Bosch Performance CX vs. Shimano Steps E8000: Which is the Best E-Bike Motor?

If you’re looking for an e-MTB with a robust and reliable mid-motor, you might wonder which one to choose between the Bosch Performance Line CX and the Shimano STEPS E8000. These are two of the most popular and widely used motors on the market, and they have their strengths and weaknesses. This blog post will compare them on various aspects, such as performance, range, features, and compatibility.

Introduction to E-bike Motors

Before we dive into the comparison, it is essential to understand what e-bike motors are and how they work. E-bike motors are the driving force behind electric bikes. They provide pedal assistance, allowing riders to travel longer distances without getting tired quickly.

There are two types of e-bike motors: hub motors and mid-drive motors. Hub motors are mounted on the wheel and provide direct power to the wheel. On the other hand, mid-drive motors are mounted on the bike’s bottom bracket and provide power through the bike’s drivetrain.

Overview of Bosch Performance CX and Shimano Steps E8000

The Bosch Performance CX and Shimano Steps E8000 are mid-drive motors for e-bikes. They are both known for their high performance, reliability, and durability.

Bosch Performance CX

The Bosch Performance CX is one of the most powerful e-bike motors in the market, providing up to 85Nm of torque. It has four modes: Eco, Tour, Sport, and Turbo, allowing riders to choose the right level of assistance based on their needs. The Bosch Performance CX also has a built-in eMTB mode, automatically adjusting the assistance level based on the rider’s pedal input.

Shimano Steps E8000

The Shimano Steps E8000 is another popular mid-drive e-bike motor. It provides up to 70Nm of torque and has three modes: Eco, Trail, and Boost. The Shimano Steps E8000 also has a built-in Trail mode, which provides a more natural riding experience by adjusting the assistance level based on the rider’s pedal input.

Comparison: Bosch Performance CX vs. Shimano Steps E8000

Performance

Both motors offer a maximum torque of 75 Nm, which means they can deliver plenty of power for climbing steep and technical trails. However, they differ in how they deliver that power. The Bosch Performance Line CX has a more aggressive and responsive character, with a noticeable boost in the e-MTB mode that adapts to your riding style and terrain. The Shimano STEPS E8000 has a more smooth and more natural feel, with a more consistent power delivery across the three modes (Eco, Trail, and Boost). Some riders might prefer the Bosch motor for its punchy acceleration and dynamic support, while others might like the Shimano motor for its seamless integration and predictable behavior.

Range

The range of both motors depends on many factors, such as battery capacity, rider weight, terrain, mode, speed, and cadence. However, based on some tests and reviews, the Shimano STEPS E8000 seems to have a slight edge over the Bosch Performance Line CX in terms of battery efficiency and consumption. The Shimano motor also has a lower standby power consumption, which means it drains less battery when unused. The Bosch motor, on the other hand, has a higher power consumption in the e-MTB mode, which can reduce the range significantly if used extensively. However, both motors offer enough range for most riders and situations if you use them wisely and manage your battery level.

Features

Both motors come with some useful features that enhance your riding experience and convenience. The Bosch Performance Line CX has a walk-assist function that helps you push your bike uphill or over obstacles. It also has an e-MTB mode that automatically adjusts the level of support depending on your pedal pressure and terrain. The Shimano STEPS E8000 has a similar walk assist function, but it also has a customizable Trail mode that lets you fine-tune the level of support via an app or a display unit. It also has a silent mode that turns off the motor completely for a pure riding feeling.

Compatibility

Both motors are compatible with various components and accessories that improve your e-MTB setup. The Bosch Performance Line CX can be paired with different battery options, such as an integrated or external battery with capacities ranging from 400 Wh to 625 Wh. It can also be paired with different display units, such as the Purion, Intuvia, or Kiox, or with a smartphone via the COBI.Bike system. The Shimano STEPS E8000 can also be paired with different battery options, such as an integrated or external battery with capacities ranging from 418 Wh to 630 Wh. It can also be paired with different display units, such as the E7000 or E8000, or with a smartphone via the E-TUBE app.

Who is using Bosch Performance CX and Shimano Steps E8000?

Here is a list of some of the e-bike models that are equipped with the Bosch Performance CX motor:

• Trek Rail: A full-suspension mountain bike that delivers a smooth and responsive ride on any terrain. The Rail features a lightweight aluminum frame, a RockShox suspension fork and shock, a Shimano Deore XT drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes. The Rail is available in several sizes and colors.
• Cube Stereo Hybrid: A versatile hybrid bike that combines the comfort of a city bike with the performance of a mountain bike. The Stereo Hybrid features a carbon fiber frame, a Fox suspension fork and shock, a Shimano XT drivetrain, and hydraulic disc brakes. The Stereo Hybrid is available in various models and configurations.
• Riese & Müller Supercharger: A premium touring bike that offers a long range and a comfortable ride. The Supercharger features a dual-battery system that provides up to 1,000 Wh of capacity, a Bosch Intuvia display that shows all the relevant information, a Rohloff E-14 electronic shifting system, and Magura MT4 disc brakes. The Supercharger is available in several colors and options.
• Gazelle Ultimate C380: A stylish and elegant city bike that combines functionality and design. The Ultimate C380 features a low-step aluminum frame, a Bosch Kiox display that integrates with your smartphone, an Enviolo automatic shifting system, and Magura HS22 rim brakes. The Ultimate C380 is available in two colors and sizes.

Some of the e-bike models that are equipped with the Shimano Steps E8000 are:

• Canyon Spectral:ON: A trail-oriented e-mountain bike that combines agile handling, 150 mm of travel, and a 29″/27.5″ wheel setup. The Spectral: ON features a carbon front triangle, an aluminum rear end, a Shimano Steps E8000 motor, and a 504 Wh battery integrated into the downtube.
• Focus Jam2: A versatile e-mountain bike tackling any terrain, from flowy singletrack to steep climbs and descents. The Jam2 has 150 mm of travel, a 29″/27.5″ wheel setup, and a flip-chip to adjust the geometry. The Jam2 also has a Shimano Steps E8000 motor and a 378 Wh battery that can be expanded with an optional 252 Wh range extender.
• Scott Genius eRIDE: A capable e-mountain bike that offers 150 mm of travel, a twin-loc suspension system, and a 29″/27.5″ wheel setup. The Genius eRIDE has a carbon or aluminum frame, a Shimano Steps E8000 motor, and a 500 Wh battery integrated into the downtube.
• Trek Rail: A performance-oriented e-mountain bike that delivers 160 mm of travel, slack geometry, and a 29″ wheel setup. The Rail has a carbon or aluminum frame, a Shimano Steps E8000 motor, and a 625 Wh battery integrated into the downtube.
• Cube Stereo Hybrid: A range of e-mountain bikes that cover different riding styles, from cross-country to enduro. The Stereo Hybrid models have 120 to 170 mm of travel, 29″, 27.5″, mixed wheel setups, and carbon or aluminum frames. All models have a Shimano Steps E8000 motor and a 500 or 625-Wh battery integrated into the downtube.

Conclusion

The Bosch Performance CX and the Shimano Steps E8000 are excellent e-bike motors with unique advantages and disadvantages. The Bosch Performance CX is more powerful, efficient, and silent, while the Shimano Steps E8000 is lighter and has a more natural riding experience.

Ultimately, the choice between the two motors comes down to personal preference and the riding you plan on doing. If you are looking for a powerful and efficient mountain biking or long-distance riding motor, the Bosch Performance CX is an excellent choice. However, if you are looking for a lightweight motor with a natural riding experience for commuting or casual riding, the Shimano Steps E8000 is a great option.

FAQs

How good is Shimano Steps E8000?

Shimano Steps E8000 is a high-quality drive system that’s up among the best for e-MTBs. It has a powerful motor that delivers 70Nm of torque and a compact design that allows for short chainstays and a natural pedaling feel. It also has a neat display and a tactile controller that are easy to use.

What is torque Bosch Performance Line CX?

Torque is a measure of how much force a motor can apply to the pedals. Bosch Performance Line CX is another top-notch drive system for e-MTBs that has a torque of 85Nm, which is slightly higher than Shimano Steps E8000. It also has four assistance modes (Eco, Tour, eMTB, and Turbo) and a smart eMTB mode that automatically adjusts the power output according to the terrain.

Can I replace E8000 with EP8?

EP8 is the latest generation of the Shimano Steps e-MTB drive system that was launched in 2020. It has some improvements over E8000, such as more power (85Nm), less weight (2.6kg), less noise, and more customization options. However, replacing E8000 with EP8 may not be straightforward, as you will need a compatible frame, battery, display, and controller. You may also need to update your firmware and software to make sure everything works smoothly.

How many watts is the Bosch Performance Line CX?

Watts is a measure of how much power a motor can produce. Bosch Performance Line CX has a rated power of 250W, which is the legal limit for e-bikes in most countries. However, depending on the assistance mode and the rider’s input, it can produce more than that in short bursts. The manufacturer does not officially disclose the peak power output of Bosch Performance Line CX, but some estimates suggest it can be around 600W or more.