The V3 Controller includes two independent lock functions designed to improve rider safety.

Although they both use the word "lock", they perform very different jobs.

• Lock on Start prevents accidental throttle activation when the controller is first powered on.
• Throttle Auto Lock automatically re-locks the controller after a period of inactivity.

Understanding how these features work will help you choose the right settings for your riding style.

Lock on Start

What is Lock on Start?

Lock on Start is a safety feature that keeps the controller locked every time it is powered on.

Before throttle can be used, you must deliberately unlock the controller.

This prevents accidental motor activation immediately after turning the controller on.

Lock on Start is enabled by default.

How do I unlock the controller?

When the controller starts, the display will show LOCK.

To unlock it:

1. Press and hold the B button.
2. Continue holding until the controller unlocks.
3. Normal throttle operation is restored.

Once unlocked, the controller remains unlocked until it is switched off or another lock function activates.

Can I disable Lock on Start?

Yes.

Navigate to:

Menu 8 → Lock on Start

Choose:

• ON – Controller starts locked (recommended).
• OFF – Controller starts ready to use.

Foil Drive recommends leaving this feature enabled, as it provides an additional layer of safety before entering the water.

Throttle Auto Lock

What is Throttle Auto Lock?

Throttle Auto Lock automatically locks the controller after a period of throttle inactivity.

Unlike Lock on Start, this feature works during your session.

If you haven't used the throttle for the configured time, the controller automatically returns to the locked state.

How do I configure Throttle Auto Lock?

Navigate to:

Menu 9 → THR Auto Lock

Select a delay between:

• OFF
• 1–100 seconds

For example:

Setting the timer to 6 seconds means the controller will automatically lock if no throttle input is detected for six seconds.

How do I unlock it again?

Simply:

1. Press and hold the B button.
2. Wait until the controller unlocks.
3. Continue riding.

Who should use Throttle Auto Lock?

Throttle Auto Lock is particularly useful for:

• First-time riders
• Foil schools
• Coaching sessions
• Young riders
• Anyone learning to foil

When learning, riders often spend time climbing back onto the board after falling.

If the controller automatically locks during this time, there is less chance of accidental throttle input while repositioning or handling the board.

Do experienced riders use Throttle Auto Lock?

Many experienced riders choose not to.

For example, when surfing larger waves, riders may want to restart quickly after falling.

Waiting to unlock the controller before accelerating again may not suit every riding situation.

Whether you use Throttle Auto Lock comes down to your riding style and the conditions you're riding in.

Lock on Start vs Throttle Auto Lock

Why won't my controller unlock?

The most common cause is confusion between the different lock functions.

Before troubleshooting, check:

• Is Lock on Start enabled?
• Is Throttle Auto Lock enabled?
• Is the Tilt Sensor currently locking the motor because the board is upside down or outside the configured tilt angle?

If the Tilt Sensor is active, holding the B button will not remove the tilt lock until the board returns to the correct orientation.

I'm pressing the B button but nothing happens

If the controller isn't unlocking:

✔ Check the board is the correct way up.

✔ Check whether the Tilt Sensor has activated.

✔ Confirm whether Throttle Auto Lock has re-engaged.

✔ If you're unsure which safety features are enabled, temporarily disable Lock on Start and the Tilt Sensor, then review your settings after your session.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use both lock functions together?

Yes.

Lock on Start and Throttle Auto Lock operate independently and can both be enabled at the same time.

Does Lock on Start affect riding?

No.

It only operates when the controller is first powered on.

Does Throttle Auto Lock activate while I'm riding?

No.

The timer only counts when there has been no throttle input for the configured period.

Normal riding continuously resets the timer.

Is Throttle Auto Lock recommended?

Foil Drive strongly recommends using it when:

• Learning to foil.
• Teaching new riders.
• Operating in a coaching or school environment.

More experienced riders may choose to disable it depending on their riding style.

Best Practice

For most riders, Foil Drive recommends:

• Lock on Start: ON
• Throttle Auto Lock: OFF for experienced riders, or 5–10 seconds when learning or teaching.

These settings provide an excellent balance between convenience and safety while allowing you to tailor the controller to your experience level.