Fazua presented two major software updates for its e-bike drive and the PC under the name "Black Pepper" in mid-April. The press release promised more power, more torque, better support behaviour at high and low cadences and the option of individual configuration. Too good to be true? Fortunately, we still had a suitable e-mountainbike in the editorial office anyway. So what could be more obvious than simply trying it out?
Black Pepper Update: Installing the firmware via laptop
We completed the first half of the test round on the old firmware, then the new firmware, which can be downloaded free of charge from the Fazua website, was installed on the Fazua drive unit using a laptop. Somewhat exotic: The cover on the drive unit has to be loosened with a rather small T-10 Torx instead of a small Allen key. Not available on the multitool, but in any well-stocked workshop. Then simply plug in a mini USB cable and install the new firmware. And back on the trail.
Fazua 2.0: The new firmware in practice
Fazua 2.0 really? The first thing that stood out was the strong thrust when starting off. Especially in Rocket mode, the drive released its full power very early. Too early, in our opinion. This sometimes resulted in increased slippage on the rear wheel. The fact that the power unit was then unable to add any more power when the rider's own input was high also felt a little rough in practice. Despite the increased elasticity, the actually shorter idling distance before the motor kicks in and the significantly better thrust behaviour at high cadence, we were initially disillusioned.
However, the configurator on the PC provided a remedy. Details such as the maximum power and the threshold power for maximum support can be fine-tuned here. We particularly liked this feature: If you like sporty riding, simply set the threshold power high and only receive full assistance when you are at full power. This saves battery power and makes for a more harmonious ride on undulating terrain with strong load peaks - for example on short counter-climbs. The slip on the rear wheel can also be fine-tuned using the configurator by slowing down the "ramp-up" - the application of motor power. If you need a little more range, you can also slow down the power. Even the moderate setting provides a clearly noticeable increase in range, with still decent assistance for a minimal-assist bike. This is another useful feature given the sometimes very short range of Fazua bikes.
Conclusion: What can the new Fazua firmware do?
Admittedly: The firmware update does not turn the minimal assist bike into a "normal" e-MTB. Especially on steep sections, conventional e-drives such as Brose, Bosch or Shimano are still clearly ahead. Nevertheless, the update does bring some important improvements to the details. The manners, maximum power and elasticity have been improved, and the support no longer buckles at high cadences. The biggest plus, however, is the configurator, with which the Fazua drive can be customised to almost any preference. All in all, the update brings real added value, which in this case doesn't cost a cent. Super!
All information about the new firmware and the toolbox software for download can be found at www.fazua.com/de
Adrian Kaether
Editor
