E-bike software: Update regularly! The digital brain of modern electric bikes
Barbara Merz-Weigandt
· 16.06.2025
The role of software in the e-bike system
The software of an e-bike is the digital brain that ensures smooth communication between the individual drive components. It controls the interaction between sensors, motor, remote unit and battery. Each component has its own software, which is bundled in a higher-level firmware. The characteristic power output of the drive system is defined by the settings in the software. The developers can use this to determine how high the maximum output should be, how the various riding modes are designed and how much support the motor provides in certain situations. The firmware is regularly updated and improved to optimise performance and add new functions.
Challenges in software development
One of the biggest challenges in the development of e-bike software is the precise coordination between man and machine. Unlike with other electrical devices, the human factor plays a decisive role in the functioning of the system. The software must process the information generated by the rider, such as the force exerted on the pedals, and draw the right conclusions for controlling the overall system. Dirk Menze, Head of Marketing and Design at drive manufacturer Pinion, emphasises: "This is the fine art of the industry, recognising and covering a wide range of different factors, applications and user groups." The systems react extremely sensitively to the rider's input, which requires continuous optimisation and error analysis. Pascal Ketterer, software developer at drive manufacturer Fazua, adds: "Nobody in the e-bike market has reached the zenith. We can all still work on interaction."
The importance of regular software updates
Regular software updates are very important for e-bike owners. They serve to further develop the system and improve performance. When a new e-bike drive unit is launched on the market, it has been extensively tested, but aspects that cannot be simulated on a test bench can always become apparent in practical use. Software updates make it possible to rectify recognised problems without having to take the bike to the workshop. Manufacturers are also constantly working on optimisations and the implementation of new functions that meet the needs of users. Pascal Ketterer from Fazua explains: "We learn from the mistakes we make." These learning processes flow directly into the further development of the software.
Data analysis for continuous improvements
The improvement of the e-bike software is based on the analysis of anonymous usage data. The manufacturers analyse the power ranges in which the motors are used, which support modes are preferred and the average cadence of the riders. This data is used to analyse and rectify possible faults. Personal data such as addresses or places of residence are not recorded. One interesting finding from these analyses is that most e-bike riders prefer to ride in a battery-saving mode. An important aspect of software development is to make the systems even more individualised. Sporty riders with higher pedalling frequencies, for example, require a more harmonious motor that feels as natural as possible. Casual riders, on the other hand, tend towards lower pedalling frequencies and prefer more powerful motor support. Such individual preferences can be taken into account through appropriate software settings.
Different ways to update the software
The methods for carrying out software updates vary depending on the manufacturer. Some offer updates via a smartphone app, where the mobile phone is simply connected to the e-bike to install the update. Other systems require a connection to the computer via a USB-C cable. Pascal Ketterer from Fazua is reassuring: "You don't have to be afraid to do it yourself." Some manufacturers involve the specialist dealer in the update process, which has the advantage that the bike can be checked for possible defects at the same time. Users usually receive information about available updates via the providers' newsletters or on their websites. The frequency of updates varies, with major updates with extensive changes appearing approximately every six months.
Effects and benefits of software updates
It is important to emphasise that omitting updates has no negative consequences for the functionality of the e-bike. There is no risk of a loss of function, nor will any guarantee or warranty claims be lost. The primary purpose of updates is to improve the software and add new functions. Nevertheless, it is advisable to have the e-bike software read out regularly, similar to a car, in order to detect and analyse possible errors at an early stage. The effects of an update can vary depending on the scope. Some updates directly affect the riding behaviour, for example by unlocking more motor power or integrating an additional riding mode. Smaller technical updates, on the other hand, are often barely noticeable to the user.
Innovative functions through software updates
Pinion provides an impressive example of the possibilities of software updates. The company released an update in autumn 2024 that enables an automatic switching function for all previous systems. Instead of a costly hardware replacement, this new function could simply be activated via a software update. With automatic shifting, the system automatically selects the optimum gear based on the desired cadence entered by the user. Pinion goes one step further and allows the rider to override the automatic system manually if required. The system memorises these individual settings and adjusts the automated gear changes accordingly. Dirk Menze explains: "Self-learning is probably still the wrong term. As an entire industry, we're not quite ready to talk about it yet. But certain assumptions and underlying logics are already very close to AI and improve the system."
Increased performance through software updates
In principle, it is possible to increase the power of an e-bike motor through software updates. Both the torque and the maximum power can be adjusted as long as the legal limits for pedelecs are adhered to. This means that the assistance must end at 25 km/h and the rated continuous power must remain limited to 250 watts. However, such an increase in power is not always sensible. The components may not be designed for the higher motor power and can wear out more quickly. In addition, a motor can overheat more quickly at higher maximum power and must then be reduced to a lower power range. Higher power also means higher energy consumption, which in turn would require a larger and heavier battery.
Long-term support through software updates
E-bike drive systems are designed for a long service life. Unlike annual model changes, the systems often remain current for several years. Manufacturers are guided by the life cycle of an e-bike, which is estimated to be around ten years or longer. Software updates are also made available for a correspondingly long time. One example of this is Fazua, which released an update for a drive system that is no longer in production in 2024. If you buy a new drive system, you can therefore assume that it will (hopefully!) be supplied with updates for a long time to come. If you buy second-hand, however, you should check whether the system is still supported.
Barbara Merz-Weigandt
Editor-in-Chief
