New 2.75kg Bosch eMTB motor targets the racer

A new motor launch from Bosch will target the eMTB racer with a limited edition product, set to be carried by a handful of OEMs in the next model year.

Dubbed the Performance Line CX Race Limited Edition, the motor is the product of feedback from Bosch-supported athletes who have been testing prototypes across a handful of seasons racing.

Spotted on a soon to be detailed Haibike model at last week’s Sea Otter Europe event in Girona, the Performance Line CX Race Limited Edition drops weight and ups the energetic response of the standard Performance Line motor, delivering direct support up to 400 percent of the rider’s power. Riders reach maximum support faster and can use it to the cut-off at 25 km/h.

At 2.75 kilograms, the new drive unit is the lightest drive in the entire Bosch portfolio. This reduces the weight of the bikes equipped with it and thus optimises the handling of the eMTB on demanding trails, allowing for more control downhill and over jumps plus easier handling of the bike when not being ridden.

The low weight comes from a new magnesium housing, finished in a graphite colour which is distinct in the line up.

Offering up 85 Nm of torque, the Race Limited Edition delivers acceleration from a standing start and enough power to grind up steeper sections, all of which can be a decisive competitive advantage when racing. Even at cadences over 120 rpm the motor is said to provide explosive support.

Added to that drive power, the addition of new Extended Boost and Hill Hold features for model year 2023 will continue to enhance the eMTB experience.

Claus Fleischer, CEO of Bosch eBike Systems, said: “As a passionate eMTB rider myself, I know the pain, effort and excitement of the trail very well. This is why I am particularly proud that our technology enables athletes to compete even more successfully. The eMTB sector is becoming more and more professional worldwide, and we actively support this development.“

Joris Ryf, a Swiss eMTB pro who has been one of the test panel said of the motor: “For us pros, it was a real enrichment to be involved in the development of a product for our competitions. The most important thing for me was a drive unit that would get me up to top speed faster and keep me at top speed for longer – and we succeeded.”

For Bosch the proof is in the pudding, the brand has supported 60 podium finishes in eMTB races around the world and played an active role in establishing the sporting side of eBike racing, including an instrumental role in races such as the  Enduro World Series (EWS-E). Bosch continues to campaign for clean racing, with uniform regulations and active action against tuning.

In line with the Performance Line CX Race Limited Edition, Bosch eBike Systems has already presented further components for MY23, designed to support professional riders in their races.

The System Controller is seamlessly integrated into the top tube, giving extra protection from shocks and impacts. The Mini Remote, thanks to Bluetooth connection to the System Controller, can be flexibly mounted on the handlebar to complement the purist control unit. For further improved handling, the button placement helps the rider to keep their hands on the handlebar at all times and easily activate the smart Push Assist. Overall, these components enable riders to progress faster on steep climbs while the integrated Hill Hold function prevents unintentional roll-back. The PowerTube 625 battery is touted as the best companion for races currently offered.

Cycling Industry News will carry an interview with Claus Fleischer in the next magazine, to which you can subscribe here.

Images courtesy of Bosch eBike Systems.