This article was produced in association with Mahle
Mahle has expanded its X series platform with the X30, an e-bike drive unit that maintains the 'Light. Sport. Smart.' DNA of all Mahle units while delivering balanced and versatile performance. Featuring a powerful and robust rear hub-based motor that’s easy to use and maintain, Mahle says the X30 system has been developed with the insights gained from nine years as a leader in lightweight e-bike solutions and it’s designed for riders looking for enjoyment and functionality as well as exceptional value. Whereas the X20 is aimed more at high-performance e-road bikes, the X30 allows people to experience the best of e-bikes in every situation, from e-road through to e-kids via e-gravel and e-urban.
Although the X30 has a new motor at the heart of the system, it is compatible with all components and accessories as well as the digital ecosystem of the existing X20, integrating seamlessly and ensuring compatibility without compromise. This compatibility allows for smooth upgrades and access to advanced features, maintaining consistency across the X Series.
The X30 is light but powerful, supplying 45Nm of torque and 250W of power with the rear hub motor weighing 1.9kg (total system weight 3.5kg). The engineering of the rear hub drive allows for perfect system synergy because of the lower energy losses, increasing energy efficiency by 15% compared with an equivalent mid drive, extending your trip in an environmentally friendly way. There are two available smart batteries: iX2 (237 Wh) and iX3 (350 Wh). When more range is needed, an optional bottle-shaped 171 Wh range extender eX1 can be added. The iX3 battery has a range of 130km, the iX2 90km while the eX1 can add 55km.
The X30 allows brands to build up bikes with a PAS (pedal assist) sensor or cadence and torque sensor, creating different types of riding experiences. Mahle systems’ behaviour can be customised in line with brand DNA and application – motor mapping means that bikes from different brands with the same Mahle system will have their own identity and ride characteristics.
The torque sensor allows the e-bike to accurately read each watt of power its rider applies, giving them the appropriate response thanks to AI and machine learning. The system learns from the rider and adapts to their needs and the environment at any given moment. It’s possible to track over 100 parameters in real time via Mahle's platforms thanks to ANT+ communication.
The X30 benefits from a Mahe platform that’s rich in accessories – the best solutions to enhance an e-bike, increasing its performance and making it even smarter. The customisation options are almost limitless. The new head unit is at the centre of intelligence and connectivity in Mahle SmartBike systems – it's the front end of Mahle’s digital ecosystem which can also be accessed from a laptop, smartphone and Apple Watch. And with Mahle’s My Smartbike app you can manage e-bike settings and data on the go: record activities and adjust settings directly through the app, connect with Strava to navigate routes, track rides and share journeys. Apple Watch users can control the e-bike and manage settings with the Apple Watch app, start and end rides directly from the wrist, change assistance levels and monitor core metrics during the ride as well as monitoring heart rate for performance tracking. There’s also the ability to view summaries and important metrics like battery status from an Apple Watch.
In summary, the X30 offers unbeatable value for those looking for exceptional quality with advanced technology and innovation; unlimited fun for commuting or leisure, supporting your adventures with extra power, and it’s perfect for letting kids explore the great outdoors with a system designed for family fun and safety. Bombproof yet technologically advanced, the X30 is the perfect system for every type of rider. Discover more at Mahle's website.
