OSAKA, Japan (BRAIN) — Shimano now services third-party e-bike batteries used in its STEPS drive units for North American retailers, unifying the service contact and providing a faster turnaround, the company said. Before the change, retailers had to work with the bike or battery manufacturer.
The change began last month with batteries from Shimano Connected Partner Darfon being serviced by Shimano. Most batteries used in the STEPS drive units are from Shimano. STEPS system and battery claims no longer have to be handled separately.
"We see clear benefits for both dealers and bike brands in this approach," said Nolan Moser, Shimano North America assistant vice president. "Bike brands can count on Shimano's first-class service support network in the bicycle industry. We will be handling the service cases for selected third-party batteries based on our structured and well-established practices, following all our rigorous policies, practices, and standards to reduce the burden on the bike brands."
Shimano did not say what exact battery services will be performed. Shimano participates in the industry's Call2Recycle/PeopleForBikes e-bike battery recycling program.
U.S. dealers can contact technical support at 1-800-423-2420, Monday-Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. Pacific. Canadian dealers can call 1-877-377-5211, Monday-Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. Eastern.
