Bosch release Performance CX Race Line Limited Edition

Bosch have redefined what fast feels like for eMTBers with the launch of the Performance Line CX Race Limited Edition. The new motor is based on the well-regarded Bosch Performance Line CX with 85Nm of torque, but it's been trimmed down and had the level of support increased to meet the demand of those racing eMTBs on the world stage.

The Race Mode on this model is unique to the Race Limited Edition, and packs a bosst of 400% of the rider's own power. The unit is lighter than before, and the Extended Boost feature has been tweaked to really nail technical features or optimise the air line. We expect to see the Race Limited Edition on top-spec Bosch-equipped eMTBs like the Trek Rail, Orbea Wild FS, Moustache Game 6, Cube Stereo Hybrid Action Team and bikes from Whyte and Focus. However, there are no set delivery dates for confirmed models with Australian pricing.

Why do we need a Race Limited Edition?

Truth bomb – most people don't. This motor is primarily designed for riders racing in eMTB competition, where the clock is ticking and getting upto speed faster counts. The greater level of support still tops out at 25km/h, but you get there faster. The lighter weight will also help create a bike that can be more dynamic to ride. As you'd expect, the motor has been designed with professional eMTB athletes to make sure it delivers what they need. Does that mean you need it? Probably not. But plenty of us ride the same top equipment used in the World Cup or EWS – and in a similar vein, you can access the same eMTB motor technology if you like.

Engage Race Mode

Race Mode has been designed to get everything out of the motor, bike and rider. This mode offers very direct support – with up to 400 percent of your own pedal power. Riders reach maximum support faster and can use it to the cut-off at 25 km/h. The Extended Boost of the eMTB mode has also received an upgrade. This allows a short period of support despite stopping pedalling – it's ideal for clearing step ups and getting a kick for jumps. The extra thrust is further extended in Race mode, so that large boulders, roots or steps are skillfully overcome even more easily. As all this power is nothing without the means to control it, the Race mode can be adjusted in the eBike Flow app so you can customise the strength of support, dynamics, maximum speed and maximum torque.

Claus Fleischer, CEO of Bosch eBike Systems, explains why they have pushed to create a motor and software package with race-specific performance.

"As a passionate eMTB rider myself, I know exactly the pain, effort and excitement on the trail. 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."

Bosch gets lean

Hitting the scales at 2.75 kg, the new Race Limited Edition is the lightest drive in the entire Bosch range. This reduces the weight of the bikes equipped with it and so optimises the handling of the eMTB on demanding trails. You'll get more control on descents and have less to handle on any technical traverses that see you getting off the bike. The 85Nm of torque remains for fast acceleration, even at cadences over 120 rpm.

The magnesium housing has a graphite gray metal finish and stands out visually from other drive units thanks to the logo and accent colors. Visually you can see extra cooling fins to help the motor run efficiently and provide the support that top riders demand.

Controlling the power

The world of eMTB racing can get pretty hectic, and this is a driving force behind the integration of systems and reducing bar clutter. The Bosch System Controller control unit is integrated into the top tube, giving extra protection from jostling and impacts. For even easier handling, Bosch eBike Systems offers the Mini Remote. This has a Bluetooth connection to the System Controller, which means it can be flexibly mounted on the handlebar.

The buttons near the thumb keep your hands on the handlebar at all times, and can activate the smart Walk Assist, which is almost indispensable on steep mountain routes where the EWS-E series lives. This mode helps riders to progress faster on steep climbs, and the integrated Hill Hold function prevents unintentional rolling back. In tight and steep curves, the rollback protection can be used specifically, for example, to move the rear wheel and eMTB in a controlled manner. The Race Line Limited Edition uses the 625Wh bosch PowerTube

Our take on the Bosch Race Line Limited Edtion motor

Do we all need it? No. But we don't need electronic shifting, apps to tell us to pump up our tyres or many other things. The new Bosch Race Line Limited Edition motor has been designed for professional eMTB racers who need the small gains in performance that the system offers. That said, the fun thing about mountain biking is that for the most part, we can access the same gear that the world's top riders get to ride. Acceleration is fun in any kind of vehicle, push bike or otherwise. The new Race Mode will get you there faster, assist riders on technical terrain if they can handle the punch, and potentially create a better riding bike. Let's just see what bikes land in Australia with this motor as an option.