New entrant Belt Drive

[jazper53]

Latest Nexus has 11 with 409% gear range, Rohloff 14 with 526% gear range. Surely plenty for an e-bike given the power assist, even if tackling very steep stuff. Common or garden derailleurs only match that Nexus 11 range and very few derailleur setups beat the Rohloff's. I just can't see how an e-bike justifies 24 or 27 gears anywhere, unless someone perversely wants to avoid using the power on hills.

The cost of these hub gearing systems can be a lot more expensive than derailleurs . for limited gear selection, hardly a advance in technology

 

[tillson]

The cost of these hub gearing systems can be a lot more expensive than derailleurs . for limited gear selection, hardly a advance in technology

They are much better in terms of maintenance and adjustment though. Hub gears just go on and on for thousands of miles without any need to touch them. Ideal for a utility bike.

 

[amigafan2003]

but I can't see the point. A chain has always worked satisfactorily, so why do I now need a belt?

No routine maintanence and no oil and longer service life.

Look at the bottom of my jeans on the right leg and you'll see the attraction And that's wth a chain guard.

 

[tillson]

No routine maintanence and no oil and longer service life.

Look at the bottom of my jeans on the right leg and you'll see the attraction And that's wth a chain guard.

The chain and sprockets on my Kalkhoff (Hub gear) lasted for the best part of 10000 miles. A wipe with a clean cloth and a thin film of grease applied on average once a fortnight did the trick. This works out at approximately 2 minutes work per week. I usually wear shorts, so I've not experienced the oil on jeans problem.

 

[flecc]

Chain is fine with single speed or hub gears, and there can be adequate chainguards if required.

But belt is good on a folder which is to be carried, for reasons of cleanliness of oneself and others, especially on public transport.

 

[amigafan2003]

The chain and sprockets on my Kalkhoff (Hub gear) lasted for the best part of 10000 miles. A wipe with a clean cloth and a thin film of grease applied on average once a fortnight did the trick. This works out at approximately 2 minutes work per week. I usually wear shorts, so I've not experienced the oil on jeans problem.

If that's your usage pattern, you'd have got 20k out of a belt

I'm heavy on chains - I pedal alot - and strongly - combine that with cycling a sand and salt ridden route every day and you have a recipe for accelerated chain wear.

Pro cyclists go through chains even quicker - 500 miles sometimes.