We had an inkling something was in the water at Bosch when we tested the new Trek Rail+. The System Controller on the top tube sat atop a plate…and now we have confirmation that the most recent generation of Performance Line CX motor is getting a heck of a facelift.
Bosch Performance Line CX: System update means more brawn!
Bosch have announced that from July 2025, existing fifth generation Performance Line CX drive units can increase the performance of their system via a software update, allowing for an 150w maximum power increase to 750W. In addition to this. Peak torque values will increase from 85Nm to 100Nm, and maximum support level will top out at 400%. This brings Bosch into line with newer offerings from Specialized and closes the gap to the DJI Avinox M1 motor.
This backwards upgrade is in line with Bosch’s ongoing commitment to avoid obsolescence with their range, and demonstrates their commitment to upgrading their existing products for customers.
In addition to the raw power upgrade, Bosch have capitalised on increased power with the announcement of a new eMTB+ mode, sitting above the eMTB mode, and below their new ‘Race’ mode (see more below). This mode offers dynamic support of up to 400% in order to tackle the steepest and toughest terrain.
Kiox 400
A sneaking suspicion turned out to be true, with the announcement of Bosch’s new Kiox 400 integrated screen that acts as a control unit and display in one. The Kiox 400 is integrated within the top tube, and features a ‘dynamic’ display which alters the display depending on the terrain ridden (ie: elevation data when climbing, speed data when descending).
The data displayed is also customisable using the Flow+ app, and can be operated by tactile buttons on the screen as well as the mini remote.
Heading on a long ride? The new Kiox 400 also features a USB-C port that can be used to charge devices during your ride.
New Performance Line CX-R: Bosch’s new dedicated race system!
Along with the updates to their Performance Line CX system, Bosch have released a new race ready Performance Line CX-R system, claimed to be the most powerful system in the range. The R is for racing, and the system debuts with the updated 750W/100Nm torque and 400% support that has been announced with the system upgrade for the existing Performance Line CX unit.
However, the CX-R also features a new ‘Race’ mode available exclusively with the new CX-R system. ‘Race’ mode enables lag-free acceleration and assists with full power up to maximum speed – with up to 400% in addition to rider power. Extended Boost is further extended in Race mode, providing additional support through the most challenging of terrain.
The Performance Line CX-R unit features Tour+, eMTB, eMTB+, and Race modes that can be customised via the eBike Flow app – both in terms of performance values (W, Nm), dynamics and response.
New magnesium coating on the unit brings the weight down to a claimed 2.7kg, around 100g lighter than the claimed weight of the Performance Line CX motor.
The Bosch Performance Line CX-R will be expected in Spring.
