Bosch Smart System: We Explain Everything!
Since 2022, Bosch has gradually rolled out the Smart System, a new generation of e-bike systems. This connected system brings new features and is being used on an increasing number of electric bikes. The components, such as the Bosch e-bike battery, are specific to this system. We answer all your questions in this article!
Key Takeaways:
- The Smart System offers a more connected riding experience thanks to the eBike Flow app.
- Smart System e-bike batteries are not compatible with second-generation batteries.
- To find out whether your bike is equipped with the Smart System, check the app used, the bike's year, or the battery connector in particular.
- It is not possible to convert a second-generation Bosch bike to the Smart System.
What Is the Bosch Smart System?
The Smart System is the latest generation of the Bosch eBike ecosystem. It connects the main components of the electric bike (motor, battery, display, control unit) to provide a more connected and upgradable riding experience.
The eBike Flow app offers, among other things:
advanced customization: users can adjust the assistance modes (power, responsiveness, torque depending on the compatible drive systems) to adapt the bike's behavior to their riding style.
enhanced connectivity: the app displays ride data, remaining range, battery status, as well as maintenance information.
navigation features: route planning, turn-by-turn guidance, synchronization with Komoot, and navigation display on compatible screens or on the smartphone.
security features: depending on the bike's equipment, the Smart System can offer features such as eBike Lock or eBike Alarm, which provide enhanced protection against theft.
regular updates: Bosch regularly introduces improvements and new features.
The Smart System is therefore made for you if you are looking for a connected and upgradable riding experience!
How can you tell if your bike is equipped with the Smart System?
Do you already own an electric bike equipped with a Bosch drive system? To find out whether your bike is equipped with the Smart System, check the following:
- If your bike connects to the Bosch eBike Flow app, it is equipped with the Smart System. Older systems use the eBike Connect app or, depending on the model, do not have any connectivity features.
- Bikes launched from 2022 onwards may be equipped with the Smart System.
- Smart System batteries feature a round connector, unlike second-generation batteries, which have an oval connector.
- If you are still unsure, consult this guide created by Bosch.
What Changes If You Need to Replace Your Battery?
This is probably the most important point to keep in mind if you need to replace your Bosch e-bike battery: Smart System batteries and second-generation batteries are not compatible.
For example, a PowerTube 625 Smart System will not work on a previous-generation Bosch bike. Conversely, a second-generation PowerTube 625 is not compatible with a bike equipped with the Smart System. PowerPack 500, PowerPack 400…: the same applies to all Bosch battery models.
Before purchasing a new battery, it is therefore essential to identify the system installed on your bike. On each product page, we indicate whether the battery is compatible with a Smart System bike or not. To help you choose your Bosch e-bike battery, check out our complete guide!
Can You Upgrade from an Older System to the Smart System?
No, it is not possible to convert a conventional bike to the Smart System. The motor, battery, controls, display, and software use a different system. A conversion would require replacing these components and is therefore not possible.
