Let’s set the scene: you’ve just taken ownership of your brand-new Bosch powered e-Bike and before you head out for that first ride you want make sure you set it up perfectly! Well we are here to help!
Our team here at the mag have owned and test ridden countless Bosch powered e-bikes over the years and we have definitely learned plenty of tips and tricks when it comes to each bike’s initial set-up and ongoing customisation via the eBike Flow app. In this article we’re going to be covering seven key areas that we think you should consider when setting up and maintaining your new e-bike.
Of course, Bosch do offer an industry leading wide range of different e-Bike motors, batteries, displays and controllers. This article will be relevant to the most common Bosch systems that you’ll find fitted to e-bikes down at your local bike shop, including the Performance Line CX, Performance Line CX-R, Performance Line SX and Cargo Line systems.
Step 1 // Downloading the Flow app, making a profile and connecting the bike.
Bosch have developed a really good app which is packed with helpful features. It’s call the ‘eBike Flow’ app syncs perfectly with any Bosch powered e-Bike. What’s more, the app is free to download so make sure you jump on and do that right away. Then, utilise the app to give your eBike additional protection against theft, plan routes, use smart navigation, personalise your riding modes, customise the display and track your activities. You can also benefit from automatic updates, making your e-Bike even smarter! To download the app simply search for the ‘Bosch Flow App’ which is available for both Apple and Android phones.
Step 2 // Activating a Flow+ subscription
To unlock even more fantastic features from the Bosch Flow App and to utilise the full potential of your e-Bike we highly recommend signing up for a Flow+ subscription. One particular feature that we love and use as part of our Flow+ subscription is the ability to use the impressive eBike Alarm feature for excellent security coverage and ultimate peace of mind.
How to get Flow+ access:
1. Once you have downloaded the eBike Flow app and registered your eBike, go to the eBike Flow app settings and select “Subscribe to Flow+ now”.
2. ConnectModule: use the eBike Flow app to check whether your eBike is equipped with the ConnectModule. So you can use all of the functions of Flow+. If it’s not equipped with the ConnectModule, this will need to be purchased and installed by your local bike shop in order for this feature to be enabled.
Step 3 // Customising the riding modes via the Flow app.
With your bike connected to the Flow app you’ll discover a world of customisation options. Decide for yourself which support, dynamics or maximum torque the eBike takes you forward. You can adapt all riding modes to your needs in the eBike Flow app. This way, you not only get the best possible support, but also a riding experience that is precisely tailored to you. You can find this function on the home screen or in the settings of the eBike Flow app under “Custom riding modes”.
Step 4 // Navigation.
Before you head out for that first ride on about your new e-Bike it’s a good idea to familiarise yourself with the navigation of the handlebar mounted mode selector and with the bike’s display screen (if it has one).
As we mentioned earlier, Bosch offers a wide range of different displays and controllers. The combination of these that are spec’d on your particular bike will have been selected for you by the bike’s manufacturer. Across on Bosch’s website you’ll find a full list of all of the different components that might be on your e-bike as well as loads of detailed information about all of their unique features.
Step 5 // Adjust the position of your bike’s mode selector.
Located on the left-hand side of your new e-Bikes handlebars will be the controller that allows you to glide between the various power modes that your e-bike offers, as well as operating the e-bikes ‘walk assist’ function. You’ll notice that the controller has a series of ‘buttons’ that you press with your thumb. One thing we always like to do before we jump on a new bike is to adjust the position of the controller so that it is in the most ergonomic position possible and it’s as easy as possible to tap those buttons without needing to look down at the controller and take your eyes off the trail ahead. So in order to do that you’ll need to loosen the clamp bolt on the rear of the unit, then, sit on your bike with your seat in the highest position (where you’ll spend most of your time whilst riding and wanting to change power modes) then with your right hand move the controller up and down and along your handlebars until your thumb has the ‘perfect’ feeling contact point with the buttons.
Step 6 // Take care of your battery – keep your eBike healthy and happy!
Find out if your bike’s battery is easily removable? Bike designs differ but a lot of them allow for the battery (located in the bikes downtube) to be slid out and removed. Extreme heat and cold are the enemies of electric bike batteries. If possible, store your e-bike battery in a cool, dry place out of direct sunlight. During winter, especially, or if you live somewhere that gets particularly cold it is always a good idea to charge the e-bike/battery inside at room temperature, and then re-insert the battery into the bike immediately before you head out riding. This will greatly add to the ‘life span’ of your battery and ensure that it runs at its best. You’ll find lots of other helpful tips for caring for your e-Bike’s battery across on Bosch’s own website.
Step 7 // Keep your bike clean.
No one knows better than yourself how much of an investment your new e-bike was – so make sure you take care of it to ensure that it’s always running at its best in order to maximise its lifespan (and potential resale value). Whilst Bosch motor units and components are known for being particularly robust, as mountain bikers, we do venture out into the elements and often that exposes our bikes to all kinds of nasty environments which can cause havoc on our bikes. We suggest always keeping your bike clean, so invest in some good bike cleaning products to wash it off after muddy or dusty rides. And always ensure that your chain is nicely lubed – but make sure to not go overboard with it. Another great advantage that we find with regularly washing your bike is that it gives you the opportunity to take a good look over the frame, Bosch eBike motor casing, displays, and various other components to check for damage or signs of significant wear.
That’s a wrap up!
We hope that you’ve found this set-up guide helpful! One of the great things about choosing an e-Bike fitted with a Bosch motor is the peace of mind you get from knowing that you are always able to access unmatched after-market customer service through their vast dealer network right across Australia. So if you do ever get stuck and need a hand when something goes wrong mechanically with your bike (we’ve all been there, right!) or simply have a particular product specific question, help is always just around the corner.
To locate your closest Bosch service centre simply head to
