Shimano EP810 E-Bike Motor Unveiled: 100Nm, 750W and Smarter Automatic Assist

Last Updated on November 6, 2026 by Kristina

🆕 Early-Look Review – First-look based on limited early information (not hands-on).

November 6, 2026 — Shimano has introduced the EP810, its next-generation electric mountain bike drive system. The new mid-drive motor offers up to 100Nm of torque, 750W of peak output, and a claimed drive-unit weight of 2.3kg. But its most interesting change may be how it manages power and shifting automatically as the trail changes.

For riders shopping for a new electric mountain bike, here is what Shimano has confirmed, what is still unknown, and why the EP810 matters.

Shimano EP810 at a Glance

Feature	Shimano EP810
Drive-unit model	DU-EP810 mid-drive
Maximum torque	100Nm
Peak motor output	750W (peak, not a stated continuous rating)
Claimed motor weight	2.3kg (approximately 5.1 lb)
Pedaling cadence support	Up to 160 rpm
Automatic assistance	AUTO ASSIST in TRAIL+ mode
Automatic gear shifting	Third-generation AUTO SHIFT with compatible Di2 rear derailleur
Shimano integrated battery option	BT-EN827, 720Wh
Charger options	2A or 4A
Displays	SC-EN700 top-tube and SC-EM810 handlebar options
Retail pricing and broad availability	Not yet specified for all markets

Figures above are manufacturer specifications, not measurements from Electric Bike Explorer testing.

More Torque and Power, but Not Just a Numbers Race

The EP810 replaces the EP801 at the top of Shimano’s e-MTB drive-unit lineup. Published comparisons put the older EP801 at 85Nm, 600W peak output, and approximately 2.7kg. That means the new unit adds 15Nm of torque and 150W of peak output while shedding about 400g of motor weight.

That is a meaningful specification change, although more peak power does not automatically guarantee faster climbing, more range, or better real-world handling. Motor tuning, traction, cadence, bike weight, battery capacity, and trail conditions all matter.

It is also important to distinguish 750W peak power from a motor’s continuous rated output. The two figures are not interchangeable, and a peak-power number alone does not establish an e-bike’s legal classification in the United States. For context, see EBE’s e-bike motor buying guide.

True Auto Combines Automatic Shifting With Automatic Assistance

Shimano calls its new approach True Auto. It combines two distinct functions:

• AUTO ASSIST: In TRAIL+ mode, the system adjusts motor assistance based on rider effort and terrain. Shimano says it can increase support on climbs, reduce it on descents, and manage output more efficiently on flatter sections.
• AUTO SHIFT Gen 3: An updated algorithm considers cadence, torque, speed, and slope to select gears automatically. This requires a compatible Di2 rear derailleur; an EP810 motor by itself does not turn a conventional mechanical drivetrain into an automatic-shifting system.

The practical appeal is straightforward: less attention spent changing assistance modes or gears, and more attention available for choosing a safe line through a challenging section. Whether riders prefer the automated feel will ultimately depend on the bike’s setup and independent trail testing.

New Features for Technical Climbs

Shimano also highlights several controls aimed at difficult off-road situations:

• Hill Hold: While Walk Assist is active on an incline, the system can help hold the bike in place when the rider stops.
• Lift & Shift: With the bike stopped, the rider can lift the rear wheel and use the assist switch to command a shift toward an easier gear before restarting.
• Assist Remain: Smooths support through uneven or interrupted pedaling input.
• Assist Carry Over: Maintains a short, adjustable period of assistance after pedaling stops, intended to help maintain momentum over technical obstacles.

These are manufacturer-described functions, not features EBE has independently tested. They do not replace appropriate braking or careful control on steep terrain.

A New Battery, Displays, and Connected System

The platform includes Shimano’s 720Wh BT-EN827 integrated battery with 2A and 4A charging options. Actual riding range will depend on the complete bike, assist settings, rider and cargo weight, tire choice, elevation, and weather. Shimano has not provided a universally applicable tested mileage figure for the motor alone.

Riders can choose from a top-tube display and an optional 2.2-inch full-color handlebar display, alongside new wired and wireless switch options. The system also introduces D-FLY+, Shimano’s newer wireless communication protocol, which is not compatible with older D-FLY components. An optional USB-C module can supply 5V at 1.5A for compatible accessories. Shimano’s new SHIMANO CONNECT app is intended for customization and firmware management. Shimano states that ride-tracking functionality is planned through an app update in spring 2027, so readers should not assume every advertised app function is already active at launch.

For help understanding what battery capacity means in practice, see EBE’s electric mountain bike buying guide and Bosch vs. Shimano motor comparison.

Can You Upgrade an Existing Shimano EP8 Bike?

Do not assume the EP810 is a drop-in upgrade. Although reporting from Shimano indicates the new drive unit retains the EP801 mounting-bolt locations, its overall dimensions and shape have changed. Its newer wireless communication system is also not backward-compatible with older D-FLY hardware. Compatibility must be verified for an individual frame, battery, controls, wiring, and drivetrain before any upgrade is considered.

Which E-Bikes Will Use the Shimano EP810?

Shimano’s launch materials identify the Orbea Rise as an EP810-equipped platform, while early launch coverage also identifies the Honda RN0. Availability, build specifications, and prices will vary by brand and region. Shimano has not announced a single universal retail price or a guaranteed U.S. delivery date for the drive unit.

What This Means for E-Bike Buyers

The EP810’s story is about more than greater torque. Shimano is trying to deliver substantial hill-climbing assistance in a relatively light drive unit while allowing the system to adjust power and, on correctly equipped bikes, gears without constant intervention.

For prospective electric mountain bike buyers, the most useful questions are whether the particular bike includes compatible automatic-shifting components, how its battery and frame affect the total weight, how natural the assistance feels on real trails, and what service support is available locally. A strong motor specification does not answer those questions on its own.

EBE’s takeaway: On paper, EP810 is a notable update over EP801. Its reduced weight and additional torque are welcome, but True Auto may be the feature that makes the biggest practical difference. Early independent ride impressions are emerging, but longer-term testing across more complete bikes will help establish how the system performs in different terrain and conditions.

Sources and Further Reading

• Shimano — Official EP810 Series E-Bike System introduction
• Singletracks — EP810 launch details and initial reporting (November 6, 2026)
• BikeRumor — EP810 details and Shimano interview (November 6, 2026)

For more buying guidance, explore EBE’s e-bike motor comparison and buying guide.