ZF unveiled a major performance upgrade to its ultra-compact CentriX e-bike drive system at Eurobike 2025, boosting peak output to 105 Newton metres of torque and 750 watts of power, while introducing app-based ride profiles that tailor motor behaviour to specific riding conditions.
The German supplier said the upgraded CentriX motor retains its compact 2.5-kilogram form factor—about the size of a drinks can—but now delivers significantly enhanced performance through a software update. Users can access three ride modes—Race, Wet, and Ride—via the updated “ZF Ride” app. Each mode dynamically adjusts parameters like overrun, power delivery, and startup sensitivity to match terrain and riding style.
The Race profile unlocks full torque and power with sharp cut-off at 25 kph for high-performance conditions. Wet mode moderates response to improve traction on slippery surfaces, while Ride mode adapts to commuting or variable terrain, offering maximum support in ‘Boost’ when rider effort exceeds 350 W.
“The new riding profiles allow users to fine-tune their ZF drive more efficiently for each situation,” said Daniel Haerter, Head of ZF’s Micro Mobility business unit. “We’re using software to push the limits of what our drive system can offer in real-world riding scenarios.”
ZF began series production of CentriX in spring 2025. The company confirmed that existing users can unlock the new performance levels via a firmware update, reinforcing its push into adaptive micromobility solutions and setting a benchmark for compact e-bike drivetrains.