With the new X1P, Gobao presented one of the most exciting drive systems currently on the market at EUROBIKE 2026. Instead of treating the motor, shifting system, and drivetrain as separate components, the Chinese manufacturer combines everything into a single system. The result is an E-CVT drivetrain with an integrated gearbox unit, automatic ratio adjustment, belt drive, and fast-charging technology that could make current systems from Specialized, Avinox, or Bosch look outdated.
Why The Gobao X1P Is Turning Heads Across The Industry
At the heart of the system is the new Gobao X1P. Weighing just 3.8 kg, the motor-gearbox unit combines drive and shifting functions within a single housing and delivers up to 150 Nm of torque and 1,500 watts of peak power according to the manufacturer. Gobao says the next version could even reduce the weight to an impressive 3.5 kg. At the same time, the system offers a continuously variable gear range of up to 500%, which can reportedly be increased to as much as 600%.
Unlike conventional drivetrains, there are no fixed gears. Instead, the electronics continuously adjust the ratio according to cadence, power output, and terrain. Riders who still prefer the familiar sensation of shifting can activate simulated virtual gears. We were already able to test another exciting feature on the new Hepha Urban X. The motor enables controlled regeneration and gently slows the bike as soon as you stop pedaling. By backpedaling, the braking effect can be increased even further. In practice, it already works surprisingly well and delivers noticeable benefits, especially on longer descents. For a truly natural riding experience, however, the system still needs a bit more refinement in certain situations, such as when cornering.
What Is An E-CVT System?
E-CVT stands for Electronic Continuously Variable Transmission. Put simply, the system combines a motor and a continuously variable gearbox into a single unit. Instead of shifting between fixed gears, the system changes the ratio continuously and almost imperceptibly. The goal is always to maintain the optimal cadence, whether you’re tackling a steep climb, a technical ascent, or sprinting along a fire road. For riders, it feels as though there are infinitely many gears available. Most systems also offer auto-shift functions that take care of gear changes entirely.
In systems such as the Owuru Gearbox, Avinox MG, and Gobao X1P, a planetary gearbox with two electric motors operates inside the unit. One motor adjusts the gear ratio and determines how easy or difficult it is to turn the cranks. The second controls motor assistance. Together, they ensure that gear ratio and drive power are continuously optimized for the riding situation.
Criticism of E-CVT systems usually focuses less on the mechanical components and more on electronic calibration, potential efficiency losses, and throttle response and power delivery characteristics.
First Riding Impressions Of The New Gobao X1P
We were already able to ride the X1P around EUROBIKE in Frankfurt. Even though it is not yet a production product, the system leaves a remarkably refined impression.
What stands out most is the immediate and well-defined power delivery. Even at low cadence, plenty of torque is available, and the bike accelerates extremely quickly yet in a controlled manner up to the 25 km/h assistance limit. Because there are no gear changes, power delivery remains constant and exceptionally smooth at all times. Starts are also very easy and clearly defined.
Even more impressive, however, is the noise level. While many gearbox systems are clearly audible under load, the Gobao drive remains surprisingly quiet. Only at cadences above around 100 rpm does a faint electric whir become noticeable. Especially when compared directly with current gearbox systems, the X1P already feels remarkably close to production readiness. Even so, questions surrounding efficiency and long-term durability remain unanswered. Response characteristics and pedal feel could also benefit from further refinement before series production. The enormous potential of the system is already obvious.
We already visited Gobao earlier this spring. During our visit to the company’s headquarters, we gained valuable insights into the development of the drive system, the manufacturing processes, and the company’s long-term strategic vision.
No Derailleur, No Chain Wear, Less Maintenance
The X1P was designed from the outset for Gates Carbon belt drives. Cassette, derailleur, shifter, and shift cables are eliminated entirely. This not only reduces maintenance requirements but also lowers unsprung mass at the rear suspension.
According to Gobao, the Gates CDX belt also lasts around three times longer than a traditional chain drivetrain. At the same time, the system promises virtually maintenance-free operation.
Supercharging: Charging In Under 30 Minutes
Just as exciting as the motor itself is the new fast-charging technology. With charging power of up to 1,500 watts, Gobao promises extremely short charging times. According to the manufacturer, the 500 Wh battery can be charged to 80% in just 24 minutes, the 750 Wh battery in 28 minutes, and the 900 Wh battery in only 32 minutes. That would put the system well ahead of current eBike drive systems. For comparison, a Bosch PowerTube 800 requires around 2.5 to 3 hours to reach 80%, while Avinox needs approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes to charge its 800 Wh battery to 80% using the 12 A charger.
Gobao is also setting ambitious targets for weight and energy density. The 500 Wh battery is said to weigh just 2.6 kg, the 750 Wh version 3.6 kg, and the 900 Wh version 3.7 kg. That would make the largest battery around 300 grams lighter than the 800 Wh battery used in the Avinox system despite offering greater capacity. Despite its high output of 1.5 kW, 30 amps, and 52 volts, the matching charger remains comparatively compact and lightweight at around 1.2 kg. If these figures prove accurate in real-world use, Gobao could set a new benchmark for charging speed in the eMTB segment.
Display On Avinox Level?
The system includes a modern HMI with touchscreen and USB-C charging port, GPS and GSM modules, wireless remotes, and OTA updates. Motor characteristics and shifting behavior can be customized through the app. Compared directly, the display does not yet quite match the smartphone-like user experience of the Avinox system. Nevertheless, Gobao is already operating at a high level, and the remotes also feel robust.
To make the X1P rideable for public presentation, Swiss engineering company Radiate developed a complete carbon bike platform around the new drive system in just two months. The concept includes Enduro, All-Mountain, and SUV variants. The lightest All-Mountain model is said to weigh just 20.5 kg despite carrying a 750 Wh battery.
Our Verdict On The New Gobao X1P
Important questions regarding durability, efficiency, and the first production partners remain unanswered. Even so, the Gobao X1P is already one of the most exciting new products at EUROBIKE 2026 and left a very positive impression during our first test rides despite still being a prototype.
While Avinox are currently offering a glimpse into the future with the Avinox MG Concept, Gobao are already showcasing a product that feels surprisingly close to production. If the system delivers on the promise shown by its first test rides and technical specifications, the X1P could become the first gearbox motor to establish itself as the more attractive long-term solution for many eMTBs and emerge as a serious challenger to Avinox in the battle for dominance within the eBike motor market.
Words: Benedikt Schmidt Photos: Benedikt Schmidt
