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To get straight to the point: There is still a long way to go before e-MTBs are "connected". For our comparison, we analysed the most popular displays for charging options, connectivity with smartphone apps and navigation functions. The result is somewhat sobering: even the obvious option of supplying other end devices with power from the bike battery via a USB port is only possible on a few systems. Most systems are still a long way from the vision of transmitting and displaying standardised ride data to a smartphone or navigation device. Market leader Bosch is completely closed in this respect, while Shimano only allows Garmin and Sigma devices. Manufacturer apps for smartphones, which are available for most drive systems, are often not developed with the necessary frequency. Shimano's E-Tube app repeatedly experiences connection problems with various Android smartphones.
The question remains as to whether a complete solution consisting of an e-bike control unit with an integrated navigation system or a networked mini control centre in combination with external bike navigation is better. In the long term, coupled systems have advantages due to the different product life cycles. While older bikes can still function very well, the control systems become obsolete more quickly. Example: the first generation Bosch Nyon. With its small memory and slow system, it is no longer a joy to navigate. The first-generation Turbo Levo is completely different: data is still transferred via standard radio protocols - combined with a new smartphone or GPS bike computer, the cockpit remains up to date. In this respect, bikes that rely on open wireless standards ANT+ LEV (Specialised & Giant) or Bluetooth (Fazua) offer the best of both worlds. A clean cockpit for those who value simplicity. Or full connectivity for technology nerds.
Further information and details on the systems presented can be found on our author's blog: gpsradler.de/emtb21-3
You can download the complete comparison test of the six display systems from EMTB 2/2021 as a PDF below the article. The test costs 1.99 euros.
Why not free of charge? Because quality journalism has a price. In return, we guarantee independence and objectivity. This applies in particular to the tests in EMTB. We don't pay for them, but the opposite is the case: we charge for them, namely tens of thousands of euros every year.
- Bosch Nyon
- Bosch Kiox
- Bosch Purion
- Bosch Smartphone Hub
- Shimano: E8000, E7000, EM8000
- Specialised TCU2
- Giant RideControl Ergo & One
- Fazua Remote BX & FX
- Yamaha Display A
