Bosch follows suit: Performance upgrades for Performance Lines

Patrick Bardelli

1.5.2026

Translation: machine translated

With the next upgrade for the Performance Line CX and CX-R drive units, Bosch eBike Systems is bringing more support and torque to the trail. Charging will also be significantly faster in future. The Performance Upgrade 2.0 will be available as a free update from 4 May.

As Bosch eBike Systems writes, the Upgrade 2.0 «promises not only more power, but also intelligent power delivery at the decisive moments», according to executive board member Claus Fleischer. Specifically, the upgrade is characterised by more maximum support and more torque.

I am not surprised by this step. The Chinese manufacturer of e-bike drive systems Avinox (formerly DJI Avinox) recently presented the second generation of its drive units. The new M2 and M2S are equipped with a maximum output of 1100 watts and a torque of 125 Newton metres and 1500 W and an incredible 150 Nm respectively.

So it was only a matter of time before Bosch or Shimano would follow suit. Both are top dogs in this field. The Germans are now the first to follow suit and are releasing an upgrade for their sporty Performance Line CX and CX-R drive units.

Not just more, but also better

In addition to more maximum support (600 instead of the previous 400 per cent) and more torque (120 instead of the previous 100 Nm), Bosch eBike Systems is also bringing qualitative improvements with the upgrade. At least, if the announcement is to be believed. For example, a so-called «Drivetrain Tensioner» should provide more control. Bosch writes about this: «A software optimisation closes the freewheel between the motor and rear wheel. This reduces the idle travel on the pedal to a minimum and eliminates the usual delay when pedalling». The result is better power transmission.

With the new «Trick Check» function, the sensor system automatically recognises jumps or wheelies and records the corresponding data in the Flow app, according to Bosch. And finally, with the 12A charger, the company is launching a new generation of chargers which, according to the manufacturer, charge around three times faster than the familiar 4A chargers. The additional charger weighs around one kilogramme, is compatible with all Bosch batteries and will be available from the end of 2026.

Conclusion

While Avinox seems to be focussing mainly on quantity according to the motto «More is more», Bosch is also endeavouring to take a further step in terms of qualitative improvement. It will be interesting to see what is better received on the market. And of course the question remains: What will Shimano do? Specifically: When will the successor to the current EP801 or a corresponding upgrade be released?

Test to follow ...

As part of this year's Cycle Week, I have the opportunity to try out the upgrade for myself at the end of May. After my experience with the current version last summer, I'm really looking forward to it. My impressions will follow. Here is my assessment of the current version of the Bosch Performance Line CX from last June:

Patrick Bardelli

Senior Editor

Patrick.Bardelli@digitecgalaxus.ch

From radio journalist to product tester and storyteller, jogger to gravel bike novice and fitness enthusiast with barbells and dumbbells. I'm excited to see where the journey'll take me next.

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