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Shimano updates STePS + Di2 e-bikes with auto shifting firmware

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Shimano-STEPS-The-system

Shimano finally announced today the release of a new firmware update for e-bikes running their STePS system and the Di2 Nexus hubs. Shimano had introduced us to the possibility of automatic, electronic gear shifting on their drivetrains almost a year ago, but when we talked to STePS users and industry insiders who were spec’ing the systems, no one really had heard anything suggesting real world availability of the automatic transmission setup. That has changed now with public v2.11.1 firmware available from Shimano. Let your mouse automatically take you across the break to see how it works and self-learns when it should shift based on your riding style…

Shimano-STEPS_city-rider

First off the functionality is simply a firmware update, and is available for any existing Steps-equipped e-bike (DU-E6001 & DU-E6010) that uses a 8 speed Nexus Di2 hub (SG-C6060). Electronic Di2 shifting goes a step more high-tech by automatically picking the ideal gear based on cadence and speed, and shifting on its own. That means no worrying about ever shifting, yet still getting the full gear range, something that will be excellent for new e-cyclists or say for people using Steps on things like cargo bikes. Alternatively, riders have the option to take back control via the standard handlebar shift switch for manual gear shifts.

Shimano-STEPS-controls

The automatic shift system works by telling the e-bike motor to temporarily reduce chain tension while you are still pedaling, and then signals the Di2 hub to make the shift. Shimano has been testing it on all types of road surfaces and up and down some sizable hills to perfect how it works in real-world situations at any cadence, any speed, and with lots of stop-and-go riding. Presumably this was harder than expected, which is why we are seeing the new firmware just now. The update also adds a self-learning advantage with the ability to improve over time based on each rider’s style and cadence preferences. Over time it is said to adjust the RPM it shifts at, based on how you have been riding previously.

Shimano-STEPS_ battery

The new firmware is available to download directly from the Service section of a new Steps website, launched today, but they recommend visiting a dealer for the update. Dealers should make sure that they have the proper SM-PCE1 diagnostic tool on hand to upgrade their customers and can head over to the Steps site to get the upgraded firmware ready.

Shimano-Steps.com

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Garrett
Garrett
8 years ago

That whole system looks really cool. I ride for fun, so I have no real desire to use an ebike, but that could certainly get more people out on bikes and commuting, and that is certainly a good thing. Then, if they enjoy it, they may buy a pedal power only model like the rest of us for weekend rides, which means more bikes, which is good!

Rixter
8 years ago

Could the autonomous bike be next? 😉

Erich
Erich
8 years ago

Not a system I yet have a need for, but I think this is a cool step. The learning portion of it is definitely an intriguing feature, and something that will make me more likely to check it out if I ever do need an e-bike. Superpedestrian is working something similar into the Copenhagen wheels, but those are apparently mired in eternal pre-production mode, so props to Shimano for getting to it first.

Eric Hansen
Eric Hansen
8 years ago

It rides super nicely.

Oliver
Oliver
7 years ago

When will automatic shifting come for STePS Di2 Alfine 11? I would like to buy a new ebike with STePS, and I can chose between Alfine 8 or Alfine 11. Because our commute involves both hills and fast straights, I would prefer the Alfine 11. Our current Nexus 8 bikes often lack one or two gears uphill, and one or two gears to go faster.

Magnus Hjorthol
Magnus Hjorthol
7 years ago

The Alfine Di2 11 can be reconfigured to a 8 speed with automatic. All it takes is a software update. Your local dealer should have this. If you want to go back using all 11 gears manually via the electronic triggers, all you need is to “deupdate”

By reading the spec’s, the Alfine Di2 11 has three higher gears and not three that goes lower. So it will not be more efficient than the Di2 8 in steep climbs.
I have a Alfine Di2 8 and I live on the west coast of Norway. Does a fine job indeed

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