New E-Cells Dual-Star E- Bike! - Part 1

[@digitalkiteaerial]

I ordered mine a week ago, so now I wait patiently. I also got the torque sensor. Thanks for taking the time to create this video. I’m ready to start my assembly process.

[@daveyJ213]

Yes, patience will help contain your kid-like excitement. I am very glad the video was useful for you. Take care. Did you order the 5-Star, Dual Star, Step Star? What model did you get?

[@digitalkiteaerial]

@@daveyJ213 I got the dual star, but I am impatient for sure because I got to ride a friend’s Wired e-bike and I was impressed but after some research this is going to be even better!!!

[@1DumbSquirrel]

@@digitalkiteaerial I bought the 5star back in July I cant wait to get it. I have seen and heard some good things

[@NicksGarage]

Awesome bike. Congratulations and thanks for the video.

[@jimsilva5344]

Thanks for filming your experience with the new Dual Star from ECells. The bike looks impressive and I am looking forward to my bike soon! I understand that giving the underside of both fenders a coat of black truck bed sealant really helps on the heavy bumps to keep them quiet. I have just ordered a skid plate and chain stay to help protect the underside wiring and paint from debris and scratches as well. You may want to consider adding these items.

[@daveyJ213]

Great tip. I did put on a chain stay protector, but did not know a skid plate was available. Where did you get the skid plate?

[@chrisgrey6605]

Very interested about the skid plate. I was thinking about that when I saw the wiring on the E-Cell's assembly video. What brand did you go with?

[@ashebarley77385]

where did you get the skid plate?

[@richh650]

Excellent assembly and more importantly, loved your explanations. I love that ebike, well done!

[@daveyJ213]

Thank you. Glad you found the video helpful.

[@wondabub]

Yo Bro! Happy for you! I'm looking at getting one of those myself...I just bought the Velotric Fold 1... something I can put easily in my car, but E-Cells 5 star is next! I'm in Normandy Park and bought my bike after ordering it from Vashon Bikes... I'd love to ride with you someday!

[@daveyJ213]

That would be awesome; let's make that happen.

[@wondabub]

​@daveyJ213 Hey bro...I recently got the E-Cells 5 Star with the dual battery package... I'd love to connect with you for a ride on some trails you might feel great about... I'm in Normandy Park. Let's connect soon!

[@TrumpWinsChristmas]

That’s a pretty good video. I’m saving up for the same bike really hard to save nowadays but I’m trying.

[@daveyJ213]

Brother, you're preaching to the choir. Our savings ability is getting less and less as time goes by. Ridiculous! Hang in there; you can do it.

[@Winkster-]

After a ton of research, I watched Dave's videos about his new Dual Star, and I was sold on the Ecells 5 Star. (Thanks Dave!) I ordered a blue 5 Star with torque sensor at the end of July. Ecells called me this week (9/16) with a list of custom orders that they have in stock that other people have cancelled. These are brand new in the box never shipped to the customer cancellations. We found a Dual Star in red with torque sensor and they made me an offer that I couldn't refuse! I had to pay a bit more for the upgrade from the 5 Star to the Dual Star, but they worked out a nice discount. My bike shipped that day (FedEx), and I'll have it by this Friday (9/20). Give them a call, as they have cancelled custom orders in stock, and you might find what you're looking for.

[@daveyJ213]

That is so cool! You are going to love the bike. I still ride my recumbent tricycle regularly, but there is something too awesome about riding the Dual Star. Be prepared for tons of questions and head turns. Be careful getting use to the size and power. Congratulations!

[@Winkster-]

@@daveyJ213 thanks David. I will definitely take my time getting used to it

[@1DumbSquirrel]

@@Winkster- Hey friend did you get you Ecells Ebike yet?

[@Winkster-]

@@1DumbSquirrel Yes I did. It arrived Friday afternoon via FedEx. Unfortunately, I had a busy weekend, and I haven’t been able to ride it yet... But, I’m planning on tomorrow!

[@1DumbSquirrel]

@Winkster- that's awesome have fun and don't forget to wear your helmet 😉

[@marklatham1414]

I had the the same noise when I initially seated my front wheel in place. I decided to first torque those 15mm bolts and that fixed the issue. I didn't need to adjust the brakes at all. Just a little tip for anyone else starting to put their bike together. Try tighting those main bolts for the wheel first and see if the noise is gone.

[@daveyJ213]

You're right. That's what I should have done. Thanks.

[@goodoz9942]

Great tip on the brake adjustment...thanks!

[@daveyJ213]

You are welcome!

[@frankpetronis-xd7fv]

Great review , can you tell me what size frame you got and how tall you are ? . Im 6 ft 230lbs and cant decide which frame size would be best for me .

[@daveyJ213]

Thanks! You are only one inch taller than me. I would recommend the 17" frame for you. If you were say 6'4" with a long inseam, the 19" frame would work. I think you would have an easy time handling the smaller frame. Believe me, when you see it in person, it won't look small. I weight 185 lbs., but these bike frames are sturdy as hell. It will easily support your weight.

[@Babyology101]

Nice video and nice bike! Aren't these on back order? How long did you have to wait?

[@daveyJ213]

I waited at least two months. Theymight have some in stock from canceled orders. Call Ecells before you do an online order. they might have something they can send out immediately.

[@skypros]

Thanks for the video David..... Looking forward to part 2.

[@aleksandrguas8580]

Hi David, could you please provide me some measurments of the actual bike right out of the box without ataching anything yet???I am planning to buy this bike and transport it in my car, but unfortunatly I wont be able to fit the box inside the trunk of my vehicle with the back seats down due to it's huge size.So I will have to take it out of the box and put the actual bike in my trunk with the back seats down. What is the measurment from the bottom of the Dual fork( without the front wheel attached) to the top of the conector that meets the handlebars.Also the measurment from the bottom of the rear tire to the top of the rear rack, and for last the lenght from the fork to the end of the rear rack.? ?That way I will know if I will be able to fit it in my car and transport it.Sorry for making you work so hard lol..

[@daveyJ213]

No problem! If you can't help out your fellow man, what use are you? From the bottom of the fork to the top cap where the handle bars connect is 33 inches. Measurement from the bottom of the rear tire (inflated) to the top of the rack is 35 inches. From the tip of the front fork to the end rail of the rack is 56 inches. Are you going to the Ecells store in Nevada to pick up your bike? Don't forget even without the batteries and front tire attached, you will be lifting at least 65 pounds. Make sure you have someone to help you. I hope this helps. Let me know if you need other measurements.

[@aleksandrguas8580]

@@daveyJ213 thanks David.Your measurments and your rapid response it is very helpfull bud.I live in Canada but I might ship the bike to an adress of a relative in Florida , and that way when I come to visite him down in Florida driving my car I can pick it up. When I am ready to head back to Canada I will put it in my car and drive.By doing it that way i will save 600$ on shipping cost to Canada, not sure if I have to pay any duties at the border though. Yes,definetly I am not lifting up the bike by myself .Thanks again my friend.

[@daveyJ213]

@@aleksandrguas8580 Canada?! Where in Canada? Vancouver? If so, you should ship to my house in Port Angeles then hop onto the ferry a float across. From there you could be at my house in 15 minutes. That way there would be no shipping costs. Your only expense would be gas to ferry, the cost of the ferry back and forth, and gas home. If you are in Eastern Canada, then yeah, a drive to Florida would be a better option. Just a suggestion.

[@aleksandrguas8580]

@@daveyJ213 That will be nice.I am in Estern Ontario

[@VLC1959]

I am going to get this exact bike so thank you for the video.

[@VINTAGELIKE]

China to Nevada.e cells has a video of them loading bikes into a fed x truck to ship to people

[@TheOceanMan-xc7qp]

Thank you ...I learned some things today...getting my dual star soon!

[@daveyJ213]

Awesome; I'm glad I could help. I am editing Part 2 right now and will post it up tonight.

[@donolinger6904]

How long ago did you order it? They definitely take awhile to arrive.

[@daveyJ213]

@@donolinger6904 Ordered on April 5th, received it 102 days later on June 18th! Granted, I put in for an upgrade (Dual Star) on May 21, but man that was a long wait. The shop is slammed and the bikes come from China into the port in Long Beach, CA. Be patient; the E-Cells team is great at staying in touch; they will get you your machine.

[@donolinger6904]

@@daveyJ213 No offense but are you sure about those dates? It doesn't seem to add up. I believe it took 102 days but the math doesn't work out. I'm no math wiz, I used to be but that was over 40 years ago. I'm chomping at the bit already because I'm about as impatient as they come. I feel like that kid you described on Christmas Eve. I'll go nuts before it happens. Actually I'm pretty much there already. Enjoy that bike. God bless you and yours.

[@daveyJ213]

@@donolinger6904 No, you are absolutely correct. I did a double check and found I had mis-counted the dates on the calendar. Old people! I'll correct the other post; thanks for catching that.

[@bellyacres7846]

nice video - looking forward to part two oh its a common mistake ppl call the nut a bolt. a nut will thread onto a bolt

[@daveyJ213]

Yeah, I caught that too on playback. I get too nervous making these videos. My brain locks up, and my words come out wrong. Editing Part 2 right now. Will post tonight.

[@bellyacres7846]

@@daveyJ213 cool looking gorward to the rest of the story :) yeah I have a channel too and our words dont often match what we are thinking ;) sadly it also happens in everyday interactions. my Wife probly notices. :o

[@anthonydanna4786]

I have not purchased the E Cell 5 Star yet. I'm debating between getting the torque sensor or cadence sensor. I wish they had the ability to toggle between cadence and torque sensor. I will wait until your second review.

[@daveyJ213]

Generally speaking you are doing to use more leg power with a torque sensor, because the motor only delivers power in accordance to the PSI you apply to the pedals. You dial back (lower your cadence or speed), the motor dials back also. This is true no matter what PAS level you choose. Cadence sensor just notes if the pedals are turning or not and delivers full power of what ever PAS level you are in. If you are in the highest PAS level, but also in too low a gear, the pedals could get away from you. Think of a cadence sensor as just a foot operated throttle.

[@ShouldaWaved]

​@@daveyJ213ide go torque

[@jimjr9143]

I hear a trend to torque sensor . At highest level it feels like your Superman pedaling a bike . With Cadence sensor (i hate the ghost pedaling) if it’s not geared properly which more and more companies are finally doing . You need the freewheel to go down to 11 tooth , the crank a minimum 52 tooth with recommend of minimum 56 tooth . Juiced e-bikes has a new e-bike with a 60 tooth crank enabling pedal pressure up to 34 mph .

[@daveyJ213]

@@jimjr9143 I understand. On my first recumbent trike I had a Bafang mid-drive motor with a cadence sensor. It took me a while to properly use the gearing. If I had the power too high and the gearing too low, I could hardly keep my feet on the pedals, which could be dangerous on a trike. On my current trike I have a torque sensor system; it works great. It only has a 36-tooth front sprocket, so I think it's geared a bit low, but it's great for climbing steep hills. Just can't go as fast as the 5 Star.

[@VINTAGELIKE]

So when dont order a torque sensor what would you get other wise

[@daveyJ213]

You would get a cadence sensor. A cadence sensor simply detects if the cranks are turning or not. If they are, then you get full power of what ever PAS level you are on. If the cranks are not moving, you get no power.

[@aleksandrguas8580]

Does the e cell dual star comes only in blue color only, it doesnt come in Black??

[@daveyJ213]

No, it comes in gloss black or matt black also. Also you can order custom colors if you want, but it would take longer for your order to arrive.

[@aleksandrguas8580]

Thank you

[@michaeldes1800]

Great information. Good detailed video

[@daveyJ213]

Glad it was useful. Part 2 should be done by next week.

[@aleksandrguas8580]

Would you be able to give me the packaging box dimensions? Height; Width and Lenght???And what is the total weight of the bike once ensamble??Also it looks like there is no room to attach the front basket , do you think if I get the smaller light from the ecell 5 star , I will be able to attach the small light plus the front basket???

[@daveyJ213]

The box the bike ships in is approximately 12" wide, 42" tall, and 72" long. Shipping weight is about 120 lbs. My bike without the two batteries attached weighs 87 lbs. With the batteries, 108 lbs. I ordered the "Dual Star" upgrade which included the dual crown forks and the large head light. I did get the front basket, but there is no way to attach it. The forks and headlight make that impossible. If you want the front basket, do not order the Dual Star package; get the 5-Star, which comes with the smaller headlight. You are able to attach the basket and the front head light. Here's the link: ecells.com/product/five-star-ebike-1500w-60v-20ah/.

[@aleksandrguas8580]

@@daveyJ213 thank you for the quick response.The problem is that if I buy the the ecell 5 star i will be able to attach the front rack but I wont be able to conect the 2nd battery anywhere.I need 2 batteries.

[@daveyJ213]

​@@aleksandrguas8580 In that case I would order the Dual Star. In addition to that I would make sure you order the smaller head light. You would want to talk with the ordering department to make sure they would be sending the front basket with your order. When I ordered the 5-Star it came with the front basket. When I called back and upgraded to the Dual Star, they sent the front basket anyway, even though I could not use it. They may not still offer the front basket with a Dual Star purchase. Long-story-short, if your order the Dual Star for the two batteries, make sure you are getting the front basket and the smaller head light, even though you might have to pay extra for them. You can then remove the large front headlight from the dual-crown fork. The smaller head might can be attached using the same bolt and nut that hold on the front fender. I'm pretty sure the physical connection is the same, but make sure. Then you will have plenty of space to install the front basket. Caution: The large light pictured currently on their web site does not have the same connection that I have on my bike. Mine is yellow and triangular. The one on the web site is red and round. Again, speaking to the ordering department first, maybe they can do a deal where they swap the larger headlight for the smaller one. Not sure they can, because these bikes ship from China, but it's worth an ask. Hope this helps, keep me posted.

[@aleksandrguas8580]

@@daveyJ213 Wow man , again, you are the best .Nobody even in the ecell group will take the time you did to answer all my concerns, I give you the 5 stars again for that my friend.Thank you. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

[@daveyJ213]

​@@aleksandrguas8580 Thanks! However, I gave you two bits of wrong information I need to correct. First, was the wiring correction of the light. I was mistakingly referring to the electrical connection of the throttle, which is yellow and triangular. My light connection on my bike is indeed red and round. Therefore, you should have no problem connecting the smaller light to the same electrical connection that the large light would go to. However, even with the small light attached, you CANNOT use the basket if you have the dual crown fork on your bike. The Dual Star has this fork. The vertical members swing left and right as you steer, and occupy the same physical space as the basket. You cannot use a front basket with a dual crown fork. If you must have the front basket and two batteries you will have to order the 5-Star and somehow get them to add the second battery and the appropriate rear rack. Another option would be to order the Dual Star and swap out the front fork. I would not recommend that. I was on their web site and the only other bike that comes with the basket and a rear battery was the Super Monarch Crown all-wheel-drive (two motors), but now you're talking $4595. Yikes. Sorry about the wrong information, just wanted to make sure I did not mislead you. Have a great day.

[@rickh9306]

Can’t wait to see part 2!! I want to order a 5 Star but I’m stuck on which sensor would be best, cadence or torque? Help me out. Why did you go with the torque sensor? Did you opt for 24” or 26” wheels? Your bike looks great with the gold wheels. Come on Part 2! Rick H.

[@donolinger6904]

According to the Electrified Latina the cadence sensor is way different than most of the others. It isn't speed dependent, it has different programmable power levels and power delivery levels. She says she likes it as much as a torque sensor bike.

[@daveyJ213]

I opted for torque sensor. Power is delivered in a more measured way. Just be aware that a torque sensor requires you apply pressure to the pedals in order to receive power back from the motor. You have to "ride" the bike if you will. With cadence sensor you only have to rotate the cranks. Be mindful of what gear you are in. When I ride in PAS level 1, I must be at least in 3rd gear in order to eliminate ghost pedaling. On flat ground I can easily do 20 mph in PAS level 1 and 4th gear. These bikes are really powerful. I've ridden 49 miles in 3 hours, eight minutes, and have yet to put the PAS level on 4 or 5. I used PAS level 3 to get up some really steep hills, and even on those I was cruising easily at 14 mph. Don't forget you also have a throttle, which will take you to 35 mph in a heart beat. My advise: take it very slow at first.

[@donolinger6904]

I just found out the 5Stars main competition has the same cadence sensor.

[@daveyJ213]

@@donolinger6904 I think many of these "parts" found on all e-bikes come from the same Chinese manufacturer.

[@CharlesEwer]

Hi Dave, great video, I notice your bike has a dual crown front fork, but photo of bike on E Cells website shows it has a single crown front fork, do they need to update their website? Or was this an option for you when you bought it?

[@daveyJ213]

Yes, I updated my order to the "Dual Star" package, which included a dual-crown fork. Some of their bikes come with this fork as standard equipment, but if one you are looking at does not have it, you and request it as an upgrade.

[@Raiderblack]

Thanks!

[@elizabethburgin3066]

Great video!! Did you get a cadence or torque sensor?

[@daveyJ213]

Thanks! I ordered a torque sensor for my bicycle.

[@MrAportis03]

Thank you for the video, the E-Cell Co doesn't even have a Dual-Star intstruction video on their website, nor did my bike come with an instruction manual. What size bolt and nut came with your Dual-Star? There wasn't one in the box for me. I did receive a Derailer Guard, but there's no place to mount it like on the Dual Step Star. Other than that I love the bike after I got 99% of it set up and it seems like a very solid bike.

[@daveyJ213]

Yeah, that would be a tremendous service if they could provide an actual user manual for the machine you are purchasing. Perhaps the technology is evolving too fast. I did not receive a derailleur guard on my bike, nor is there any place to mount one. The only other ongoing problem I am experiencing this the physical connection from the back battery. It is constantly pulling apart, thus disconnecting the rear battery from the system. This connection should be a threaded connection. I am to mention this to the owner David Cleveland.

[@SirWrecksy]

Holy cow. You can ride that without battery power. Another great bonus. The bikes I have are dead in the water when the batteries are gone. No way in hell you're riding it

[@daveyJ213]

Yes, you can ride without battery power, but anything over a 1% incline, even in 1st gear, you will not be a happy camper. 108 lbs. under no power gets tiring very fast. Best to always manage your batteries, and keep track of your voltage while riding.

[@leeonthegrass]

Hi nice video! I ordered the same exact bike, except with the 24” wheels. I’m on the shorter side. I had wondered if I was making the right decision. Your comments about it being a huge bike gave me a huge sigh of relief! Thank you! Can I ask how long it took to get your delivery? I ordered mine mid June, I’m checking the status weekly, but I just get a still processing notice. I’m hoping it doesn’t arrive while I’m on vacation at the end of August. Safe rides!

[@daveyJ213]

If you are a bit shorter, you will be thankful for the 24" wheels. Glad I did not order the 19" frame. I would have needed a stool to get on the bike. My original order was on Friday, April 5th. Upgraded to Dual Star on May 21, a little over 6 weeks later (102 days). Bike finally arrived on Wednesday, June 19. Long wait.

[@VLC1959]

Are you happy with the torque sensor on your Dual Star?

[@daveyJ213]

Yes, so far it's great. Seemed a bit sensitive at first, almost to the point of being glitchy, but it delivers power very smoothly once you get going. Just remember it takes pressure on the pedals to get power out of the system, thus your legs will always be under a bit of stress. You have to protect your knees with the correct ratio of power and gearing. That's why some people prefer cadence sensors, because all you have to do is move the cranks to get power out. It's amazing, because as powerful as this bike is I always feel like a get a workout. My thighs always have a slight burn going after a one hour ride.

[@chrisgrey6605]

Congratulations on a beautiful bike! I ordered a Camo 5 Star w/ 'Dozer tires and an extra battery.......cant wait! From watching you next to it, I think I underestimated how big the bike is. Looks like a monster.....wow (in a good way). How tall are you?

[@daveyJ213]

I am 5'11", inseam 32" Yes, it's big; there's a definite learning curve on mastering dismount and mounting, as well as taking off from a dead stop. I had to turn my C5 setting down to 6 out of 10 to prevent the bike from launching out from under me. At take off I lean my weight forward over the front tire to negate unexpected wheelies. Why anyone would speed at over 40 mph is beyond me. The bike is heavy and I am 42" off the ground. Care must be taken when carving out turns on gravel roads. However, big fun!

[@chrisgrey6605]

@@daveyJ213 Thanks Dave. That was a very informative/great reply. I'm 5'10" with a 32"inseam so we're close. You're wise to warn people about the power of this bike and to respect it. I'm even more excited now...lol. And yeah...I know she's a heavy bike which is why I opted for the more aggressive tires like you did 🙂. To help prevent the bike from washing out in turns in loose conditions. Subscribed and very much looking forward to your next vid!

[@daveyJ213]

@@chrisgrey6605 You are most welcome! Yeah I think the more robust tires are the way to go. They are heavier, but by time you add Tannis tire liners and a quart of Flat Out to each tire, what the difference. Hopefully, I will be less likely to puncture a tube with the Bulldozer tires. Editing Part 2 right now, and will post sometime tonight. Take care.

[@MrBlackace66]

Thank you for this video.😊😊

[@daveyJ213]

You are very welcome.

[@lounv]

What was your order number? I’ve ordered two the same color & rims. Very nice!!

[@daveyJ213]

Can't remember my order number off hand, but I know I did order originally in late April, then updated later to the Dual Star thereafter.

[@ScreamTard]

🎉

[@ralexking]

Is this one UL certified? Thanks.

[@daveyJ213]

I believe so, but not 100% sure. Let me see if I can find out.

[@ralexking]

@@daveyJ213 okay i couldnt find a straight answer either.

[@daveyJ213]

@@ralexking I looked up what UL meant, so I'd be a bit educated. Scoured the E-Cells web site and did not find any claim of UL Certification. I am assuming UL certification has something to do with the batteries. Maybe I'll give them a call and ask.

[@ralexking]

@daveyJ213 it's a third party tester for quality and safety for fires, electric shock and stuff. Just something i really wanted it to have.

[@ralexking]

I found out they are super close to ul certifcation. It does have samsung batteries so im assuming they are perfect as david said no fires or anything yet. I went ahead and bought this bike yesterday super stoked! How long did it take you to get yours? Thanks for the upload.

[@rdkuless]

"E-Cell" doesn't tell you about the many "E-cell batteries" the best of the E-cell are the Samsung 50-E... they have more cycles and capacity than all the others.. That is what Tesla uses in their cars.. If you want long range look for the Samsung 50-E batteries.

[@daveyJ213]

Thanks for the tip.

[@anthonydanna4786]

E Cell uses Samsung 50 E batteries on the 5 Star, according to E cells Websitel.

[@rdkuless]

@@anthonydanna4786 I have 2 @ 52v24ah Samsung E-50 cell batteries on my etrike.. 17cents worth of electricity will take me around 200 miles.. I have used many lithium ion batteries over the years. and these are by far the best..

[@caligreen2606]

Don’t buy ordered August 20 75 days later still no Bike ask for a refund 11 three didn’t get it ask for a refund again 11 eight partial payment issued in email -$314. Horrible customer service don’t buy.

[@daveyJ213]

What's going on with Ecells? Why did you need a refund? Let us know what's going on.

[@jfly2249]

I thought e cells was using a thru axle? Really dangerous on a heavy high speed bike. Very disappointing for an “upgraded” fork. It looks cool but is not really very good. With an open drop out, the wheel can separate under heavy braking, large rotors put tremendous force on the fork and drop outs under hard braking. A thru axle has closed drop outs and eliminates this risk.

[@daveyJ213]

I had heard that E-cells was going with a through axel. I have one one the rear wheel of my recumbent and I love it. I agree with you; I through axel would be much better in this application. Do you have any recommendations if I wanted to upgrade the front fork? Thanks.

[@ashebarley77385]

what size is your bike 17 or 19? great video's thank you

[@daveyJ213]

Mine is 17" frame. I was considering the 19" frame for some reason. Don't know what I was thinking, but glad I did not get the larger frame.

[@SpaceLord2025]

why do ebike companies think everyone wants a fat tire bike??????? 2 thumbs down on fat tires!!!!

[@daveyJ213]

I think you get bikes with any size tire you want. I know Specialized makes one that looks just like a regular road bike: Turbo Vado SL 4.0. I was out riding yesterday and saw a couple riding on what appeared to be 26"x2.5" tires. However, I know what you mean. If most of your riding is on paved streets and trails, giant 4" tires are overkill.