Built around the new Gobao X1P drive system, Hepha have developed their own city bike concept and even brought a rideable prototype to EUROBIKE. The Hepha Urban X is designed as a particularly smart e-bike for everyday urban use, with several interesting ideas intended to simplify the riding experience in the city.
At the heart of the bike is the new Gobao eCVT drive unit. The system not only handles gear changes automatically but can also recover energy through regenerative braking. When you ease off the pedals, the motor automatically slows the bike down while feeding energy back into the battery. The braking effect is intentionally gentle, creating a more intuitive riding experience without overwhelming the rider. If you pedal backwards as well, you can even slow the bike all the way to a complete stop.
However, the Urban X is intended to be more than just an ebike with a new drive system. Usability and simplicity are clear priorities, especially in urban traffic. At the same time, Hepha have focused on creating an exceptionally clean cockpit. Although the bike continues to use conventional MAGURA brakes, all cables are routed internally through the handlebar and remain almost completely hidden from view. Since the Gobao X1P automatically adjusts both the assistance level and gear ratio to suit the riding situation, there is no need for a traditional shifter or motor remote. The result is an exceptionally tidy appearance that reinforces the concept bike’s futuristic character.
A circular display serves as the sole control interface, integrated almost seamlessly into the handlebar. While the unit is still at the prototype stage, it already offers a glimpse of how minimalist and integrated future cockpit concepts could become.
The new Hepha Urban X in detail – more than just a new motor
For its Urban X concept, Hepha rely on the HEPHA X Drive Unit, an eCVT system that combines motor and gearbox in a single compact unit. The brand are making no secret of the fact that the technology is based on a Gobao platform: the drive system was developed by Gobao and subsequently tailored to Hepha’s specific requirements. A similar approach has already been seen on the Aventon Current EXP, although that bike used the Chinese manufacturer’s mid-drive motor.
The HEPHA X motor delivers a nominal continuous output of 250 W, provides assistance up to 25 km/h and is said to offer peak electrical output of up to 1,000 W for short periods. With a gear range of 400%, Hepha promise a wide spread between comfortable acceleration from a standstill and efficient riding at higher speeds.
However, the drive system does more than just provide propulsion. Thanks to an active regenerative braking function, the motor can also slow the bike down while feeding energy back into the battery. According to Hepha, this not only increases range but also reduces wear on the mechanical braking system.
Another standout feature is the fast-charging system. The removable 560 Wh battery, positioned beneath the saddle, can reportedly be charged to 80% capacity in just 15 minutes using the 1.5 kW charger, which is integrated directly into the bike. According to the manufacturer, the charger weighs around 950 g and can be carried on the bike at all times.
Hepha are also looking beyond the bike itself and considering the wider charging infrastructure. For the Urban X, the company envisage dedicated charging stations that can operate from standard outdoor power outlets and could be installed in locations such as supermarket car parks or outside retail stores.
Specifically for urban riding, Hepha have also reworked the bike’s ergonomics. The lower seating position is designed to make it easier to put your feet down securely at traffic lights, improving confidence and convenience in stop-start city traffic.
Theft protection and connectivity on the new HEPHA Urban X
Security was another key focus during development. The protection package includes a 2Lock immobiliser integrated into the hub, an alarm system with voice functionality, GPS and GSM tracking, and a so-called WatchMode that can digitally lock the bike. Hepha also plan to offer an optional replacement service in the event that the Urban X is stolen despite these security measures. All functions are managed via a dedicated app, allowing you to unlock, locate and monitor the bike remotely.
The concept is rounded off by a removable seat unit. When leaving the bike parked for extended periods, you can simply take the seat with you, helping to protect it from both the elements and potential vandalism.
With the Urban X, Hepha are using EUROBIKE 2026 to showcase their vision of what urban mobility could look like in the years ahead. The concept bike combines an unconventional user experience with an eCVT drive unit, regenerative braking and ultra-fast charging technology. At the same time, the brand are tackling some of the biggest challenges of everyday city riding, from charging infrastructure through to theft protection.
For now, the Urban X remains a prototype, meaning many of the announced features will only prove their worth once they are tested in real-world use. Even so, the ideas behind the concept are highly promising and highlight the fact that innovation in the e-bike sector is no longer limited to motor power and battery capacity alone. We’re excited to see how the first production models ride and whether the concept can deliver on its promises in everyday use. Stay tuned!
Words: Robin Ulbrich Photos: Benedikt Schmidt
About the Author
Robin Ulbrich
Robin Ulbrich is a specialist in urban mobility and technical product management at 41 Publishing. As a master craftsman in vehicle interior equipment, he brings a profound understanding of material science to the editorial team, with saddles and ergonomic interfaces being his particular speciality. For DOWNTOWN and E-MOUNTAINBIKE magazine, the passionate cyclist analyses current city and off-road riding trends. In addition to his editorial activities, he utilises his manual skills for in-depth material analysis and practical product testing.
