Guide: How To Remove Speed Limiter On Electric Bike Shimano

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Guide: How To Remove Speed Limiter On Electric Bike Shimano

Electric bikes are great for many people. They help you ride further and faster. Most electric bikes have a speed limit. This limit often keeps them to 25 km/h (about 15.5 mph) in many places. This includes bikes with Shimano motors. You might ask, “What is a speed limiter on an ebike?” It is a system that stops the motor from helping you once you hit a certain speed. “Can I remove it on Shimano ebikes?” Yes, you can remove or bypass this speed limiter on Shimano electric bikes. But this comes with big risks. “Who uses these methods?” People who want their ebike to go faster use these methods. However, removing the speed limit often makes your ebike illegal to ride on public roads. It can also harm your bike and you. This guide will tell you how people do it. We will also talk about the big problems that come with it.

Why Electric Bikes Have Speed Limits

Electric bikes are very popular. They offer a good mix of power and pedaling. But they have rules. These rules are for your safety and for other road users. They also help classify ebikes.

Rules for Ebike Speed

Many countries set rules for electric bikes. In the European Union and the UK, ebikes are usually limited to 25 km/h. The motor must also stop helping when you reach this speed. The motor can only have a power of 250 watts. If an ebike goes faster or has a stronger motor, it is not seen as a bicycle. It becomes a different type of vehicle. This means it needs things like a license plate, insurance, and a helmet. You might also need a driver’s license.

In the United States, rules change by state. Many ebikes are limited to 20 mph (about 32 km/h). They are called Class 1 or Class 2 ebikes. Class 3 ebikes can go up to 28 mph (about 45 km/h). But they only help when you pedal. Breaking these rules can lead to fines or worse.

Safety Concerns

Higher speeds mean more risk. Bikes are not like cars. They do not have the same safety features. Going faster on an ebike can make it harder to stop. It can be tougher to control the bike. This raises the chance of an accident. The bike’s parts, like brakes and tires, are made for its normal speed. Pushing them faster can make them wear out quickly. It can also make them fail when you need them most.

Bike Classification

These speed limits help put ebikes into a group. They are usually seen as bicycles. This means you can use bike paths and lanes. You do not need a special license or insurance. When you derestrict a Shimano ebike, it no longer fits this group. It might be seen as a moped or motorcycle. This changes where you can ride it. It also changes the rules you must follow.

How to Remove the Speed Limiter on a Shimano Ebike

People use a few ways to bypass the 25km/h restriction Shimano. These methods trick the ebike’s system. They make the bike think it is going slower than it is. This lets the motor keep helping you at higher speeds. Remember, these methods come with big risks. They are often illegal for public road use.

Method 1: Using Speed Tuning Chips or Modules

This is a common way to derestrict a Shimano ebike. These chips are often called a Shimano STEPS speed chip or an electric bike speed unlocker Shimano. They are usually part of an ebike limiter removal kit Shimano.

What Are They?

A speed tuning chip is a small electronic device. It plugs into your ebike’s system. It often connects to the speed sensor. This sensor tells the motor how fast you are going.

How Do They Work?

The chip changes the signal from the speed sensor. For example, if you are going 30 km/h, the chip might make the ebike think you are going only 15 km/h. Because the bike thinks you are below the 25 km/h limit, the motor keeps giving power. This helps you increase ebike speed Shimano STEPS.

Installation Steps:

1. Find the Speed Sensor: On Shimano STEPS motors, the speed sensor is often near the rear wheel or on the chainstay. It has a magnet on the wheel that passes by it.
2. Disconnect the Sensor Cable: Carefully unplug the cable that goes from the speed sensor to the motor.
3. Install the Chip: The chip usually has two ends. One end plugs into the motor where the sensor cable was. The other end plugs into the speed sensor cable itself. It acts like a bridge.
4. Hide the Chip: Many chips are small. You can often hide them inside the motor casing or under a cover.
5. Test the Bike: Ride your bike. Check if the speed shown on your display is half of your real speed. This is common with these chips. If your display shows 12.5 km/h, you are actually going 25 km/h.

Pros of Using a Chip:

• Easy to Install: Most kits are plug-and-play. You do not need special tools or deep knowledge.
• Reversible: You can usually remove the chip. This puts the bike back to its normal state. This is good if you need to take it to a dealer for service.
• No Permanent Changes: The chip does not change the bike’s main software.

Cons of Using a Chip:

• Cost: These kits can cost from $100 to $300 or more.
• Incorrect Speed Display: Your ebike display will show half (or sometimes a third) of your true speed. This can be confusing. It can also mess up distance readings.
• Warranty Void: Using a chip almost always makes your warranty invalid. If something breaks, Shimano will not fix it for free.
• Motor Strain: The motor works harder and for longer at high speeds. This can make it wear out faster. It can also cause it to overheat.
• Legal Issues: The bike becomes illegal for public roads.

Popular Chips for Shimano Motors:

Many brands make these chips. They work for different Shimano STEPS systems. This includes the E5000, E6100, E7000, and derestrict Shimano EP8 motor. Make sure the chip you buy works with your specific Shimano motor model.

• SpeedBox: A very popular brand. They offer different versions, some with app control.
• VolSpeed: Another well-known maker of tuning modules.
• BadassBox: This one usually does not connect inline. It clips onto the sensor. It sends a changed signal to the sensor.

Table: Comparison of Common Speed Tuning Chips

Feature	SpeedBox 3.0	VolSpeed V4	BadassBox 4
Connection Type	Inline (plugs into sensor cable)	Inline (plugs into sensor cable)	Clips onto sensor (no direct cable cut)
Display Speed	Often halves speed, but some models correct	Often halves speed, but some models correct	Shows correct speed for a short time, then zero
Control	Buttons on chip or via app (on some models)	Buttons on chip	On/Off via clipping
Price Range	Medium to High	Medium	Low to Medium
Reversibility	High	High	Very High (easy to remove)
Compatibility	Wide range of Shimano STEPS (EP8, E8000 etc.)	Wide range of Shimano STEPS (EP8, E8000 etc.)	Wide range of Shimano STEPS (EP8, E8000 etc.)

Method 2: Shimano Ebike Firmware Hack / Software Adjustments

This method involves changing the bike’s internal software. This is much more complex and risky. It is often done using special tools or unofficial software. This type of ebike speed tuning Shimano can remove the limiter.

How Do They Work?

The ebike’s motor has software inside. This software controls how the motor works. It also holds the speed limit settings. A firmware hack changes these settings. It tells the motor to keep helping at speeds above 25 km/h. This is a true 25km/h restriction bypass Shimano.

Steps (Very Technical and Risky):

1. Special Tools: You need special diagnostic tools or cables. These are not sold to the public. They are for bike shops.
2. Unofficial Software: You might need unofficial software. This software connects to the bike’s motor. It lets you change the settings.
3. Connecting to the Motor: You connect your computer to the ebike’s motor port.
4. Changing Parameters: You then find the speed limit setting. You change it to a higher value or remove it.
5. Flashing the Firmware: You then “flash” or upload the new settings to the motor.

Pros of a Firmware Hack:

• Correct Speed Display: The ebike display will show your true speed. This is a big plus over chips.
• No External Parts: No extra wires or boxes are visible on your bike.
• Full Removal: It can fully remove the limit, not just trick it.

Cons of a Firmware Hack:

• High Risk of Damage: If you do it wrong, you can “brick” your motor. This means the motor stops working forever. It can cost hundreds to replace.
• Hard to Reverse: It can be very hard to put the original software back.
• Warranty Void: This will definitely void your warranty.
• Needs Expertise: This is not for beginners. You need technical skills.
• Updates can Revert: Shimano often sends out firmware updates. These updates can reset your bike to the original speed limit. They can also stop your hacked firmware from working.
• Illegal: The bike becomes illegal for public roads.

Method 3: Physical Modifications (Less Common for Shimano)

Some older or simpler ebike systems might allow physical changes. For Shimano, this is less common or effective. Shimano systems are well-integrated.

Changing Wheel Size Settings:

Some ebikes let you set the wheel size in the display. If you tell the bike it has a smaller wheel than it does, it will think it is going slower. For example, if you have 29-inch wheels and set it to 20 inches, the motor will keep helping at higher speeds. This is not a true derestriction. It just messes with the speed reading. It can make your speed and distance readings very wrong. Also, many modern Shimano systems do not allow you to change the wheel size this way. Or they check it against the motor’s internal settings.

Sensor Manipulation:

In some very basic systems, people move the speed sensor magnet. If the magnet does not pass by the sensor as often, the bike thinks it is going slower. This is very crude. It often does not work well with modern, smart Shimano systems. These systems can tell if the sensor is not working right.

How Derestriction Affects Your Shimano Ebike

When you derestrict your Shimano ebike, you push it beyond its design limits. This causes several problems.

Motor Wear and Overheating

The motor is made to run at certain power levels and speeds. When you derestrict it, the motor works harder for longer. This creates more heat. Too much heat can damage the motor’s parts. It can burn out coils or bearings. This leads to early failure. The derestrict Shimano EP8 motor, while powerful, is still designed for legal limits. Pushing it too hard can shorten its life.

Faster Battery Drain

The motor uses more power when it runs at higher speeds. It works harder to push the bike faster. This means your battery will run out much quicker. A ride that normally gives you 50 km might only give you 25 km after derestriction. You will need to charge your battery more often. This also shortens the battery’s overall lifespan.

Warranty Void

Almost every ebike maker will void your warranty if you change the speed limit. They can tell if a bike has been tampered with. If your motor or battery breaks, you will have to pay for repairs yourself. This can be very expensive. Shimano has ways to detect if a bike has been derestricted.

Safety Risks

Going faster on a bike is more dangerous.

• Brakes: Your brakes are made to stop the bike from its normal speed. At higher speeds, they might not stop you fast enough. They can also overheat. This makes them less effective.
• Tires: Ebike tires are designed for typical cycling speeds. At higher speeds, they might not grip as well. They can also wear out faster.
• Frame and Components: The bike frame, forks, and other parts are tested for their intended use. Pushing them faster puts more stress on them. This can lead to parts breaking.
• Control: It is harder to control an ebike at high speeds. This is especially true on rough roads or in traffic.

Inaccurate Readings

With tuning chips, your speed and distance on the display will be wrong. This can be annoying. It also makes it hard to track your rides accurately. It can mess up fitness apps too.

Legal Implications of Derestricting an Ebike

This is a very important part. The legal implications derestricting ebike are serious. You must know these before you change your bike.

Change in Vehicle Class

When you derestrict an ebike, it stops being a bicycle in the eyes of the law. It becomes a motorized vehicle. This means it is often seen as a moped, scooter, or even a light motorcycle.

Public Road Use

• EU & UK: If your ebike can go faster than 25 km/h with motor help, it is illegal to ride on public roads, cycle paths, or shared trails. You would need to register it, get insurance, and have a valid driver’s license. The bike itself would need lights, mirrors, and other safety features common to mopeds. Riding an illegal vehicle can lead to big fines. Your bike can also be taken away.
• USA: Rules vary by state. But if your ebike goes over 20 or 28 mph (depending on class) with motor assist, it is likely no longer an ebike. It falls into the moped or motorcycle class. This means you need registration, license, and insurance. The rules are much stricter.

Insurance Issues

If you have an accident on a derestricted ebike:

• No Coverage: Your personal insurance might not cover you. Vehicle insurance (for a moped/motorcycle) would be needed, but you would not have it.
• Personal Liability: You could be fully responsible for any damage or injury you cause. This could mean very large legal and financial costs.
• Criminal Charges: In some cases, riding an illegal vehicle could lead to criminal charges. This is even more likely if you cause an accident.

Fines and Confiscation

Police can stop you if they suspect your bike is derestricted. They can test its speed. If it goes too fast, they can fine you. They can also take your bike away. Some regions have very stiff penalties for this.

Example Scenario:

Imagine you derestrict your Shimano ebike. You are riding it on a bike path. You hit someone. Your ebike is now an illegal vehicle. Your insurance will not pay for the damages. You could face a lawsuit. You could also be charged with a crime. This is a very high risk.

Choosing a Derestriction Method (If You Decide to Proceed)

If you still decide to derestrict your ebike, here is how to think about the methods. Remember all the risks.

Chips vs. Firmware Hack

• For Simplicity and Reversibility: A speed tuning chip is easier. It is less likely to damage your motor. You can take it off if you need to. But the speed display will be wrong.
• For a Cleaner Look and Correct Display: A firmware hack offers a better user experience. Your display shows the right speed. But it is very risky. It can permanently break your motor. It is also harder to undo. This is only for those with a lot of technical skill.

Specific Shimano Motors

• Derestrict Shimano EP8 Motor: The EP8 is Shimano’s most powerful eMTB motor. Many tuning chips are made for it. Firmware hacks are also possible, but are more complex. Its robust design might handle higher speeds better than smaller motors. But it will still wear faster.
• Increase Ebike Speed Shimano STEPS (other models): For motors like E8000, E7000, E6100, and E5000, chips are widely available. Firmware hacks are also possible. Always check if the product you choose works with your specific motor model.

Where to Get Kits/Software

You can find ebike limiter removal kit Shimano online. Many websites sell them. For firmware hacks, you might find forums or groups that share unofficial tools. Be very careful. Many unofficial tools can be fake or harm your bike.

Strong Warning: We cannot stress this enough. This guide is for information only. We do not support derestricting ebikes for public road use. The risks are high. The legal problems are serious. Use these methods only for private property or sanctioned races where permitted. Even then, your bike’s parts may not be up to the task.

Maintenance After Derestriction

If you choose to derestrict your ebike, you must take better care of it. The added stress means parts wear out faster.

• More Frequent Checks: Check your bike more often. Look for loose bolts. Check for cracks.
• Brake Wear: Your brake pads and rotors will wear out faster. Check them often. Replace them when needed. Consider upgrading to stronger brakes if you ride very fast.
• Tire Wear: Tires will wear down quicker. Check their tread depth. Keep them at the right pressure.
• Motor Noise/Heat: Pay attention to strange noises from the motor. Feel the motor for unusual heat after a ride. These are signs of strain.
• Chain and Drivetrain: Your chain, cassette, and chainring will also wear faster due to higher forces.

Alternatives to Derestriction

If you want more speed or better performance, there are legal and safe ways to do it.

• Improve Your Fitness: The best way to go faster on any bike is to pedal harder. Regular riding will make you stronger. This directly increases your speed.
• Lighter Bike: A lighter bike is easier to pedal and accelerate. You can remove unneeded accessories. You can also upgrade heavy parts.
• Aerodynamics: Your body creates most of the wind drag. Adopt a more aero position on the bike. You can also wear tight-fitting clothes.
• Proper Tire Pressure: Keeping your tires at the correct pressure reduces rolling resistance. This makes it easier to go faster. Check your tire’s sidewall for the recommended pressure.
• Gearing: On some bikes, you can change the chainring size. A larger chainring at the front will let you pedal effectively at higher speeds. However, your motor will still cut out at the legal limit. This helps if you can pedal beyond the motor assist speed.

Conclusion

Removing the speed limiter on a Shimano electric bike is possible. Methods include using speed tuning chips or complex firmware hacks. These methods allow for a 25km/h restriction bypass Shimano. They let you increase ebike speed Shimano STEPS. People use them for Shimano ebike derestriction and ebike speed tuning Shimano. This includes making the derestrict Shimano EP8 motor go faster.

However, the downsides are huge. You risk damaging your motor and battery. Your warranty becomes void. Most importantly, it makes your ebike illegal for public roads. The legal implications derestricting ebike are serious. You could face big fines, lose your bike, or be fully responsible for accidents.

Always weigh the desire for more speed against safety, legality, and the health of your expensive ebike. For most riders, keeping your ebike within legal limits is the safest and smartest choice. If you truly need more speed, consider a motorcycle or a different type of vehicle. For regular ebike use, embracing the legal limits ensures you stay safe and out of trouble.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Is derestricting an ebike illegal?

Yes, in many places like the EU and UK, it is illegal to ride a derestricted ebike on public roads. It changes the ebike’s class to a motor vehicle, which needs registration, insurance, and a license. In the US, state laws vary, but it often makes the bike illegal for regular ebike paths.

Q2: Will derestricting my Shimano ebike void my warranty?

Yes, almost always. Ebike manufacturers, including Shimano, can detect if a bike has been tampered with. They will not cover repairs under warranty if the speed limiter has been removed or modified.

Q3: Can I put the speed limiter back on my Shimano ebike after derestricting it?

If you used a tuning chip, you can usually remove the chip. This will put the bike back to its original state. If you used a firmware hack, it might be harder to reverse. You might need special tools or software to reinstall the original firmware.

Q4: How much faster will my ebike go after derestriction?

This depends on your motor’s power, your pedaling effort, and the terrain. A derestricted ebike can often reach speeds of 40-50 km/h (25-30 mph) or even more with strong pedaling. But this pushes the motor and components far beyond their design limits.

Q5: Does derestricting my ebike damage the motor?

Yes, it can. The motor is designed to run within specific limits. Running it at higher speeds for longer periods creates more heat and stress. This can cause the motor to wear out faster, overheat, and even fail completely.