The mid-motor delivers 70 Nm of torque, the battery pumps 500 Wh into the system and an optional chain guide is on board: these are the key features of the brand new e-drive for mountain bikes, which now puts Shimano on a par with the competition. Until now, Shimano had only launched the Steps drive in a light off-road version and is now no longer doing things by halves for motorized off-road riding.

Simple, small display

The drive can be adapted to personal requirements using Bluetooth connectivity. The drive is available with a 34- or 36-tooth crank and is compatible with a 10- or 11-speed cassette. The system is controlled by a slimline bike computer mounted on the handlebars. The engaged gear and the selected support level (Eco, Trail and Boost as well as a pushing aid are available) as well as the expected range are visible. The support levels are changed using a switch called Firebolt on the left-hand side of the handlebars.

Normal Q-factor

When it comes to the crank, or rather the width of the motor, Shimano's engineers have achieved a Q-factor that corresponds to a conventional XT crank. With this, the Japanese want to give the new drive a natural riding feel. The compact design of the motor should be ideal for the popular short chainstays and give the rider the feeling of riding a conventional bike in terms of geometry.

The e-MTB drives from Shimano will be available on the market for the first time from October 2016.

www.shimano-steps.com/mtb