Update: Bosch Smart System for e-bikes - SmartphoneGrip test

The Bosch Smart System has been around for a while for e-bikes and e-MTBs. With the mobile phone holder SmartphoneGrip the smartphone can be mounted on the handlebars instead of the Kiox 300 display. The two systems use the same attachment, so they can be quickly swapped as required. With Kiox on the trail, with the smartphone for commuting or over gravel passages, for example. All relevant riding data can be displayed on the mobile phone screen via the eBike Flow app from Bosch, control is via the LED remote. The mobile phone can be charged via cable or inductively.

The new navigation function of the Bosch app provides route suggestions based on different profiles. One of these profiles is called E-MTB Trails and is designed for sporty e-biking.

Another new feature of the Bosch Smart System for e-bikes is the eBike Lock - additional theft protection. Once activated in the Bosch app, the motor only enables assistance when there is a Bluetooth connection to the smartphone. The mobile phone does not have to be operated for this, it is sufficient if it is in the rucksack or jacket pocket on the bike. In future, Strava and Komoot users will be able to have their recorded data automatically transferred from the app to the apps.

We have already ridden the Bosch SmartphoneGrip:

The new Bosch SmartphoneGrip The Smart System simply clips onto the Bosch bracket instead of the Kiox 300 display. The change is done in no time at all. The mobile phone sits very securely and held on easy trails without any problems, but Bosch does not recommend its use for extreme terrain.

Mobile phones are supplied with power directly from the e-bike battery by cable or even inductively. This usually eliminates the need for annoying cables. A small drawback: the SmartphoneGrip does not offer a fast-charging function, either by cable or inductively. When the display is switched on, the charge level of the mobile phone battery drops despite the charging function, but at a slower rate. At the moment, Bosch's E-Bike Flow app, which has been specially optimised for the SmartphoneGrip, is still receiving clear criticism. The "Ride Screen" is visually attractive (photo above), but offers nothing more than a standard view for assistance and a map with navigation. The compact Kiox display can boast significantly more information. Navigation in the app is also a little clunky and cannot be started from the ride screen. If you want to use the otherwise very successful SmartphoneGrip, you are better off using classic touring apps, especially off-road. However, the fact that SmartphoneGrip always holds the mobile phone in landscape format can be really annoying.

Weight: 74 grammes

Price: 49,90 Euro >> available here

Find out more about the Bosch Smart System for e-bikes here->