Bosch Gen3 & Gen2 engines
Bosch Gen2 & Gen3 engines
When it comes to e-bike drive systems, Bosch eBike Systems has established itself as the undisputed market leader throughout Europe. Founded in Stuttgart in 1886, Bosch today operates primarily as an automotive supplier and as a manufacturer of household appliances and power tools. In 2009, the company entered the booming e-bike market with the founding of Bosch eBike Systems. That same year, the first e-bike drive system was presented at the Eurobike bicycle trade fair. In 2011, the first Bosch e-bike drive went into series production – and proved extremely successful. Over time, additional Bosch e-bike drives were added. Today, Bosch systems are installed in the e-bikes of over 50 leading European bicycle brands.
About Bosch 2nd and 3rd generation e-bike motors
After the proven Bosch Classic Line (Gen1) In 2014, Bosch launched two new drive systems onto the market, namely the Active Line and Performance Line (both also Gen2 With these two product lines, Bosch wanted to appeal to different e-bike target groups: The (also available with coaster brake) Active Line was aimed more at comfort-oriented leisure and everyday cyclists, who Performance Line with its powerful drive, however, is primarily aimed at sporty drivers. A special feature of the Active & Performance Line The drive system uses Bosch's three-sensor concept, which measures pedal force, cadence, and speed 3 times per second, ensuring you always receive optimal pedal assistance. Incidentally, all Bosch e-bike drive units are mid-engines.
In the 2016 model year, Bosch presented the Performance Line CX – the top model from Bosch Performance Line Series, which was especially designed for use with e-mountain bikes. The third generation followed in 2018 (Gen3): A revised version of the classic Active Line and the new one Bosch Active Line Plus. There is now the 4th generation of Bosch drives called Bosch Gen4 / Model year 2020. Since Bosch engines from Gen4 onwards are equipped with integrated anti-tuning software, we have a separate section in our shop for Bosch Gen4 e-bikes ("Bosch Gen4 engines"). This section only covers tuning tools for Bosch Gen2 and Gen3 engines.
Attention: Firmware version with anti-tuning detection
Starting with firmware version 1.8.4.0, anti-tuning detection is also included for e-bikes with Bosch Gen2 and Gen3 drives. Affected Bosch Gen2 and Gen3 e-bikes require tuning tools for Bosch Gen4 motors (Blog article about Bosch Gen4)!
The Bosch Active, Performance & CX Line Drives at a glance:
Bosch Gen 2 engines:
Bosch Active Line:
25 km/h / max. torque 48 Nm / available with derailleur or hub gears / the hub gear version optionally comes with a backpedal function.
Bosch Performance Line (MY15/20):
25 km/h (or 50 km/h in the "Speed" version) / max. torque 63 Nm / max. pedal power assistance 275% / assistance up to max. cadence: > 120 rpm.
Bosch Performance Line CX (MY15/20):
25 km/h / max. torque 75 Nm / max. pedal power assistance 300% / assistance up to max. cadence: > 120 rpm.
Bosch Gen 3 engines:
Bosch Active Line 2018:
25 km/h / max. torque 40 Nm / max. pedal power assistance 250% / assistance up to max. cadence: 100 rpm.
Bosch Active Line Plus:
25 km/h / max. torque 50 Nm / max. pedal power assistance 270% / assistance up to max. cadence: 105 rpm.
Bosch Performance Line (MY20):
25 km/h / max torque 65 Nm / max. pedal power assistance 300% / assistance up to max. cadence: > 120 rpm.
A small note from us: Regarding the classification of the individual engines, opinions differ somewhat. Some experts calculate the Bosch Active Line is Gen2, some of the Gen3 Other experts, however, consider the Gen3 in the narrower sense only the Active Line Plus However, this is irrelevant in this context, as the same tuning tools work for all listed motors - regardless of whether they are assigned to the Gen2 or Gen 3. Only if the Gen2 or Gen3 drives are equipped with a firmware version 1.8.4.0 or higher, tuning tools specifically for Bosch Gen4!
Gen3: Bosch Active Line Plus & Active Line 2018
For the 2018 season, Bosch eBike Systems introduced two new drive systems, namely a revised version of the “Active Line“ as well as the new “Active Line Plus" - the Gen3Compared to the previous model, the new Active Line Motors are more compact, lighter, and, above all, quieter. This was made possible in particular by a newly developed transmission that ensures particularly smooth and harmonious power delivery. Another advantage of the new transmission is that both drive units can be used practically like normal bicycles without the motor – meaning there should be virtually no motor-related pedal resistance.
The "Active Line 2018" was designed for everyday use, i.e. for driving in the city or on flat terrain (torque 40 Nm / weight 2,9 kg). The "Active Line Plus", on the other hand, is somewhat more powerful and also well-suited for use on hilly terrain or for longer tours (torque 50 Nm / weight 3,2 kg). According to our information, both drives are compatible with all current Bosch displays as well as with derailleur and hub gears.
All tuning products for Bosch Gen2 also work with Bosch Active Line Plus Engines (Gen3). For this reason, we have combined Bosch Gen2 and Gen3 tuning tools.
Important: The tuning tools listed here are NOT compatible with the Bosch Smart System (from model year 2022). In our Bosch Gen4 Smart System Overview we explain how to Bosch Smart System recognizes e-bikes and presents compatible tuning solutions.
Can the 2nd and 3rd generation Bosch motors be optimized?
Yes! For both Bosch Active- and Performance Line, as well as for CX Line There are now a large number of highly recommended tuning solutions (Gen2). The tuning tools also work with the Bosch Active Line Plus (Gen3). You can find the best tuning tools in our shop.
What Bosch tuning tools are available?
You can see the best tuning tools for Bosch Gen2 and Gen3 here:
Badass Box 3.4 reloaded by Mountain Tuning for Bosch
The tuning classic in a new edition, and at a very affordable price. This tuning tool for Bosch e-bikes has the great advantage that the box can be easily attached (=tuning active) and removed again at any time (=tuning canceled). The original condition of the e-bike can be restored in no time. Badass Box 3.4 removes the 25 km/h speed limit, but the maximum achievable speed is limited to 36 km/h. The advantage: If you use the tool at a Bosch Smart System E-Bike, triggering the integrated tamper detection is virtually impossible. Tuning is contactless, so damage to the motors is impossible. When tuning is active (i.e., the box is plugged in), the e-bike will not display correct values. Compatible with Bosch Classic Line ( + ), Active Line ( + ), Performance Line (CX), Bosch Smart System / BES3.
RedPed 3 for Bosch
Probably the most versatile and convenient tuning tool for Bosch e-bikes ever. RedPed 3 module can be controlled via an app, the range of functions is simply enormous. Not only can you remove the speed limit, but you can also increase the maximum motor support to a custom value. The tuning can be switched on and off via the app or alternatively via the e-bike's control buttons. Original additional functions include "Speed Offset" and "Troll Mode." The app can display extensive data that goes far beyond that of the Bosch display. The display also accurately shows the current speed and other values. Various improvements over previous versions include a smaller housing and reduced power consumption. Compatible with Bosch Active Line, Performance Line, Performance Line CX, Cargo Line and Bosch Gen4. Compatible with displays: Purion, Intuvia, Kiox, Nyon, Cobi, SmartphoneHub.
RedPed 2 for Bosch
At the RedPed 2 is an innovative tuning module for Bosch e-bikes that can be conveniently controlled via a smartphone app (iPhone & Android). This tuning tool offers an unusually wide range of optimization options. The module's core function is, of course, the removal of the speed limit. Even with active tuning, the display shows the correct speed. Numerous useful parameters can be displayed via the smartphone app – some of which go far beyond what the standard Bosch display can offer. Since the tuning can also be activated or deactivated via the control buttons on the e-bike, you don't necessarily have to bring your smartphone with you when you use the bike – basically, you just need to configure the desired settings once. In terms of functionality, the RedPed 2 is probably the most comprehensive tuning tool for Bosch e-bikes ever. Compatible with Bosch Gen2, Gen3, and the new Bosch Gen4 e-bike drives: Bosch Active Line & Performance Line Motors from 2014 – 2019 + Bosch Gen4 / year 2020. Compatible with the following displays: Intuvia, Kiox, Nyon, Purion, Cobi.
Product permanently sold out!
Badass Box 4 for Bosch
This tuning tool completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit. Thanks to a new, patented snap lock, the box can now be plugged and unplugged more easily than ever before. To activate the tuning, the Badass Box 4 simply needs to be placed on the e-bike's speed sensor and the spoke magnet slightly moved. The e-bike's original state can be restored at any time within a few seconds. Thanks to a new AAA battery, the range of the Badass Box With over 7.000 km, it's higher than ever before. Please note that when tuning is activated, correct speed values are no longer displayed. Made in Germany and compatible with Classic Line, Active Line, Performance Line, CX Line & Active Line Plus.
Sx2 dongle for Bosch (from 2014)
This tuning tool removes the speed limit on Bosch drives. There is no direct intervention in the motor electronics, so all acceleration profiles remain unchanged. One advantage of the Sx2 dongle is its very straightforward installation thanks to its "plug & play" principle (the dongle simply needs to be connected to the e-bike's speed sensor; the required cable kit is included). It can be switched on and off via the light switch. If you want to reverse the tuning, you simply remove the dongle (the dongle can be attached directly to the handlebar). The dongle requires no separate batteries and is maintenance-free. Compatible with Classic Line, Active Line, Performance Line, Performance Line CX, Bosch Performance Gen 4 (2020).
SpeedBox 3.0 for Bosch
A processor-controlled tuning module that removes the speed limit of Bosch e-bike motors. SpeedBox 3, there is the additional option to increase the maximum motor support to an individually desired value. This tuning tool has the advantage that the display continues to show the correct speed (also applies to other data such as range, daily distance traveled, etc.). Another practical feature is that the SpeedBox 2 can be conveniently switched on or off at any time using the e-bike's Walk button. Installation is straightforward; thanks to the form-fitting connectors, incorrect connection is absolutely impossible. Compatible with Active Line, Performance Line, Performance Line CX, Active Line Plus. SpeedBox 3 is also compatible with Bosch Gen4 engines (2020).
PearTune MSO 4.0 for Bosch
Compared to previous versions, the PearTune MSO 4.0 offers many interesting additional features. For the first time, the speed limit can not only be completely removed, but the maximum speed can also be set to a custom value. The correct speed is displayed even when tuning is active. A special feature is the "chip lock," which makes the tuning virtually "invisible" and undetectable to outsiders. The tuning module is controlled via the control buttons on the display. The control buttons also allow tuning to be switched on and off, and even a custom activation code can be set. PearTune 4.0 tuning module does not require its own battery. Compatible with all Bosch e-bike drives and displays from 2014 up to and including 2020/2021 (Active Line / Performance Line / Performance CX Line / Active Line Plus / Gen 4 / Displays: Intuvia, Purion, Nyon, Kiox, Cobi, Smartphone Hub Cobi).
PearTune MSO 3.0 for Bosch
A popular tuning module that is compatible with Bosch Gen2, Gen3 and even Bosch Gen4 drives. Thanks to the "plug and play" principle and the reduced housing, the PearTune MSO 3.0 is now easier to install than ever before. New, improved software ensures that the 25 km/h speed limit of the motor is completely removed. The correct speed is displayed even when tuning is active. Tuning can be switched on or off at any time using the WALK button (alternatively, there is a "Still On" version of the module specifically for Bosch e-bikes without a WALK button – in this case, tuning is always active). Compatible with all Bosch e-bike drives and displays from 2014 up to and including 2021 (drives: Active Line, Performance Line, Performance CX, Active Line Plus / Displays: Intuvia, Purion, Nyon, COBI, Kiox).
VOLspeed V4 for Bosch Active / Performance / Gen4
A tuning module with a wide range of optimization options, for example, the maximum speed can be freely set between 25 km/h and 45 km/h. The optional dynamic mode reduces abrupt stopping when the set maximum speed is reached. A completely new feature is the ability to individually adjust the motor support in each riding mode. Also new is the "Plug & Play" function, so the module is ready to go immediately after installation. The module is configured using the control buttons on the e-bike. The correct speed display, even with active tuning. The tuning module can be switched on and off and does not require its own battery. According to the manufacturer, no 504 error codes occur on Bosch Gen4 e-bikes. Compatible with Bosch drives from model year 2014 (Active Line, Active Line Plus, Performance Line, CX Line and Bosch Gen4). Not compatible with the new Bosch "Smart System / BES3” (model year 2022).
VOLspeed 3 for Bosch
One of the most popular tuning modules ever. VOLspeed V3 can do far more than most conventional tuning tools. Not only can you remove the speed limit, but you can even set the maximum motor assistance level to a custom value. Furthermore, the "Dynamic Mode" reduces the annoying "wall effect" that occurs when the maximum assisted speed is reached. The result is a much more pleasant riding experience. The module can be switched on or off at any time using the e-bike's control buttons. Even with active tuning, the correct speed is still displayed. Unlike previous models, you can now even set an activation code to protect the tuning from unauthorized access. VOLspeed V3 is not only compatible with most previous Bosch drives (Active Line, Active Line Plus, Performance Line, CX Line), but also with the brand new Bosch 2020 Gen4 e-bike drives (e.g. Performance CX 2020).
sIMPLEk Kit for Bosch
This tuning tool removes the speed limit completely. Please note that sIMPLEk This is a kit that you have to assemble yourself, using a soldering iron. This requires a bit of DIY. Installing the fully assembled module itself, however, is absolutely straightforward. After installation, the tuning can be activated by turning the e-bike off and then on again within 10 seconds of starting. Even with tuning active, the correct speed remains readable – however, via the second digit and the decimal place of the speed display on the e-bike display. After installation, sIMPLEk no longer recognizable from the outside. For all customers with a little bit of manual skill, this tuning kit is highly recommended, especially due to its affordable price. Compatible with Classic Line (from 2011), Active Line, Active Line Plus, Performance Line, Performance Line CX.
sIMPLEk Pro for Bosch
The affordable sIMPLEk Tuning module in the "Pro" version - this means that this module is delivered as a finished product and does not need to be assembled (unlike the "normal" sIMPLEk (for Bosch). This tool completely removes the speed limit on Bosch e-bikes—nothing more, nothing less. The current speed remains visible, but only via the second digit and the decimal place of the speedometer (a reading of 13,4 km/h corresponds to 34 km/h, etc.). One advantage is the easy installation; once installed, the tuning module is invisible from the outside. Made in Germany. Compatible with Bosch. Classic Line, Active Line, Active Line Plus, Performance Line, Performance Line CX & Bosch Gen4 (2020).
sIMPLEk Pro for Bosch - Nano Edition
With this tuning module, the 25 km/h speed limit of Bosch e-bike motors can be adjusted. Nano Edition combines the Default- familiar with the Stealth edition. The Stealth mode This function prevents error messages and tuning detection; it can be activated or deactivated at any time via the menu. Even with active tuning, the correct speed remains visible, albeit via the second digit and the decimal place on the display. Since the distance traveled is automatically updated after one minute of stationary operation, the maximum speed, distance, and total mileage remain correct. Compatible with Bosch Gen1 - Gen4 e-bike motors: Classic Line, Active Line (Plus), Performance Line (CX) incl. Gen4, Cargo Line.
sIMPLEk Stick for Bosch
The first tuning dongle ever that still displays the correct speed. The speed limit for motor assistance is completely removed. The dongle can be attached directly to the handlebar, allowing you to conveniently plug and unplug the dongle to activate or deactivate the tuning. Please note that the sIMPLEk The stick comes in the form of a kit that you have to assemble yourself. Since it only consists of four components, this isn't difficult. However, you will need a soldering iron to connect the included USB connector to the circuit board. Compatible with Classic Line, Active Line, Performance Line, Performance Line CX.
sIMPLEk Stick Pro for Bosch
A tuning dongle that completely removes the speed limit on Bosch e-bikes. Because it's a USB-connected tool, all tuning-relevant components can be removed within seconds. The actual speed remains readable, albeit via the second digit and the decimal place of the speed display. Please note that this is the "Pro" version of the dongle. sIMPLEk Sticks – this means this dongle is delivered as a ready-to-use finished product, not as a kit. Made in Germany. Compatible with Bosch Classic Line, Active Line, Active Line Plus, Performance Line, Performance Line CX & Bosch Gen4 (2020).
sIMPLEk Stick ECOplus for Bosch
The first tuning tool for EXTENDED range. This is achieved by the ECOplus Stick, which, after installation, detects constant speeds. If this occurs, the motor assistance is gradually reduced. If the speed drops below a certain value or after a certain period of time has been exceeded, the assistance is gradually activated again. This makes a range increase of up to 20 percent possible! By the way, the 25 km/h limit of the motor support remains completely untouched by this tool. Please note that the tool is delivered as a kit consisting of four components. Assembly requires the use of a soldering iron. This is easy, however, and the actual installation is also straightforward. The stick can be optionally attached to the handlebar, allowing it to be conveniently plugged in or removed. Compatible with Classic Line, Active Line, Performance Line, Performance Line CX.
MBIQ-P Plugin Tuning for Bosch
This microcontroller-based tuning tool completely removes the speed limit on Bosch e-bike drives. As a practical plug-in solution, the MBIQ-P simply needs to be inserted between the speed sensor and the motor controller. The tuning can be switched on and off using specific, sequenced wheel movements when starting up the e-bike. When tuning is active, the display no longer shows correct speed values above approximately 22 km/h. The MBIQ-P does not require its own battery. Compatible with Bosch Active Line, Active Line Plus, Performance Line, Performance Line CX & Bosch Gen4 engines (2020).
MBIQ-CC (Universal)
The MBIQ-CC completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit for e-bike motors; there are no additional functions. When tuning is active, the display no longer shows correct values above 25 km/h. Quick and easy installation thanks to the push-in terminal. Not only is the tool maintenance-free and requires no separate battery, it can also be programmed by the customer using specific wheel movements when starting up the e-bike. The MBIQ-CC is a universal solution for various e-bike motors, provided they are equipped with 2-wire speed sensors. The tool is compatible with Bosch drives (, among others).Active/Performance/CX), Shimano Steps (E6xxx, E7xxx, E8xxx), Panasonic (X0, Flyer), Brose (Drive S) etc.
MBIQ-CC 2 (Universal)
A universal tuning solution that is compatible with e-bike drives from various manufacturers (including Bosch Gen4). The tool completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit. Customer-programmable and "anti-tuning" ready. Unlike the standard MBIQ-CC, the tuning on the MBIQ-CC 2 can also be activated via an external switch (not included) or via a light signal (only with 2-wire sensors). Above a speed of approximately 25 km/h, the correct speed is no longer displayed when tuning is active. For installation, the tool must be integrated into the existing sensor cable, which is easily done via a push-in terminal. Compatible with various e-bike motors with 2- or 3-wire speed sensors: Bosch (Active, Performance, CX), Shimano Steps (E6xxx, E7xxx, E8xxx), Panasonic (X0, Flyer), Brose (Brose Drive S), Bafang (BBS-xxx), Yamaha (PW-xx), Fazua, AEG, etc…
MBIQ-S Tuning Sensor for Bosch
A microcontroller-based tuning solution for Bosch e-bikes. This tuning tool is reduced to the absolute essentials and completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit. Installation is very easy, as you simply replace the original sensor with the MBIQ-S. It offers the option of three different operating modes. When tuning is active, the display no longer shows the correct speed. The MBIQ-S does not require its own battery. By removing the original sensor, you can restore the e-bike to its original state at any time. Compatible with Bosch Active Line, Active Line Plus, Performance Line, Performance Line CX and compatible with all common motor firmwares.
Eplus Speed Unlocker by Mountain Tuning for Bosch Gen2, Gen3 & Gen4
A tuning chip with a functionality that's limited to the absolute essentials—namely, removing the 25 km/h speed limit. The tuning can be activated/deactivated using the WALK button, and the e-bike display shows correct values. A separate battery is not required. Compatible with Bosch e-bikes Gen2, Gen3, and Gen4, as well as with all displays (not compatible with Cobi and SmartHub).
Eplus Advanced by Mountain Tuning for Bosch Gen2, Gen3 & Gen4 (with app)
The Eplus Advanced Tuning Chip is with the Eplus Tuning app compatible. This has the advantage that you benefit from advanced setting options. The speed limit is not simply removed, but you can also set it to a desired maximum value. Furthermore, various additional features can be activated via the app, for example, you can activate an immobilizer, hide the tuning, or adjust the engine maps. Even with active tuning, the display shows correct values. The Eplus Advanced Chip not included. Compatible with Bosch e-bikes Gen2, Gen3, and Gen4, as well as with all displays.
Here's a small selection of e-bikes and model series that feature Bosch Gen 2 and Gen 3 drives. Use the tuning tools listed above to optimize these e-bikes and make them faster:
Cannondale Mavaro / Carver Cityzen / Carver Tour / CUBE Acid Hybrid / CUBE Nuride / Gazelle Miss Grace / Gazelle Paris / Ghost E-Teru / Gudereit EC-6 / Gudereit ET-3 / Gudereit ET-15 / Electra Townie / Haibike Hardnine / Haibike Hardseven / Haibike Trekking / Hercules Futura / Hercules Lyon / Hercules Montfoort / Hercules Roberta / Kalkhoff Endeavor / Kalkhoff Image / Kettler Explorer / Kettler Quadriga / Kettler Traveler / Kreidler Vitality / KTM Macina / Kreidler Vitality / Lapierre Overvolt / Liqbike Active / Orbea Keram / Raleigh Dundee / Raleigh Kingston / Raleigh Stoker / Riese and Müller Charger / Scott Sub Active / Winora Sinus / Wanderer E600 / Winora Tria Tuning solutions see above.
