What is the new Bosch Smart System?

All your Riese & Muller e-bike questions answered

What is the new Bosch Smart System?

In the run-up to Eurobike in September 2021, Bosch announced to the world they were releasing;

  • a new motor….
  • a new battery…
  • a new controller…
  • and a new app! 

With the shortage of parts in the industry at the moment and the relatively long lead times for new bikes, I think this news probably took most of us by surprise.

But, how new is the ‘new’ motor?

Well, actually the motor itself is exactly the same as the Gen4 Performance Line CX that is already in use and has been for the last couple of years. It is the same 250W 85Nm powerhouse that has been making us all smile, and it looks like it is here to stay.

The new system which they have decided to call their ‘Smart System’ is actually a repackaging and updating of everything wrapped around the motor to turn it into a ‘digitally connected solution for the future’. 

Bosch have used the same port configuration for well over ten years meaning backwards compatibility for battery chargers and 3rd party equipment like the Rohloff hub has been pretty easy.

But with this update to the Smart System there will need to be some development from partners who want to continue working with Bosch….and that’s got to be everyone, right?

So if it’s the same motor, what has actually changed? …

Basically everything.

There is a new 750Wh battery, new Kiox 300 display, new LED remote and new 4A charger. Oh, of course no new product would be complete these days with a snazzy new smartphone app!

So we have spoken about the new/re-packaged smart motor, but what has changed in the other parts…here goes;

Bosch Smart System 750Wh battery

The new 750Wh battery is just a bit bigger! It uses the same great Lithium-Ion technology as the current range of 300Wh, 400Wh, 500Wh and 625Wh.

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So it’s no more energy-dense, meaning you are not getting more capacity in the same size or weight of battery. It is essentially 50% longer and heavier than the 500Wh version.

But from my experience selling e-bikes, this is going to be a big hit!

I’m sure most people would be fine with a 500Wh battery, but because a 625Wh version exists they will upgrade. And, I’m sure it will be the same with the 750Wh version. 

Sadly, the 750Wh battery is not compatible with the current range of power tube batteries. So, we will wait to see how manufacturers like Riese & Müller who have been champions of the DualBattery technology, which enabled capacities of up to 1250Wh will adapt to this.

Maybe we will see a bike with a huge 1500Wh capacity! Though I’m not sure they could make a frame to fit this in.

Bosch Smart System 4A charger

Bosch currently have a 2A Compact, 4A Standard and 6A Fast charger available for the existing range of batteries, with charging times anything from 2.5 – 9 hours depending on the capacity of a battery.

For example 625Wh battery with a 2A charger will take 9 hours, with 6A charger, it will take 3.7 hours… So, it’s checking what charger you get with your bike.

The new Smart System 4A charger claims to be compact, lightweight, visually appealing (really?) and easy to use… Though, I’m sure plugging one end into the mains and the other into the bike has never been that difficult!

As it is the only option available for the new 750Wh Smart System battery, it guess it must be perfect.

A full charge will take 6 hours and a 50% top-up or quick charge just 2 hours. But with 750Wh of capacity and 35-75miles of range, you probably aren’t going to be that worried about the 2 hour quick charge option.

As with the other Smart System components, the charger is not backwards compatible due to the redesigned plug. But who cares?

Bosch Smart System Kiox 300 display

The current Kiox display from Bosch has been a massive hit since it was released a few years back.

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It added two critical features; an LED colour screen and Bluetooth connectivity. And whilst the Intuvia and Purion displays are still popular with the purists, who can resist a few more bells and whistles on their e-bike?

The one major complaint about the current Kiox display is that it is so bloody small!

Some of the information on it is hard to read whilst you are still and you have no chance once the bike is moving.

There are ways around this, and if you have ever searched through the menu options you’ll know you can add custom screens…

But with the new Kiox 300 Smart System display, it looks like Bosch have listened and made it just a bit bigger 🙂

So, no more squinting required. 

Other than that there is the ‘over the air’ updates feature like the Nyon. But, I guess with time the display is where we will ‘see’ changes as Bosch release cool new things for the display?

Bosch Smart System LED Remote

‘What is the new Bosch Smart System is the LED remote?’, I hear you ask. 

Screenshot 2021 09 16 at 07.19.53

It’s the little controller which sits on the left-hand side of the handlebar, and lets you alter the power assistance level and scroll through the different screens.

We immediately know this LED remote is better as it lights up to show the power setting you are in. I want it just for that, but then I am a big kid and really easily pleased.

It also looks like the controller has a better ergonomics shape to it, which will be good as I have always struggled a bit to get the button in the right place. 

It also has it’s own battery… so I assume it can be used without the display?.. I have a bike on the way shortly and will confirm once it arrives.

Bosch Smart System ebike Flow app

Screenshot 2021 09 16 at 07.18.30

As a great believer in the connected world, digital transformation and big data, I believe this is where the future is. The opportunities are vast, exciting and incomprehensible.

So, this is where the magic happens… Everything else has been about existing technology repackaged and re-marketed.

I’m so excited by this, even if it is a few years away…. We are in for an incredibly fast ride (digitally) and just 5 years from now our bikes may look the same, but the way we use them will be so different… And it’s only software!

Check the video below to see what I am talking about.

When will we see the new Bosch Smart System on Riese & Müller ebikes?”

Well, believe it or not, it’s already available!

But it’s strangely hidden away with no fanfare or great announcement of its arrival.

It is only on one bike, the Multicharger 750, but sure enough it’s on the R&M website. 

Screenshot 2021 09 16 at 08.12.40 1

Of course, we have one on order and expect it arrived in November 2021. We will show it to you as soon as it arrives. 

But disappointingly, at the moment it looks like we aren’t going to be able to get it with the Rohloff hub.

I hope this is a short-term thing and the boffins at Rohloff are squirrelling away in the background to get this rectified.

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DualBattery 1250

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DualBattery Technology perfected by Riese & Müller ensures twice the range or far higher climbs, fewer charging breaks and longer-lasting riding pleasure.

With the 1,250 Wh now available, completely new destinations can be reached and you no longer have to worry about the range in your daily routine.

DualBattery 1000

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DualBattery Technology perfected by Riese & Müller ensures twice the range or far higher climbs, fewer charging breaks and longer-lasting riding pleasure. With the 1,000 Wh available, completely new destinations can be reached and you no longer have to worry about the range in your daily routine.

Additional Chain Lock with Bag

Additional chain lock with bag

The sturdy Abus chain lock, in addition to the Abus Shield frame lock, provides twice the security for your E-Bike. The 130 cm long chain is latched onto the frame lock and you can quickly lock your bike to the nearest lamppost or lock it together with up to three other bikes. The chain thickness of 6 mm ensures a high level of anti-theft protection.

Especially practical: frame lock, chain lock and battery lock all use the same key. The bag is firmly attached to the saddle and allows quick and easy removal of the chain lock thanks to its ergonomic shape and Fidlock magnetic closure.

Please note: for smaller frame sizes the lowest saddle position may not be usable when the lock bag is fitted.

Smartphone Hub Cockpit

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The Bosch SmartphoneHub and free app turns your smartphone into an E-Bike display which combines smart navigation with live weather, fitness data and much more. Your smartphone’s standard functions are perfectly integrated and can be operated from the handlebar. The Bosch SmartphoneHub is just as perfectly integrated into the tidy minimalist cockpit with internal cabling and adjustable stem angle. And if you leave your smartphone at home, the permanently fixed display also shows the key riding data.

Please note: This option is not compatible with rohloff and HS models.

Bosch eBike ABS

With Riese & Müller Control Technology you are sporty, safe and comfortable on the road. In addition, the ABS option ensures optimum control even in the event of sudden braking. It prevents tires from slipping, the rear wheel lifting and the whole bike skidding out to the side. The proven technology from the world of cars and motorcycles is now also available for your E-Bike.

Please note: This option is not compatible with rohloff models.

GX option with Fox suspension

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Air suspension upgrade (Fox Float)

The Fox Float air suspension fork with 140 mm travel offers optimum riding conditions for discerning cyclists. The GRIP damping system reliably absorbs shocks from stones, sticks or roots lying on the way and effortlessly compensates for unevenness. With 15 finely adjustable rebound damping levels, this excellently manufactured air suspension fork can be tuned to any undertaking – whether uphill, downhill, field and forest tracks or asphalt.

GX Option

If you like riding your E-Bike off-road, then simply equip it with a first-class off-road package. The Suntour Aion air suspension fork with 140 mm travel reliably absorbs shocks and effortlessly compensates for any unevenness on the terrain. The solid tire studs on the shoulders of the Schwalbe Johnny Watts tires guarantee outstanding grip, especially when cornering. The wide VP 538 flat pedals provide grip for your feet. The sporty saddle an the adjustable X-Fusion Manic seatpost simply make off-road riding an absolute joy.

AIR SUSPENSION UPGRADE

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Air suspension upgrade (Fox Float)

The Fox Float air suspension fork with 140 mm travel offers optimum riding conditions for discerning cyclists. The GRIP damping system reliably absorbs shocks from stones, sticks or roots lying on the way and effortlessly compensates for unevenness. With 15 finely adjustable rebound damping levels, this excellently manufactured air suspension fork can be tuned to any undertaking – whether uphill, downhill, field and forest tracks or asphalt.

REAR CARRIER

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Rear carrier for Riese & Muller bikes - as standard

Your cargo is co-sprung by attaching the carrier to the main frame and Control Technology. Vibrations and hard impacts, such as on cobblestones or pavement edges, are simply smoothed out, increasing riding safety even with a heavy load. The carrier is equipped with the Basil MIK system. Baskets and panniers can be fixed to it with a single click. This extraordinarily stable system lets you quickly swap bicycle accessories fitted with a MIK adapter plate. Accessories can be obtained from EDEMO Electric Bikes.

Pannier rack

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Pannier rack for Riese & Muller bikes

The minimalist pannier rack is ideal for fixing panniers weighing up to 5 kg each. The rear and brake lights are unobtrusively integrated into it. The “Form follows function” design principle has been exceptionally well executed with the pannier rack.

Front carrier rack with Bag

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Riese & Muller front carrier rack with bag

Keep on the move and still have everything with you. You can secure up to 5 kg of luggage on the front carrier, which is fixed to the frame and hence benefits from the bike’s full suspension, perfectly protecting your cargo from knocks and bumps. The bag offers space for a volume of up to 18 litres. Thanks to the zipper and roll closure, your transported goods are perfectly protected from dirt and rain. The bag can be removed quickly and easily and becomes a shoulder bag using the strap supplied. You can safely store smaller items in the two outer pockets equipped with waterproof zippers.

Front Carrier

Riese & Muller Front Carrier
Riese & Muller Front Carrier

Being sporty when out and about – and yet still having everything you need with you. You can secure up to 5 kg of luggage on the front carrier, fixed to the frame and hence co-sprung, perfectly protected from knocks and bumps. Bungee cords secure a sleeping bag, small sports bag or provisions in place in no time at all. And you’ll come to appreciate your front luggage carrier just as quickly.

Comfort Kit

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Comfort Kit on the Homage

The perfect option for anyone wanting to ride in greater comfort: the classically curved handlebars and wider saddle enable you to sit comfortably in an upright position.

The Kiox Display

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Kiox Display shown on the Riese-and Muller Charger3

The Kiox display is perfectly integrated into the cockpit: the internal cabling creates a tidy, minimalist appearance. The adjustable angle of the stem lets you choose from a sportier or more upright seating position. The Kiox display includes different training modes and is perfect to use with tactile pressure points on the control unit. Heart rate monitors can be linked by Bluetooth. The scratch-resistant Gorilla glass makes the small Kiox exceptionally robust. Map-free navigation (only in conjunction with a smartphone) completes the features of the Kiox.

No cockpit (Intuvia Display)

The E-Bike is equipped as standard with the Bosch Intuvia display, giving you full control and a perfect overview at all times. It provides information about battery status, range, daily mileage, total mileage, ride time, current motor power, time, speed and average speed – clearly legible in any level of sunlight. It is operated by a control unit conveniently mounted on the handlebar grip.

The Nyon Display

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Nyon display unit shown here on the Riese & Muller Multicharger

The Nyon display is perfectly integrated into the cockpit: the internal cabling creates a tidy, minimalist appearance. The adjustable angle of the stem lets you choose between a sportier or more upright seating position. The Nyon display ensures that you are fully connected and ideally equipped with navigation for every tour or day-to-day ride. The colour display, with its intuitive touch function, is very simple to use and, thanks to being robust and easy-to-read, is guaranteed to get you to your destination in any weather. The user interface can be customised to your needs.