For the first time, Bosch's ABS and automatic shifting are also available with Shimano brakes and the new, sporty Di2 shifting systems Cues and XT/XTR. In addition, the automatic functions under eShift have been optimised and new partners have been added to the portfolio. We have already been able to ride a bike with Bosch-Shimano parts.
Bosch eBike Systems is setting new standards in the segment of electric shifting solutions and safety systems for e-bikes with extensive expansions to its eShift portfolio and eBike ABS. At the centre of the innovations is the intensified cooperation with Shimano, which for the first time makes it possible for components from the two industry giants to work together in the sporty segment. In concrete terms, this means that e-bikes with Bosch motors can now also be equipped with sporty Shimano components such as the new XT Di2 automatic gear shifting and safe braking with ABS.
Automatic shifting with Shimano derailleurs
One of the key innovations is the integration of Shimano's mountain bike derailleurs into the Bosch eShift system. The XTR Di2, Deore XT Di2 and Cues Di2 models now support manual, semi-automatic and fully automatic gear changes.
Riders can switch flexibly between the shift modes, which can be particularly advantageous in challenging terrain. The eBike display shows the active mode: "M" for manual, "M+" for semi-automatic and "A" for automatic shifting. Bosch is thus going one step further than before and with eShift no longer only supports the Nexus Di2 hub gear system, but also Shimano's sporty and super-sporty gear systems, some of which have only just been launched.
Expanded eShift portfolio and optimised automatic function
Bosch has not only intensified its collaboration with Shimano, but has also expanded its eShift portfolio with additional partners. With the E.A.S.I. A11 and E.A.S.I. A10 models, TRP is bringing new options into play for trekking and gravel enthusiasts - until now, only the E.A.S.I. A12 with twelve gears was available in the high-end segment. These shifters are designed to enable precise gear changes and also offer flexibility between automatic, semi-automatic and manual shifting. Classified was also added to the eShift portfolio as a new partner, whose Powershift 2-speed hub gears will be supported from autumn 2025.
The automatic function of eShift has been fundamentally revised and is now available for almost all Bosch motors in the smart system. According to Bosch, the optimised software reacts faster to inclines, adapts the gear changes to the driving dynamics and shifts more harmoniously depending on the surface. This should make automatic shifting even more attractive, even under difficult and changeable conditions.
ABS with Shimano brakes for the first time
Bosch and Shimano have also announced the compatibility of ABS and ABS Pro with Shimano brakes. This expansion is intended to appeal to both demanding E-MTB riders and touring riders. The latest XTR (BR-M9220) and Shimano XT (BR-M8220) models are therefore compatible with ABS Pro, as well as entry-level trekking brakes up to the affordable MT200. This means that Bosch ABS - previously more of a high-end topic - is now also interesting for the affordable e-bike market.
Optimised ABS software and extended brake portfolio
Bosch has not only extended compatibility, but also further optimised the ABS software. A new sensor in the motor measures the inclination of the e-bike more precisely, which enables a more accurate calculation of potential rollover situations. This leads to a further reduction in braking distance and increases safety in critical situations.
In addition to Shimano, other partners have also expanded their ABS-compatible brake portfolio. Magura presents with Louise Elite and Gustav Elite more affordable solutions for e-mountain bikers below the Top model Gustav Pro. TRP complements the ABS range with the new Evo Pro.
Available from autumn
The new eShift functions for Shimano gears will be available as an over-the-air update from autumn 2025. Users can carry out the update via the eBike Flow app or specialist retailers. The drivetrain itself must also be updated via an over-the-air update using the Shimano app or via a specialist dealer.
Technology at a glance
Bosch eShift:
- Compatible Shimano drivetrains: XTR Di2, Deore XT Di2, Cues Di2
- Switching modes: Manual (M), Semi-automatic (M+), Automatic (A)
- New TRP circuits: E.A.S.I. A11, E.A.S.I. A10
- New partner: Classified with 2-speed Powershift hub gears
Bosch eBike ABS:
- Compatible Shimano brakes: XTR (BR-M9220), Deore XT (BR-M8220), BR-MT420, BR-MT200
- New Magura brakes: Gustav Elite, Louise Elite
- New TRP brake: EVO Pro
One-two punch from Bosch and Shimano: BIKE's assessment and riding impression
Until now, Bosch's ABS and automatic gearstick systems were only available in combination with smaller manufacturers. With the new co-operation between Bosch and Shimano, the two industry giants are now joining forces. Both automatic shifting and ABS are therefore likely to gain a foothold in a much broader market segment in the future.
We were able to test ABS and Auto-Shift under demanding conditions and were particularly impressed by the automatic shifting with Shimano's Cues Di2 Linkglide in combination with the Bosch algorithm. In comparison a noticeable improvement on the first litter last year! We are excited to see how the systems will establish themselves on the market by 2026. - Adrian Kaether, Editor Test & Technology
Adrian Kaether
Editor
