information) |
7.2. Compatibility Issues
- The VD18MT display is designed for specific protocols (CAN / UART / Tongsheng). Ensure your e-bike's controller uses a compatible protocol.
- If your controller is Bafang UART, the display should work. However, some users report that the display is only supported by Bafang UART controllers and may not work with other controllers.
- For some Android™ driven smartphones, there might be Bluetooth connection problems with the APT display due to software mismatches.
- If using a Tongsheng TSDZ16, confirm compatibility as some users have questioned if this display is compatible.
8. User Tips
- Battery Indication (TSDZ8): When the battery indicator is set to percentage on a TSDZ8 system, it might show remaining charge in 10% increments (e.g., 60% then 50%), rather than exact percentages (e.g., 53%). Plan your rides accordingly.
- Quick Speed Limiter: The quick 25 km/h speed limiter function is very convenient for quickly complying with local regulations or for specific riding conditions.
- Assist Level Adjustment: If you need to change the percentage of assist levels on a Tongsheng TSDZ16, check the display's settings or consult the Tongsheng controller manual for specific instructions, as this display's compatibility with TSDZ16 for such fine-tuning has been questioned by users.
9. Warranty & Support
9.1. Warranty Information
Varstrom provides the following warranty periods:
- Motor & Battery: 12 months quality warranty.
- Accessories & Parts: 30-day warranty for quality assurance.
9.2. Support & Maintenance Points
Varstrom has established maintenance centers globally to provide prompt support:
- Poland: (Wroclaw)
- Spain: (Lleida)
- France: (Sonnay)
- United Kingdom: (North Lanarkshire)
- Italy: (Belluno)
- Germany: (BarBel)
- United States: (Denver)
- Canada: (Winnipeg)
For questions about your e-bike, please contact your dealer first.
APT (Tianjin) Development Co., Ltd. reserves the right to modify this specification file without prior declaration. Content and image owner: APT (Tianjin) Development Co., Ltd.
Contact Information:
- Address: 1001, Building 5 HuaDing, No.1 Huake 3 Road, Binhai hi-tech Industrial Development Zone, Tianjin, China
- TEL: 86 22 26345859
- FAX: 86 22 83719955
- Email: yzhao@aptdevelop.com
- Website: www.aptdevelop.com
