Bosch eBike Systems announced the latest generation of its Active Line Plus motor on October 22, 2026. Designed for everyday commuting and recreational cycling, the updated mid-drive motor offers higher torque, reduced weight, and quieter pedal assistance. The improvements aim to make electric bicycles easier to handle on city roads, hills, and leisure rides.
The updated Bosch Active Line Plus delivers up to 60 Newton-meters (Nm) of torque, compared with 50 Nm in the previous generation. Its maximum power remains 600 watts, while pedal assistance reaches up to 340%. The higher torque helps riders accelerate and climb hills with less effort. In the United States, Bosch classifies the motor as a Class 1 pedal-assist system, supporting speeds of up to 20 mph (32 km/h).
One of the biggest improvements is the motor’s smaller and lighter construction. The new Active Line Plus weighs approximately 2.7 kilograms (6 pounds), making it around 0.5 kilograms (1.1 pounds) lighter than its predecessor. Bosch has introduced a redesigned two-stage gearbox that reduces the motor’s volume by approximately 17%. The compact design also gives bicycle manufacturers more flexibility when integrating the motor into modern electric bike frames.
Bosch says the updated gearbox uses specially machined gears to reduce operating noise. Improved sensors and software respond more precisely to each pedal stroke, helping the motor deliver smoother and more natural assistance. Riders can also customize available riding modes to adjust motor support for different routes, traffic conditions, and personal preferences.
The new Active Line Plus also supports Bosch eShift electronic gear-changing technology. When paired with compatible shifting components, eShift can automatically change gears to help riders maintain a comfortable pedaling rhythm. Bosch has also improved the motor’s sealing and bearing design to support reliable operation in different weather conditions.
Bosch has also incorporated recycled materials into the updated motor. According to the company, approximately 40% of the aluminum used in the motor housing is recycled. Bosch says this helps reduce production-related carbon emissions compared with using conventional aluminum. Recycled materials are also used in some plastic components.
Alongside the updated motor, Bosch has highlighted four additional products for its smart e-bike system. These include the 720 Wh PowerTube battery, the Intuvia 200 handlebar display, a smaller LED Controller, and an upgraded ConnectModule tracking device. The Intuvia 200 features a 2.4-inch grayscale screen, while the redesigned LED Controller is approximately 65% smaller than its predecessor.
The new PowerTube 720 battery weighs approximately 3.9 kilograms (8.6 pounds) and has a capacity of 720 watt-hours. Bosch claims it can provide up to 115 miles (185 kilometers) of range under specific test conditions using a Performance Line PX motor in Eco mode. Actual range depends on the bicycle, terrain, rider weight, and assistance settings. Meanwhile, the updated ConnectModule combines GPS with Bluetooth Low Energy to help owners locate their bikes more precisely at close range. Full theft alerts and live GPS tracking require compatible hardware and Bosch’s Flow+ premium service.
According to Bosch, Trek will be the first bicycle brand in North America to introduce the new-generation Active Line Plus motor on its Marlin+ electric mountain bike. Other bicycle manufacturers may adopt the updated drive unit in future models. Bosch has not provided a specific retail launch date or confirmed pricing for the complete bicycles in its October 22 announcement.
For readers interested in more demanding off-road riding, our guide to gravity e-bikes explains how trail-focused electric bicycles differ in motor requirements, suspension, and handling.
The updated Active Line Plus is designed for everyday commuting, leisure cycling, and moderate off-road adventures rather than competitive racing. Readers exploring electric bicycles for everyday travel can also check our guide to fat-tire e-bikes for commuting, which explains comfort, stability, battery range, and other practical considerations.
Its higher torque, lighter construction, and quieter operation could improve the riding experience for regular e-bike users. However, buyers should check the complete bicycle’s motor generation, battery capacity, display, and available smart features before making a purchase.
