Shimano CN-E8000 11-speed Quick Link 138-link road bike, MTB and e-bike chain

A high-strength Shimano chain for 11-speed e-bikes

The Shimano CN-E8000-11 11-speed chain with Quick Link and 138 links is specially designed to withstand the high stresses of e-bike drivetrains. Developed for the STEPS E8000 ‘ Shimano ’ system, this HG-X11 chain combines robustness, durability and smooth gear changes.

Its reinforced design is particularly well-suited to the additional stresses generated by an e-bike’s motor. Shimano indicates a 50 per cent or greater improvement in durability compared to the CN-HG701-11, whilst the surface treatment helps to minimise chain wear.

With its 138 links, this version offers a generous length, making it suitable for a range of e-bike and electric mountain bike set-ups, as well as compatible 11-speed drivetrains. It comes with a Shimano Quick Link, to make fitting and replacement easier.

Key features of the Shimano CN-E8000-11

• 11-speed: designed for compatible Shimano HG-X11 drivetrains.
• 138 links: a length suitable for a wide range of e-bike and electric mountain bike set-ups.
• E-Bike -specific: designed to withstand the high stresses of electric drivetrains.
• HG-X11 technology: ensures smooth and precise gear changes.
• Inner plates with SIL-TEC coating: reduced friction and improved wear resistance.
• Chrome-plated outer plates: improved durability.
• Quick Link included: convenient fitting without a traditional connecting pin.
• Directional design: optimises drivetrain performance.
• Approximate weight: 257 g for 114 maillons according to the specifications at Shimano.

A chain developed to withstand the stresses of e-bikes

The drivetrain of an e-bike is subjected to significant stresses, particularly during acceleration and when the motor delivers high torque. Shimano has therefore developed the CN-E8000-11 specifically for E-Bike applications.

This chain features SIL-TEC treatment on the inner plates and chrome-plated reinforcement on the outer plates. This combination is designed to improve the chain’s durability and performance under demanding conditions.

Shimano It boasts a service life at least 50 per cent longer than that of the CN-HG701-11, which is a particularly compelling feature for e-bike users who regularly put their drivetrains under heavy strain.

138 links for long drivetrains

The version offered here has 138 links. This length covers a wide range of configurations, particularly on electric mountain bikes and certain bikes fitted with large wheels or longer chainstays.

However, the chain must be adjusted to the required length during fitting. The 138 links should not be regarded as a standard length to be retained in all cases: the number of links required depends, in particular, on the length of the chainstays, the chainring and the cassette.

A Quick Link to make assembly easier

The CN-E8000-11 is supplied with a Quick Link SM-CN900-11Shimano , allowing the chain to be closed without using a conventional connecting pin. Shimano lists this chain with the QUICK-LINK system in its technical documentation.

In particular, the quick link makes it easier to replace the chain and can simplify maintenance tasks for cyclists who service their drivetrains themselves.

A directional chain for 11-speed drivetrains

The CN-E8000-11 has a directional design. It must therefore be fitted in the direction specified by Shimano to ensure the drivetrain functions as intended.

This is an important point to bear in mind during installation, particularly if you are replacing the chain yourself.

Expert tip: on an e-bike, don’t delay in replacing a heavily worn chain. A worn chain can accelerate wear on the cassette and chainring, which quickly increases maintenance costs. Regular checks using a wear indicator are therefore strongly recommended.

Technical specifications

• Brand: Shimano
• Model: CN-E8000-11
• Productcode: ICNE800011138Q
• Type: bicycle chain / E-Bike
• Number of speeds: 11
• Number of links: 138
• Standard: HG-X11
• Main use: E-Bike / e-bikes
• Compatibility: compatible 11-speed drivetrains
• Inner plate treatment: SIL-TEC
• Outer plate coating: Chromizing
• Closure type: Quick Link
• Quick Link: SM-CN900-11
• Design: directional
• Approximate weight: 257 g / 114 maillons
• Colour: grey / silver
• Manufacturer’s reference: ICNE800011138Q