Cixi is set to launch its innovative PERS assistance system for electric bikes at Eurobike in June 2025, following extensive testing. The system, now more refined, features a single-speed design with a 250 W rear motor and advanced capabilities like adjustable cadence profiles and a backpedal function for efficient stopping. Cixi is also introducing various models, including a cargo bike and has partnered with over fifteen brands, signaling a significant shift in the electric bike industry.
An Exciting Preview of Cixi’s Innovative Electric Bike Assistance
As we eagerly await the official unveiling in June, the groundbreaking Cixi PERS assistance system for electric bikes is already being tested by Survoltés in a nearly finalized version. Following a year of major announcements from industry leaders like SRAM Eagle and Pinion MGU in 2023, and DJI Avinox and ZF Centrix in 2024, the electric bike sector is poised for further transformation in 2025. Cixi aims to play a significant role this year, showcasing a solution that has been years in the making.
Nearly two years ago, we had our first hands-on experience with the Cixi PERS, which was then a bulky, heavy, and somewhat noisy prototype. Now, the French brand is gearing up for its launch at Eurobike in June 2025, featuring four new electric bike models, including a speedbike that promises to impress.
Refined Cixi Assistance Technology
While we await these advancements, Cixi is diligently enhancing its development. Recently, the company displayed its latest prototypes at the CyclingWorld 2025 fair in Germany. We had the chance to ride one of the latest models, which is very close to the production version.
The Cixi system is once again featured on a bike from the Savoy firm Heritage Cycles, previously recognized for its dual-motor design. This time, the Heritage model takes a more streamlined approach, utilizing a single 250 W rear motor that complies with electric bike regulations and offers a torque of 90 Nm.
The PERS system operates by employing an electronic crank that activates a generator, which might resemble a central motor but instead communicates with the rear wheel motor. This setup eliminates the need for any mechanical transmission such as chains or belts, resembling the “by wire” technology commonly found in modern vehicles.
Theoretically designed as a single-speed system, the Cixi PERS smartly adjusts the pedaling resistance based on the rider’s speed, ensuring a steady cadence. This design avoids abrupt gear shifts, akin to the functionality seen in motors from brands like Owuru or Cowboy.
Riders can select from three cadence profiles, with plans to expand this to five options in the future. The motor provides smooth acceleration without sudden surges, ensuring a comfortable ride with responsive pedaling. Additionally, assistance levels can be adjusted across five settings depending on the rider’s needs and terrain.
One standout feature is the powerful backpedal function that effectively brings the bike to a complete stop, reducing reliance on traditional brakes while also aiding in energy regeneration during deceleration. However, it’s worth noting that the crank does emit a noticeable high-pitched operational noise.
It’s important to clarify that the Heritage electric bike we tested is still in prototype form, including the motor, which is expected to be more compact in its final iteration. The bike features a central display showing speed, power readings, mileage, time, and battery status, along with an additional button on the handlebar that will provide extra functionalities in the future. An accompanying app will also be available, offering features like trip recording, digital key sharing, and bike geolocation.
Exploring the Galian Cargo Bike with Cixi Assistance
In addition to the Heritage model, Cixi showcased two other electric vehicles at the fair: the Golo, a logistics-focused quadricycle, and the surprising Galian Formidable electric cargo bike. The latter utilizes a Valeo motor, which was previously unannounced for this model.
This Galian bike, coupled with the Cixi generator, generates around 110 Nm of torque, compared to 130 Nm from the Valeo system, making it capable of handling a total load of 250 kg. The innovative Cixi solution holds appeal, particularly as it competes at a similar price point to other offerings in the market.
Overall, Cixi proudly states that it has partnered with over fifteen brands for its PERS system, focusing on smaller players like Wheel’n Wood and Acticyle. The company is also preparing to unveil its next intermediate vehicle, the Cixi Vigoz, which will debut in its final form at the Eurobike fair next June.