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Trigger Mode vs Gear Mode: Which Should You Use?Updated 5 hours ago

The V3 Controller gives you two different ways to control motor power:

  • Trigger Mode – Traditional proportional throttle control.
  • Gear Mode – Fixed power levels with instant access to full power using the Boost button.

Neither mode is "better" than the other—they're simply designed for different riding styles and preferences.

This guide explains how each mode works and how to choose the one that's right for you.

Trigger Mode

Trigger Mode works like a traditional throttle.

The further you pull the trigger, the more power the motor produces.

Every movement of your finger directly changes the throttle output, giving you complete control over acceleration and power delivery.

Best for

  • Riders who prefer precise throttle control.
  • Experienced users.
  • Riders who like adjusting power continuously.
  • Technical riding where fine throttle inputs are beneficial.

Advantages

  • Smooth, proportional throttle control.
  • Immediate response to trigger movement.
  • Familiar operation for most riders.
  • Ideal when you prefer to manually control every level of power.

Using Boost in Trigger Mode

In Trigger Mode:

  • 0–95% trigger travel provides normal throttle control.
  • 95–100% trigger travel activates Boost.

Once Boost has been used, release the trigger and allow approximately six seconds before activating it again.

Gear Mode

Gear Mode works differently.

Instead of controlling every percentage of throttle with your finger, you choose one of five programmable gears.

Each gear represents a maximum throttle limit.

For example:

  • Gear 1 = Low power
  • Gear 2 = Moderate cruising power
  • Gear 3 = Medium power
  • Gear 4 = High power
  • Gear 5 = Maximum cruising power

When you pull the trigger fully, the controller only delivers power up to the limit you've assigned to that gear.

This creates a much more consistent riding experience.

Using Boost in Gear Mode

Gear Mode introduces another feature.

While holding full throttle, simply press and hold the Boost (B) button.

While the button is held:

  • The controller temporarily overrides your selected gear.
  • Full motor power becomes available.
  • Releasing the button immediately returns to your selected gear.

This allows you to cruise comfortably while instantly accessing extra power whenever it's required.

Why Choose Gear Mode?

Gear Mode was designed to reduce the need for precise finger control.

Instead of constantly adjusting throttle position, you can:

  • Hold full trigger comfortably.
  • Focus on your balance and body position.
  • Let the selected gear maintain a consistent power level.

Many riders find this particularly useful when:

  • Starting from the water.
  • Standing up onto the board.
  • Riding in rough conditions.
  • Learning new manoeuvres.

Example Setup

To get the most out of Gear Mode, program the gears for different situations rather than spacing them evenly.

For example:

Gear
Example Use
  Gear 1    Slow manoeuvring near the beach or around rocks.   
  Gear 2    Comfortable cruising.
  Gear 3    Slightly more power as battery charge decreases.
  Gear 4    Faster cruising or stronger conditions.
  Gear 5    High-speed riding without using Boost.


This provides small, predictable increases in power as battery voltage naturally decreases throughout your session.

Which Mode Should Beginners Use?

Both modes can work well for beginners, but they achieve it differently.

Trigger Mode

If you want to limit maximum power for a new rider, reduce the maximum throttle percentage.

This automatically disables Boost, making the controller easier to manage.

Ideal for:

  • Children.
  • First-time riders.
  • Coaching sessions.
  • Learning basic throttle control.

Gear Mode

If a rider needs lower cruising power but occasional access to maximum performance, Gear Mode is often the better option.

The rider can:

  • Cruise using a comfortable gear.
  • Press the Boost (B) button only when additional power is needed.

Which Mode Uses Less Battery?

Neither mode is inherently more efficient.

Battery consumption depends on how much throttle you use.

However, many riders find Gear Mode encourages smoother, more consistent riding and reduces unnecessary bursts of acceleration, which can improve overall battery efficiency during longer sessions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which mode does my controller start in?

Your controller will come factory set to gear mode.

You can change between Trigger Mode and Gear Mode at any time through the controller menu.

Can I switch modes during a session?

Yes.

Trigger Mode and Gear Mode can be changed whenever required through the controller settings.

Does Gear Mode make the board slower?

No.

Gear Mode simply limits throttle to the value you've programmed for each gear.

You can still access full power instantly by pressing the Boost (B) button.

Can I customise the gears?

Yes.

All five gears are fully programmable.

You can set each gear to suit your riding style, equipment and conditions.

Which mode should I choose?

Choose Trigger Mode if you:

  • Like precise throttle control.
  • Prefer manually adjusting power.
  • Want a familiar trigger feel.

Choose Gear Mode if you:

  • Prefer consistent cruising power.
  • Want less finger fatigue.
  • Like having instant Boost available without managing trigger position.
  • Frequently ride in changing conditions.

Many experienced riders use Gear Mode as their everyday riding mode because it provides predictable cruising with immediate access to full power when required.

Best Practice

Experiment with both modes over several sessions.

Every rider develops different preferences depending on:

  • Rider weight.
  • Foil size.
  • Board setup.
  • Water conditions.
  • Personal riding style.

The V3 Controller allows you to switch between modes at any time, so don't be afraid to try both and find what feels most natural.

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