Shimano STEPS

Summary

Shimano STEPS (Shimano Total Electric Power System) is a modular, integrated e-bike drive platform developed by Shimano. It combines mid-drive motors, lithium-ion batteries, controllers, and firmware to deliver pedal-assist across a range of riding styles — from daily commuting and long-distance trekking to technical mountain biking. Widely used by OEMs worldwide, STEPS systems are known for their smooth power delivery, quiet operation, and seamless integration with Shimano drivetrains and components.

Key Facts

  • Introduced: 2010 (initial release); full expansion began in 2014
  • Category: E-Bike System
  • Also known as: Shimano Total Electric Power System
  • Used by / Found on: Urban, trekking, cargo, and e-MTB bikes
  • Motor type: Mid-drive (bottom bracket-mounted)
  • System includes: Motor, controller/display, battery, sensors, firmware
  • Official website: bike.shimano.com

Overview

Shimano STEPS is Shimano’s purpose-built electric-assist platform, developed to provide efficient, natural-feeling support across a wide range of bicycle categories. Unlike retrofit motor kits or third-party systems, STEPS is a fully integrated solution designed from the ground up — combining Shimano’s decades of mechanical drivetrain expertise with precision electronics and advanced control systems.

The platform debuted in Japan and Europe in the early 2010s, initially targeting city bikes and low-speed commuters. By 2014, STEPS expanded globally and diversified into dedicated product lines for trekking, off-road, and performance use. Today, STEPS powers thousands of OEM e-bike models worldwide and is a standard reference for mid-drive motor systems in the industry.

At the core of every STEPS system is a bottom-bracket-mounted motor that measures rider input and delivers assist proportional to torque and cadence. These systems are often paired with Shimano’s Di2 electronic shifting (on select models) or standard 1x drivetrains. The result is a refined, cohesive riding experience that feels like a natural extension of the rider’s effort — not an external push.

How It Works

1. Sensor-Driven Power Assist

STEPS systems use a suite of sensors that monitor rider input in real time. These include:

  • Torque Sensor: Measures how hard you’re pedaling
  • Cadence Sensor: Tracks pedal speed (rpm)
  • Speed Sensor: Uses a wheel magnet or integrated sensor to calculate ground speed

Inputs are sampled hundreds of times per second and processed by the motor controller to determine how much assist to provide. The goal is smooth, proportional power that matches rider effort without lag, surging, or artificial feel.

2. Mid-Drive Motor Configuration

All STEPS systems use mid-drive motors, located at the crankset. This placement offers several advantages:

  • Mechanical Leverage: Power is transferred through the bike’s drivetrain, allowing the motor to benefit from gear selection
  • Better Weight Distribution: Low, centered position improves handling
  • Efficient Climbing: Motor torque is amplified through low gearing for steeper terrain

Torque output ranges from 40 Nm (city) to 85 Nm (performance e-MTB), depending on the system.

3. Assist Modes and User Interface

Riders choose between several preset assist levels:

  • Eco: Maximizes range; light support
  • Normal / Trail: Balanced performance
  • Boost / High: Maximum torque for steep climbs or quick acceleration
  • Walk Assist: Motorized push function for maneuvering the bike while walking

STEPS offers a variety of control interfaces — from compact bar-mounted buttons to high-visibility LCD displays. Many models also include diagnostic menus, range estimates, and Bluetooth connectivity.

4. Battery System

Shimano batteries typically range from 418 Wh to 630 Wh, with some models exceeding that depending on frame compatibility. Key features:

  • Lithium-ion cells with smart BMS (Battery Management System)
  • Removable or internal downtube mounting
  • Fast-charging options (up to 80% in 2.5 hours)
  • Expected range varies from 30–100+ miles depending on terrain, weight, and assist mode

5. Firmware and App Integration

Shimano’s E-TUBE Project app enables users and shops to:

  • Customize assist characteristics (EP8 and higher)
  • Update firmware
  • Run diagnostics
  • Configure shift behavior (for Di2-equipped drivetrains)

The E-TUBE platform ensures STEPS systems stay current over time with OTA updates and compatibility improvements — a major advantage for long-term ownership.

Motor Lineup & Use Cases

Shimano STEPS is offered in several variants tailored to different riding styles:

E5000

  • Entry-level, commuter-focused
  • 40 Nm torque
  • Lightest and quietest motor in the lineup
  • Pairs with internal gear hubs (e.g., Nexus, Alfine)

E6100

  • Urban/trekking use
  • 60 Nm torque
  • Efficient for long distances
  • Often seen on hybrid commuters, touring bikes, and cargo models
  • Compatible with Di2 automatic shifting

E7000

  • Off-road capable / trail fitness
  • 60 Nm torque
  • Lighter and less aggressive than performance motors
  • Used on light-duty e-MTBs and sport-trekking bikes

E8000 (Discontinued)

  • Shimano’s first e-MTB system
  • 70 Nm torque
  • Pioneered mountain-specific firmware and geo integration
  • Replaced by EP8

EP8 (EP800 series)

  • Flagship performance e-MTB system
  • 85 Nm torque
  • Magnesium housing, ~300g lighter than E8000
  • Fully customizable support curves via E-TUBE
  • Reduced drag and noise
  • Also used in lightweight “EP8 RS” form (e.g., Orbea Rise)

System Integration & Compatibility

STEPS systems are designed to work best with Shimano drivetrains, but they are broadly compatible with:

  • 1x drivetrains (common on trekking and MTB platforms)
  • Internal gear hubs (common on city/touring bikes)
  • Di2 electronic shifting (on select models)
  • Chain or belt drives, depending on frame design

Customization is available through frame-integrated batteries, proprietary mounts, and display options depending on the OEM. Shimano’s widespread support ensures STEPS is one of the most OEM-integrated systems in the e-bike market.

Notable Implementations

  • Orbea Rise – Lightweight trail e-MTB using EP8-RS tuned for lower assist and natural feel
  • Trek Allant+ – Premium commuter range using E6100 or EP8, with fully integrated cockpit
  • Gazelle Ultimate – High-end city bikes using E6100 + internal hubs for maintenance-free transport
  • Norco Sight VLT – Long-travel enduro e-bike powered by full-torque EP8
  • BMC Alpenchallenge AMP – Urban fitness bike pairing E6100 with road-inspired design
  • Marin Sausalito E1/E2 – Entry-level city e-bikes using E5000 for efficient daily riding

Related Terms

See Also on BBB

References

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