Shimano motors
About Shimano Motors
The Japanese company Shimano was founded in 1921. It is one of the most important and successful manufacturers of bicycle components and accessories worldwide. In fact, Shimano dominates the market in all areas of bicycle components today; in particular, the company is the global market leader in all price categories for groupsets. It's no surprise, then, that Shimano has also entered the booming e-bike market: In 2010, the company presented its first e-bike drivetrain, called Shimano. STePS ("STePS" stands for "Shimano Total Electric Power Systems"). However, the first version, still equipped with a front motor, proved to be not very successful, particularly due to its relatively short range. Therefore, the drive system was completely redesigned and significantly improved, resulting in the new version of the Shimano STePS Systems came onto the market, but now with a mid-drive motor and a significantly increased range. The "new" Shimano Steps systems then also became a complete success. Shimano STePS Mid-engines are now installed in e-bikes from many well-known brands, which clearly speaks for the quality of the system (Giant, Hercules, butterfly,...).
The E-Bike Tuning Shimano Overview.
Shimano e-bike motors
With the Shimano STePS With the 2014 system, consisting of a mid-drive motor, battery, bike computer (display), crankset, and chain, the company was able to challenge the powerful competition from Bosch for the first time. This Shimano mid-drive motor scored highly with its powerful performance, low weight, and smooth handling. The system's battery also offered an exceptionally long range (up to 150 kilometers in Eco mode).
Shimano STEPS E6000 and E8000 drive systems
When it comes to Shimano Steps drives, a distinction must be made between different variants, namely primarily between the classic E6000 and the new E8000 drive, which was designed specifically for e-mountain bikes.
E6000
The compact, lightweight Shimano STePS The DU-E6000 drivetrain delivers 50 Nm of torque. You can choose between three different drive modes (Eco, Normal, & High). In Eco mode, the battery offers a decent range of up to 3 km. There are several recommended tuning options for this drive.
E8000
The E8000 is a completely redesigned, extremely powerful drive system, developed specifically for e-mountain bikes. The motor boasts an extremely low weight (less than 3 kg). Maximum torque is a whopping 70 Nm. The battery capacity has been increased from 418 Wh in the E6000 to 500 Wh. Furthermore, the display is no longer located in the center of the handlebar (as on the E6000), but on the right in the triangle formed by the stem and handlebars. You can choose between three support modes (Eco, Trail, Boost), which can be controlled via non-slip Firebolt shift levers, which should ensure particularly smooth shifting. Many experts now consider the system to be one of the very best MTB drive systems on the market – the riding experience is said to be extremely similar to that of conventional mountain bikes without a motor.
Important note: The E8000 Shimano STePS Motor is compatible with Shimano 10- or 11-speed shifting components in electronic or mechanical design.
EP8
The Shimano EP8 motor is the long-awaited successor to the E8000 drive. Compared to its predecessor, the EP8 has significantly more power; for example, the torque has been increased from 70 Nm to a full 85 Nm. This means the EP8 has around 20 percent more power than its predecessor. Despite this, the volume of the EP8 motor has been reduced again. Since the motor mount has remained the same, the rider benefits from even more ground clearance. But the EP8 has not only been made smaller, it has also been made around 10 percent lighter - at just 2,6 kg, the EP8 weighs around 300 g less than the E8000. In addition, the EP8 has various other optimizations, such as a shorter trail and reduced pedal resistance above the 25 km/h threshold. You can now also switch between two individually configurable riding parameters via the display. It's also great that the error code W013 no longer occurs when you apply pressure to the pedal when switching on (a long-standing shortcoming of the E8000).
There are already recommended tuning products for the new Shimano EP-8 motor, e.g. RedPed for Shimano or the MBIQ sensor. Other tuning manufacturers are also working on it.
With electronic Di2 rear derailleur and without electronic Di2 rear derailleur?
Some E8000 drives are equipped with the electronic Di2 mountain bike shifting system (designed to ensure particularly smooth gear shifting). Tuning solutions are available for this as well.
Can Shimano STePS Engines be optimized?
Yes! Since the Shimano STePS System is already used by various renowned e-bike manufacturers, it is not surprising that many recommended tuning tools for Shimano STePS engines are available on the market.
Which Shimano STePS Are there tuning tools?
RedPed 2s for Shimano E-Series & EP8
Extremely comprehensive tuning module, which also works with the RedPed 2 App This allows you to benefit from a wide range of tuning options – for example, the speed limit is not simply removed, but you can also set the maximum speed to a desired value. Furthermore, you can set a personal activation code or the "visibility" of the module in the app. Brand new with the RedPed 2s is that the correct The current speed remains visible on the e-bike display. Other useful parameters can be displayed via the app. Tuning can be turned on and off not only via the app but also with the light button. This means you don't have to bring your smartphone with you on every ride if you want to use the tuning.
RedPed 2s for Shimano EP8, also with Di2
RedPed 2s for Shimano E-series (E8000, E7000, E6100, E6000, E5000), also with Di2
RedPed for Shimano EP6 / EP801
A very comprehensive high-end tuning module specifically for e-bikes with Shimano EP6 / EP 801 motors. Controllable via the Redped app, the module offers a very wide range of functions. Its core function is the removal of the 25 km/h speed limit, but RedPed offers much more: The max speed can be set to a desired value via the app – up to 33 km/h by default, as higher values could trigger the Shimano anti-tuning software (you can also increase the max speed to up to 45 km/h at your own risk). The actual speed remains readable as a decimal number on the e-bike display. If necessary, the tuning can be switched on and off at any time. The module does not require its own battery. The app can be used to display numerous useful riding data while on the move. A real innovation is the option for firmware updates. Also compatible with Di2.
RedPed 2plus for Shimano E-Series & EP8
Very extensive and comfortable tuning, in which the proven RedPed module familiar with the RedPed App The 25 km/h limit can't simply be removed; the top speed can even be individually set. There are also various additional features, such as setting a personal update code, determining the module's "visibility" in the app, etc. Due to the way the tuning works, the e-bike display will only show half of the actual speed, but the correct values can easily be viewed via the app. The tuning can be switched on and off not only via the app but also with the LIGHT button (so you don't have to take your smartphone with you for every ride). innovation: In the original version (RedPed 2 for Shimano) an additional cable + distributor was necessary if no display socket was available on the motor. This is the case with RedPed 2plus not availabe This means that it is no longer a problem if the slots for Di2 are already occupied. RedPed 2plus is available for the Shimano E-Serie (E5000, E6000, E6100, E7000, E8000), and in a variant especially for Shimano EP8.
RedPed 2plus for Shimano E-Series (also with Di2)
RedPed 2plus for Shimano EP8 (also with Di2)
RedPed 2 for Shimano E-Series & EP8
A tuning module with various setting options, controllable via the RedPed App. Not only is the 25 km/h speed limit removed, but you can also set the maximum motor support to a desired value (15-45 km/h). An individual activation code can be set. Due to the functionality, various values, such as the mileage, are calculated incorrectly, but the correct data can be retrieved at any time via the RedPed App. After configuring the tuning settings via the app, the tuning can also be turned on and off using the light button on the bike. Compatible with Shimano Steps E5000, E6000, E6100, E7000, and E8000 motors and with all displays. Also compatible with Di2. The module is also available in a version specifically for Shimano EP8 drivetrains (all displays).
RedPed L for Shimano STePS / EP8 (also with Di2)
A tuning module that allows you to increase the maximum motor support of your Shimano e-bike drive to a custom value of up to 45 km/h (the 25 km/h speed limit is removed). The settings can be easily configured with the EBT app. RedPed L for Shimano, the e-bike display no longer shows the correct speed, but you can view the actual speed via the smartphone app. The app also correctly displays various other parameters, such as maximum and average speed, ride time, total distance, and daily distance. Compatible with Shimano Steps E5000, E6000, E6100, E7000, E8000, and EP8 (light connection must be activated). The module is also compatible with Di2 drivetrains.
RedPed P for Shimano STePS / EP8 (without Di2)
A tuning module that allows you to adjust the maximum motor support of Shimano e-bike drives to an individual value of up to 45 km/h (the speed limit is removed). The settings can be easily configured using the EBT app. RedPed P for Shimano means the e-bike display no longer shows the correct speed, but you can view the actual speed via the smartphone app. The app also correctly displays various other data, such as maximum and average speed, ride time, total distance, and daily distance. Compatible with Shimano Steps E5000, E6000, E6100, E7000, E8000, and EP8 (light connection does not need to be activated, except for the E6000). Not compatible with Di2 drivetrains.
sIMPLEk Pro for Shimano E6100, E7000, E8000, (E5000)
This tuning module completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit of Shimano Steps motors; there are no additional functions. The correct speed remains readable, but via the second digit and the decimal place of the e-bike display (a displayed speed of, for example, 23,4 km/h would actually correspond to a speed of 34 km/h, etc.). Easy installation thanks to precisely fitting plug connections. Since this is the "Pro version," this sIMPLEk Module supplied as a finished product. Compatible with Shimano Steps E6100, E7000, E8000, (E5000) e-bike drives and all control units/displays. Also compatible with Di2.
sIMPLEk Pro for Shimano EP8
A tuning module that removes the 25 km/h speed limit. Easy installation thanks to suitable plug connections. After switching on the e-bike, the tuning is always initially off; the module must be activated using an activation routine. Up to a speed of 20 km/h, the correct speed is shown on the display; above this speed, the correct speed is indicated by the second digit and the decimal place (a display of 24,2 km/h, for example, would actually correspond to a speed of 42 km/h, etc.). The module does not require its own battery. Compatible with Shimano EP8 e-bike motors with all control units and electronic Di2 shifting.
MBIQ-P for Shimano EP801 / EP6 / EP600
A hybrid tuning module with two different manipulation modes available: "Freeze" and "Damp." The 25 km/h speed limit is removed, allowing a maximum speed of up to 34 km/h to be reached by default. If required, the maximum speed can also be individually set; neither a PC nor a smartphone is required for programming. In Freeze mode, the correct speed is no longer displayed above 25 km/h; in Damp mode, the displayed speed roughly corresponds to the actual speed, but dampened by a set, configurable factor. The tuning can be activated/deactivated; and an extra battery is not required. Proper function cannot be guaranteed for models with Di2 gears.
MBIQ-S for Shimano STePS / EP8
This tuning tool completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit on e-bike drives. The MBIQ-S is a replacement sensor that must be replaced with the original speed sensor. The tuning can be activated and deactivated (programming is done via specific wheel movements when starting up the e-bike). When tuning is active, correct speed values are no longer displayed above approximately 23 km/h. The MBIQ-S is maintenance-free and does not require its own battery. Compatible with Shimano Steps E5xxx, Steps E6xxx, Steps E7xxx, Steps E8xxx (tested up to FW 4.9.0) & EP8 variants SS300 or SS301 (tested up to FW 4.1.8). It's even compatible with DI2!
MBIQ-P for Shimano EP8 / EP8-RS
A practical plug-in solution that removes the speed limit on Shimano EP8 e-bikes. The tool must be inserted into the speed sensor cable. A new feature is that the maximum motor support level can be increased to a desired value in several stages. The tuning can be activated and deactivated by the customer using specific wheel movements when starting up the e-bike (no PC or smartphone required). The MBIQ-P is maintenance-free and does not require its own battery. The speed display will not be correct when tuning is active. Compatible with all Shimano EP8 motors (DU-EP800), including those with RS firmware and Di2.
PearTune MSO 3.0 for Shimano EP8 / EP8 RS / EP800
PearTune MSO is a tuning module that must be connected to the motor. It completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit (MSO = Max Speed Off). The tuning can be conveniently switched on and off using the light button on the display. When tuning is active, the speed display will not be correct above approximately 23 km/h. PearTune The module can be easily uninstalled without leaving any marks on the e-bike. No extra battery is required, as it is powered by the e-bike battery. Compatible with Shimano EP8 and EP6 motors. It can be switched on and off using the light button. Also available in a StillOn version, where the tuning is always active (especially for e-bikes without a display).
PearTune MSO 3.0 for Shimano EP801 / EP6
Tuning module for unlocking e-bikes with Shimano EP801 and EP6 motors – whether with or without Di2 gears. The 25 km/h speed limit is completely removed; no other functions are available. The correct speed display only shows up to approximately 23 km/h; above this speed, the displayed speed is "frozen." Tuning is automatically activated when the e-bike is switched on, but can be deactivated again using the light button. The module does not require its own battery.
PearTune MSO 3.0 for Giant Revolt E+ with Shimano EP8 Di2
This e-bike tuning chip's functionality is limited to the absolute essentials: removing the 25 km/h speed limit. There are no other functions. The tuning activates automatically as soon as you turn on the bike, but you can deactivate/activate it again at any time using the light button. When tuning is active, the correct speed is only displayed up to approximately 23-25 km/h. An extra battery is not required for the chip. Compatible with Giant Revolt E+ e-bikes with Shimano EP8 motors and Di2. This tuning tool is available in two versions: The "Normal" version allows tuning to be turned on and off using the light button. The "StillOn" version, on the other hand, is designed for e-bikes without a light function; here, tuning is always active.
PearTune MSO 3.0 Normal for Giant Revolt E+ with EP8 Di2
PearTune MSO 3.0 StillOn for Giant Revolt E+ with Shimano EP8 Di2
PearTune MSO 3.0 for Shimano Di2
This tuning tool removes the 25 km/h speed limit on Shimano e-bikes with Di2 electronic shifting. The module must be connected directly to the motor and does not require its own power supply. When tuning is active, the correct speed is no longer shown on the display above 22-25 km/h. This tuning tool is available in two versions: With the normal version, the tuning can be switched on and off using the light button. With the still-on version (intended for Shimano bikes without a light function), the tuning module is always active as soon as the e-bike is switched on. Compatible with the following Shimano drivetrains: E2, E8000, E7000, E6001, E6002, E6010, E6012, E6020, E6100, E6101.
PearTune MSO 3.0 Normal for Shimano Di2
PearTune MSO 3.0 Still On for Shimano Di2
PearTune MSO 3.0 for Shimano
The latest version of this proven tuning module, now with even more effective software and even compatible with the brand-new Shimano 2020 e-bikes. After installation, the 25 km/h speed limit is completely removed, allowing the motor to reach its full potential. The tuning can be switched on and off using the light button (for bikes without an activated light function, the module is also available in a "Still On" version, where the tuning is always active). Thanks to a significantly smaller housing, installation is easier than ever.
Note: When tuning is active, the speedometer only displays half of the actual speed. Compatible with the following Shimano drivetrains: E8000, E7000, E6001, E6002, E6010, E6012, E6020, E6100, E6101, and E5000. The module also works with the brand-new Shimano software (version 4.1.11).
Badass Box 4 for Shimano E6000 & E8000
For e-bikes with Shimano engines, a new version of this proven tuning tool has now come onto the market, namely the Badass Box 4. This too Badass Box lifts the 25 km/h speed limit, but the Badass Box 4 a number of advantages over the previous version (Badass Box Type 3.3 Shimano), e.g.: A new, slimmer housing with a patented snap lock, which allows for even faster mounting and removal of the box. The previous CR2 battery has been replaced by a more powerful AAA battery, which is not only cheaper and easier to obtain, but also increases the range to over 7000 km. In addition, a special potting compound provides additional protection against moisture and mechanical stress. Badass Box The 4th version is available for Shimano E6000 (or E600x) and E8000 drives and is also compatible with Shimano e-bikes with electronic shifting (e.g. Di2), as well as with firmware 4.7.0 and 4.7.1 up to the current 4.8.0.
Badass Box 4 Shimano X-Set (for e-bikes with integrated Shimano sensor SM-DUE10)
A tuning set for e-bikes with Shimano motors, where the Shimano sensor SM-DUE10 is installed in the dropout of the bike (and not availabe easily accessible on the chainstay). Once the box is attached, the 25 km/h speed limit is completely removed, allowing you to ride much faster with motor assistance. Power is supplied by a replaceable AAA battery, which is included in delivery. No correct speed display when tuning is active. Important: Installing this tuning tool requires minor modification; some manual dexterity is required. Compatible with Shimano e-bike mid-drive motors (firmware up to 4.8.0). Also compatible with Di2 drivetrains (except Nexus).
Badass Box 4 Shimano 2020 (for e-bikes with integrated Shimano sensor SM-DUE11)
This set is suitable for Shimano e-bikes with the Shimano SM-DUE11 sensor integrated into the dropout. The 25 km/h speed limit is completely removed, allowing the full potential of the e-bike motor to be utilized. Badass Box 4 is battery-operated; when tuning is active, the correct tempo is no longer displayed. Please note: Installing this tuning tool requires minor modification, so some manual dexterity is required.
SpeedBox 1.2 for Shimano (E8000, E7000, E6100, E5000)
This tuning chip completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit. SpeedBox 1.2 is available in two versions – a “normal” version and the “B.Tuning” version, which comes with the SpeedBox App compatible. The app-enabled version has the advantage of being able to individually adjust the assist speed. Furthermore, the app can display the correct riding parameters, such as the current speed (the e-bike display only shows the actual speed up to 23 km/h). The tuning can be switched on and off with the light button. The SpeedBox Not compatible with Shimano e-bike motors E8000, E7000, E6100, and E5000 (not compatible with e-bikes with Di2 drivetrains).
SpeedBox 1.2 for Shimano E8000, E7000, E6100, E5000
SpeedBox 1.2 B.Tuning for Shimano E8000, E7000, E6100, E5000 (with app)
SpeedBox 1.3 for Shimano EP8
A tuning chip that completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit. SpeedBox 1.3 for Shimano EP8 is available in two versions – the “normal” version and the “B.Tuning” version, which is additionally equipped with the SpeedBox App compatible. The app-enabled version has various advantages, e.g. you can individually set the assist speed or save and display driving data, etc. In general, the SpeedBox 1.3 only shows correct values on the e-bike display up to a speed of 23 km/h. However, there are SpeedBox 1.3 B.Tuning version allows you to display the correct values on your smartphone at higher speeds. The tuning chip can be turned on and off using the light button. No additional battery is required. Compatible with Shimano EP8 e-bikes (not compatible with e-bikes with Di2 drivetrains).
SpeedBox 1.3 B.Tuning for Shimano EP8 (with app)
SpeedBox 1.3 for Shimano EP8 “+E-Tube Port” (for Shimano EP8 e-bikes WITHOUT a free E-Tube port)
SpeedBox for Shimano E6000 or E8000, E7000, E6100 & E5000
These tuning modules remove the 25 km/h limit of the Shimano motor support. You can then ride much faster with full motor support. SpeedBox for Shimano Steps can be switched on or off at any time by pressing the e-bike's light button. Accidental misconnection is impossible. No correct speed display when tuning is active. These tuning tools are developed and manufactured in the Czech Republic.
SpeedBox 1.1 for Shimano EP8
A tuning chip to remove the 25 km/h speed limit. No other functions. SpeedBox 1.1 must be permanently installed on the motor. The tuning can be turned on and off using the light switch. The correct speed display only works up to approximately 22 km/h. Compatible with e-bikes with Shimano EP-8 motors (not compatible with Di2 drivetrains).
Sx2 dongle for Shimano E8000 e-bikes (without Di2)
The practical Sx2 dongle in a version especially for e-bikes with Shimano STePS E8000 mid-engines. The 25 km/h speed limit is lifted, allowing you to ride much faster with full motor support. The Sx2 dongle can be activated at any time using the bike's light switch. Very easy to connect thanks to the plug & play principle. No separate battery is required. The original handling characteristics can be restored at any time by removing the dongle. Please note that the display only shows half of the actual speed when tuning is active. Important: This tuning tool only works with Shimano E8000 e-bikes without Di2 electronic shifting.
MBIQ-CC (Universal)
The MBIQ-CC completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit for e-bike motors; there are no additional functions. When tuning is active, the display no longer shows correct values above 25 km/h. Quick and easy installation thanks to the push-in terminal. Not only is the tool maintenance-free and requires no separate battery, it can also be programmed by the customer using specific wheel movements when starting up the e-bike. The MBIQ-CC is a universal solution for various e-bike motors, provided they are equipped with 2-wire speed sensors. The tool is compatible with Bosch drives (, among others).Active/Performance/CX), Shimano STePS (E6xxx, E7xxx, E8xxx), Panasonic (X0, Flyer), Brose (Drive S) etc.
MBIQ-CC 2 (Universal)
A universal tuning solution that is compatible with e-bike drives from various manufacturers (including Bosch Gen4). The tool completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit. Customer-programmable and "anti-tuning" ready. Unlike the standard MBIQ-CC, the tuning on the MBIQ-CC 2 can also be activated via an external switch (not included) or via a light signal (only with 2-wire sensors). Above a speed of approximately 25 km/h, the correct speed is no longer displayed when tuning is active. For installation, the tool must be integrated into the existing sensor cable, which is easily done via a push-in terminal. Compatible with various e-bike motors with 2- or 3-wire speed sensors: Bosch (Active, Performance, CX), Shimano Steps (E6xxx, E7xxx, E8xxx), Panasonic (X0, Flyer), Brose (Brose Drive S), Bafang (BBS-xxx), Yamaha (PW-xx), Fazua, AEG, etc…
MBIQ-P Plug-In for Shimano STePS
This MBIQ-P completely removes the 25 km/h speed limit of Shimano Steps mid-drive motors. Not only is it probably the smallest tuning tool for Shimano on the market, but it's also a very easy-to-install plug-in solution. Essentially, the tool simply needs to be inserted between the motor and the sensor. If necessary, the MBIQ-P can be removed at any time to reverse the tuning. The tool is customer-programmable, allowing tuning to be turned on and off as needed (without the need for additional devices such as a PC or smartphone). When tuning is enabled, the correct speed is no longer displayed above a speed of approximately 22 km/h. The MBIQ-P does not require its own battery. Compatible with Shimano Steps E6xxx, Steps E7xxx, Steps E8xxx (successfully tested up to FW 4.8.0). Also compatible with Di2.
Here's a selection of e-bikes and model series that feature Shimano drivetrains, among others. Use the tuning tools listed above to remove the speed limit on e-bikes equipped with a tuning-compatible Shimano motor:
BESV TR / BESV TRX Urban / Bianchi T-Tronik / BMC Alpenchallenge / Bulls Sonic / Centurion Country / Falter Sub / Focus Jam / Gazelle Easy Flow / Gazelle Chamonix / Giant Revolt E+ / Hercules Edison / Hercules Nos / Hoheacht Mola Monto / Hoheacht Mola Terra / Hoheacht Pasio Eko Terra / Hoheacht Pasio Strato / Husqvarna Cross / Husqvarna Eco City / Husqvarna Gran City / Husqvarna Gran Gravel / Husqvarna Gran Tourer / Husqvarna Light Cross / Husqvarna Mountain Cross / Kalkhoff Agattu / Kettler E Scorpion / Koga Pace / Kona Dew-E / Merida eBig Nine / Merida eOne Sixty / Norco Fluid / Norco Sight / NS Bikes E-Fine / Nukeproof / Orbea Kemen / Orbea Rise / Orbea Urrun / Ortler E-Speeder / Ortler E-Montreux / Raleigh Sheffield / Raleigh Stone / Rotwild Core / Rotwild Ultra / Santa Cruz Heckler / Santa Cruz Bullit / Stevens E-Bormio / Victoria eTouring / Vitus E-Escarpe / Vitus E-Sommet / Wilier Pro Tuning Tools see above
