Today, Bosch is unveiling their answer to the ebike power wars – and the answer isn’t more power. Instead, a firmware update for the Performance Line CX and CX-R motors will provide up to 120Nm of torque and 600% support.
Crucially, this is designed to give you more support in technical sections when you actually need it, “without giving you a motor bike.” That part about ‘when you actually need it’ is important, since it will keep the bike feeling more like a regular bike for more of the ride and it will also maximize the battery life and even potentially extend drivetrain life.
The update allows users to adjust torque output up to 120 Nm across any riding mode through the eBike Flow app, representing a significant increase from the standard 85 Nm baseline. However, the maximum torque setting is subject to individual bicycle manufacturer specifications.
Enhanced support levels can reach up to 600% assistance at speeds below 15 kph in specific riding conditions. As a refresher, power is used to describe the watts; this is still a 750-watt system. Support is also called “assistance” (used interchangeably by the industry). This is the amplification of the rider’s input. Depending on the drive unit and mode, support after 15 kph will drop back to default/previous maximums.
The 600% support up to 15kph is available in RACE, TURBO, EMTB+, CARGO, and AUTO modes. Above 15kph, TURBO and AUTO modes have a max assist of 340%, whereas RACE, EMTB+, and CARGO modes have a max assist of 400%.
The system employs intelligent software that automatically delivers full power during demanding terrain situations, including steep climbs, technical root sections, and tight curve exits. This dynamic response requires active pedal input from the rider, with the system providing power boosts to match rider effort before returning to standard levels.
Essentially, it means that for most of your ride when you don’t need a ton of motor support, you can run it on TOUR+ or ECO+ modes to conserve battery. But when you get to a technical section where you need additional support to clear the obstacle, climb, etc., the bike will adjust to get you through it and then dial back down.
I got to do a brief parking lot test with an updated Ibis Oso (the parking lot at Sea Otter had some steep dirt hills to try this on), and it was awesome. On current Bosch eMTBs, I tend to ride in the eMTB mode but with this update, it makes me think I would probably back down to TOUR+ mode or lower. The added motor support is nearly immediate when you need it, and it seamlessly transitions back an forth without you noticing.
Bosch is releasing Performance Upgrade 2.0 as a free over-the-air update beginning May 4, 2026. The upgrade will be compatible with both Performance Line CX and Performance Line CX-R systems, without requiring hardware replacements or service appointments. And honestly, that’s one of the best parts about this upgrade. As Jeremy put it, instead of making riders feel like they need to rush out and buy the next shiny new thing that’s marginally better than the last, Bosh is taking a more sustainable and socially responsible approach and allowing riders to upgrade what they already own.
Adjustable Extended Boost
Along with increased support and torque, the Performance Upgrade will feature a new adjustable extended boost. This is when you’re trying to clear a root, rock, step, etc. and you are struggling to get over it and might not be able to get a full pedal stroke in. When this happens, the system is programmed to provide up to 2.2 yards or residual boost to help you get over the obstacle. This has been available since 2020, but new for 2026 is a slider in the Flow app that will allow you to adjust the length of the overrun setting for each riding mode.
Digital Drivetrain Tensioner
For the most direct response from your drivetrain, there is a new drivetrain tensioner feature that pre-tensions the drivetrain when it senses lag between the motor and the rear wheel. This is only available in eMTB or Race mode, and is meant to prevent drivetrain lash and give instant acceleration when you’re pushing the limits.
Measure Wheelies, Jumps, and more with Trick Check
This one is really just for fun, though if you’re trying to get better at manuals, wheelies, or jumping, it could actually be a useful tool. Trick Check will now record duration, hight, distance, and angle of jumps, wheelies, manuals, or stoppies, and will show the last trick on the display for eight seconds. Then you can dig into all the trick data at the end of the ride.
New 12A Fast Charger
Here’s another one Bosch riders have been waiting for – a 500w 12A fast charger. Compatible back to models from 2022, the charger includes smart thermal management and claims to charge a PowerTube 800 battery to 50% in just one hour.The charger is also fairly light and compact at 2lbs, so you can carry it with you and charge your bike at work or out on a tour. We’re told that the new charger will be available “by the end of 2026”.
What Models Get What Updates?
There are a number of different Bosch motors out there, and only some will get all of the updates mentioned above – basically just the BDU38 Performance Line CX and CX-R motors. But some will pick up some of the updates, though we’re a bit disappointed that we won’t be able to track wheelies on our cargo bikes…
