Shimano EP8: New Electric Bike Motor with Record Torque

Introduced as the second generation of the E8000 system, the new Shimano Steps EP8 engine is primarily targeted at the high-performance electric mountain bike segment. It is expected to combine lightweight design and performance in the coming months.

Japanese equipment manufacturer Shimano unveiled its new battery line a few weeks ago, but is opening the door to its latest engine. Dubbed the DU-EP800 (EP8 for those in the know), this motor unit represents a new benchmark for the supplier in the electric bike segment and more specifically the electric mountain bike market.

Torque up to 85 Nm

After the Steps E8000 engine, the EP8 is 10% lighter thanks to the new magnesium body. The torque is also increased by 21%, from 70 to 85 Nm.

	E8000	DU-EP8000
The weight	2,8 kg	2,6 kg
Couple	70 Nm	85 Nm

In addition to performance, Shimano has also redesigned the comfort of the system. Thus, the friction associated with the rotation of the motor shaft has been reduced by 36% thanks to improved seals and an optimized design of the motor gearboxes. That to optimize efficiency and autonomy, as well as to reduce resistance when the engine is off.

The EP8 unit is also quieter. It offers the same volume as the E7000, the entry-level motor in the electric mountain bike segment, according to Shimano.

New display

Compatible with manual transmissions (9/10/11/12 speeds), Di2 electronic transmissions (11 speeds) and internal speed hubs (11/8/7/5 speeds), the new EP8 is tied to new screen controls.

Named SC-EM8000 and composed of a 1,6-inch color screen specially designed for mountain biking, it is close to the Shimano E8000 computer. However, it does include new features, including one that allows the pilot to choose their own driving profile.

Customizable assistance modes

There are three help modes to choose from when using. The most powerful Boost mode delivers maximum torque, while Trail mode offers the same torque but in a more responsive configuration. Finally, there is Eco mode with a torque limit of 30 Nm to optimize autonomy.

With the E-Tube Project app, available for Android and iOS, the user can customize each of these modes by setting specific profiles. Thus, the engine torque can be adjusted between 20 and 85 Nm, just like in start mode.

Capacity up to 630 Wh

On the battery side, it should come as no surprise that this new EP8 motor is synonymous with Shimano's latest batteries. Two configurations are available, the first at 630 Wh and the second at 504 Wh.

A great new addition to Shimano's 2021 lineup, the EP8 should quickly add to the catalog of bike manufacturers the brand is used to working with.