A new VOLspeed tuning module for the Bosch Smart System will be available from 15.5.2023.
Features
We have implemented a majority of the technical features of our popular VOLspeed V4 for the old Bosch system (BES2) in this product.
The module is conveniently operated via the existing control panel on the bike. By default, the sequence “- + – +” is simply entered for activation. However, this can be adapted to your own preferences. You can define your own sequence from one to a maximum of 5 arbitrary keystrokes. You can use all available keys on the control panel for this purpose, i.e. also the Left, Right and Menu keys.
It is also possible to set the limit freely in the range of 25 to 45km/h. The limit set is shown on the display and saved automatically. We have also integrated the dynamic mode known from our other modules into this module, which makes it possible for the motor to reduce its power a little more gently when the set limit speed is exceeded, resulting in a more natural riding experience.
After installation, the tuning automatically adapts to the bike. A calibration or other settings are not required. The module is immediately ready for use.
Please note: When the tuning module is activated on the Bosch Smart System, the speed in the display is shown incorrectly from about 21 km/h (13mph). The displayed speed then remains in the range of 21 to 24 km/h ( 13 to 15mph) until the set limit is reached. Unfortunately, a correct display of the speed is currently not possible. If a correct display is important to you, you will have to resort to an alternative such as an additional bike speedometer or a GPS app.
In summary, the module offers the following functions:
- Automatic initialization – tuning is immediately ready for operation after installation
- Easy operation via the existing buttons on the bike
- Freely adjustable speed limit in the range of 25 – 45 km/h
- Dynamic mode for smoother downshift behavior
- Individual configuration of the activation sequence
How do I identify the Smart System?
With the Smart System, Bosch continues the designations of the old drive system components, although the components are no longer electrically compatible with the old system. For example, the “Performance Line CX” motor is available as both a Smart System (BES3) and a non-Smart System (BES2). The designations of the displays were also taken over for the smart system. However, with an additional number at the end. The Kiox became the Kiox 300, and the Intuvia became the Intuvia 100, so if Kiox 300 or Intuvia 100 is specified in the technical data, it is definitely the Smart System. Likewise, if the bike is equipped with the control unit LED-Remote, Mini-Remote or the System Controller.
The displays also differ visually. With an existing bike, we believe it is therefore easiest to identify the Smart System by a look at the display or the control unit. We have therefore created the following selection guide, which allows an assignment of the appropriate tuning module via the available displays.
*) not compatible with bikes with rim magnet
Bikes with rim magnet
Some bikes with the Smart System are now delivered without a separate speed sensor. Since the functionality of the tuning module is essentially based on manipulating the signal of this sensor, the VOLspeed will not work on such bikes. Bikes without a speed sensor can be recognized by a relatively large magnet mounted on the valve of the rear wheel. The magnetic field here is processed directly by a sensor in the drive unit, there is no external sensor. You can not simply convert such a bike to an external speed sensor, because the configuration of the drive unit must be changed. This configuration change is often only possible via the bike manufacturer. This means that even the dealer can only make this change after approval from the manufacturer.
Tamper detection
Bosch had introduced tamper detection with the release of the Performance Line CX Gen 4 in 2019, which was also retrofitted in the older Gen 2 and Gen 3 motors via software updates in the following months. This is a software function in the drive unit that is designed to detect and prevent motor assistance above 25km/h on pedelecs. This function uses various sensor signals and tries to estimate the speed and then compares it with the speed determined by the sensor on the rear wheel, which is manipulated by the tuning module. If larger deviations are detected over a longer period of time, the infamous error 504 occurs. This manipulation detection is also present in the smart system. However, the error codes have changed here. Error 504 has become error code 0x524001. Otherwise, the functionality should be very similar.
In our experience, there is a clear difference between the different software versions of the drive motors in terms of the probability of a 504 error and also between the motor generations (Gen 2, Gen 3, Gen 4). However, it has turned out that the error incidence also depends very much on the actual speed up to which motor support is available, i.e. how high the limit is raised with the tuning module. Up to a limit of 35km/h, there were hardly any problems with the tamper detection in the past. Only a single software version of the Performance Line CX Gen 4 also caused problems here – but even without a tuning module installed. Based on our experience with tamper detection, we then launched our VOLspeed V4 for Bosch after 2 years, in October 2021. On the one hand, we have generally limited the adjustable limit to 45km/h here and on the other hand, further improvements have led to the fact that even in the range 35 – 45km/h no more 504 error occurs.
Of course, we have also integrated our previous experience into the new module for the Smart System. The module is also limited to 45km/h. The aim was to achieve the highest possible immunity to tamper detection. Unfortunately, we cannot give a guarantee that the error 0x524001 will not occur. There are simply too many factors that influence the occurrence of the error. However, we advise you not to set the limit higher than absolutely necessary. For example, if you do not ride faster than 35km/h with motor assistance, do not set the limit higher. This is certainly the most effective measure to prevent the tamper detection system from responding. We also advise against software updates of the drive system. This could adjust the tamper detection in such a way that the tuning is recognised. It is also conceivable that the functionality is generally prevented due to changes in the data communication.
Of course, we will always test new software versions promptly. However, initial tests can only ever check the general functionality of the tuning in conjunction with the new software. Without long-term experience, unfortunately, no statement can be made about tamper detection. An additional complicating factor here is that, in principle, no software downgrade is possible. In the event of malfunctions with the new software, you cannot restore the old status.
Availability
You can purchase the module from 15.5.2023 via our store:
http://www.volspeed.de/VOLspeed-E-Bike-Tuning-for-Bosch-Smart-System