Shimano Ep8 Vs EP8 RS | EBike Motors Compared

Published 2020-10-23
Orbea has just launched a new lightweight ebike called the Orbea Rise, it features an exclusive Shimano motor unit called EP8 RS. But what's different between the RS model and the standard EP8 model? How do they compare? - Time for a hill climb challenge!

We used the Merida E160 using the EP8 motor with 85Nm torque and the Orbea Rise with 60nm torque.

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All Comments (21)
  • @embn
    What do you think of the new Shimano EP8 RS Motor? Is 60Wh enough power? Let us know your thoughts šŸ‘‡
  • @josecg9072
    Obviously I am aware that the torque reduction means a lower consumption, and this allows to carry a smaller battery, which results in a lower weight. But, for me, the perfect solution would be to be able to configure the engine with this new "RS" mode, so that you could choose between reduced torque and full torque, even knowing that with 85N the battery consumption will be quite higher and therefore the route cannot be that long; but this could be valid for short "missions with the knife between the teeth" ... Furthermore, it must be taken into account that Orbea has a battery extender for the Rise (256 Wh additional and 1.5 kilos additional), with this solution it could be used in full torque mode and do long routes, that is, partially penalizing the weight (even then it would be a fantastic 17.5 - 18 kilos).
  • I have the ORBEA Rise M10 and I tested a Trek Rail of 23,5 kg. The rail was horrible on the decents. It only wanted to go down straight. Cornering was a struggle. The Rise is way more agile and I ride uphill in mostly eco, which is more than enough, because I ride with people without motor. The Rise is fun, agile and capabel on all the trails in Belgium and Germany
  • @em1355
    This video really emphasized in a great way, that one should evaluate the type of riding that one does or will do and then make an informed decision. Great video.
  • @jdwells7233
    Pretty cool Steve keep up the good work so much involved in the ever changing world of electric mountain bikes. Hammer on chap.
  • @PetePPA
    Good job Mr J, good comparison. As much as I like to think of myself as a techie climbing, mountain munching, downhill hurtling Emtb grandmaster the truth is far from it. I'm more of a trail plodder with great aspirations so on that note I want the E160 for the power and bigger suspension but for what reason.....It looks good and on paper sounds and can do all of the above. But in reality the Orbea is also a great looking bike and probably more than enough for what I need. What helped me come to this is the fact my Ebike has the E7000 motor so the same amount of torque as the Orbea and I can say it does more than enough for me including me patting it sometimes at the top of a monster climb cause it got me to the top.
  • I really like the idea of lightweight e_bikes, it will be interesting to see what other brands may launch in this area of the market over the coming months.
  • @IchimokuCloud
    Can really hear that claking!! I think "Rooty" is a song by Basement Jaax.
  • @excelexpresss
    Great that Steve, very tempted by the Rise, adventures are the thing for Ebikeā€™s
  • Itā€™s interesting, we are possibly looking at running a e bike event in Devon based on sections being timed technical climbs then descents , offering entries in weight categories. Thereā€™s a lot of factors to take into account though ! And this again shows the difference in torque is a big factor !
  • @chriskros8858
    I have big problem to place my heavy Scott (over 25 kg) on car's roof even without battery. This is good reason to change for lighter bike. 60 Nm is enough. More important is the ability of riding in unplugged mode.
  • Did you use the Shimano Etube Project app on your phone to set the bikes up before testing? Orbea Rise boost mode is only 47 NM of torque from the factory until you turn it up to 60 in the app. Also assist character level is a 4 out of 10 in boost mode before you turn it up in the app on the rise. I do not know about the other bike
  • @dawn-moon
    I don't get those lighter e-mtb's , what are they trying to achieve... Unless you need to cary them on your shoulder or drag over dunes, I don't see any problem with a 25kg e-mtb, with huge range and powerful motor. It will take you further, faster, more easy. Clear win for me.
  • @bernsev5026
    Super comparaison entre les 2 powers , bon test šŸ‘šŸ‘šŸ‘šŸ˜ŠšŸ˜ŠšŸ˜Š
  • @DC13333
    Really would of liked to see when those tires would of done to the Rise.
  • @juliansjames
    It's all about distance travelled for me. Assuming same rider power input, which one with stock installed battery will go further?
  • @neilLLLLL
    Do a levo SL V's Orbea Rise video please
  • @samboc7559
    It would have been interesting to see the difference in the times with the tires swapped. I believe lower volume softer compound would be faster. Bike radar did an interesting experiment sometime back comparing 2.3, 2.6 and 2.8 inch tires. See if you can find it, astounding results
  • Surely adjusting the firmware on the Orbea could give you 85Nm when needed. Seems like an unnecessary compromise if you can get high torque and low weight through software.
  • @lutomson3496
    Just bought the Orbea and I agree..at the same time the 27.5 wheel will be faster then the 29er and not switching wheels is a fail...