Shimano EP8 Tuning Kit — EP801 Warning & Safe Alternatives
Guide to compatible tuning kits for Shimano E series (E6000-E8000) and EP series (EP6, EP8, EP801) motors. Critical point: using SpeedBox 1.3 on an EP801 can trigger a permanent, irreversible motor lock.
EP801 WARNING: E295 → E299 error, permanent motor lock
The EP801 (DU-EP801, late 2022 onwards) has an internal anti-manipulation algorithm. Using an incompatible kit — in particular SpeedBox 1.3 or VOLspeed — generates error E295. After 4 occurrences, the motor switches to E299: permanent lock, reversible only at an authorised Shimano workshop, with definitive warranty cancellation.
EP801-safe options: PearTune MSO 3.0, BadassBox 4, Eplus Flash.
Shimano tuning kits — full comparison
| Kit | Install type | Speed display | Detection risk | Price (approx.) | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| SpeedBox 1.2 | Internal (wired) | Real speed | Low | £140-175 | Buy → |
| SpeedBox 1.3 | Internal (wired) | Real speed | Low | £149-185 | Buy → |
| BadassBox 4 | External (magnetic) | Halved on console | Very low | £129-145 | Buy → |
| PearTune MSO 3.0 | Internal (wired) | Real speed | Very low | £149-175 | Buy → |
| PearTune 3.0 | Internal (wired) | Real speed | Low | £129-159 | Buy → |
| Eplus Flash | Software (PC flash) | Real speed | Very low | £89 + £0.89/mo | Buy → |
EP8 (DU-EP800) vs EP801 (DU-EP801) — the critical distinction
The EP8 and EP801 share the same nominal torque (85 Nm) and look almost identical. Their internal architecture is radically different from a tuning perspective.
| Reference | Period | Power | Speed sensor | Anti-tamper |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| EP8 — DU-EP800 | 2020-2022 | 85 Nm / 500 W | External | Standard |
| EP801 — DU-EP801 | Late 2022 → present | 85 Nm / 600 W | Internal | E295/E299 algorithm |
To identify your motor: the reference DU-EP800 or DU-EP801 is engraved on the motor case, or visible in the Shimano E-TUBE Project app (system information section).
Shimano motor series — E and EP
Shimano produces two distinct ebike motor families. The E series covers older motors: E6000 (urban, 60 Nm), E7000 (trekking, 70 Nm) and E8000 (trail, 70 Nm). The EP series, more recent, includes the EP6/EP600 (85 Nm, Di2 compatible), EP8 (85 Nm, MTB/trekking), EP8-RS (road version) and EP801 (successor to EP8, 85 Nm / 600W).
| Motor | Torque | Use | Compatible kits |
|---|---|---|---|
| E6000 | 60 Nm | Urban / daily | SpeedBox 1.2, BadassBox 4, PearTune 3.0 |
| E7000 | 70 Nm | Trekking | SpeedBox 1.2, BadassBox 4, PearTune 3.0 |
| E8000 | 70 Nm | Trail | SpeedBox 1.2, BadassBox 4, PearTune 3.0 |
| EP6 / EP600 | 85 Nm | Road / hybrid, Di2 | SpeedBox 1.2, BadassBox 4, PearTune MSO 3.0 |
| EP8 (DU-EP800) | 85 Nm / 500W | MTB / trekking | SpeedBox 1.2, 1.3, BadassBox 4, PearTune MSO 3.0 |
| EP801 (DU-EP801) | 85 Nm / 600W | MTB (2022+) | SpeedBox 1.2, BadassBox 4, PearTune MSO 3.0 — NOT 1.3 |
Eplus Flash — the software-only option for EP801
Eplus Flash is unique: it reprogrammes the Shimano motor firmware via a PC cable (no hardware chip to install). Since there is nothing physically fitted to the bike, it is invisible to service technicians. It supports a GHOST mode that conceals the tuning even in the E-TUBE Project app. At £89 upfront + £0.89/month subscription, it is the most affordable option for EP801 owners.
Which brands use Shimano motors?
Key brands: Cube, Haibike, Orbea, Mondraker, Focus, Merida, Kona, YT Industries. Always confirm the exact motor reference on the motor case label before ordering a kit — the same bike model year can ship with either EP8 or EP801.