GENERAL QUESTIONS

What is the BionX system and how does it work?
The BionX propulsion system offers four levels of assistance in the A mode, and four levels of regeneration in the G mode. In the assistance mode, your pedaling is assisted proportionally by an electric motor that that drives the rear wheel. A torque sensor is located on the axle of the Bionx motor and measures the effort provided by the rider; this produces a natural feeling assistance from the motor. BionX offers you a unique bicycle feeling with an extra boost.

Can I "tune" the BionX system?
For legal reasons, in North America, it is not allowed to use BionX products for higher speeds than 32 km/h (20 mph)

What is the advantage of the Mountain Mode?
The Mountain Mode  optimizes driving performances in alpine terrain. Ideally, the Mountain Mode should be activated right at the beginning of a long uphill in order to take advantage of the optimized performance. The Mountain Mode is activated via a software update by your local BionX dealer. To engage, hold the + button from any level of (A) or (G) for 2 sec. The four assist levels will flash, MOUNTAIN will appear briefly. Press - to disengage. The Mountain Mode sustains your power up to the top of the hill. It is not a "level 5" of assistance, but a different setting.

Can I upgrade my BionX system with a throttle?
Your local dealer can easily upgrade your BionX system with a throttle, if your bike has a G2 console. In some cases, if you have a G1 console, you may be able to upgrade to a G2 console and add a throttle.

MAINTENANCE AND INSTALLATION

How much maintenance does the BionX system need?
The BionX system is equipped with a gear and brushless motor that doesn’t require any maintenance. Before being stored for a long period (i.e. winter), the battery should be fully recharged and then should be recharged at least once  every 3 months. Please also follow the instructions in the User Guide regarding the proper storage of batteries. To ensure overall safety, your e-bike should get regular check-ups at your local BionX dealer.

Why does the BionX system offer software updates?
Similar to the operating system of a computer, the BionX software is constantly optimized, allowing your system to  achieve the best performances. Ideally your bike should get a complete check up at the beginning of the season. Please ask your local BionX dealer for further information regarding software updates.

BATTERY

Do I need to completely discharge the battery before recharging it again?
BionX uses Li-Ion batteries that have no "memory effect". You can charge the battery at any time regardless of its state of charge. Please note that this does not affect the overall  performance of your system. When not in use for a longer period of time, the batteries should be stored fully charged and be fully recharged at least once every 3 months. Please also follow the instructions in the manual regarding the proper storage of batteries. In any case, a deep discharge of the battery has to be avoided.

Can I purchase a spare battery for my BionX system?
Yes. However, it is important to know that a spare battery usually only reaches a fraction of the charging cycles, as it isn't used as much as the main battery. Therefore - regarding the cost efficiency - the purchase of a second battery should be well thought out.

What do the different colors of the LED touch port on the battery mean and how can I check the battery state of charge?
Swipe your finger slowly over the touch port. The battery state of charge LED will illuminate.

Battery state of charge
100-75 % = Green
75-20 % = Amber
<20 % = Red

During the charging process
Touch port red = upon insertion
Touch port amber = charging
Touch port green = fully charged

Touch port flashing green: 
The battery is overcharged; please contact your local BionX dealer.

Touch port flashing red: 
The battery is deeply discharged; please contact your local BionX dealer.

MOTOR

Does the BionX system support different axle sizes?
The BionX systems are only compatible with 135 mm axle sizes.

Why does the motor only assist up to 32 km/h (20 mph)?
Generally, e-bikes are allowed to have a maximum power output of 350 W, and an assistance of up to 32km/h (20 mph).

Can I replace individual parts of the BionX motor on my own?
No. All type of work on the BionX motor needs to be done by the BionX Service Department. Please contact your local BionX dealer.

Is the BionX motor compatible with disc brakes?
All BionX systems are compatible with disc brakes.

Where can I buy the BionX 500HS motor?
Due to legal restrictions, the BionX 500HS motor cannot be purchased in North America. 

CONSOLE

Are the BionX consoles interchangeable?
Yes, the G2 consoles (from software version 4.4. onwards) work on older systems using CanBUS communication. They won’t work with systems using I²C communication. The G2 consoles with serial number 3205 can be replaced by consoles with serial numbers 2331 and 2332 (G1 with throttle), but not those with serial number 2005.

CHARGER

The BionX charger has a voltage switch. How should I adjust it?
The red switch on the back of the BionX charger must be set to 115 V in North America and to 230 V in Europe. The new power supply for the 48 V batteries automatically adapts to the correct input voltage. Please note that only BionX chargers and power supplies may be used for charging the BionX batteries.

Are there any fast-chargers for BionX batteries?
No, a quick charge is harmful to the chemical structure of the battery cells and would reduce its lifespan.

COMPABILITY

Is a 48 V BionX battery compatible with a 37 V BionX system?
You can use a 48 V battery on 37 V BionX systems, if the system is using CanBus communication.  Depending on the model, a 48 V battery can increase the battery range by about 20% (8,8 Ah model). In any case an appropriate power supply has to be purchased with every 48 V battery. Unfortunately I²C systems are not compatible with 48 V batteries. The compatibility of the battery and the docking station always needs to be verified.

WARRANTY

What warranty does BionX provide?
Since 2012, the BionX warranty covers a two (2) year period for all parts of the BionX propulsion system(s) to the first owner, within the framework of certain conditions. Please see the manual for further information. 
You can also download the full warranty policy here.