Shimano without Bluetooth: how the upgrade works
Shimano drives can be upgraded with a license code, regardless of the motor. The only requirement is Bluetooth, because activation is wireless. Older or basic bikes often lack it. Here is the fix.
How to check whether your bike has Bluetooth
Install the Shimano E-TUBE app on your smartphone and try to pair the switched-on bike. If it connects, Bluetooth is there and you can activate right away. If the app finds no bike, the wireless unit is missing.
The fix: the Shimano EW-EN100 adapter
The EW-EN100 is a small wireless unit from Shimano. It is fitted into the cable harness at the EW-SD50 cable and replaces the display. An LED then shows battery level and assist level. Afterwards the bike pairs with the E-TUBE app and can be upgraded like any other Shimano bike with Bluetooth.
Which motors benefit?
| Motor | Support up to |
|---|---|
| Shimano EP6 (EP600) | 45 km/h |
| Shimano EP8 (EP800) | 32 km/h |
| EP801, E8000, E7000, E6100, EP5 and others | depending on model |
The shop will tell you the exact limit for your motor before you buy. On Shimano the display keeps showing your real speed after the upgrade. More in our guide Shimano EP6 or EP8: what the code does.
After fitting: how to activate
- Switch on the bike and check with the E-TUBE app that pairing works.
- Then close the app on all devices so there is no second Bluetooth connection.
- Open the website from the instructions on an Android smartphone or Windows PC/laptop.
- Connect the bike via Bluetooth, enter the license code and activate.