E-Cells Five Star Upgrade - 8 Speeds With A Clutched Derailleur For 100 Bucks!

[@IMBruceECLECTIC]

Truth...the Tourney is everywhere and it sucks...it's on my Betty. Never even heard of a "clutch." Thank you for sharing and teaching us newbies...

[@wspetz]

Thanks Tim, another solid video, useful to me, just bought a 5 star, awaiting it's arrival, keep it up

[@thomasjue1539]

Thank you for showing us the benefits of a Clutch derailleur, how to install it and even providing the links to where we can buy the parts. Much appreciated.

[@saltygreek3870]

@ Tim ! Luv to see you actually show us nooks how to do those upgrades.

[@metallicknight2]

Microshift is hugely underrated. I upgraded to them on my non powered recumbent trike from some crap bottom shelf Shimano junk. Night and day improvement!

[@shootthechit]

I agree, so far I'm impressed with the quality of it

[@daveyJ213]

Too bad you didn't show any footage of the actual installation. I would have liked to see that. Thanks for sharing this information. Always good to have an extra gear, especially a larger granny for hill climbing.

[@shootthechit]

I thought about filming it, but decided against it! Done a few tutorials and no one seems to watch them and it makes the whole process take so much longer on my end.

[@daveyJ213]

@@shootthechit I get it. If I decide to do this I'll email your channel if I get stuck. Thanks again.

[@Vocalfox1]

I’d watch that video

[@7drtydog8]

I’d like to see the process also. I guess I can find some other videos on it I’m sure

[@Hoggdoc1946]

I changed the shifter to trigger style on last e bike really liked they way it works. I have one to install on the Five Star just haven't gotten around to it yet.

[@Mikehud1984]

Thank you for this video and the links! I just ordered the whole kit and will be installing it as soon as my bike comes out of the box. Did you happen to film any of the installation?

[@SarahJane-y1p]

Love E-Cells and The 5 Star!!

[@TheLionsDen72]

I'm looking at doing the same asap when my 5star is shipped. Thank you for sharing.

[@onceuponareset-ho7fg]

Just change out your handlebars to one that would give you more real estate to mount everything. The drivetrain and handlebars are the first things that I plan on upgrading on my future Five Star. Nice video!

[@RidinRetired]

I’d kinda like to see a how to video on that clutched derailleur install.

[@loumon2]

Upgrade video! So cool. I just ordered the 5 star (yes I used your chitty code) and was thinking about sometime in the future changing the derailleur, as I'm used to better components. Several emails from David answering questions I had. I think Ecells is a special company based on my experience so far. Great Facebook group also. No video showing the installation?

[@shootthechit]

Filming the process makes it so much more difficult and the few times I have filmed tutorials, no one watches them!

[@loumon2]

@@shootthechit Appreciate the work you put into filming these videos. I imagine the cool shots of your jumps, drone shots, and slowmo along with the eagle scream everyone loves don't just happen automatically. Thankyou for your content.

[@onceuponareset-ho7fg]

Any information that you can pass on to us that you think might be helpful? I plan on upgrading my drivetrain too after I purchase a Five Star. Mainly into more of a mountain bike setup. Including: Drivetrain, handlebars, stem, fork and removing the rack and fenders. Thanks for any helpful information.

[@bobk18]

When redoing my drivetrain I went with the trigger shifter too, it takes a bit to get used too it but it works nice.

[@shootthechit]

You keep the same derailleur?

[@bobk18]

@@shootthechit No I ditched the tourney for the Acera model, much better. you can actually adjust the derailleur. I did put 8000 miles on the Tourney though. I also went for the 11-28 freewheel. No San Francisco hills around here unless I drive to the mountains.

[@charlesbeston9033]

Ohh o I think David will have another upgrade lol

[@walternutter7294]

Hey, have you ever installed a dropping seat post? You may not need it, but for some of your ‘older people’ fans, getting on and off the bike at the intersections can be a challenge since the bike seems to sit pretty high off the ground. I guess if you do a lot of off roading there may be some other reasons for a dropping seat post.

[@shootthechit]

@@walternutter7294 I've installed one on another bike, and I know a few people have put them on these style bikes. Not a bad idea

[@TylersTrailRides]

the stock setup on my 5 star is completely unusable, i keep loosing my chain over medium bumps. I'm going to put the same parts you have on my bike

[@rabbithomesteading3797]

Sweet! That setup would probably work on Wired too? My wired derailleur say altus. Is that differant then tourney? Ive never messed with derailleur stuff other then adjusting the 2 stops. Must be to turn the clutch on or off with a lever or something on the derailleur?

[@shootthechit]

Yea, its the same setup pretty much so you could do this same thing on a Wired. There is an allen bolt you use to turn the clutch on, and you can flip a switch to turn it off (With this MicroShift Acolyte Derailleur). I just looked at my Wired bikes and the Cruiser has an Altus, and the Freedom has the Tourney. They are pretty much the same thing, and both kinda suck lol

[@rabbithomesteading3797]

@@shootthechit Sweet good to know. TY!

[@LarrysViews]

Nice setup! You could get another inch on the bar by putting a full twist throttle on. As always, good informative video👍

[@bassw1758]

A longer chain will also get rid of a lot of chain slap, you would think a shorter chain would increase the tension which would decrease the slap, but that's not the case, a longer chain wraps around the derailleur more, putting more of a consistent tension on the upper part of the chain that comes in contact with the chain stay, not many people know that.

[@psavar97]

​@@bassw1758I think he talks in this or his last video, he tried taking 1 link out of his chain and couldn't take 2 without being to short. For him didn't fix the problem.

[@bassw1758]

@@psavar97 yeah, not really what I'm talking about though, talking about putting 2 Chains together, like one link less than the longest you can possibly make it, my bikes are so quiet people trip out on the trails, I'm riding over rocks and roots and people don't hear me coming especially with the electric. And that's without a clutch. Then if you happen to break a link, takes a couple minutes with the multi-tool to fix.

[@IMBruceECLECTIC]

Truth man.....link removal...nice....gotta be careful with what people tell you on KZbin and other platforms. Thank u for being honest! I got suckered watching a FlatOut video....which is why I kept my bloopers in....

[@shootthechit]

Suckered into using Flat Out?? I use Flatout!! What happened?? Who hurt you??

[@paulmichaels3311]

Good video I just threw on some 10inch rise jet bars on my 5 star they are wider and give more control when standing up and pedaling up steep hills good stuff.

[@shootthechit]

How much bigger are those than the stock bars?

[@paulmichaels3311]

@@shootthechit Stock bars I measured 8 inch so you get a two inch rise and about a 1inch and half wider they also look and feel a lot better especially for broader shoulder dudes highly recommended brotha.

[@supercraps6110]

Super video and thanks for the upgrade advice.

[@MrDeath1988]

I definitely want to see what else you plan to do with the General.

[@LeeAyzahn]

I prefer the paddle shifter than the thumb shifter. I got one on m 2023 Wallke X3 Pro. Only problem for me is if you want to put a thumb throttle on the same side as the paddle shifter.

[@psuedonymalias]

Hey Chithead. In your professional opinion, Which bike is a better buy? Which rides better this one or the wired?

[@shootthechit]

The Five Star is a better bike than the existing Wired bike imo. It has a better crank set, better controller setup, stronger wheels, and a more robust rear suspension triangle and it cost less. Can't compare it to the new Wired as of yet as they aren't available yet.

[@groovr22]

Great video. Awesome idea.

[@shootthechit]

It's a nice upgrade over the shimano tourney

[@groovr22]

@@shootthechit Mickey Mouse hater..!

[@thomas5495]

Is the Ecells stock chain a Shimano? How many links did you remove from the stock chain to work with the new set up.

[@shootthechit]

Im pretty sure the stock chain is KMC. I bought a new chain and had to add links to it, I think the stock chain might work without changing anything.

[@thomas5495]

@@shootthechit Thanks bud. really enjoy your content.

[@ianthebadguy]

Good stuff! I was researching this pretty heavy the last couple of days, so it's good fortune that you posted this today. I didn't even realize the 8-speed freewheel would fit. Some questions if you have the time: Did you have to pull any spacers off the rear axle to make room for the 8-speed? How much room is there to get your finger onto the upshift lever under the brake? I was looking at the Shimano SL-M315 trigger shifter as an upgrade, seems like the upshift lever might be a bit longer than the Microshift, or at least not have that curled shape to it... Did you have to pull off the throttle and the brake lever to get the original shifter off, or can it unbolt and dismount around the bar instead of pulling those off? Thanks man. When my bike gets here, I will probably give the Tourney components a few hundred miles to see how they shake out, but it's good to know there's something of an upgrade path/usable replacement parts available. I used your discount code btw! 👍

[@shootthechit]

I didn't have to use any spacers, just took the old freewheel off and put the new one one. I have room with the my finger for the trigger shifter, the issue is the trigger shifter will hit the throttle housing if you don't have it aligned just right. I'm pretty sure you cannot use the Shimano shifter with the microshift deraileur due to it using different spacing. I took the Throttle and brake off to do the install, it was easy enough to do it that way. Thanks for using my code!

[@ianthebadguy]

@@shootthechit Good to know! If I do go thru with the upgrade eventually, it will likely be Shimano shifter with Shimano derailleur, probably the Altus. It seems like maybe some of the Microshift stuff is compatible with the cable pull ratio on Shimano shifters? or outright cloning Shimano stuff? but you are correct that this clutched derailleur is not compatible. Part of my commute is on dirt and neglected pavement, so we will see if chain slap becomes enough of an issue for me to consider the clutched setup. I'm a little bit concerned about the longevity of the DNP chainrings, but it seems like the people having problems in ebike applications are starting from a stop with high pedal assist on one of the small chainrings... can't say it makes much sense to do that. But I would certainly appreciate a long-term update video. I'll probably try to get similar info out there too. Last question... do you think there's enough space to fit one of the 9-speed freewheels in there??? That's just getting greedy at that point, and I'm not sure how much good the extra intermediate gears would do, since they're all 11-34t. The same people selling DNP freewheels on Amazon also look like they carry Falcon freewheels that have big cogs all the way up to 40 and even 46 teeth. If that even fits, I guess it would certainly require a bigger derailleur, and would probably be totally silly on this bike. Not like I'm trying to pedal straight up Half Dome or something.

[@triggeraa]

Microshift is a good performing brand. I use them on several MTBs. I have a microshift kit for ecells as well.

[@shootthechit]

Good to know, this was the first time I've heard of them but they seem to have a decent reputation. What one are you using on the Ecells?

[@tenncutt]

Nice video, can you replace any 7 speed freewheel with an 8?

[@shootthechit]

I assume you can, but don't really know.

[@ByteMyWire]

You're barking up the right tree now Big Dawg. That's the thing with this class of e-bikes, to keep them cheap they put cheaper components on them. (Drivetrain, brakes, suspension, etc.) I say that's okay, because it gets you in the door cheap, and then you can upgrade the components as you go with what you want. On your other videos of the 5 Star, I thought right away a clutched derailleur would help the chain slap. Higher end MTB's usually have a clutch derailleur. Wonder how she will hold up on The Tracks of Terror. lol 😁

[@shootthechit]

They actually come with pretty decent brakes, especially now with 4 piston Tekros and 203mm rotors. I think the chain slap is worse with this bike because the chain is so long so it flaps all over the place, so the clutched derailleur is almost a must

[@BhengMibudy]

Nothing beats the screaming eagle sounds

[@alejandrovelez8840]

Hey boss, do you have any helmet for this type of e-bike speed that you recommend?

[@eight7sixjoe]

Nice. Rid you change hand grips as well?

[@shootthechit]

No, still using the stock grips

[@mattnorris139]

I like your helmet! Where do you pick,one of those up?

[@shootthechit]

Got it on Amazon, it's a Retrospec Remi

[@BoardGameCasualChannel]

Is there a good derailer step up in the Shimano family?

[@shootthechit]

Not that I'm aware of

[@ggplastix]

When going from a 7 speed to an 8 speed , does it still fit in the drop out the same ?

[@shootthechit]

It fit right in, I did not have to modify anything other than changing the derailleur

[@ggplastix]

@@shootthechit good to know. I hate to spend more money on this bike but every time I ride it the shifting goes out of wack. It’s perfect on the bike stand then it goes downhill during the ride

[@pgiinc]

How does this eight speed effect your top speed compared to the stock?

[@shootthechit]

It's got the same gear ratio on the top speed so it's exactly the same . 11 tooth small cog on both

[@nickbarbanica1781]

How many miles do you get on that e cells five star

[@MikeJones-vm3ex]

I've personally never heard the chainslap do to the chain stay guard, but if you can figure out how to stop the kickstand slap please please let me know

[@shootthechit]

Easiest way is to take it off lol

[@pgiinc]

did you use the stock derailleur hanger?

[@shootthechit]

Yep, stock hanger

[@DestinationFawked]

Hey brother how long is the cable that came with the shifter? I tried this same thing but with a Shimano 8 speed and the damn cable was about 4 inches too short for my lame ass e-bike

[@shootthechit]

It was long enough to reach the derailleur on the FIVE Star with a bit to spare. Not sure of the exact measurement

[@DestinationFawked]

@@shootthechit alright well I ordered via your affiliate links, got a bit of wait on the derailleur, but it is what it is. Otherwise I’m going to roll the Lectric POS I’m trying to do this on into the Ohio river and pick up this e-cells as it seems significantly better.

[@DestinationFawked]

​@@shootthechit I was never able to get that piece of chit Shimano 8 speed to work but the microSHIFT one you posted about and provided links for in this video worked like an absolute boss on both my Lectric XPedition and Aipas A6 cargo bikes with a 2500mm shift cable and that 8 speed Drift Maniac Freewheel. After getting it all tuned in this thing shifts so smooth. I can barely tell it even shift and wow the cut down of chain slap is a major plus.

[@shootthechit]

@@DestinationFawked Nice, glad it worked out for you! I will probably be getting a few more in the future as well. I wish Shimano used clutched derailleurs on their 7 and 8 speed setups. Hard to beat for 100 bucks!

[@DestinationFawked]

@@shootthechit Yeah for $100 it punches way above its weight class. The second install took me under 25 min to do from start to finish. The first took me hours because I was being an absolute idiot and didn't know what I was doing so like $300 for the first one and then $100 for the second 🤣

[@Vocalfox1]

Any reason you used the Acolyte’short cage’ derailleur instead of medium or large? I’m about to order the parts and was just wondering. Keep up the sweet videos…. Fuckin great.

[@shootthechit]

Thanks!! According to their website the Medium is for 12-42 or 46 tooth cogs, so I went with the smaller one that works with 11-34 to 38. The medium might still work but I can't say for sure

[@Vocalfox1]

@@shootthechit cool. Thanks for the quick response. I’m just gonna go with your setup. Thanks again.

[@amaze2708]

They need to sell a packaged MicroChift Chit Kit

[@SarahJane-y1p]

Mr. Chit, WillYou be attending The Electrify Expo in Long Beach on June 1 and 2.???? E-Cells E-bikes and Owner David Cleveland will be there Booth 806. A chance to meet David, ask questions , and Test Ride E-Cells full line of E-bikes. Have Fun at The Expo!!!

[@shootthechit]

wasn't planning on it

[@nickbarbanica1781]

Great idea

[@caligreen2606]

I like the no fender no rack look I’m a do the same

[@bassw1758]

Taking a link out of the chain is going to make the problem worse, you want to link 2 Chains together and make it as long as possible, that'll make it almost completely silent. I usually buy two 9-speed Bell chains and Link them together, they're about as good as the Shimano chains for a little less.$

[@dixienormis3614]

Will that fit on the Wired Freedom?

[@shootthechit]

yea it should

[@seanp1096]

Are you going to get the new Ventus one?

[@shootthechit]

Probably not, I will be keeping an eye on them though.

[@blown9646]

Nice Tim

[@IMBruceECLECTIC]

Great job! Video work is Outstanding! 🦵💪🚴‍♂️📽🎬

[@UncleJam5624]

Hey Chitman just ordered a 5 Star they said I couldn't use your discount code because it was old stock, hmmmmmm

[@shootthechit]

Really? First I've heard of that

[@Vocalfox1]

I don’t understand why there’s no straight swap derailer upgrade for the Tourney from Shimano. They’d make millions of dollars. Stupid.

[@brianhirst7574]

Thanks for posting. I’ve been considering replacing the Tourney on my Wired

[@shootthechit]

Its a nice upgrade thats for sure. The Tourney has to be one of the worst derailleurs available

[@blazblue831]

Your perfect bike is now 2300$. And 300$plus if you want any type of modifications and there’s no 19 inch frame or dibble wall tire options on the site 👏

[@bassw1758]

My opinion, the Tourney is the worst derailleur ever made, the Altus and Acera aren't much better, the best 7 or 8 speed derailleur Shimano make is the $20 flat face, untill you get to the Deore level.

[@shootthechit]

The Tourney is the worst!! I think its made out of aluminum foil too, it comes out of alignment if you look at it wrong. Don't quote me on this, but I don't think those Shimano 8sp derailleurs have clutches either, but could be wrong. I think the 9sp stuff does

[@bassw1758]

@@shootthechit I have an 8 speed free wheel on one of my bikes, it works pretty well, but I find it's hard to get perfectbecause of the wobble of the freewheel, but I much prefer it over a seven-speed.

[@onceuponareset-ho7fg]

@@shootthechit Check out Shimano's new Shimano’s all new ESSA 8-Speed 1x Group set. It's a budget level group set, but think it would be VAST improvement over the much maligned Tourney. The ESSA 8-Speed was just released in April, 2024. Maybe you should shoot the chit about it if you get a chance?

[@robanderson5624]

Was let down by the lack of sound on the first two jumps but then rewarded by the extended eagle scream on the last one.

[@shootthechit]

Never realized people wanted to hear the eagle scream that much lol

[@psuedonymalias]

@ 9:22 u launch off. But there's no eagle sound effects. WTF? u need 2 b consistent in the sound efx department.

[@shootthechit]

I'm deleting the channel now lol

[@IMBruceECLECTIC]

Nice...Great job! Skills....🦵💪🚴‍♂️