Shimano Motors VS Neo Drive Motors, Which is Best?

Shimano 6100	Shimano EP8	Neo Drive

Which electric drive suits me best?

neodrives Z20 and Shimano STEPS in comparison

Convenient and highly comfortable: the STEPS E5000 system has a very harmonious setup with a maximum torque of 40 Nm. With the 8-speed derailleur X4 from Sram you have a solid companion for relaxed tours in moderately demanding terrain. If, on the other hand, you often drive in hilly terrain or in the city with frequent starts and stops, the STEPS E6100 with 60 Nm and the Nexus Di2 automatic transmission from Shimano is the perfect choice. The rear hub shifts into gear fully automatically, which is the ultimate in both comfort and safety: you can concentrate completely on the traffic without any thoughts about changing gears.

If you want endless power on the mountain or want to turn your trike into a packhorse, you will quickly become a fan of the STEPS EP8 system with 85 Nm. Regardless of the torque specifications, which can only be compared to a limited extent, the most important factor for many people is how much thrust the engine develops at low speeds. This is where the Neodrives comes in front. It delivers its torque especially in combination with the small 20-inch rear wheel powerfully and directly to the road. The Z20 hub motor also scores with a very sensitively tuned driving behaviour. Nature lovers will appreciate the practically inaudible power generator in the rear wheel.

Unlike hub motors, the bottom bracket drive is unfamiliar with the subject of overheating at slow speeds on very steep mountains. There, you will always be well advised with Shimano STEPS. By the way: A safe and comfortable ride uphill is a real domain of the stable trikes from HP Velotechnik.

All four e-assist systems offer impressive ranges. And with the optional extra battery, you hardly have to think about the next power outlet for recharging. Invest even less thought into the location of your next power outlet with our optional extra battery. Neodrives wins the comfort rating in this exciting area: Instead of switching batteries, you simply switch a single cable.

Technical data

Facts & figures about our electric drives

* Reverse gear Neodrives for Scorpion, Scorpion fs 26, Scorpion fs 26 Enduro and Scorpion plus 26 presumably available from Spring 2021. Function requires initial backward movement.

** Range as stated by manufacturer:
Neodrives Z20: 100 W rider input, support level 1, flat terrain, smooth roads, 70 kg (154 lbs) payload incl. rider; Neodrives Z20 RS: support level 3 in optimal conditions (flat terrain, temperature 20°, even ride, pedalling power driver 80 W, speed 39 km/h (24,2 mph); with support level 5 up to about 40 km (24.9 miles).
Shimano STEPS E5000, E6100 and EP8: support mode Eco, flat terrain, 23 km/h, system weight 105 kg (231 lbs), outside temperature 23°, without electric gearing and light (standard battery with 418 Wh).