Shimano EP810 or EP801: 100 Nm vs 85 and what changes if you buy a new or used e-MTB

Shimano has unveiled the EP810, the motor that replaces the EP801 at the top of its range for electric mountain bikes. If you're thinking about an e-MTB, the question you'll be asking yourself over the coming weeks is simple: do I wait for one with the new motor, or do I buy one with the EP801, new on clearance or second-hand? Here's what really changes, what doesn't, and what to check if you go for a used one.

Shimano EP810 or EP801: what Shimano says

The figures in this table are the ones the brand itself gives for each motor. They're factory figures, not bench measurements by anyone independent.

In short: the EP810 pushes harder, weighs less and chooses the assist level for you if you leave it in automatic. Shimano also says it gives steady support up to a very high cadence, so you don't always have to pedal slow and heavy to get the most out of it.

What doesn't change

The law is the same for both: in Europe, an e-bike stops assisting you at 25 km/h and nominal power is still limited. The 750 W is peak power, in short bursts, not a faster motor. On a long climb at your own pace, you'll notice the difference mainly on the steepest ramps and when setting off uphill, not in top speed.

Can you fit an EP810 to your EP801 bike?

Don't count on it. The EP810 goes to brands to fit on new bikes, and Shimano hasn't announced any way to swap the motor on bikes that already have the EP801. If you already have an e-MTB with an EP801 that works well for you, there's no reason to rush to sell it.

If you're buying a new e-MTB

The first bikes with the EP810 are reaching shops now, and models with the EP801 will become last season's. That can be read two ways:

• If you want the latest motor, wait and see the price of EP810 bikes at your shop. Ask about the battery too, because the motor isn't everything: range depends mostly on the watt-hours and how you use the assist.
• If you want to pay less, a new end-of-season bike with the EP801 can be a good buy. It's a light motor with plenty of torque for almost any mountain route. Ask for the motor and battery warranty to be confirmed in writing.

Before you decide, think about how you ride. If you climb tracks and trails at your own pace and aren't after impossible ramps, 85 Nm will be more than enough. If you ride a lot on very rough, steep terrain, or you're on the heavy side with a full backpack, the extra 15 Nm makes a difference.

If you're buying a used e-MTB with an EP801 or EP8

With the EP810 arriving, you'll see more e-MTBs with the EP801 and the earlier EP8 for sale. That's good news if you're looking second-hand, as long as you check the motor and battery properly. This is what to look at:

1. Motor noises and play. Pedal freely and uphill with the assist on. A knocking sound, a repeated click or play in the cranks are reasons to ask for a workshop check before you pay.
2. The motor's history. Ask whether it's ever been replaced under warranty and ask for the purchase invoice. With it you can make a warranty claim if it's still within the period.
3. The battery diagnosis. A workshop with Shimano's software can read the battery's condition and the motor's mileage. It's what weighs most in the price of a used e-bike.
4. Charger, key and firmware. Make sure the original charger and the battery key come with it, and that the firmware is up to date.
5. That it hasn't been tuned. A bike that assists above 25 km/h loses its warranty and can cause you problems with your insurance.

If you want the full list, see our guide second-hand e-bike: 9 checks before you pay. And if you buy it now and won't use it much in winter, store the battery properly as we explain in your e-bike battery in winter.

What people ask for a second-hand e-bike

In bicis.net listings, e-bikes for sale ask a median of €2,000 (54 listings, data as of 11 November 2026). The cheapest quarter ask €1,500 or less and the most expensive quarter, €2,947 or more. For reference, a mountain bike without a motor asks a median of €875 (104 listings).

Bear in mind: this is what sellers ask, not the final price, and the e-bike category also includes city and leisure bikes. A full-suspension e-MTB with a high-end motor is usually at the top of that range. You can see all the figures in Ciclismo en cifras and the ones for sale right now in second-hand e-bikes.

If you're selling yours with an EP801

A new motor coming out doesn't make yours worthless. What helps most to sell is the same as always: a recent battery diagnosis, the invoice, the charger and clear photos of the motor. Set a price within what e-bikes ask on bicis.net and say in the listing which motor and battery it has.

Frequently asked questions

What's the difference between the Shimano EP810 and the EP801?

According to Shimano, the EP810 gives 100 Nm versus 85, 750 W peak versus 600 and weighs 2.3 kg versus 2.7 kg. It also adds automatic assist.

Is it worth buying an e-MTB with an EP801 now?

Yes, if the price drops and you check it properly. It's a motor with plenty of torque for almost any route, and an end-of-season or used bike can work out quite a bit cheaper.

Can an EP801 bike be upgraded to the EP810?

Shimano hasn't announced any way to do it. The EP810 is sold to brands to fit on new bikes.

How much does a second-hand e-bike cost?

On bicis.net, e-bikes for sale ask a median of €2,000 (54 listings, as of 11 November 2026). Half of the listings are between €1,500 and €2,947.

What's the first thing to check on a used e-MTB?

The battery and the motor. Ask for a diagnosis at a workshop with Shimano's software, listen for noises when pedalling and ask for the invoice for the warranty.

Source of the motor data: Shimano, EP810 system. Prices: bicis.net, «Ciclismo en cifras», data as of 11 November 2026.