Germany's Bosch has unveiled a next-generation electric bicycle motor that increases power while reducing weight and size. It is designed to improve riding performance and convenience for uses ranging from daily commuting to weekend leisure.

Electrek reported on Oct. 28 that Bosch recently introduced a new model of its Active Line Plus drive motor for e-bikes. The new motor supports up to 600 watts of power and 60 newton metres of maximum torque. It offers pedal assistance of up to 340 percent, providing stronger propulsion when climbing hills or starting from a standstill.

In the United States, it will be applied to Class 1 e-bikes that provide assistance only when pedalling and without a throttle. Assistance is available up to 20 miles per hour, or about 32 km per hour.

The biggest change is miniaturisation. Bosch applied a new two-stage reduction gear structure to cut motor volume by 17 percent and reduce weight by about 500 grams from the previous product. The new motor weighs about 2.7 kg. That makes it easier for bicycle makers to design slim frames similar to those of conventional bicycles.

Bosch also improved riding noise and pedal-assist response. It minimised operating noise through specially processed gears, and it optimised sensors and software so power is delivered naturally in line with pedalling force.

It also supports the electronic automatic shifting system eShift. With a compatible drivetrain installed, gears can be adjusted automatically to match riding conditions.

Bosch also strengthened durability and environmental features. It improved the sealed structure and bearings to handle various weather conditions, and used about 40 percent recycled aluminium in the motor housing.

In North America, e-bike brand Trek will be the first to apply the new motor. The model set to carry it is the Marlin+ electric mountain bike.

Bosch also introduced related devices. They include an LED controller that is 65 percent smaller than the existing LED remote, a ConnectModule that supports Bluetooth-based theft tracking, a PowerTube battery with 720 watt-hour capacity, and an Intuvia 200 display with a 2.4-inch black-and-white screen.

Bosch is pursuing a strategy of boosting competitiveness not only in the high-performance mountain bike segment but also in the everyday e-bike market by emphasising lighter weight and a natural riding experience.