26 | Cycling ecyclist World
Shimano Electrifies its MTB Offering
The all-new Shimano Steps MTB components deliver maximum enjoyment
Shimano Steps feature the lightweight and compact E8000 drive unit , designed around the concept of being intuitive and providing a natural feeling for the rider . The drive unit is compact so frame manufacturers can make e-MTB frames with shorter chain stays , giving riders better manoeuvrability on the trail . The cranks sit with a narrow Q-factor ( the distance between the outer edges of the crankset ) in line with DEORE XT cranks , helping to retain a natural feeling . And most importantly the lightweight unit is controlled intuitively by a lefthand power mode switch with three settings ( Eco , Trail and Boost ) for different types of terrain .
Shimano first launched its urban and leisure-orientated e-bike components ( E6000 ) in 2013 . Now , with the knowledge and experience that comes from many years of developing high-end MTB components , Shimano unites its technological expertise with the release of its E8000 components , dedicated towards the rigors and demands of e-mountain biking but designed so that riders can experience the true sensation of the mountain bike .
The drive unit is held in a triangle formation around the bottom bracket resulting in secure , direct and efficient power transfer from the rider to the cranks . Its compact design incorporates cooling fins on the drive side for the heat dissipation from the motor .
Creating a natural feeling ride from the Shimano Steps MTB motorized drive unit was an important consideration . Riders pedal much like a traditional bike , yet they can choose to receive different levels of assistance Riders can also change gear too , much like a normal mountain bike , with 10 or 11-speed drivetrain and mechanical or Di2 shifting options available .
Power for the motor is delivered by a slim but durable , low profile and waterproof 500Wh battery on the downtube . A secure mount keeps the battery firmly in place even over rough terrain , yet removing the battery for charging is simple with a sideways release mechanism .
Connected to the motor is either the hollow crankarm ( FC-E8050 ) or the solid crankarm ( FC-E8000 ), both of which are available with 34T or 38T chain rings ( SM-CRE80-B / CRE80 ) for 10 or 11-speed cassettes . Chainrings feature Shimano ’ s Dynamic Chain Engagement technology and , together with an optional chain retention device ( SM-CDE80 ), ensures chains remain on drivetrains .
The system is controlled by the compact Shimano Steps MTB colour LCD computer to offer riders their gear number , power assist mode and battery range information . The power assist modes are controlled by a dedicated MTB handlebar switch , allowing the rider to change between Eco , Trail and High Power modes , plus the Power Walk mode .