Der Shimano EP8 und sein klappern | Bekomme ich ihn leiser? | Ochain & Dämmung | Infos zum EP801

Summary

In this video, the creator discusses the noise issue associated with the Shimano EP-8 e-bike motor, a common concern among cyclists. They explore various methods to reduce the noise, including damping the bike frame and changing the chainring to potentially alter the motor's sound. After experimenting with different solutions, including installing an Ohlins chain and a new chain, the creator finds that while the motor remains noisy, the Ohlins chain offers a smoother ride and is worth keeping despite the noise. They also touch on the upcoming Shimano EP-801, suggesting it may have similar noise characteristics and that an upgrade might not be feasible due to significant differences in components.

Takeaways

• 🔊 The Shimano EP-8 is known for being loud and clattery, which is not a secret anymore.
• 🚴‍♂️ The noise level of the motor depends on the geometry of the bike and the riding style of the user.
• 📹 The use of an external condenser microphone results in cleaner and more defined sound in videos compared to using a GoPro.
• 🛠 Despite efforts to reduce noise, the internal parts of the EP-8 motor clatter against each other, which is mechanically inevitable and cannot be changed.
• 🔍 The video creator has researched and tried various methods to reduce the noise of the EP-8, including online forums and comments.
• 🛠️ The idea of using soundproofing materials to dampen the noise within the bike frame was explored, with the consideration of water resistance and compressibility.
• 🏍️ An attempt was made to reduce noise by stuffing the frame's hollow spaces with a laminate floor soundproofing material, but the results were disappointing.
• 🔗 The installation of an Ohlins chain was suggested as a potential solution to reduce pedal feedback noise, which might also make the motor quieter.
• 🔄 Changing the chainring teeth count from 34 to 32 was considered as a possible way to alter the bike's performance and potentially reduce noise.
• 🛒 The video creator spent 340€ on an Ohlins chain and new chainrings to test their noise reduction effectiveness.
• 🆕 Information about the new Shimano EP-801 suggests it may be mechanically similar to the EP-8 and also clattery, with no easy upgrade path due to different components and control units.
• 🤔 The video concludes that the noise from the EP-8 is not as detrimental as it might seem, and that waiting for Shimano to improve the technology might be the best course of action.

Q & A

What is the main issue discussed in the video script about the Shimano EP-8?

The main issue discussed is the noise and clattering sound produced by the Shimano EP-8, which is known to be quite loud and can vary depending on the bike's geometry and the riding style of the individual.

What does the video suggest about the relationship between the noise level of the EP-8 and the bike's frame?

The video suggests that the bike frame acts as a resonating chamber, similar to a guitar, which can amplify the sound coming from the motor, especially from the area of the crankset.

What was the first attempt made by the speaker to reduce the noise of the EP-8?

The speaker's first attempt was to stuff the hollow spaces in the bike frame with a soundproofing material, specifically a type of laminate floor underlayment, to dampen the acoustic resonance.

Why did the speaker choose to use laminate floor underlayment as a soundproofing material?

The speaker chose laminate floor underlayment because it is waterproof, which prevents mold growth due to moisture absorption, and it is thin enough to be packed into the small spaces of the frame.

What was the outcome of stuffing the bike frame with soundproofing material?

The outcome was disappointing as the noise reduction was minimal and not significantly noticeable, leading the speaker to conclude that the soundproofing attempt was not very effective.

What alternative solution did the speaker consider after the soundproofing attempt?

The speaker considered installing an O-chain, which is designed to eliminate pedal backlash, and changing the sprocket teeth count from 34 to 32, hoping it might reduce the noise generated by the motor.

What special tool is required for installing the O-chain on the EP-8?

A special tool is required to remove the EP-8's battery cover and to install the O-chain, which the speaker had to purchase separately.

What was the speaker's experience with the O-chain after installation?

The speaker found the O-chain to be a cool addition to the bike, providing a good feel even though it did not significantly reduce the noise level as expected.

What information did the speaker receive about the new Shimano EP-801 model?

The speaker received insider information suggesting that the Shimano EP-801, launched in 2023, is likely mechanically identical to the EP-8 and will also produce clattering sounds, with the noise level depending on the bike's geometry and material.

What advice does the speaker give regarding upgrading to the new Shimano EP-801 model?

The speaker advises against upgrading to the EP-801 as it will likely require replacing the entire electric system of the bike, including the motor, battery, and display, and may not fit the current frame due to slight differences in the casing.

What is the speaker's final conclusion about the noise issue of the EP-8?

The speaker concludes that the noise issue of the EP-8 is not severe enough to warrant purchasing a new bike, and suggests waiting for Shimano to address the issue in future models, while referring to bikes with the EP-8 motor as 'clapper boxes' in the meantime.