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Shimano Steps

Shimano Steps ist Shimanos Antriebsplattform für E-Bikes – von der kompakten Stadtlösung (E6100) bis zum leistungsstarken MTB-Motor (EP8 RS mit 90 Nm). Dieser Artikel erklärt alle aktuellen Systeme, ihre Unterschiede, die Di2-Integration und die E-Tube Project App.

What is Shimano Steps?

Shimano Steps is an advanced electronic drive system for e-bikes developed by Shimano, a world-leading manufacturer of bicycle components. This system offers seamless integration with the bike to ensure optimal support and an excellent riding experience. With Shimano Steps you get the freedom and comfort to ride further, faster and with less effort. It is specifically designed to meet the needs of modern e-bike riders by offering a reliable, intelligent and user-friendly solution. Shimano Steps consists of an electric motor integrated into the bottom bracket area, a battery that has a long lifespan and a user-friendly display that gives you all the important information at a glance. Whether you are cycling through the city or going on off-road adventures, Shimano Steps gives you the support you need to achieve your goals.

What functions does Shimano Steps have?

Shimano Steps is characterized by a variety of features that make it an ideal choice for e-bike riders:

  • Intelligent support modes: Shimano Steps automatically adjusts the motor support to your cadence and the riding situation to give you a natural riding experience.
  • E-Tube Project: An app that allows you to customize your system settings and perform firmware updates to always achieve optimal performance.
  • Long battery life: Shimano Steps' powerful batteries offer a long range so you can go on longer tours without worrying about battery life.
  • Energy regeneration: Some models offer an energy recovery function that recharges the battery when braking or driving downhill and increases the range.

What should be considered with Shimano Steps?

If you are considering choosing Shimano Steps for your e-bike or already own one, there are some important factors to consider:
  • Regular Maintenance: As with any high-quality bicycle system, regular maintenance is important for Shimano Steps to ensure performance and safety.
  • Compatibility: Make sure your bike frame is compatible with the Shimano Steps system. This is especially important if you want to upgrade to the system.
  • Battery care: To maximize the life of the battery, you should store and charge the battery correctly. Avoid extreme temperatures and charge the battery regularly.

advantages and disadvantages

Advantages

  • Provides powerful and consistent support to make riding easier and ensure a comfortable ride.
  • The long range allows for longer trips without worrying about the battery running out.
  • Individual customization options through the E-Tube Project app to adapt the driving experience to your needs.

Disadvantages

  • The purchase costs for Shimano Steps can be higher compared to simpler e-bike systems.
  • The integration into the bicycle frame makes retrofitting more difficult or impossible on some models.

alternatives

  • Bosch eBike Systems: Also offers a wide range of drive systems for e-bikes with similar features such as intelligent support and connectivity options.
  • Brose Drive: Another high-quality e-bike drive, known for its quiet motors and flexible integration into e-bikes.
  • Yamaha Power Assist: Offers robust and reliable e-bike drives suitable for various bike types.

Tips and Tricks

  • Use the E-Tube Project app to customize your riding experience and get the most out of your Shimano Steps system.
  • Make sure to charge the battery regularly and correctly to maximize its lifespan.
  • Check out the latest firmware updates for Shimano Steps to ensure your system is always up to date and working optimally.
Gran Fondo

Published: May 22, 2024  |  Updated: May 22, 2026

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Häufige Fragen about Shimano Steps

Die häufigsten Fragen und Antworten

The E6100 is the city/everyday system with 60 Nm of torque, a more affordable price point, and compatibility with internal gear hubs—ideal for urban commuters and light trekking. The EP8 is the MTB performance system with 85 Nm of torque and a weight of 2.6 kg, designed for demanding terrain and full Di2 integration. The systems are not cross-compatible.

Yes, but only that one E6100 The EP8 is officially approved for use with Shimano Nexus and Alfine (internal gear hubs). The EP8 is designed exclusively for derailleur gears (Di2 or mechanical). The E6100 + belt drive + internal gear hub is one of the lowest-maintenance e-bike combinations on the market.

This depends on the battery model and usage. With a BT-E8035 (630 Wh) and the EP8 in Eco mode, ranges of 80–150 km are realistic. In Boost mode on challenging terrain, the range drops to 30–60 km. Shimano's range estimate in the SC display takes the assistance level, terrain, and battery status into account in real time.

You can individually configure all three support levels (Eco, Trail, Boost) — the level of motor assistance, torque curve, and maximum cadence. You can also install firmware updates, run system diagnostics, and view riding statistics. The app connects to the motor via Bluetooth.

Yes. The EP8 system is fully Di2 compatible and enables Auto-Shift (motor and drivetrain communicate) as well as Free Shift (automatic shifting to lower gears when braking). The E6100 is partially Di2 compatible, but does not support all of the EP8's Auto-Shift functions.

No. Shimano Steps mid-drive motors do not have a regenerative braking function—energy is not recovered during braking or downhill riding. Regenerative braking is currently only available with certain direct-drive hub motor systems. Steps focuses on maximum drive efficiency.