Introduction
When it comes to getting out on the trails, derestricting your ebike can take your ride from good to great. The issue is, new ebike motors such as the Bosch Smart System have become more complex, with advanced features and technology.
Great for tech-savvy riders that want to monitor their ride through their iPhone. But, not so good for those that want to derestrict their ride using an ebike tuning kit.
Gone are the days of moving the magnet on your rear wheel. Bypassing the speed limit with a bit of DIY.
Since the Bosch Smart System launched in 2022, we've tested every tuning kit on the market. Some worked great, others not so much. With the introduction of over-the-air software updates, it's been a challenge for brands like Speedbox, VOLspeed and PearTune to keep up.
The good news is that VOLspeed for Bosch Smart System has emerged as a reliable and cost-effective ebike tuning kit. We think it's time is got a full review just like it's predecessor (VOLspeed V4 Bosch Review).
Compatibility
As we mentioned in the beginning, ebike tuning has become more complicated. That's why it's super important to understand what motor you have before making a purchase.
The VOLspeed for Bosch Smart System works with any ebike fitted an LED remote or system controller (see diagram below). Note, this ebike tuning kit not compatible with Smart bikes fitted with the 'Rim Magnet' sensor located on the rear wheel valve.
VOLspeed for Bosch Smart System Benefits
The VOLspeed Bosch Smart System is a plug & ride ebike tuning kit. It allows you to increase your bike's speed limit up to 28mph (45kmh). It can be switched on or off using your controls. It works with ebikes fitted with and without displays.
Installation Process
Installation is a breeze with this ebike tuning kit. Designed as a plug-and-play device, it connects directly to your Bosch Smart System without the need for any complex tools or technical know-how. This easy to follow installation process makes it an attractive option for riders who may not be mechanically inclined. Once fitted, you simply press the button sequence to activate the chip and choose your desired max speed.
For bike's without a display, you must use the Flow app to act as your display when setting it up for the first time.
Performance Enhancements
Once installed, the performance improvements are immediately noticeable. After a simple activation on the handlebar controls (- + - +). The VOLspeed removes the standard 25 km/h (15 mp/h) speed limit, allowing you to reach higher speeds (up to 45km/h or 28mp/h). It's worth noting that while this can lead to a more exhilarating ride, it's crucial to adhere to local laws regarding e-bike speed limits.
Plug & Ride Tuning
The real magic of the VOLspeed tuner is that it's so easy to use. Riders can switch it on or off at anytime using the handlebar controls. In addition, they can adjust the speed settings on the move within a few taps. It also works great if your eBike doesn't have a display as everything can be set using the flow mobile app.
Battery Life
While you may experience a reduction in battery range due to higher speeds and increased power usage. The VOLspeed tuning kit allows you easily adjust your speed to help optimise battery life depending on what type of ride you're doing.
Durability and Quality
In terms of build quality, the VOLspeed impresses. Made in Germany, it's built using quality materials. The design itself has been well thought out, with long cables to ensure it can be securely fitted without specialist tools or skills.
User Feedback
Since it's launch in 2023, feedback for this ebike tuning kit have been very positive (check them out for yourself here). Here's a snippet:
Pricing
It's well priced at £189, other brands start at around £199. Whilst it doesn't have the Bluetooth capabilities of the new Speedbox 1.1 B.Tuning. You're getting a reliable tuning kit that's simple to use and won't break the bank.
Should you buy one?
If you own an eBike fitted with a Bosch Smart System (excluding rim magnet) then you should definitely consider this ebike tuning kit. It's competitively priced but most importantly, it's reliable.
Overall we think think this is a superb ebike tuning kit for the Bosch smart system motor. VOLspeed have quickly become one of the most trusted brands in the market. They even include a 2-year warranty on each product for added peace of mind. Let us know what you think in the comments below!
As a reminder, this ebike tuner does not work with any eBikes with the rim magnet speed sensor (located on the rear wheel valve)
VOLspeed for Bosch Smart System - Shop Now
8 comments
So far we cannot get it to work. We are having a hard time setting it up because it is not picking up the magnet on the wheel. The installation video shows it being installed on a commuter style e-bike not a high performance Mtn bike like mine. Unno Mith any ideas on how we can get it working?
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EBIKE TUNER replied:
Thanks for getting in touch, Dan. Please email us at support@ebiketuner.com with your order number and one of the team will respond.
I bought a bike tuner for my son last month and I was going to send it back but he wanted to keep so I went to a bike shop on Saturday and it’s been put in and it’s done by instructions but it my pedal assist isn’t working since putting it in it won’t work when I hold the minus for 3 seconds nothing shows up the speed monitor just stays at zero an when u pedal after 10 seconds is comes up with 50.3 error
Can you help me figure out what’s up please
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EBIKE TUNER replied:
Thanks for getting in touch, Jay. Please email us at support@ebiketuner.com with your order number and one of the team will respond.
Hi. Have you had any problems from the speed box 2023 tuning chips? Following the January update from Bosch my bike has a manipulation error, are you aware of this?
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EBIKE TUNER replied:
Thanks for getting in touch. Please email us at support@ebiketuner.com with your order number so we can further assist you.