Newer Shimano STEPS motors such as EP801, EP6 / EP600 and EP5 / EP500 use eTuning for Windows and the Shimano SM-PCE02 interface for speed configuration.
The change is software based: no tuning chip, no permanent hardware on the bike and no modified wiring. The interface is only used during configuration.
Quick answer: EP801, EP6 and EP5 use eTuning for Windows
To derestrict Shimano EP801, EP6 / EP600 or EP5 / EP500, you need eTuning for Windows, a Shimano SM-PCE02 interface and a license linked to the motor. These families support speed configuration with this method regardless of the firmware installed.
If you have an older EP8 / EP800 motor, use the dedicated guide: how to derestrict Shimano EP8 / EP800 with eTuning.
| You need | Details |
|---|---|
| eTuning for Windows | The app that performs the configuration from the PC |
| Shimano SM-PCE02 | USB interface used to communicate with the Shimano STEPS bike |
| Free port | Usually on the display or handlebar switch |
| eTuning license | Linked to the motor, not to the interface |
Motors covered by this guide
This guide applies to Shimano EP801, EP6 / EP600 and EP5 / EP500 families. To confirm the exact method for your bike, use the speed compatibility selector on the main page.
How the Shimano SM-PCE02 interface connects
On a complete bike, the SM-PCE02 connects to the Windows PC by USB and to the bike through a free port on the display or handlebar switch. For a normal bike connection, the motor does not need to be removed.
If you do not have the interface yet, read the buying guide: Shimano SM-PCE02 interface for eTuning for Windows.
General process with eTuning
- Install eTuning for Windows.
- Connect the Shimano SM-PCE02 to the PC by USB.
- Connect the SM-PCE02 to a free port on the display or switch.
- Open eTuning for Windows and let it detect the bike.
- Apply the speed configuration shown by the app.
- Disconnect the interface when the process is complete.
Can it be done from Android or iPhone?
For EP801, EP6 / EP600 and EP5 / EP500, speed configuration is prepared with eTuning for Windows and the Shimano SM-PCE02 interface. After that initial configuration, using eTuning on Android or iPhone is optional: it can be used to temporarily lower the configured speed or raise it again from your phone.
It is not a tuning chip
The SM-PCE02 is not installed on the bike. eTuning changes compatible Shimano STEPS system settings by software. There is no permanent tuning box, no cut wiring and the same interface can be reused with several bikes.
Important legal note
Speed settings must be used in accordance with local laws. If a configuration exceeds public-road limits, use it only in private areas or where legally permitted.
FAQ about EP801, EP6 and EP500
Can Shimano EP801 be derestricted with eTuning?
Yes. Shimano EP801 is configured for speed with eTuning for Windows and the Shimano SM-PCE02 interface.
Are EP6 and EP600 the same motor?
Yes. In this guide, EP6 and EP600 refer to the same Shimano motor family. Both names are included because users may search for EP6 or EP600. For speed changes, it uses eTuning for Windows with the Shimano SM-PCE02 interface.
Are EP5 and EP500 included?
Yes. The EP5 / EP500 family also uses eTuning for Windows and SM-PCE02 for speed configuration.
Do I need a Shimano SM-PCE02?
Yes. For these motors, eTuning needs the Shimano SM-PCE02 interface to communicate between the Windows PC and the bike.
Where do I connect the SM-PCE02?
On a complete bike, it normally connects to a free port on the display or handlebar switch.
Is the SM-PCE02 linked to my bike?
No. The interface is not locked to one bike. The eTuning license is linked to the configured motor.
Can I sell the SM-PCE02 afterwards?
Yes. If you only need it once, you can keep it, lend it or sell it later depending on the second-hand market.