Shimano EP8 Review: A Compact and Powerful e-MTB Motor

The Shimano EP8, is the successor to the E8000 and Shimano’s flagship e-MTB motor for 2021. The EP8 promises more power, more efficiency, less weight, and less noise than its predecessor, as well as a host of new features and customization options.

Shimano has been a leading player in the e-MTB market for several years, with its STEPS E8000 motor is one of the most popular choices among riders and bike brands. However, with the competition heating up from Bosch, Brose, Yamaha, and others, Shimano needed to step up its game and deliver a new and improved motor that could match or exceed the performance of its rivals. But does it live up to the hype? And how does it compare to other motors on the market? In this review, we’ll take a closer look at the Shimano EP8 and share our impressions of it.

What’s new with the Shimano EP8?

The Shimano EP8 (EP800) is not just an updated version of the E8000 but an entirely new motor that has been redesigned from the ground up. Here are some of the fundamental changes and improvements that Shimano has made:

More torque:

The EP8 delivers up to 85Nm of torque, compared to 70Nm for the E8000. This means more grunt for climbing steep hills and accelerating out of corners.

More support:

The EP8 offers up to 400% of rider support, compared to 300% for the E8000. This means more assistance in maintaining speed and overcoming obstacles.

Less weight:

The EP8 weighs only 2.6kg, compared to 2.8kg for the E8000. This makes it one of the lightest full-size motors on the market, reducing the overall weight of the e-MTB and improving handling.

Less drag:

The EP8 has 36% less drag than the E8000, according to Shimano. This means less resistance when pedaling above 25km/h or when riding without assistance, resulting in more natural and efficient riding.

Less noise:

The EP8 is quieter than the E8000, thanks to an advanced gear system and a one-way clutch that reduces clacking noises. This means less distraction and more enjoyment on the trails.

More compact:

The EP8 is 10% smaller than the E8000, thanks to a three-stage gearing system that allows for a compact design. This means more clearance for the rear wheel and suspension components, allowing bike brands to build e-MTBs with shorter chainstays and better geometry.

More heat management:

The EP8 has better heat management than the E8000, thanks to magnesium materials, increased surface area, and an improved algorithm. This means less power loss due to overheating and more consistent performance in demanding conditions.

More customization:

The EP8 can be customized via Shimano’s E-TUBE app or compatible third-party devices, thanks to ANT+ and Bluetooth LE connectivity. This means riders can adjust parameters such as power output, assistance level, start mode, and more to suit their preferences and riding styles.

Who voted for Shimano EP8 by Using It?

Some of the e-bike models that come with the Shimano EP8 motor are:

• Orbea Rise: A lightweight and agile e-MTB that combines natural ride feeling with extra power. The Rise has a carbon frame, a 360Wh battery, and a Shimano Deore XT drivetrain.
• Merida eOne-Sixty: A full-suspension e-MTB that can confidently tackle any trail. The eOne-Sixty has an aluminum frame, a 630Wh battery, and a Shimano SLX drivetrain.
• Lapierre Overvolt GLP: A gravity-oriented e-MTB that offers stability and performance on steep descents. The Overvolt GLP has an aluminum frame, a 500Wh battery, and a Shimano Deore drivetrain.
• Scott Genius eRIDE: A versatile e-MTB that can adapt to terrain with its TwinLoc suspension system. The Genius eRIDE has an aluminum frame, a 625Wh battery, and a Shimano XT drivetrain.
• Cannondale Moterra Neo: A powerful e-MTB that can easily climb and descend. The Moterra Neo has a carbon frame, a 625Wh battery, and a Shimano XT drivetrain.
• Cube Stereo Hybrid 160: A robust e-MTB that can handle rough trails and technical features. The Stereo Hybrid 160 has an aluminum frame, a 625Wh battery, and a Shimano XT drivetrain.
• Focus Jam2: A playful e-MTB that offers agility and fun on any trail. The Jam2 has an aluminum frame, a 378Wh battery, and a Shimano SLX drivetrain.
• Specialized Turbo Levo SL: A super light e-MTB that resembles a regular mountain bike. The Turbo Levo SL has a carbon frame, a 320Wh battery, and a Shimano SLX drivetrain.

These are some examples of e-bike models that come with the Shimano EP8 motor. You can find more options on the Shimano website or by visiting your local bike shop.

Final Thoughts

In conclusion, the Shimano EP8 is a powerful and compact e-MTB motor with more torque, support, and customization options than its predecessor, the E8000. With less weight, drag, and noise and improved heat management, the EP8 delivers a more efficient and enjoyable riding experience. Many popular e-bike models now come equipped with the EP8, making it a top choice for riders looking for high-performance e-MTBs.

FAQs about Shimano EP8:

• How many watts is the Shimano EP8?
• The Shimano EP8 is a 250-watt motor that can deliver up to 85 Nm of torque.

• What is the maximum speed of the Shimano EP8?
• The maximum speed of the Shimano EP8 depends on the country and the settings. It can support up to 25 km/h or 20 mph by default, but it can be adjusted using the E-TUBE PROJECT app.

• Are Shimano EP8 motors reliable?
• The Shimano EP8 motors are designed to be reliable and durable, with reduced heat generation and a smooth and natural assist feeling. They are compatible with mechanical and electronic shifting systems and internal gear hubs.

• What is the difference between Shimano E8000 and EP8?
• The main difference between Shimano E8000 and EP8 is that the EP8 has a higher torque (85 Nm vs. 70 Nm), a lower weight (2.6 kg vs. 2.8 kg), a smaller size, a quieter operation, and a lower pedaling resistance. The EP8 also has more customizable features, such as two profiles, fine-tune mode, and intelligent walk assist.

• What is the best cadence for EP8?
• The best cadence for EP8 depends on the rider’s preference and the terrain. The EP8 can support a wide range of low to high cadences with a smooth and consistent power delivery. Some riders may prefer a lower cadence for more control and stability, while others may prefer a higher cadence for more efficiency and speed.

• Is the Shimano EP8 motor waterproof?
• The Shimano EP8 motor is water-resistant but not waterproof. It can withstand normal riding conditions, such as rain and splashes, but it should not be submerged in water or exposed to high-pressure water jets. To maintain the performance and longevity of the motor, it is recommended to clean it regularly with a soft cloth and mild detergent and to avoid using solvents or abrasives.