Shimano's new EP8 e-bike system

Shimano have just released what everyone had an inkling was coming – a second generation eMTB system. Their STEPS offering was popular, being less bulky and lighter than the commonly used Bosch Gen3 system, while also using a traditional chain ring size, allowing for eMTB geometry that more closely resembled that of a regular, or analogue, bike. The new EP8 system now offers 85Nm of torque, a 300g saving, way more customisation options via the e-Tube App, shorter cranks, lower drag, less noise and better heat management. And best of all – it fits the same bolt pattern as E7000 and E8000. So yeah, you can pop the hood and drop a new motor in your current eMTB if it runs one of those Shimano STEPS options.

In 2019 Bosch released their Gen4 motor, trimming lots of weight and size, using normal chain rings for greater design flexibility by bike designers and reducing trail noise signfinicantly. While the platform came out with 70Nm is has now been updated to 85Nm via new software – throwing down the gauntlet for Shimano's new system that the industry knew was imminent.

But Shimano's new EP8 is now here. It's got the same top power as Bosch, but it's about 160g lighter, and should offer more customisation to the 'end user' – mountain bikers like us – and that sounds good to me.

Click through for more details.

Everything you need to know about Shimano's EP8 Hardware

Shimano have said that the new EP8 system is about the new software as much as it is about the new hardware. So let's take a closer look at the hardwarer first up.

How much torque is there?

The Shimano EP8 system has 85Nm of max torque, which represents a 21% increase. You can access that amount of torque in both Boost and Trail mode.

What's the weight saving over STEPS E8000?

There is a 300g saving, taking the motor to 2.6kg. This has mostly been via a move to a magnesium casing. That's a 10% saving off the motor, and a welcome drop of weight from an eMTB.

Why is there better efficiency?

That's mostly to do with less resistance in the unit, via better internal gearing in the motor and reduced friction in the seals. Drag has been reduced by 36%! So with less battery life being used in overcoming resistance, you can now go further on the same battery. Better yet, it should feel far more natural when pedalling above 25km/h without support.

Will I still notice a big drop when I hit 25km/h?

Shimano have said they reworked the clutch, so the transition to no support as you hit the 25km/h capped assistance limit is much smoother than before.

Are there any other changes with the new casing?

Shimano claim that the new casing not only reduces weight, but helps with better ground clearance, and even better heat management. This would likely be under high load, low speed climbing.

What about crank lengths?

The pedal assistance of an eMTB only works if you're pedalling, so shorter cranks are the ticket. Shimano have 177mm Q-factor eMTB specific cranks in a new 160mm length, along with 165/170/175mm lengths. There are 12-speed specific 34-38t chain rings.

Wait, I need to use a 12-speed group set?

Not at all. While EP8 is designed to work really well with Shimano's 12-speed family of XTR/Deore XT/SLX/Deore and the Hyperglide Plus drivetrain, you can also use an 8, 9, 10 or 11 speed group set, including 11-speed Di2 options. You can also use it with 5/7/8/11 speed internal hub systems.

What about the shifter for moving between modes?

The new SW-EM800-L levers feel better at the thumb thanks to shaping. It is easy to toggle between Off, Eco, Trail and Boost mode, and turn Walk Assist on for 4km/h of assistance when pushing up something too hard to ride. The mode shifter works really nicely with the Shimano dropper lever, as shown below. You can still use the EW-EN100 toggle if you prefer a cleaner cockpit. You just don't get the Walk Assist mode.

What are my battery options?

There are downtube and internal 630Wh battery models, plus the ligher and faster charging 504Wh model. Each battery is very resilient, and Shimano claim they can have 1000 cycles before dropping to about 60% of their original capacity.

Anything else?

Of course. The display looks similar but has been updated so you can even customise what you see, including selecting preferences. There's also a chain guide, to work with the motor and the crank mount.
 

Everything you need to know about Shimano’s EP8 Software

So with all the new bits for the bikes, it’s about having the software to make it do stuff. And that’s where these updates come in. 

Let’s talk about modes

These remain as Off, Eco, Trail and Boost. The updated Boost mode can get 85Nm of torque as extra assistance, and it does it with low input from you, the rider. So if you want hair trigger high power, this is the setting.

Trail can also net you that 85Nm of torque – but it doesn’t have to. It is no far more responsive to pedal input, and will bump up to 85Nm if you’re putting 60Nm in yourself. But it scales it back as you do. If you’re after a set and forget mode then this is it.

Eco is also very responsive to pedal input, giving more as you give more. But it’s never going to give you more than 30Nm of torque, so it’s best on flat and flowy trails, or for keeping battery life prolonged.

Can I adjust them?

You sure can. That’s all available via the E-Tube Project App. You can adjust Boost, Trail or Eco mode between 10 different levels. And you can set the torque assistance from 20-85Nm. Shimano are aiming to make their eMTB system feel more natural, and matching torque delivery to how you ride and what your trails are like are a big part of that. If you have flatter, flowing trails, chances are you won’t want the highest levels of torque that much. But if you have trails with pinch climbs and ditches to jam it out of – then you’ll likely be all about getting that top level of assistance more easily.

How often can I adjust the modes?

Whenever you like, but the E-Tube Project App also lets you save a number of set preferences, and different rider profiles if you share your eMTB. You might even have a mode for commuting, one for fitness, and one for fast eMTB group rides. That’s all up to you.

Can I get some #data about my rides?

Yep, you just need the E-Tube Ride App. That lets you see metrics about how you’re using the given settings, as well as some nifty maps and other features.

The new software is available for iPhone and Android, and can be downloaded from the respective stores. Get more details here.

What bikes will come with Shimano EP8?

Lots of them. Brands like Merida, Sunn, Thok, Kellys, Norco, Intense, GT, YT Industries, Pivot, Focus and many more will be using the EP8 system. 

What’s it like to ride on EP8?

I’m not sure, we haven’t been able to get on a test sample as yet. But the expectations are high. What’s being promised is greater assistance via torque, so that’s not speed, but it’s a big part of steep or technical climbing. So depending how you ride an eMTB, that might not be that noticeable. 

The lower weight and greater efficiency will be appreciated by any eMTBer, and the extra tuning options via E-Tube means you can truly set your bike up to suit you and your trails. It’s an exciting development, and one we’re itching to try out soon.

If you want to catch up on any other eMTB news – check out our eMTB specific page.