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Trek Allant+ 8S Review, 2024

This comfortable commuter combines cool tech with a responsive, dialed-in feel.

The most prominent highlight from our time on the bike was the overall feel and performance of its 250W Bosch Performance Line Speed mid-drive motor. As a result of this premium drive system, the Allant+ responds naturally and proportionally to changes in pedaling with smooth assistance, yet never loses an analog bike feel.

With a Bosch drive system comes the ability to be paired with the multifunctional Bosch COBI.BIKE app. This app serves as a hub that integrates with your favorite audio, fitness, and navigation apps, allowing you to track ride data, listen to music or audiobooks, make calls to your closest contacts, and receive turn-by-turn guidance to your destination.

We couldn’t help but appreciate the bike’s overall high-quality feel and confident handling. With 2.4” wide tires and a weight of 57 lbs, the Allant felt firmly planted, but it retained the nimble handling of a lighter-weight city bike.

Additionally, as a Trek product, it felt generally well-rounded with comfortable, precise geometry, top-tier components, and a sturdy frame.

To learn more about the bike’s performance in our series of real-world tests, see our full Trek Allant+ 8s review below!

• Aside from the increased speed, it’s hard to tell you’re riding an e-bike thanks to the impressively smooth yet powerful 250W Bosch Performance Line Speed mid-drive.
• Quick access to navigation, music, contacts and more when using your phone as a display; the Bosch system pairs with the brand’s COBI.BIKE app.
• Feels planted and stable – yet nimble – with 27.5”x2.4” tires, a rigid fork, solid construction, and an overall weight of 57 lbs.
• Capable of extended rides thanks to its 36V, 625 Wh battery. A supplemental range extender battery can also be added for more miles.
• A truly refined and elevated feel that comes as a benefit of being a Trek product.
• Keeps up with traffic more easily as a Class 3 e-bike with pedal assist up to 28 mph.
• Pedals effectively on hills and at high speed thanks to a versatile 11-42T cassette.
• Great modulation and responsiveness from the 4-piston Tektro Orion hydraulic disc brakes.
• Four levels of pedal assist for a streamlined, easy to use system.

• We like the Bluetooth functionality and COBI.BIKE app, but the bike’s integrated universal phone mount felt flimsy. We’d prefer something more durable.
• We appreciate the visibility granted by the pulsating tail light, but we challenge Trek to include brake lights on the next iteration of the bike.
• The Allant’s lights are always on, though servicers of Bosch systems can adjust this setting.
• Battery: Bosch PowerTube 625Wh
• Display: Bosch SmartphoneHub
• Motor: Bosch Performance Speed, 85 Nm, 28 mph / 45 kph
• Headlight: Trek Lync headlight, 500 lumens
• Taillights: Trek Lync taillight, 50 lumens
• Pedal Assist: Eco, Tour, Sport, and Turbo
• Throttle: N/A
• App: COBI.BIKE
• UL Certification: UL 2849 compliant
• Claimed weight: 56.3 lbs (57 lbs actual)
• Rider height range: 5’5” to 6’6”
• Maximum load on the rear rack: 31 lbs
• Total payload capacity: 300 lbs
• Brakes: Shimano MT520 4-piston hydraulic disc, post-mount, 180mm rotor
• Fenders: Trek custom aluminum
• Fork: Allant+ rigid alloy fork, 1-1/8” steel steerer, 100x15mm thru axle, post mount disc brake
• Frame: High-performance hydroformed alloy, Removable Integrated Battery, Range Boost-compatible, internal cable routing, Motor Armour, post-mount disc, 135×5 mm QR
• Drivetrain: 10 speed, ProWheel 46T narrow/wide alloy, w/alloy guard chainring, Shimano Deore M4100 11-42T cassette
• Grips: Bontrager Satellite Elite, alloy lock-on
• Saddle: Bontrager Commuter Comp
• Handlebar: Bontrager alloy, 31.8mm, 15mm rise, 600mm width (M), 660mm width (L, XL)
• Kickstand: Rear mount, alloy
• Pedals: Bontrager City pedals
• Tires: Bontrager E6 Hard-Case Lite, reflective strip, 27.5×2.40”

The Allant+ 8s showed an uncommon combination of stability and maneuverability that we thoroughly enjoyed!

The 250W Bosch mid-drive motor feels powerful and provides up to a 340% return of your effort.

While the Allant+ includes a basic display, it encourages the use of your smartphone when paired with the Bosch COBI.BIKE app.

Trek Allant+ 8s Review: Speed Test

To perform our Speed Test, I pedaled the Allant+ 8s on a flat section of our local network of multi-use paths, filmed the process, and recorded the maximum speeds I reached in each of the bike’s four pedal assist settings.

During this test, it was important that I maintained a moderate level of effort due to the mid-drive motor/torque sensor; this combination allows the motor to dispense a greater amount of pedal assistance when using more effort, or put out less power when riding casually. My goal was to find an average level of speed with the assumption that those using more or less effort could expect slightly different results.

When pedaling with no pedal assistance, I comfortably reached a surprising top speed of 13.4 miles per hour. The power level of the Allant’s lowest pedal assist system (PAS) setting, Eco Mode, was subtle, and raised my top speed to 14.7 mph. Tour mode seemed to make a much greater difference; I reached 19.2 mph there. Sport and Turbo Modes provided measured increases in power which allowed me to reach 22.4 and 25.2 mph respectively.

Overall, the power distribution of the Bosch system was remarkably even; each setting provided an expected, intuitive increase in assistance. I was surprised to note that even with maximum assistance in Turbo Mode, the Allant+ 8s still felt much like an analog bike; were it not for the sound of the motor and the ease of which I was able to reach superhuman speeds, I would not have guessed I was on an e-bike.

This is due in large part to Bosch’s tuning and programming, though more broadly, it’s also a side effect of relatively low motor output. 36V motors with 250W of nominal output are on the subtle side, drawing power more slowly and magnifying the effort of the rider to a lesser degree than motors with higher voltage and/or watts. As such, similar motors are used often on higher-end e-bikes that aim to retain a non-electric feel.

This test showed us that the Allant is made for riders who enjoy a traditional cycling experience. Those who prefer riding slower or elevating their heart rate might select Eco or Tour mode, while those looking for more speed and a less strenuous ride may find Sport or Turbo modes to be ideal.

With nearly 75 miles of range and the ability to add a range boost battery, the Allant+ 8s has serious commuter chops!

The 10-speed mixed Shimano/Prowheel drivetrain offered a wide gearing range for various types of terrain and assist levels.

A 625 Wh battery is integrated into the down tube, and an additional 500 Wh unit can be mounted to the frame.

Trek Allant+ 8s Review: Range Test

We performed two Range Tests using the Allant+ 8s to determine a realistic mileage bracket that most riders could expect to fall within. To establish this bracket, we rode the bike in Eco Mode and Turbo Mode until the battery expired, using Strava to document our mileage and the duration of each test.

In Turbo Mode, our tester Brendan traveled 29.8 miles over the course of 1 hour and 37 minutes. We covered over twice the distance in Eco mode; our riders measured 74.8 miles after spending 6 hours and 4 minutes on the bike.

This is an impressive distance, though when compared to similar commuter e-bikes we tested previously by numbers alone, the Allant+ appears to be relatively average. One component of this surface-level comparison is the fact that we have tested a handful of similar e-bikes with remarkable efficiency; this has inevitably skewed the results.

In truth, the Allant+ 8s was not as efficient as we expected it to be based on its motor and battery specs, though once again, its results in this test were far from poor. With a 250W nominal/600W peak motor and a 625 Wh battery, we anticipated that our Turbo mode test would yield roughly 55 miles over a 2.5 hour time period.

Our actual results produced 35% less time and 46% fewer miles than expected, which suggests that the bike’s motor was drawing more power from the battery than anticipated. This makes sense when considering that the Allant+ had a higher-than-average average speed during this test; most of the other Class 3 commuters with mid-drive motors had an average speed below 20 mph, while the Allant maintained an average of 22.3 miles per hour.

Regardless of its position in comparison to similar commuter e-bikes we’ve tested, we consider the Allant+ 8s to be successful in providing a highly practical range, especially when in its low power setting.

However, for those who need the ability to cover more miles with a higher assistance level or those planning an extended trek (apologies for the pun), the brand offers a supplemental 500 Wh Range Boost battery. When adding this external battery to the mounts on the down tube, we believe riders could expect roughly an 80% increase in overall range.

Trek Allant+ 8s Review: Hill Test

Compared to other commuter-style e-bikes we have reviewed, the Allant+ 8s gave a relatively average performance, but our focus in this test is not to reward the bike with the fastest time, but instead to recognize general ability.

The Allant+ proved to be competent at assisting our ascent, requiring only a comfortable but steady level of effort in Turbo Mode to reach the top of the hill. In this setting, the Bosch Performance Line Speed motor is advertised as providing up to 340% power in proportion to the rider’s effort. While we have no way of testing this for precision, the 250W mid-drive has a maximum output of 600W and 85 Nm of torque, which is a significant amount of force to aid in uphill travel.

To be clear, the Allant+ 8s does require active pedaling, but our experience at Hell Hole Trail was enjoyable and far from strenuous. I have personally pedaled up (or rather, attempted to pedal up) the path on an analog bike, which was an experience I have no desire to repeat. For an e-bike like the Allant to turn that exhausting endeavor into a fun and spirited experience is truly a delight.

I should also point out that the bike includes an impressive gearing range to make climbing easier when using a lesser amount of pedal assistance. With a 46T chainring and a 10-42T cassette, riders can pedal efficiently even on steep roads or paths.

Bottom line, while there are some similar e-bikes that can conquer steep hills faster, there are also plenty that a cyclist riding the Allant+ 8s would leave behind. The bike is extremely capable of “flattening” hills and turning exhaustion into exhilaration.

With the ability to get a precise fit through three frame sizes, we found the Allant+ 8s to be extremely comfortable.

The Tektro Orion hydraulic disc brakes felt powerful and responsive.

The Bontrager 2.4”-wide tires helped to absorb vibrations from the road.

Trek Allant+ 8s Review: Brake Test

The bike is equipped with a high-performance Tektro Orion 4-piston hydraulic brake system with 180mm front and rear rotors. We expected the Allant to perform well in this test with this brake system, as it is uncommon in our experience for such powerful brakes to be included on an e-bike of this type.

We were not disappointed! For comparison, the average stopping distance for all of the commuter e-bikes we’ve tested is 21’-10”, so the Allant+ performed noticeably better than average.

At 57 lbs, the Allant+ 8s is relatively middle-of-the-road in terms of weight, but well within the range that makes two-piston brakes effective. Such a robust four-piston ensures excellent stopping ability even when traveling at Class 3 speeds up to 28 miles per hour.

The brakes felt every bit as effective as their numbers suggest; even when flying downhill at speeds exceeding 30 miles per hour, the Allant felt stable and its speed completely under control. Its stability remained when slowing down; I experienced slight fishtailing when braking hard, but nothing out of the ordinary.

With that in mind, we wish that the blinking tail light functioned as a brake light (indicator lights would be great, too, but we’ll start small). It is fantastic to have such reliable stopping power when traveling at high velocity, but the ability to communicate with other drivers, cyclists, and pedestrians is equally important.

Prospective buyers should feel confident in the bike’s brakes, however; the Tektro Orion system provides fast, powerful stopping power and the ability to easily modulate speed.

The 660mm handlebars on our test bike provided quick steering.

The slim saddle felt supportive yet soft and comfortable.

A small pulsating tail light is integrated into the rear fender.

The small 500 lumen headlight is impressively bright!

Trek Allant+ 8s Review: Ride Quality

In terms of comfort, the bike excels; its riding position, while having a slight forward-lean, is mostly relaxed and upright. It features a well-shaped Bontrager Commuter Comp saddle with a great balance of softness and supportiveness. The bike includes ergonomic rubber grips with plenty of support, and large rubberized pedals with plenty of grab – but no pegs to inflict shin wounds in the event of a slip.

The Allant+ is offered in three frame sizes and two frame styles; the high-step we tested fits riders between 5’-5” and 6’-6”, while the step-thru or “Stagger” model is made for shorter riders between 5’-1” and 6’-1”. At 5’-11”, I fit squarely in the middle of the accommodation range for the Large frame, and it felt perfect for me in terms of saddle height, reach, etc.

As I mentioned previously, the bike felt firmly planted, but still handled incredibly responsively. Its 660mm handlebars provided quick steering, and ultimately felt wider and roomier than they were. The 27.5”x2.4” Bontrager E6 Hard-Case Lite tires helped the bike feel stable and offered cushioning to help counteract the absence of a suspension – which itself plays a role in the bike’s confident handling but makes bumps more pronounced.

A huge element that contributed to the overall ride feel of the Allant+ is its Bosch Performance Line Speed mid-drive motor. In addition to providing a remarkably smooth and consistent feel to its pedal assistance, the system includes highly functional technology to make rides easier and more enjoyable.

Our test bike was outfitted with the manufacturer’s SmartphoneHub that includes a basic black-and-white LCD, but features a spring loaded clamp mount that allows riders to use their smartphone as a display. When paired with the bike through Bosch’s COBI.BIKE app, users have seamless access to up to 10 pre-selected contacts for making calls with Bluetooth headphones/earbuds, streaming songs through Apple Music or Spotify, turn-by-turn navigation with Apple Maps, ride tracking through Strava or Komoot, and health/fitness data through Apple Health or Google Fit.

We found the app to be highly functional in most cases, though as with any technology, there was a slight learning curve to the app and the bike’s multi-functional control panel. Once it was set up, my phone became a true unified dashboard that felt more in line with what I expect in an automobile. I appreciated that the app could be manipulated through my phone or (more reliably) the bike’s button panel, and I also liked that simply removing and/or rotating my phone would return control to the bike’s integrated LCD and stop ride tracking.

The phone mount itself is something I hope Bosch improves in the future; the spring loaded top portion of the clamp felt rather flimsy, and in fact broke at some point during our testing. When diagnosing the issue, we observed that the mechanism seemed to be held together with two tiny screws that did not seem to be stout enough for a moving component. Sturdier construction would be appreciated, but in the meantime, a separate phone mount may be good to keep on hand – the handlebars have enough real estate to make that option practical.

One other thing prospective owners should be aware of is that the bike’s light system is always active when the bike is turned on. Our contact at Trek advised us that this is a setting within the Bosch system that was selected for safety reasons, but it can be changed to provide more direct control to the user. As long as your local bike shop services Bosch systems, their technicians should have the ability to alter the light settings.

Aside from these relatively minor concerns, the overall feel of the Allant+ 8s was of a solidly built, high-quality, responsive, and dialed-in e-bike. We hope to see a few small improvements, but there is simply a huge “WOW!” factor to the bike as-is.

Controls for PAS adjustment, app control, and high/low light settings are on the left handlebar.

The ergonomic grips, while somewhat short, felt squishy and comfortable.

We liked the grip of the rubberized Bontrager City pedals.

The lightweight cargo rack has a 31-lb carrying capacity.

Trek Allant+ 8s Review: Summary / Where to Buy

In our testing, the Allant+ appeared relatively average – but it is important to consider that average is a pretty high bar. The bike has remarkably smooth pedal assistance with intuitive programming, the ability to reach blazing speeds, plenty of power to make climbing steep hills enjoyable, and brakes that can stop on a dime.

We hope to see some minor improvements on the next version of the bike, including a sturdier phone mount/display unit, a brake light, and a way of turning the lights off – but even with these things in mind, the Allant+ 8s is a highly capable commuter that we thoroughly enjoyed testing.

With a huge degree of comfort, the ability to keep up with traffic, the reserves to cover a significant distance before needing to be recharged, and the backing of a global brand, we gladly give our seal of approval to the Allant+ 8s.

Happy Riding! Make sure to let us know if you have any questions or if you think we left anything out in this review of the Trek Allant+ 8s down in our comments section.

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E-Bikes with a Bosch Motor: 9 Best Bosch E-Bikes We Recommend

Bosch drive systems are among the most popular in the electric bike industry. Their motors have become a preferred choice for many riders and manufacturers by offering a blend of performance, versatility, and reliability.

Bosch e-bike motors consistently perform well when compared to similar competition from brands like Shimano, Brose, Yamaha, and Bafang.

In this article, we’ll overview the Bosch brand and discuss the different motor lines. We’ll also examine why Bosch motors are popular and how they compare to other market alternatives.

Finally, we’ll introduce you to some of the most popular models that use the brand so you can decide if a Bosch electric bike is the right choice for you.

Overview of Bosch E-Bike Motors

Bosch e-bike motors are some of the best-regarded on the market. The German engineering and technology company has been in operation since 1886 and brought this experience to the e-bike industry in 2011.

Bosch specializes in mid-drive systems , offering a range of options across three ‘lines,’ Active, Performance, and Cargo.

In 2021, Bosch premiered its new Smart Systems. These systems are used on all new Bosch-equipped e-bikes. However, they still support the previous generation of systems.

As a German brand, all Bosch e-bikes fit the EU regulations of 250W max power and don’t have throttles (which are banned in the EU). 

Active Line

The Bosch Active Line has two options; the Active Line and Active Line Plus. These motors are more affordable, lighter, and have lower torque than other options. For this reason, they’re suited to commuters, cruisers, and general recreation e-bikes.

Performance Line

Bosch’s Performance Line is the most expansive, consisting of six distinct drives. These motors are generally used on performance-focused e-bikes like gravel, mountain, and heavy-duty city or touring models.

The Cargo Line is a drive system designed for the best electric cargo bikes . To be able to haul huge loads up to 551 lb (Urban Arrow Family e-bike), this motor has the highest torque output and assistance percentage of all their options. Not all cargo builds use this system, but the heavy-duty ones do.

Why Do So Many Riders Prefer Bosch E-Bike Motors?

Canyon’s Grail:ON gravel electric bike with a mid-drive Bosch motor.

Bosch e-bike motors are among the most popular because they balance performance and reliability while also being feature-rich. In addition, the company offers a range of options for different riding styles and bike types, and the systems are versatile, fitting a broad range of bike designs. Let’s take a look at some of the specific features.

• Sensors – Bosch combines three sensors to measure pedal power—torque, cadence, and speed—at a mind-blowing rate of over 1,000 times per second. This highly sensitive measurement results in an extremely natural power transfer.
• Batteries Versatility  – The PowerTube (integrated) and PowerPack (non-integrated) batteries come in capacities ranging from 400 Wh to 750 Wh and have dual battery capability. Manufacturers can also integrate the battery into the frame or mount it on the tubing or rack. Likewise, they can choose if it’s removable or not.
• Different Display Options – Bosch offers multiple display and control designs, ranging from a minimalist integrated system controller to the high-tech Nyon bike computer.
• Weight and Size  – Bosch motors are relatively lightweight. Additionally, the compact design of these motors reduces their weight and improves the bike’s ergonomics, ensuring a natural pedal position (Q factor).
• Extra Features – Some other noteworthy features of Bosch electric bike motors include automatic gear shifting, ABS braking with Magura, TRP, and Tektro products, and walk-assist and hill-hold modes. All of these features are not available on all Bosch systems. The systems also have a shift detection feature to protect the drivetrain by reducing motor power when shifting gears.

Flow E-Bike App

All new generation ‘Smart System’ Bosch electric bikes are compatible with the Flow companion app. This app has a premium subscription with some extra features. Through this app, Bosch e-bike owners have the ability to:

• Access over-the-air updates
• Tune the assistance levels for more assistance or to increase the range
• Lock the drive unit so only the owner can open it
• Access route navigation
• Activate the e-bike alarm and tracking (Flow+ premium feature)

Are Bosch E-Bike Motors Superior to Other Market Alternatives?

Bosch is the most established and popular manufacturer of e-bike systems. With over a century of experience in engineering, they have developed a reputation for quality and reliability that is hard to match.

The main competitors in the mid-drive category are Shimano, Bafang, Brose, Fazua, Giant, and Yamaha. In one extensive on-the-ground eMTB test , Bosch’s Performance Line CX motor topped the list against Brose’s Drive S Mag/Turbo, Shimano’s EP8, and Yamaha’s PW-X3. However, the other motors also performed well, outperforming the Bosch motor in specific metrics.

Motor performance is subjective to a certain extent, with each rider enjoying a specific type of ride feel or preferring how it performs in the context of the other components and geometry. Because of that, it’s hard to definitively say which motor is best.

Bosch electronics are the most widely used on the best mid-drive ebikes , so this is where riders have the largest choice if they want a Bosch system.

Popular E-Bike Brands and Models that Use Bosch Motors

Many of the electric bike industry’s biggest brands use Bosch e-bike motors. This is a testament to their quality, performance, and reliability. You can see the full list on this link , but some popular names include Niner Bikes , Scott, Canyon, Trek, and so on.

A small part of all the brands that use Bosch ebike motors.

Some popular e-bikes with a Bosch motor that use the Active Line systems include Cannondale’s Adventure Neo and Gazelle’s Medeo T9 city bikes, the Electra Townie Go! cruiser, and the Tern HSD S8i utility e-bike.

Examples of Bosch electric bikes that use Performance Line systems include the Cannondale Moterra Neo and Topstone Neo mountain and gravel lines, Trek’s Allant touring and Powerfly mountain bikes, the Haibike ALLMTN mountain bikes, and Gazelle’s Ultimate C380+.

Finally, models that use the Bosch Cargo Line drive include Trek’s Fetch+, Urban Arrow’s Family and Shorty, Tern’s GSD S10, and the Yuba Spicy Curry.

9 of the Best E-Bikes with a Bosch Motor

• Trek Verve+ 4S
• Gazelle Avignon C380 HMB
• Electra Townie Go 5i
• Orbea Wild H10
• Cannondale Adventure Neo 4
• Gazelle Ultimate C380+
• Tern Quick Haul D8
• Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 1 Remixte
• Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2

1. Trek Verve+ 4S

• Price: $3,500
• Motor: Bosch Performance Line Sport, 65 Nm
• Battery: 500 Wh PowerTube
• Range: 70 miles
• Gears and Brakes: Shimano Deore 10-speed, MT200 hydraulic discs

The Trek Verve+ 4S is a new release for 2023, adding a top-end model to the popular electric hybrid family. Like the others, this build is available in a standard step-over or low-step frame.

Trek designed the Verve+ as its comfort-focused and easy-to-use model with enough versatility and capability to crush hills, haul heavy groceries, and ride on light off-road terrain when necessary.

• Read More:  Trek Verve+ 2 Electric Bike Review

To accomplish this, Trek chose Bosch’s Performance Line Sport motor, tuned for a max torque of 65 Nm. Load the rear rack with up to 55 lb, and you’ll still have more than enough kick.

As mentioned, you can feel confident taking this bike on light gravel or dirt roads with its 50 mm Bontrager E6 Hard-Case Lite tires and suspension seatpost.

The Verve+ 4S competes well with models like the popular Specialized Turbo Vado 4.0 and the Gazelle Ultimate T10, offering similar functionality and pricing with minor differences in performance.

All things considered, if you want a comfort-focused Bosch mid-drive electric bike from a leading brand like Trek, the Verve+ 4S is a worthy consideration.

Buy from Trek Bikes

2. Gazelle Avignon C380 HMB

• Price: $5,000
• Motor: Bosch Performance Line, 75 Nm
• Battery: 625 Wh PowerTube
• Range: 96 miles
• Gears and Brakes: Enviolo 380% Trekking CVT, Magura CT4 hydraulic discs

Gazelle’s Avignon C380 HMB is the newest model released to the brand’s US lineup and one of the best e-bikes with a Bosch motor.

The Avignon is positioned at the top of Gazelle’s range and is among the highest quality and most expensive urban e-bikes on the market. There are few options in the city e-bike category at this price range.

Trek’s Allant+ 8S and Specialized’s Turbo Vado 5.0 are two notable competitors. However, neither is optimized for pure comfort like the Avignon.

Gazelle chose a Gates Carbon belt drive system with an Enviolo Trekking hub for this bike. This system is ideal for urban-style e-bikes as it lasts up to three times longer and is virtually maintenance-free. In contrast, the bikes mentioned above have external derailleurs.

The Avignon C380 has everything you’d expect of a bike at this price. Gazelle’s attention to detail in design is second to none, and they offer world-class warranties and support to back it up.

Add this premium Bosch electric bike to your shortlist if you want a comfort-focused city bike to last a lifetime.

Buy from Mike’s Bikes

3. Electra Townie Go! 5i

• Price: $2,950
• Motor: Bosch Active Line Plus, 50 Nm
• Battery: 400 Wh PowerPack
• Gears and Brakes: Shimano Nexus 5-speed hub, Tektro hydraulic disc brakes

The Cruiser e-bike category mainly comprises affordable hub-drive e-bikes such as the Ride1UP Cafe Cruiser , Blix Sol Eclipse, and Electra’s cheaper models.

Electra’s Townie Go! 5i offers a more refined ride experience with its premium Bosch electronics, competing with models like the Evelo Galaxy Lux and Specialized Turbo Como 3.0.

Compared to the Galaxy Lux’s Dapu 500W, 100 Nm motor, the Townie Go! 5i offers less power. However, the Bosch system is more reliable, feature-rich, and easier to service. Likewise, the Turbo Como 3.0’s motor isn’t quite as refined but has the same torque and power.

This Bosch e-bike has other unique features, like an integrated ABUS wheel lock, a Shimano Nexus 5-speed hub for lower maintenance, and Flat Foot Technology that lets you get your foot down while sitting without compromising the pedaling position.

Overall, this is a solid choice if you want the relaxed ride position of a cruiser e-bike paired with the natural feel and smooth performance of Bosch’s Active Line Plus motor.

Buy from REI

4. Orbea Wild FS H10

• Price: $6,999
• Motor: Bosch Performance Line CX, 85 Nm
• Battery: 750 Wh PowerTube
• Gears and Brakes: Shimano Deore/XT 12-speed, MT6120 hydraulic disc

Orbea’s Wild H10 2023 is the newest iteration in the popular Wild series. This build is the top of three aluminum-framed Bosch e-bikes.

This 160 mm-travel e-bike straddles the trail and enduro mountain bike categories. It competes with models like Cannondale’s Moterra Neo 3 and Marin’s Alpine Trail E2.

All three have similar trail performance, and the Moterra Neo shares the same Bosch motor and battery. However, the Alpine Trail’s Shimano EP8 motor is less powerful than the Performance Line CX.

The Wild H10 also has better brakes, more robust Maxxis EXO+ tires, and a premium Fizik Aidon saddle. Orbea Bikes and Marin Bikes chose similar Fox Float Performance suspension components, which are higher-end than the RockShox ones Cannondale chose.

All things considered, the Wild’s geometry encourages aggressive downhill riding. The industry-leading electronics give you the super-human ability to get to the top over and over again. Consider the Orbea Wild H10 if you want a premium aluminum trail/enduro e-MTB .

Buy from Jenson USA

5. Cannondale Adventure Neo 4

• Price: $2,875
• Motor: Bosch Active Line, 40 Nm
• Battery: 400 Wh PowerTube
• Range: 64 miles
• Gears and Brakes: Shimano Altus 9-speed, MT200 hydraulic disc

The Cannondale Adventure Neo 4 is the second tier in a four-bike series of comfortable urban commuters .

This e-bike stands out for its versatility, comfort, and premium Bosch electronics. With an urban-centric design, Cannondale chose the basic 40 Nm Active Line motor and the smallest battery available.

The stable handling, wide tires, and comfy saddle mean you can confidently take the Adventure Neo off-road onto light gravel and dirt if you need to make a detour.

This Bosch e-bike competes with models like the Specialized Turbo Vado 3.0 Step-Through and Gazelle Arroyo C7, which are comfort-focused city e-bikes in the $3,000-$3,500 range.

Both the Turbo Vado and Arroyo have higher-torque motors and larger batteries. However, the Adventure Neo 4 costs much less and offers a comparative quality of components.

Add the Adventure Neo 4 to your shortlist if you want a stylish, ultra-comfortable commuter.

6. Gazelle Ultimate C380+

• Price: $3,999
• Motor: Bosch Performance Line Speed Gen 4, 75Nm
• Battery: 500Wh PowerTube
• Range: 55 miles
• Gears and Brakes: Enviolo 380% Trekking CVT, Shimano MT420 hydraulic disc

The Gazelle Ultimate C380+ is the ‘performance’ model in the brand’s lineup, featuring a high-torque motor, a 28 mph max speed , and a premium Gates Carbon belt drivetrain with hub gearing.

If you like to go fast on your daily commute without sacrificing comfort, the Ultimate C380+ could be the bike for you. Many Bosch mid-drive electric bikes are limited to 20 mph max speed, so this Class 3 e-bike stands out.

At an updated price of $4,000, this e-bike is excellent value. It competes with models like Trek’s Allant+ 7 and Cannondale’s Tesoro Neo X 2. However, it outperforms these bikes thanks to its smooth and maintenance-free belt drivetrain, ideal for urban riders.

Additionally, the Ultimate C380+ has a more refined finish and comfortable ride quality, despite offering high speeds. Unfortunately, the motor is tuned for 75 Nm of torque instead of the 85 Nm it’s capable of.

Overall, this is one of the best-value Bosch e-bikes in the high-end category, thanks to its recent reduction in price from $5,000.

7. Tern Quick Haul D8

• Price: $2,999
• Range: 65 miles
• Gears and Brakes: Shimano Altus 8-speed, hydraulic disc

The Tern Quick Haul D8 is a compact cargo e-bike designed for those with light to moderate carrying needs (110 lb in total). It’s easily among the best cargo e-bikes with a Bosch motor.

This bike falls neatly between cheaper hub-drive cargo e-bikes like the Aventon Abound and Rad Power Bikes RadWagon 4 , and heavier-duty cargo models like the RemiDemi 10D (reviewed below) and Yuba’s FastRack.

Tern is well-known for producing durable and reliable cargo bikes with a broad range of easy-to-use accessories. However, the prices typically exceed $5,000. With this model, you get a lower capacity (331 lb), but you get all the same quality and functionality.

Of course, you get more carrying capacity and power with the Abound and RadWagon 4 for a lower price. In contrast, higher-end cargo e-bikes can haul over 400 lb, have more space, and have extra functionality.

Nonetheless, if you don’t need to carry huge loads and have a medium-sized budget for a bike with premium mid-drive Bosch electronics, the Tern Quick Haul D8 is a solid choice.

or Buy from Tern Bikes

8. Cannondale Tesoro Neo X 1 Remixte

• Price: $4,650
• Motor: Bosch Performance Line Speed, 85 Nm
• Range: 105 miles
• Gears and Brakes: Shimano Deore 12-speed, Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc

The Tesoro Neo X 1 Remixte by Cannondale is a high-speed urban e-bike equipped for urban riders and commuters.

This 28 mph model benefits from the 85 Nm torque from Bosch’s top-end motor. So if you like to go fast, it’s a worthy consideration. Moreover, with 625 Wh of juice,you can get up to 105 miles of range in Eco mode.

The 29 x 2.25 Schwalbe G-One tires are puncture-resistant and shock-absorbent and capable of handling some light off-road paths.

At this price, the Tesoro Neo X 1 competes with models like Gazelle’s Medeo T10+ and Specialized Bicycles’ Turbo Vado 3.0, both Class 3 e-bikes. However, this ebike has a better 12-speed Shimano Deore drivetrain and a more capable off-road build.

The Tesoro Neo X 1 weighs just 55 lb, which is relatively lightweight for a bike in this category. Therefore, don’t look past this Bosch electric bike if you want speed and urban functionality at a reasonable price.

9. Co-op Cycles CTY e2.2

• Price: $3,699
• Motor: Bosch Performance Line Sport
• Battery: 625 Wh PowerPack
• Range: 60 miles
• Gears and Brakes: microSHIFT Advent 9-speed, Tektro Gemini SL 4-piston hydraulic disc

The final model on our list of Bosch e-bikes is a heavy-duty commuter ebike. Co-op Cycles is a specialist in this category, and the CTY e2.2 is their flagship model.

The aluminum frame is pretty common on modern e-bikes and gives the CTY e2.2 an extra level of durability and comfort that’s not achievable at a reasonable price.

This Class 3 e-bike can haul loads up to 300 lb (including rider and cargo) and has tons of urban-friendly accessories, such as fenders, lights, a rear rack, a kickstand, and so on.

The CTY e2.2 is powered by a reliable, smooth, and quiet Bosch Performance Line Sport mid-drive motor, paired with a 625 Wh PowerPack battery. You’ll be able to achieve speeds of up to 28 mph and maintain them for around 60 miles on a single charge.

This ebike also has a front SR Suntour suspension fork with 80mm of travel and versatile 27.5 x 2.4 in. tires—therefore, you can rest assured that it is comfortable and ready for different types of terrains.

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Best Electric Bikes with Bosch Motors: Top 5 for Commuters

By Rachael Davis

Updated Dec 06, 2023

This post may contain affiliate links, which help to keep Discerning Cyclist rolling. Learn more .

Alongside Shimano and SunTour, Bosch, one of the world’s biggest engineering brands, has led the development of electric bike motor technology.

The German manufacturer is renowned for its powerful and efficient motors, and it has produced a wide range of motor designs suitable for a variety of e-bike riders.

From commuters to mountain bikers, weekend leisure riders to cargo riders, there’s a Bosch motor for every e-bike user. There’s a range of different models available at different price points .

In this article, we’ll discuss what makes Bosch motors so popular, which are the most powerful Bosch motors, and provide more details on exactly which bike brands use Bosch motors. We’ll also look at which of those are the pick of the bunch.

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eBikes with Bosch Motors (Top Picks)

Trek Allant+ 9.9s

A sleek and powerful electric bike designed for urban commuting and recreational riding.

Schindelhauer Heinrich

A stylish and minimalist urban bike designed for practicality and performance.

CUBE Reaction Hybrid Pro 625

A versatile and reliable electric mountain bike with excellent handling and performance.

Cannondale Canvas Neo 2

A sporty and comfortable electric bike designed for urban exploration and adventure.

Raleigh Centros Hub

A comfortable and practical electric bike designed for urban commuting and leisure riding.

Why Are Bosch E-Bike Motors So Popular?

Bosch motors deliver three essential components that make for an excellent e-bike riding experience: power, efficiency, and a fantastic-feeling ride. This, combined with the wide range of motors on the market, is what makes Bosch motors so popular — they’re dependable, and suitable for a variety of riders.

The compact size of Bosch’s motors reduces weight, making the e-bike more efficient. Three sensors measure pedal power, cadence and speed over 1,000 times per second to ensure the e-bike is totally in sync with its rider, and that the power delivered feels as natural as possible.

All Bosch motors are located in the crank, which makes them mid-drive motors. Putting the motor at the bottom of the frame means that the bike feels stable, as the weight of the motor sits at the lowest point of the bike.

As we’ve already mentioned, the Bosch e-bike motor range is extensive, with motors specifically designed for any and all e-bike uses.

For example, there’s the Active Line for everyday cycling around town (perfect for environmentally-savvy commuters), the Cargo Line for supporting heavy loads, the Performance Line for bike tours, and the powerful Performance Line CX for demanding e-MTB rides.

What Bikes Have the Bosch Motor?

Bosch motors are used by a wide variety of e-bike brands . From Pegasus to Raleigh, and Trek to Canyon, dozens of the most famous brands use Bosch motors on their electric bikes .

Here is a full list of bike brands which use Bosch motors, as listed on the Bosch eBike website.

Bike Brands with Bosch Motors:

• Bianchi Lif-e
• Butchers & Bicycles
• Ebike-manufaktur
• HNF-Nicolai
• KETTLER Alu-Rad
• Reise & Müller
• Ruff Cycles
• Schindelhauer
• Tour de Suisse
• Urban Arrow
• VELO DE VILLE

What is the Most Powerful Bosch Motor?

The Bosch Performance Line CX is the most powerful motor to be produced by the manufacturer. It’s a compact and lightweight motor designed for “a unique eMTB experience”, according to the Bosch website. It supports with torque of up to 85 Nm “for powerful acceleration with compact dimensions”.

The 85 Nm maximum torque makes it possible to accelerate faster, especially at low cadences, and enables you to start off on steep terrain much more easily. This has a noticeable effect on the way you ride.

As with the rest of Bosch’s top-end motors, the Performance Line CX comes with the Bosch smart system so you can individualise your ride by fine-tuning components to your own personal needs.

For example, there are special riding modes, Smart Push Assist for helping out on steep climbs, a Hill Hold function with automatic rollback protection, an eBike Lock for extra security, and over-the-air updates so the smart system is always up to date.

In terms of power, the Performance Line CX’s eMTB mode is specifically designed for sporting use. Because you don’t have to switch between riding modes so often, you have the utmost control and intuitive handling, and will be able to handle challenging segments and manoeuvre over obstacles like roots and stones using the motor’s Extended Boost and intuitive pedal pressure.

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Best E-Bikes with Bosch Motors [Top 5]

• Trek Allant+ 9.9s [ REVIEW ]
• Schindelhauer Heinrich [ REVIEW ]
• CUBE Reaction Hybrid Pro 625 [ REVIEW ]
• Cannondale Canvas Neo 2 [ REVIEW ]
• Raleigh Centros Hub [ REVIEW ]

1. Trek Allant+ 9.9s

Prices are approximate

Bosch Motor:  Performance Line Speed

Weight:  23.4 kg

Range:  120 km

Wheel Size:  27.5”

Gears:  12-Speed

The Trek Allant+ 9.9s is a high-end commuter bike with all the bells and whistles, including the Bosch 350-watt Performance Line Speed motor, the fastest and most powerful motor that Bosch makes.

It has a carbon frame and fork, a Shimano XT 1×12 drivetrain, and quad-piston hydraulic brakes, and offers an incredibly smooth ride that’s almost effortless.

This bike has a fantastic range of up to 120km, so could well last a whole week of commuting on a single charge. Even then, it only takes 3 to 4 hours to charge. Its quick charge speed and long-range mean that it could be great for people who want a trekking bike as well as a commuter bike. However, some components, such as the pedals, may need swapping out for something a bit more comfortable for longer rides.

The controller is a COBI SmartphoneHub controller made for Bosch by COBI, which connects to your smartphone and pairs with Apple Health, Google Fit, Strava, and Komoot. It can even show you an overview of training data and connect with a heart rate monitor. It also has a GPS and live weather, everything you’ll need whether you’re cycling for day-to-day commuting or for longer treks.

2. Schindelhauer Heinrich

Bosch Motor:  Active Line Plus

Weight:  23.7 kg

Gears:  8-Speed

The Schindelhauer Heinrich is a gorgeous-looking bike, but its beauty runs far deeper than just its good looks.

This all-rounder is powered by the Bosch Active Line Plus motor, offering 250 watts of power, which is quiet and operates without a gearbox for a smooth, gentle ride. The Bosch PowerTube 500 battery is removable and fully charged in 4.5 hours.

It has a light aluminum frame and fork, Shimano Alfine 8-speed internal gear hub, and hydraulic disc brakes, resulting in a lovely, smooth ride that feels light as a feather. It also has an incredible range of up to 200km in eco mode, but even riders that prefer to go faster or have more baggage can get a good 80 to 120km on a single charge.

Speaking of baggage, commuters and trekkers alike will enjoy the baggage carrier mounted directly to the frame, which means handling is not affected even when the bike is fully loaded.

This bike suits both seasoned riders and those new to the sport, thanks to its versatile, well-rounded design and complete range of features.

3. CUBE Reaction Hybrid Pro 625

Bosch Motor:  Performance Line CX

Range:  225 km

Gears:  11-Speed

The CUBE Reaction Hybrid Pro 625 packs a punch with Bosch’s most powerful Performance Line CX motor, which is exactly what you need for explosive eMTB adventures.

The high torque motor peaks at 85Nm, ensuring the most exciting time out on the trails, and the bike has a massive 625Wh battery that integrates into its sleek aluminum PowerTube frame.

The 100mm high response X-Fusion MIG32 Air forks with lockout can handle anything out on the trails, and you can put faith in its reliable Shimano BR-MT200 hydraulic disc brakes.

Also essential for an eMTB with this kind of power are the 2.60″ Schwalbe Smart Sam tyres, which have excellent grip and help the rider handle the bike on any surface with ease, so you’re always in full control.

The CUBE Reaction Hybrid Pro 625 is great for riders who want the versatility of a choice of terrain, whether that’s off-road single track, bridleways, or tarmac. Plus, with the power coming from that Bosch motor combined with the Shimano Deore 11-speed derailleur, you’ll be able to handle even the steepest of inclines for maximum eMTB fun.

4. Cannondale Canvas Neo 2

Bosch Motor:  Performance Line Cruise

Weight:  21.7 kg

Range:  142 km

Wheel Size:  29”

Gears:  9-Speed

The Cannondale Canvas Neo 2 is a stylish urban e-bike that is ideal for cycling through bustling city streets whether for commuting or weekend leisure.

It’s built for speed, visibility and handling, and is powered by the Bosch Performance Line Cruise motor packing 65Nm of torque. With a range of up to 142km, the city really is your oyster: you won’t need to worry about running out of charge on your way to work, Sunday morning brunch or on a sunny park ride.

The aluminium frame and carbon fibre fork keeps the bike light and easy to handle, while the Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes are reliable no matter your speed.

The Maxxis DTR-1 tyres are grippy and minimise the impact of bumps in the road, resulting in a deliciously smooth ride, while the integrated pannier rack and fenders mean you can comfortably use the Canvas Neo 2 for any activity.

Plus, it has bright front and rear lights and a weather-sealed battery cover, so you’re ready to ride whatever the weather.

5. Raleigh Centros Hub

Bosch Motor:  Bosch Performance Line

Weight:  28 kg

Range:  200 km

Want to take your powerful e-bike off-road? The Raleigh Centros Hub is designed for trails, bikepacking trips, and all kinds of off-road adventures, fully equipped with mudguards, a pannier rack, powerful disc brakes, and more, so you have everything you need to explore on two wheels.

With a range of up to 200km on a single charge, you’ll really be able to adventure on this e-bike. The built-in Modular Rail System allows you to add accessories to your bike, for example, water bottle holders, and an additional battery and range extender, so you won’t need to worry about your ride being cut short by a flat battery.

The Bosch Performance Line motor is powerful and reliable, so you can take on anything the trails throw at you with speed and confidence. The powerful motor is combined with Shimano MT200 hydraulic disc brakes and Schwalbe Marathon Almotion tyres, giving you grip, stopping power, and superb handling control where you need it most.

Choose from an aluminium frame in crossbar or low-step style depending on your preference, so while you can trust that the Centros Hub has everything you’ll need for your biggest adventure as standard, you also have full capability to customise and add components to create your perfect ride.

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Parker Hall

Review: Trek Fetch+ 2

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One of the things that can be intimidating about buying a cargo ebike is how unfamiliar they feel. Whether a bike is designed with weird geometry and wheel sizes or odd features for heavy hauling, every ride can feel unfamiliar.

For traditional cyclists who want to haul a grocery store trip’s worth of groceries home but don’t want to mess with technology they’re unfamiliar with, the Trek Fetch+ 2 is a decent option. It’s more expensive than some of our favorite alternatives, but it has an easy-to-ride step-through design, well-made components, and great plastic buckets (and other accessories) for storage.

There are bikes with more advanced features for the money, but even after I spent a summer riding the Fetch+ 2, it barely needed a tune-up. For a modern cargo ebike with a classic cargo bike maintenance schedule, it might be worth spending a bit more cash.

On the Road

The Fetch+ 2 is the smaller of Trek’s two latest cargo ebikes, which includes the box-fronted Fetch+ 4 ($8,500) , which is more oriented toward toting around dogs and children in between groceries and beer.

The Fetch+ 2 instead is a more traditional step-through cargo bike that employs a myriad of attachments, most notably two plastic panniers that hang off an extended rack on the rear. You can get a padded seat cover for the rear to let friends hold on and ride, or mount a couple kids’ seats behind you, but I’d still probably use this bike more for errands than transporting little ones.

As an objet d’art , the bike is simple and unassuming, which is ideal for a bike this expensive. The battery is integrated into the frame, but a sizable bulge means nobody will fail to notice it's an ebike. You can get it in three colors. I liked the black of our review unit, but the bright blue would probably be my choice if I was buying one.

While much of the bike will be familiar to anyone who has ever seen or contemplated a cargo bike, Trek really gets the geometry and style of this bike correct as far as making it very usable for many tasks. Even the dual-sided kickstand pops up and down with remarkable ease (shockingly rare on other large ebikes I've used). I particularly enjoyed using the rear panniers for hauling flats of berries and other easily squished items that tend to rattle around in softer panniers.

The panniers fit a ton of stuff; I was able to get four full-size grocery bags spread between the two black plastic totes. I like that they had little plugs in the bottom that you could feasibly use a plastic bag to cover and then fill them with ice and drinks.

I spent a couple months using the Fetch+ 2 as my primary bike, and came away much more impressed than anticipated, given the specs and the price.

On paper, this is an expensive ebike to have pretty standard mid-drive cargo bike specs. The 85 Nm Bosch motor and 500-wH battery are good for 20-plus miles a day loaded down in any city, but they’re not better than models like the larger Xtracycle Stoker, which has the same torque and a 630-wH battery for $4,999. The Trek also doesn’t have a carbon belt drive and variable transmission, which we consider the best (and easiest to maintain) shifting mechanism for cargo bikes.

The more traditional chain-and-gears drivetrain and no suspension make this a less comfortable and more difficult-to-maintain bike than favorites like the Tern GSD ( 8/10, WIRED Recommends ), which costs about the same. I have to say, I was expecting the difference in riding experience to be more severe. The fatter-than-usual 20 x 2.35-inch tires of the Trek absorbed potholes better than other suspensionless bikes. It also stopped just as well as its competitors, thanks to hydraulic disc brakes.

Mid-drive cargo bikes are much better than their rear-hub counterparts, especially when toting larger items or smaller humans, because they allow you to get more torque to the wheels, and provide a more traditional riding experience. I never found myself lacking for power, though I did crunch through the gears a bit when starting on a hill.

The Fetch+ 2 rides really well, with a solid frame and no creaks or sketchiness of any kind (as picked up from my local Trek dealer, another plus of ordering from the brand), and I really liked how bright the built-in lights were when riding home from soccer games and band practices at night. The fat wheels were easy to turn, giving this a turning radius similar to a non-extended ebike when I was making U-turns in the city. It also has a built-in phone mount with a wireless charger, which makes it really nice for using a map app to cruise to unfamiliar places.

It’s not a fun bike to ride in the traditional sense; it’s not the fastest or the most comfortable, but it is satisfyingly robust and confidence-inducing. In my months of riding, I never had a single issue with the bike. That’s unusual given the state of some of the roads I often took the Fetch+ 2 on the side of, and a testament to Trek's great build quality.

If I was a longtime Trek owner and interested in getting into cargo ebikes, I’d certainly give this line a look, with the understanding that I might find something I like better from Tern, Xtracycle, or another brand for the same price—or something from Rad Power Bikes or another more affordable direct-to-consumer manufacturer for less. It’s a well-made bike that does what it claims to do, but it’s on the spendy side.

It is a bit hard to come by, at least in bike shops around my hometown of Portland, Oregon. If you’re interested in this one for your treks around town, I’d make sure to call ahead for a test ride. If you want a familiar-feeling bike with all the frills of electrification, it’s worth a spin.

GO! FURTHER. GO! FASTER. GO! FUNNER. With a global reputation for performance and reliability, Bosch motors and batteries are the perfect way to power you on your daily adventures. They’re also the perfect pairing for Electra Go! e-bikes, combining legendary Bosch innovation with our signature style for a ride that is sure to fit your lifestyle. Choose yours Bosch systems pair with a variety of Electra Go! e-bikes depending on the type of ride you’re looking for. Scroll down to find out more.

ACTIVE LINE

The small, compact Bosch Active Line 250 W motor provides added support with pedal-assisted speeds up to 20 mph (25 km/h in Europe). Four power levels from Eco to Turbo, and a mid-frame motor, make for easy handling and fun riding all around town.

ACTIVE LINE PLUS

The Bosch Active Line Plus 250 W motor provides a step up in power and torque to give you the confidence to charge up hills and go the distance. Four power levels from Eco to Turbo ensure you’ll have a blast riding around town or to the next town.

PERFORMANCE LINE

Flatten hills and shorten distances with the Bosch Performance Line motor. Reach assisted speeds up to 20 mph (25 km/h in Europe) with ease as sensors measure torque, speed and acceleration so you can ride like the wind without breaking a sweat.

Do it all with the touch of a button, or two. The Bosch Purion display keeps tabs on your speed and battery charge, and lets you choose your power support level from Eco to Turbo while keeping your hands safely on the handlebars.

The Bosch Kiox Display is a compact computer that attaches to your handlebars. The full-colour display allows riders to view battery life, support level, speed, heart rate and more. It easily connects to your phone through the Bosch eBikeConnect app.

SMARTPHONE HUB

The Bosch SmartphoneHub connects your smartphone to the COBI.Bike app via Bluetooth, turning your phone into an on-board computer. It does everything from audio streaming to turn-by-turn directions. Smartphone? More like Smartbike.

POWERPACK 500

The Bosch lithium-ion battery features 500 Wh and a guaranteed long lifespan. It charges to 50% in 2 hours and completely charges in 4.5 hours. The battery is easy to remove for off-bike charging so you’ll be ready to roll at a moment’s notice.

POWERTUBE 500

Out of sight. Out of mind. The minimalist design of the Bosch PowerTube battery makes frame integration almost seamless. Charging 50% in 2 hours and fully charging in 4.5 hours, this 500 Wh battery will power you for up to 130 km.

RIDE WITH CONFIDENCE

Register your bike and activate your warranty to best protect you and your ride, including that sweet Bosch system.

POWER UP AND GO!

Rider further. Ride faster. Ride with confidence on an Electra Go! e-bike. See the whole collection and find the perfect ride for you.

FIND A DEALER

Ready to try one out? We thought so. Find your local dealer and give one a test ride. Careful though, once you ride one, you’ll be hooked.

Bosch mid-drive chosen by Trek and others

In the power-limited markets of Europe and Asia, the mid-drive market last year made it clear that the there were going to be two big players who were in the game for the long run. They are  Panasonic and Bosch .

We’ve recently reported on Bosch partnering with  Haibike ,  BH-eMotion , Cannondale , and others…while one by one, the big bike manufacturers have been contracting with one of these two so they can add a mid-drive to their lineup, without needing to design one of their own (we are collecting a list of manufacturers who are contracting with Panasonic also).

Trek has decided to join the Bosch mid-drive family with a new model that is a hard-tail 29’r called the Powerfly+9.

One difference that stands out is the unusually small chainring. It looks like it may be a BB-shaft inside a freewheel adapter. This would allow the rear wheel to be powered without adding any pedaling. Europe and Asia are dominated by pedelec systems, and this is where you must pedal for the controller to add power to the chain.

If this truly is a freewheeling Bottom-Bracket (BB), then this bike can be powered without pedaling, which is popular in North America.

Some riders in these regions have stated that they like how this means they do not have to manage a hand-throttle, but I am leaning towards embracing systems that allow both. There are actually some E-bikes that operate as a pedelec when you want, and run off of a throttle when you want.

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There are several bike manufacturers in Europe who have not made an effort to compete with the bigger bike companies who sell in North America. Many of them have also contracted their drive units from Bosch. Pictured below are more Bosch-drive ebikes that are unlikely to be imported into North America. 

The Steppenwolf Galvin, from Germany. I think this is one of the best examples of an artistic use of hydroformed tubing.

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The Riese & Muller full-suspension “Delite”, also from Germany. This configuration of rear shock mount allows the triangle to retain plenty of room for a larger battery pack.

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The Moustache Samedi from France.

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The Bulls “six50” full suspension.

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The KTM hardtail “Maciona”

KTM’s full-suspension electric-assist “eGnition” line had previously contracted to use the “Clean Mobile” drive, until CM recently went out of business. Bosch is a very healthy company, so KTM has decided to jump on-board the Bosch train.

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Last year we reviewed an impressive Focus Jarifa  street E-bike using a Panasonic mid-drive. Focus is now going to add an off-road model with a more powerful Bosch unit. Their competitor “BH-eMotion” also carries models with BOTH Panasonic and Bosch-drives.

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Bicycle manufacturer “Lapierre” is based in Dijon, France. This is their new 2014 ‘Overvolt’ model.

The LaPierre Overvolt

Another bit of good news is that manufacturers will be able to specify the Bosch “45” unit, which is capable of 45 k/h (27-MPH), although it may be electronically limited to 20-MPH on any bikes sold in North America that are not designated as “off-road only” bikes. This is because the USA has a 20-MPH speed limit for E-bikes that want to avoid DOT moped laws, which would require a license, registration, insurance, along with head-lights/tail-lights and turn signals.

Although Canada has a 500W power limit, the USA has a 750W limit (one horse-power). the Bosch-45 unit is listed as 350W continuous, and also 500W temporary peak power output.

The Bosch-45 500W peak mid-drive unit.

Dec 2013, found this pic on the web:

a brushless permanent-magnet inrunner with the stator (the hot part) comprehensively bonded to the housing. This makes the motor housing (and the bikes frame that it is attached to) a very large heat sink…well-done Bosch!

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spinningmagnets

Grew up in Los Angeles California, US Navy submarine mechanic from 1977-81/SanDiego. Hydraulic mechanic in the 1980's/Los Angeles. Heavy equipment operator in the 1990's/traveled to various locations. Dump truck driver in the 2000's/SW Utah. Currently a water plant operator since 2010/NW Kansas

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Between the wish and the thing the world lies waiting. 

Recent comments.

https://handybobsolar.wordpress.com/ Good resource for solid charge controllers.

This article is super interesting! 2WD fat bikes sound like

I would say that Rivian is on shakey ground these

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Green Deals

Save $729 on hiboy’s step-thru e-bike at $850, greenworks and worx 1-day electric tool sales, and more.

Today’s Green Deals feature more limited-time discounts than ever before, headlined by Hiboy’s latest sale that is taking up to $729 off EVs and bundles, led by the EX6 Step-Thru Fat-Tire e-bike at $850 . It is joined by three tool-specific 1-day Best Buy deals, with the biggest of them being the Greenworks 80V 18-inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw dropping to a new $250 low , as well as the return of the NIU BQi-C3 Pro e-bike to its $1,300 low . Plus all of the other days’ Green Deals that are still going.

Head below for other New Green Deals we’ve found today and, of course,  Electrek ’s best EV buying  and  leasing deals . Also, check out the new  Electrek Tesla Shop for the best deals on Tesla accessories .

Hiboy EX6 Step-Thru Fat-Tire e-bike falls to $850

Hiboy has taken  up to $729 off  a selection of its EV models  for the foreseeable future, with a few bundle options available as well. The biggest of these deals is on the  EX6 Step-thru Fat-Tire e-bike for  $849.99 shipped . Down from a $1,579 price tag, this bike saw few discounts during 2023 outside of holiday sales like Black Friday where it first fell to the former $900 all-time low. In the new year we’ve already seen it drop further to the new $800 low back in March, with today’s deal coming in as a slightly lesser 46% markdown that gives you $729 in savings and lands at the second-lowest price we have tracked. The  Hiboy EX6 Step-Thru e-bike  comes equipped with a 500W Brushless Geared Motor alongside a removable 48V waterproof battery to reach top speeds of 25 MPH for up to 75 miles on a single six to seven-hour charge. Sporting an ergonomic riding design, it features 20-inch all-terrain fat-tires in conjunction with a hydraulic suspension fork for a smooth ride wherever you go. It also has an integrated rear cargo rack, fenders over both wheels, dual disc brakes, an LCD display, a bright headlight, a 7-speed Shimano drivetrain, and three riding modes. Hiboy is also offering two EX6 e-bikes at a discounted rate of $1,660 , down from $3,160.

Greenworks 80V 18-inch electric chainsaw hits $250 low

For today only, Best Buy is offering the  Greenworks 80V 18-Inch Cordless Electric Chainsaw with 4.0Ah battery for  $249.99 shipped . Down from a $400 price tag, this particular combo of tool and battery saw very few discounts over 2023, as opposed to its tool-only counterpart. Since the new year began we’ve already seen two previous one-day discounts, the first of which brought costs down to $297 and the second took things further to $280. Today’s deal continues the trend as a greater 38% markdown that beats our previous mention by $30, giving you a solid $150 in savings and landing as a new all-time low. Equipped with a 18-inch bar and chain, as well as a 4.0Ah battery and rapid-charger,  this chainsaw  allows up to 270 cuts on 4×4 lumber on a single charge. The brushless motor also has “twice the torque of its brushed counterparts,” and its automatic oiler will ensure an evenly lubricated chain and increased productivity. There is no need to struggle with starter ropes as its been replaced with a simple and easy push button start. Also includes charger and scabbard.

Best Buy has a few more tool-related deals of the day, offering a  Greenworks 18-inch replacement bar and chain  for the above chainsaw at  $9.99 shipped , down from $40. This is a massive 75% markdown that is the lowest price we could find, giving you a great chance to snag these backup parts for next to nothing. Best Buy has also listed the  WORX 4V 3-Speed Screwdriver for  $24 , down from $50. Weighing only 1.5 pounds, this device applies 300 RPM of no-load speed for a max hard torque of 44 inch-pounds and a max soft torque of 22 inch-pounds – all at the press of a button, making it useful in tighter spaces.

NIU BQi-C3 Pro e-bike returns to $1,300 low for today only

Today only, Best Buy is once again offering the  NIU BQi-C3 Pro e-bike for  $1,299.99 shipped . Down from its usual $2,200 price tag, in the new year we’ve seen three previous 1-day sales like this; one back on Valentine’s Day, where it fell to $1,500 and twice in April, where it returned to $1,300 for the first time since Labor Day sales. Today’s deal comes in as another repeat 41% markdown off the going rate and lands as a return to the all-time low. You can learn more about this e-bike by heading below the fold or by reading through our  hands-on review .

The  NIU BQI-C3 Pro  comes equipped with a 750W peak-rated rear hub motor alongside dual 48V 10.0Ah batteries that propel the bike up to 28 MPH for up to 90 miles on a single charge. It fully recharges from empty in just five hours, and settings can be monitored and controlled via the companion app thanks to NIU’s smart control technology that has been carried over to this model from its popular lines of electric scooters. It also comes with plenty of extra features that enhance the riding experience like a kickstand, the integrated rear cargo rack, fenders for both wheels, an LED headlight and taillight, puncture-resistant tires, internally routed wiring, IP65 waterproof rating for the motor, IP67 waterproof rating for the battery, and a 3.5-inch TFT color display that gives you real-time readouts of both individual battery levels, distance, travel times, speed, and more.

Spring e-bike deals!

• GoTrax Everest Electric Dirt Bike: $5,999 (Reg. $6,500)
• Super73 RX Electric Motorbike: $2,999 (Reg. $3,695)
• Juiced JetCurrent Pro Foldable e-bike (pre-order): $2,499 (Reg. $2,799)
• Juiced’s HyperScrambler 2: $1,999 (Reg. $3,499)
• Vanpowers UrbanGlide Ultra e-bike: $1,899 (Reg. $2,499)
• Aventon Aventure.2 All-Terrain e-bike with free extra battery: $1,799 ($2,499 value)
• Aventon Abound Cargo e-bike with $372 in free accessories: $1,799 (Reg. $2,199)
• Blix Packa Genie Cargo e-bike with $465 in free accessories: $1,499 (Reg. $2,099)
• Blix Ultra Fat-Tire All-Terrain e-bike with $328 in free accessories: $1,399 (2,099)
• Electric Bike Co. Model J e-bike: $1,299 (Reg. $1,499)
• Lectric XPress 750 High-Step e-bike with extra battery (pre-order): $1,299 (Reg. $1,799)
• Lectric XPress 750 Step-Thru e-bike with extra battery (pre-order): $1,299 (Reg. $1,799)
• Vanpowers UrbanGlide Pro e-bike: $1,299 (Reg. $1,899)
• Velotric Nomad 1 e-bike: $1,299 (Reg. $1,799)
• Velotric Discover 1 e-bike: $1,099 (Reg. $1,599)
• Vanpowers UrbanGlide Standard e-bike: $999 (Reg. $1,299)
• Schwinn Ridgewood Electric Mountain Bike: $800 (Reg. $1,500)
• Schwinn Ingersoll Electric Hybrid Bike: $700 (Reg. $1,500)

Other new Green Deals landing this week

The savings this week are also continuing to a collection of other markdowns. To the same tune as the offers above, these all help you take a more energy-conscious approach to your routine. Winter means you can lock in even better off-season price cuts on electric tools for the lawn while saving on EVs and tons of other gear.

• Jackery’s 518Wh capacity power station with 7 ports returns to $349 low, more from $120
• MAREY Power Pak 12kW electric tankless water heater covers small homes for new $121 low
• Snapcycle’s 2024 R1 Pro all-terrain e-bike sees first discount to $1,799 (Save $200)
• AeroGarden Bounty Basic 9-plant indoor garden falls to $144 (Reg. $180), seed kits from $13
• Anker’s SOLIX C800 Plus portable power station with 100W solar panel returns to $698 low
• Cruise along in throwback style on Razor’s Rambler 16 electric minibike for $528 (Reg. $659)
• Get up to $1,065 in savings on Blix e-bikes with free accessory bundles starting from $1,399
• Bosch Tronic 4000 6.5kW electric tankless under-sink water heater falls to $158 (Save $92)
• Anker’s 60,000mAh PowerCore Reserve power station covers everyday charging for $110
• Hover-1 Instinct electric bike falls to new $432 low (Reg. $1,000), more EVs starting from $280

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