Bosch CX Gen 5 Power-Update

The fifth-generation CX motor not only gains more torque and power through the free update but also features a new ride feel. But how powerful is the new turbo really in practice? We tested the motor, analyzed the values, and compared it with top competitors like the DJI Avinox and Shimano EP801.

We tested the Bosch CX Gen 5 with and without the software update on our standard test track using the identical setup (100 kg system weight, Schwalbe tires, 122 meters of elevation gain). To monitor the input power, we used SRM power meter pedals, as we did in our extensive motor test. The cadence averaged 85 crank revolutions per minute throughout the entire test.

With a ride time of 3 minutes and 7 seconds, the Bosch motor is only 4 seconds slower than the DJI Avinox after the update, at the same input power, and a whopping 23 seconds faster than the CX Gen 5 before the update. The new Bosch nearly matches the DJI Avinox, the previously unrivaled powerhouse. The non-updated CX motor clearly lagged behind.

In the chart, we converted the values into power figures and also integrated other motors from our extensive comparison for maximum overview.

What’s particularly impressive is how the motor scales with higher pedaling power. Previously, only slightly more output could be generated with more input power. Without an update, we could only coax about 30 more watts of output from the motor with increasing input. This is different now. We’ve ridden our standard climb not only with 150, but also with 200 and 250 watts of personal power. And then the motor’s power shoots up to over 670 watts.

The Bosch now rewards sporty pedaling with noticeably more power—similar to the DJI system. This makes the riding experience more progressive and agile.

More power naturally comes at a price. The consumption increases. Before the update, we managed to squeeze 1,708 meters of elevation out of the 600 Wh battery with the Cx Gen 5 without a power drop. After the update, it was only 1,626 meters of elevation. However, the last 214 meters must be done with reduced power. When the battery level drops below 10%, the power falls roughly to that of the Tour mode.

For comparison: DJI Avinox manages 1,470 meters of elevation with a 600 Wh battery at full power, then 175 meters reduced, and 70 meters in survival mode. After the update, Bosch is thus on a very similar level in terms of performance and consumption. In the graphic, we’ve also displayed the range of other motors. In the end, the statement from our major range test is confirmed. No manufacturer can perform magic when it comes to energy consumption.

Even with a heavy system weight (150 kg), the new strength shines through. In all previous tests, we kept the input power constant. However, in many cases, like when riding in a group, it’s more about external factors such as the time it takes for a climb, which is determined by group dynamics. So, you need to adjust your input power according to the group’s pace.

And that’s why we turned the tables in one test and observed what you need to input into a system when you have to deliver significant but consistent power. In short, how much harder do I need to pedal if I have a weaker motor compared to my buddies?

During the test, we aimed to provoke an extreme situation. After all, whether you’re pushing 120 or 140 watts on the pedals can still be relatively well compensated. However, it was essential to us to push the motor to its performance limit. Below the motor’s performance limit, you might as well say, you could vary with the assistance level.

We completed a defined climb with 31 meters of elevation and 210 meters in length with all bikes from a rolling start in precisely 1 minute and 5 seconds. To truly push the motors to their max limit, we added a trailer weighing 48 kg to the system weight of rider + bike of 100 kg to each bike and maintained a speed of 12 KM/H. The results speak for themselves. For the first time in this test, the Bosch motor is on par with the DJI Avinox. All other motors require at least 100 watts more input from the rider to achieve similar performance.

Only DJI demands even less from the rider in this extreme test – all other motors fall significantly behind.

Despite the increase in performance, the Bosch CX Gen 5 remains excellently tuned. The torque kicks in early (from 60 RPM), making starting on steep terrain noticeably more powerful – even with slow crank rotation.

The riding behavior remains harmonious: