What is the new Bosch Smart System?
With the shortage of parts in the industry at the moment and the relatively long lead times for new bikes, I think this news probably took most of us by surprise.
But, how new is the ‘new’ motor?
Well, actually the motor itself is exactly the same as the Gen4 Performance Line CX that is already in use and has been for the last couple of years. It is the same 250W 85Nm powerhouse that has been making us all smile, and it looks like it is here to stay.
The new system which they have decided to call their ‘Smart System’ is actually a repackaging and updating of everything wrapped around the motor to turn it into a ‘digitally connected solution for the future’.
Bosch have used the same port configuration for well over ten years meaning backwards compatibility for battery chargers and 3rd party equipment like the Rohloff hub has been pretty easy.
But with this update to the Smart System there will need to be some development from partners who want to continue working with Bosch….and that’s got to be everyone, right?
Basically everything.
There is a new 750Wh battery, new Kiox 300 display, new LED remote and new 4A charger. Oh, of course no new product would be complete these days with a snazzy new smartphone app!
So we have spoken about the new/re-packaged Smart motor, but what has changed in the other parts…here goes;
Bosch Smart System 750Wh battery
The new 750Wh battery is just a bit bigger! It uses the same great Lithium-Ion technology as the current range of 300Wh, 400Wh, 500Wh and 625Wh.
So it’s no more energy-dense, meaning you are not getting more capacity in the same size or weight of battery. It is essentially 50% longer and heavier than the 500Wh version.
But from my experience selling e-bikes, this is going to be a big hit!
I’m sure most people would be fine with a 500Wh battery, but because a 625Wh version exists they will upgrade. And, I’m sure it will be the same with the 750Wh version.
Sadly, the 750Wh battery is not compatible with the current range of power tube batteries. So, we will wait to see how manufacturers like Riese Müller who have been champions of the DualBattery technology, which enabled capacities of up to 1250Wh will adapt to this.
Maybe we will see a bike with a huge 1500Wh capacity! Though I’m not sure they could make a frame to fit this in.
Bosch Smart System 4A charger
Bosch currently have a 2A Compact, 4A Standard and 6A Fast charger available for the existing range of batteries, with charging times anything from 2.5 – 9 hours depending on the capacity of a battery.
For example 625Wh battery with a 2A charger will take 9 hours, with 6A charger, it will take 3.7 hours… So, it’s checking what charger you get with your bike.
The new Smart System 4A charger claims to be compact, lightweight, visually appealing (really?) and easy to use… Though, I’m sure plugging one end into the mains and the other into the bike has never been that difficult!
As it is the only option available for the new 750Wh Smart System battery, it guess it must be perfect.
A full charge will take 6 hours and a 50% top-up or quick charge just 2 hours. But with 750Wh of capacity and 35-75miles of range, you probably aren’t going to be that worried about the 2 hour quick charge option.
As with the other Smart System components, the charger is not backwards compatible due to the redesigned plug. But who cares?
Bosch Smart System Kiox 300 display
The current Kiox display from Bosch has been a massive hit since it was released a few years back.
It added two critical features; an LED colour screen and Bluetooth connectivity. And whilst the Intuvia and Purion displays are still popular with the purists, who can resist a few more bells and whistles on their e-bike?
The one major complaint about the current Kiox display is that it is so bloody small!
Some of the information on it is hard to read whilst you are still and you have no chance once the bike is moving.
There are ways around this, and if you have ever searched through the menu options you’ll know you can add custom screens…
But with the new Kiox 300 Smart System display, it looks like Bosch have listened and made it just a bit bigger
So, no more squinting required.
Other than that there is the ‘over the air’ updates feature like the Nyon. But, I guess with time the display is where we will ‘see’ changes as Bosch release cool new things for the display?
Bosch Smart System LED Remote
‘What is the new Bosch Smart System is the LED remote?’, I hear you ask.
It’s the little controller which sits on the left-hand side of the handlebar, and lets you alter the power assistance level and scroll through the different screens.
We immediately know this LED remote is better as it lights up to show the power setting you are in. I want it just for that, but then I am a big kid and really easily pleased.
It also looks like the controller has a better ergonomics shape to it, which will be good as I have always struggled a bit to get the button in the right place.
It also has it’s own battery… so I assume it can be used without the display. I have a bike on the way shortly and will confirm once it arrives.
Bosch Smart System ebike Flow app
As a great believer in the connected world, digital transformation and big data, I believe this is where the future is. The opportunities are vast, exciting and incomprehensible.
So, this is where the magic happens… Everything else has been about existing technology repackaged and re-marketed.
I’m so excited by this, even if it is a few years away…. We are in for an incredibly fast ride (digitally) and just 5 years from now our bikes may look the same, but the way we use them will be so different… And it’s only software!
Check the video below to see what I am talking about.
Of course, we have one on order and expect it arrived in November 2021. We will show it to you as soon as it arrives.
But disappointingly, at the moment it looks like we aren’t going to be able to get it with the Rohloff hub.
I hope this is a short-term thing and the boffins at Rohloff are squirrelling away in the background to get this rectified.
What Makes the Mondraker Carbon Crafty Unique?
The newest update from Mondraker is the new Mondraker Crafty Carbon, taking on some new upgrades like the latest Bosch CX GEN4 motor and a 750wh battery. With big numbers like that, the Mondraker sets its range apart from some other bikes on the market while still remaining on the lighter side of a full-powered e-bike. Having more range allows you to go further, explore more, and really just ride your e-bike like a normal bike without limits.
You’ve got to love e-bikes. They’re capable of so much and can take you to places you never thought possible, instantly opening up the option to explore the trail less ridden. For the 2022 season, our latest range of performance e-bikes come equipped with the latest Bosch Smart System which has been optimised and upgraded to deliver the highest levels of performance and ride quality. We’ve also made adjustments and upgrades to our e-bike frames ensuring they work in conjunction perfectly with the new Bosch technology making our bikes the most advanced and complete range the industry has ever seen.
To learn more about Mondraker and other bikes we have tested, check our Mondraker Foxy Carbon Review.
New Bosch Smart System Upgrades
The latest 2022 Bosch motor is a Performance Line CX GEN4 unit, featuring the new Bosch Smart System, upgraded software and enhanced firmware modifications. In addition, a new display unit and handlebar mounted control module have been added for easier mode selection and adjustment. The bikes also feature the new Bosch 750Wh battery that allows you to enjoy even more kilometers of trail on a single charge.
-LD Remote: This is the new wireless control unit mounted to the handlebars. It’s ergonomic design and easy to use buttons are compact and durable allowing you to change mode with ease even on rough terrain. In addition, the LED battery indicator clearly provides capacity information at a glance.
CRAFTY CARBON RANGE
Since its release, the Crafty Carbon has been one of the highest regarded, performance ebikes available and this latest incarnation is no different. It stands out for its lightness, agility and confidence inspiring capabilities. Featuring advanced technologies such as ZERO SUSPENSION SYSTEM, FORWARD GEOMETRY, STEALTH AIR CARBON and MIND the Crafty Carbon is undoubtedly a benchmark in terms of performance. Suspension is taken care of by 160mm fork and 150mm shock in three models, only excluding the more radical XR version, which has a 170mm fork. All this, combined with the new Bosch Smart System motor makes the Crafty Carbon the tool for the job to enjoy every ride, in every environment.
Crafty Carbon R
The Crafty Carbon R is the mid-range model in the Crafty Line, with a carbon frame, the updated Bosch Gen4 motor, and a 750wh battery, the Crafty Carbon R I think is the perfect balance of quality parts that will ride nice without taking out a second mortgage on your house. Equipped with Fox suspension SRAM Eagle Drivetrain, SRAM GR RS Brakes, Mavic DeeMax 29” Wheels Maxxis DHF/DHR rubber. We are stoked to see a few of these roll in, we plan to have a few for sale some early 2022.
Crafty Carbon SE
The Crafty Carbon SE is a mid-model year bike that Mondraker has decided to make to fill some gap between the 2021 line and the 2022 line. Getting some of the upgrades that the 2022 line will see, the SE is going to be a great spec’d bike with an alloy frame but loaded with some great parts to make the SE ride how you want. With Fox suspension, a SRAM GX Drivetrain, and Maxxis tires, you will be stoked with the SE. We plan to get a few of the Crafty SE in for the Fall of 2021. Reach out to our Customer Service team to get yours before they are gone!
Review of the Bosch Smart System
One of 2022’s most exciting pieces of electric bike news is the release of the Bosch Smart System. This fully-integrated electric bike system comes with both hardware and software releases that Bosch is sure will wow riders. A new 750 watt hour battery, redesigned Kiox 300 display, and updates to the motor and system are now delivered straight to your fun. Does the system live up to the hype? Find out all our thoughts in this video.
The Bosch Smart System Story
- For over 10 years Bosch has been the industry leader in ebike motor and tech solutions and the fully connected Smart System is what is next.
- Bosch’s award winning batteries, efficient chargers, vivid displays ensure personalized experience along with quality assurance and fantastic warranty guarantees. They call it their “model for success.”
The Battery Motor
I don’t have to tell you guys why a 750 watt hour battery is exciting.
- This is a significantly bigger battery than Bosch has offered in the past with the previous high at 625 watt hours.
- The new 750 watt hour powertube fits pretty nicely into most downtubes that I have seen and rockets Bosch to the front of the pack in terms of battery capacity.
Of course no Bosch system would be complete without a Bosch performance motor.
- On the Bosch Smart system you get that Bosch performance CX motor. Apparently a little more aerodynamic than the Gen 4.
- I could notice some minor differences between the Gen 4 and this Bosch Smart System CX so I definitely think there is something to that.
- You’re still getting your 85 newton meters of torque and also 250 watts.
What’s New With The Display?
That brand new Kiox 300 display is redesigned so that it works better in bright sunlight, provides better brightness overall as well, and it still fits in the palm of your hand. Also maybe the most crucial update to this kiox 300 display is that it is not completely necessary if you don’t want it.
- Manufacturers this year have the choice to use the display or not.
- Lots of emtb riders and maybe some road riders as well have been asking for displayless options. Other companies have been offering them as well, and this year the Bosch Smart System is going to have the capability to be operated without a display.
Let’s say you fall in love with a bike that doesn’t have a display, and you’re kind of bummed about not having one. Well the good news is this Kiox 300 is retrofittable onto those bikes.For those of you who are more minimalist, that ergonomic Bosch LED remote is definitely going to come in handy.
- You’ve got five LED lights that are going to tell you how much battery you have left.
- You might be thinking 20 percent increments really aren’t enough but, I’ve got good news for you, the LEDs are going to change color every ten percent so when you see five greenish bluish lights that means you have a hundred percent battery and then when you get down to a little bit of a pinker color you have lost ten percent.
- Of course, you probably want to know what level of assistance you are in as well. Each level is represented by a different color.
The eBike Flow App
One thing I always love about Bosch is their cute little copy, that worked like a charm” is the prompt once you’ve connected.
- Connection: it was super easy. Basically, you’re just holding and pressing the power button and then it gives you prompts.
- The idea of the ebike flow app is that it gives riders one place to track everything about their bike, and that is my favorite thing about it.
- It’s going to track mileage and when you need service
- Even if you don’t want to use this app it still does a lot for you
One of the other main features that is very exciting to see is the customizable riding modes. You’re going to be able to go in and change the amount of assistance you want.
- If you want your turbo to be higher than turbo is normally set, you come in here and can turn it up so that turbo is. I guess more turbo.
- You can customize a lot more than you have been able to in the past with previous Bosch motors.
One thing you see on the app is that it looks like eMTB and Tour Plus are not customizable. Probably because they are already customized to the type of terrain you’re riding on.
Lastly, of course, you’re gonna be able to track your rides and it’s gonna tell you the best routes.
Software Updates
No more having to go to a dealer for a software update from Bosch!
- In the past you might remember if you had a Bosch motor you had to come into shops to get the software updates and maybe pay a shop fee.
- Now, you’re going to be able to update your e-bike motor from, well, over the air. I don’t want to spoil anything, but it is a bluetooth connection.
How is the Range?
We started this ride with full bars. At 2350 feet into climbing, and I will have no shame in telling you I did that all in turbo mode, we had three blue bars and one white bar, which means we are right around 70 percent battery.
- So, 2300 feet of climbing in turbo and we only used 30%.
- I’m 6’2 about 190 pounds on a good day, so I consider that to be pretty awesome.
- Getting great range, great battery life. Of course getting that extra 125 watt hours out of the battery over the 625 and it’s noticeable.
Our Final Thoughts
For my money, I think the Bosch Smart System is well worth it. The biggest reason is the fact that you can do those bluetooth updates. That’s something that Bosch has never offered in years past, and I think it resulted in a lot of people missing out on updates because they weren’t willing to come into the shop for them.
And of course riders have even more customizations to choose from because you can change your speed, your level of assistance, and how much torque you’re getting within the app. The way Bosch talks about the Smart system, it does seem like they are dedicated to continuing to give power over to the rider in the flexibility within their systems, which is great to see. Bosch should be applauded for opening up an already great system and making it even better thanks to these customizable features.
Check out the bikes currently in stock featuring the Bosch Smart System:
- Cube Stereo Hybrid 160 HPC ActionTeam 750
- Cube Stereo Hybrid 160 SLT
- Cube Stereo Hybrid 160 HPC SL
- Cube Stereo Hybrid 160 HPC TM
- Cube Stereo Hybrid 140 HPC TM 750
- Cube Stereo Hybrid 150 HPC SL 750
- Mondraker Crafty R
- Mondraker Crafty RR
- Mondraker Level R
- Mondraker Crafty Carbon RR SL
- Riese Muller Multicharger Mixte GT Vario
RIDE AS LONG AS YOU LIKE, ON ANY TERRAIN YOU LIKE
A total of 625Wh 500Wh = 1125Wh available on every frame size of hardtail and full fuspension with the range extender mounted on the Modular Rail System!
— Full integrated cable routing in front rear triangle — Integrated speedsensor and dropper-seatpost — Fully integrated removable Powertube PT625 Wh — Reliable and robust AL frame with increased stiffness — TwinTailLights ready — 27.5 / 29 / mixed-wheels — Lighter and smaller new Bosch Performance CX drive unit
Bosch Performance CX
Compact and at the same time extremely powerful and efficient — Accelerates extremely forcefully — Reacts without delay — Up to 340% perfectly dosed support — 1.1kg lighter than its predecessor
New Frame Concept
The new frame shape impresses with an extremely low center of gravity and increased rigidity, thereby enabling more agile behavior for even more riding pleasure. In addition, a range extender is now optionally available for all frame sizes S-XL.
RANGE EXTENDER OPTION
Would you like to ride longer tours or climb higher mountains? Not a problem with the Haibike Range Extender Option. Elegantly integrated on the down tube, the optional Haibike Range Extender offers an additional 500 Wh of battery power. Now available for all Bosch Performance CX Gen 4 models in frame sizes M-XL.
HAIBIKE Bosch GEN 4 HISTORY
If you look at the history of the integration of Bosch eBike systems over the past 10 years in detail at Haibike, you can clearly see the further development of design and design language. But what are the main reasons for the new Bosch Gen 4 frame design that clearly stands out from its predecessors? “Our goal was to continue the successful Haibike rear-link kinematics and at the same time to enable the integration of a range extender for all frame sizes. In addition, this type of construction leads to a lower center of mass and thus underlines our claim to ePerformance. says Hendrik Schäfers, Head of Innovation Design / HDCM.