Shimano STEPS error W011: Loss of bicycle speed signal
The display is reporting that the drive unit is not receiving any speed reading from the wheel-mounted speed sensor. Because Shimano STEPS cannot confirm the bicycle is moving, motor assistance and walk assist switch off and the speed field on the display reads zero. The bike can still be pedalled home under leg power alone, but it will feel like an unassisted bicycle until the fault clears.
| Drive system | Shimano STEPS (E5000, E6100, E7000, E8000, EP6, EP801) |
| Severity | Warning |
| Keep riding? | Ride with caution |
| Typical cost | Expect a dealer diagnostic at 30 to 60 EUR, a replacement speed sensor fitted at 40 to 120 EUR, and a spare spoke magnet under 5 EUR if you fit the simple parts yourself. |
Likely causes
- Spoke magnet missing, fallen off, or rotated away from the sensor
- Sensor-to-magnet air gap too large, typically must be 3-5 mm
- Speed sensor connector unplugged, corroded, or contaminated with mud or water
- Damaged sensor cable pinched along the chainstay or at the dropout
- Sensor internally failed or knocked out of position during a recent wheel removal
How to fix Shimano STEPS error W011
- Power off the system and locate the speed sensor on the left chainstay and the spoke magnet on the rear wheel.
- Confirm the magnet is still fitted and oriented with its flat face pointing at the sensor.
- Adjust the sensor on its bracket so the gap to the magnet is roughly 3-5 mm, then retighten the fixings.
- Unplug the sensor connector at the chainstay and at the drive unit, check the pins for dirt or green corrosion, and reseat firmly.
- Trace the cable along the chainstay for pinch marks or abrasion and refit any loose cable ties.
- Power the bike back on, spin the rear wheel, and check that a speed reading appears and W011 clears.
- If the warning returns, take the bike to an authorised Shimano dealer for E-tube diagnostics and possible speed sensor replacement.
Warranty: A failed speed sensor inside the two-year Shimano component warranty is normally treated as a genuine fault and replaced at no cost, while magnet loss, crash damage, cable abrasion, and water ingress from pressure washing are classed as wear or owner damage and are not covered.
Typical cost: Expect a dealer diagnostic at 30 to 60 EUR, a replacement speed sensor fitted at 40 to 120 EUR, and a spare spoke magnet under 5 EUR if you fit the simple parts yourself.
Frequently asked
Can I reset shimano error W011?
No, W011 is not a user-clearable fault; it reflects a missing hardware signal and clears only once the sensor or magnet issue is resolved. Switching the display off and on will not remove the warning while the speed signal stays absent.
Is it safe to keep riding with W011?
Yes, but only as an unpowered bicycle because motor assist and walk mode are disabled until the speed signal returns. Avoid busy junctions, steep climbs, or wet descents where you would normally rely on motor support.
How much does it cost to fix W011?
A new spoke magnet costs under 5 EUR and most owners can fit it in minutes, whereas a dealer-fitted speed sensor typically costs 40 to 120 EUR including labour. A genuine sensor failure inside the warranty period is usually replaced free, leaving only the diagnostic fee.
Related Shimano STEPS codes
Manuals and video
Official source: si.shimano.com
Not an official Shimano STEPS document. Compiled from workshop experience and public service information; details can differ per system version and bike brand.