SRAM DualDrive

[robwalley]

Thought I put daft ebay offer on an SRAM DualDrive 700c wheelset (front with shimano dynamo). Got the whole set for £120. OK need to add shifter, cassette, clickbox and chain, but still a bargain.

I am going to replace my rohloff wheelset (temporarily) with this and a 8 or 9 speed cassette and shifter.

The internal 3 speed ratios are 0.73, 1.00 and 1.36. Add a 42T front and 11-34t rear cassette, giving a range of 576% which is crazy so probably go for 11-28T Cassette (472%)

The 3 Internals are supposed to shift under force which will be a whole lot better than my current practice of planning for uphills with the Rohloff.

So apart from the obvious issues with cheaper parts and derailleur maintenance, whats the downside?

 

[anotherkiwi]

I don't think the ratio is crazy but then again I am often flirting with the Pyrenees... An 8 speed 11-32 or 11-34 would be my weapon of choice.

 

[flecc]

I wouldn't bank on you being able to switch those hub gears under full load. Both Shimano and SRAM claim that, but in practice some easing off is usually necessary, particularly when changing down.

That 576% would be the same range as your Rohloff so could be a good choice, feeling familiar in use.
.

 

[robwalley]

I wouldn't bank on you being able to switch those hub gears under full load. Both Shimano and SRAM claim that, but in practice some easing off is usually necessary, particularly when changing down.

That 576% would be the same range as your Rohloff so could be a good choice, feeling familiar in use.
.

Rohloff is 526% and agree that they probably won't change under full load, but was thinking of gearing the majority of use in middle gear (1:1 - most efficient) for normal flat - reasonable incline which looking at my current rohloff ratios is around 1.5 - 3.7 which equates to 42t/11-28t.

 

[robwalley]

I don't think the ratio is crazy but then again I am often flirting with the Pyrenees... An 8 speed 11-32 or 11-34 would be my weapon of choice.

Well given the internals are 0.73,1.00,1.36. That equates to front derailleur's of around 31,42(change and multiply) and 57 which is a massive range without the clunking and probably lighter (without 2 extra cogs and front shifter/cable)

 

[Trevormonty]

For commuting I'd ride in higher ratio, allows for decent downshift at lights when I stop in hurry.

 

[robwalley]

For commuting I'd ride in higher ratio, allows for decent downshift at lights when I stop in hurry.

Excellent point, forgot about lights and junctions. Will re-equate for high.