Shimano STEPS represents the e-bike division of the world’s largest bicycle component manufacturer, bringing over a century of cycling expertise to electric propulsion. Founded in 1921, Shimano has always been at the forefront of bicycle innovation, and their STEPS (Shimano Total Electric Power System) lineup reflects this heritage of precision engineering. What sets Shimano apart is their unique ecosystem approach—they manufacture not only motors but also the internal gear hubs, shifting systems, and brakes that pair perfectly with belt drives. This vertical integration means unmatched compatibility and seamless operation across all components. For riders seeking a complete, harmonious drivetrain where every part speaks the same engineering language, Shimano STEPS delivers exactly that.
🔧 Products & Technology
EP8 (85Nm) — Shimano’s flagship motor delivering 85Nm of trail-conquering torque in an incredibly compact 2.6kg package. Features customizable power profiles via the E-TUBE app and exceptionally natural pedal feel. The low Q-factor design improves ergonomics and efficiency, making it ideal for demanding eMTB and touring applications with belt drives.
EP6 (60Nm) — The versatile performer bridging mountain and urban riding. Delivers 60Nm with refined power delivery optimized for all-day adventures. Lighter weight and more affordable than EP8, perfect for gravel bikes and light touring builds with belt systems.
E5000 (40Nm) — The urban commuter’s friend, offering 40Nm of smooth, quiet assistance. Optimized for city bikes where silence and natural feel matter most. Pairs beautifully with Nexus internal hubs and belt drives for the ultimate maintenance-free commuter setup.
Alfine & Nexus Internal Gear Hubs — Shimano’s legendary hub gears with 5, 7, 8, and 11-speed options. The Alfine 11 offers premium Di2 electronic shifting, while Nexus provides reliable performance at accessible prices. All designed specifically for belt drive compatibility, creating the perfect sealed drivetrain.
🌍 Markets
As the dominant force in global bicycle components, Shimano STEPS enjoys unparalleled market reach. Headquartered in Sakai, Osaka, Japan, with major operations in Malaysia and Singapore, Shimano serves virtually every bicycle market worldwide. Their e-bike motors power bikes from brands across Europe, North America, Asia, and Australia. The company’s extensive dealer network—numbering in the tens of thousands—ensures service availability in even remote locations. From Tokyo commuters to Swiss mountain bikers, Shimano STEPS motors are trusted across all cycling cultures.
đź’ˇ Belt Drive Philosophy
Shimano’s commitment to belt drive systems is evidenced by their comprehensive ecosystem approach. By manufacturing both motors and internal gear hubs, they’ve created perfectly optimized pairings for belt-driven bicycles. The Alfine and Nexus hub ranges all feature Gates CDX belt compatibility, while STEPS motors deliver smooth, chain-tension-free power delivery that maximizes belt longevity. Shimano understands that belt drive users value reliability and clean operation—their engineering reflects this by eliminating the chain entirely from the equation. The result is a complete drivetrain ecosystem where motor, hub, and belt work in perfect harmony.
đź“‹ Company Profile
| Founded | 1921 |
| Headquarters | Sakai, Osaka, Japan |
| Products | E-bike motors, internal gear hubs, components |
| Key Models | EP8, EP6, E5000, Alfine, Nexus |
| Belt Compatibility | Gates CDX, all Alfine/Nexus hubs belt-ready |
đź”— Official Website
🚲 In Our Catalog
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