Internal hub geared bicycles are significantly more efficient than traditional derailleur geared bicycles. This is not because derailleur are inherently inefficient because when well maintained and tuned, they are extremely efficient. However, without a high level of attention this is usually not the case. Fewer points of contact, a perfectly straight chain line, a single chain ring (front cog) and the continual tension on the chain of an internal hub geared bicycle are the keys to this improved consistent efficiency. The chain and gears do not need to be frequently tuned for maximum efficiency and in fact require very little maintenance at all. The only real thing riders need to do is keep the chain clean, well oiled and at a good tension and the rest pretty much looks after itself.

Internal hub gears are marginally heavier than derailleur gears but when the advantages with efficiency are taken into account, this is hardly a consideration. Internal hub gears and chains also last a lot longer and, as mentioned previously, require very little maintenance to the gears themselves. The gears are fully enclosed and operate in a lubricant filled shell, which protects them from dirt, moisture and impact.

Gear ratios on internal hub geared systems are much higher than derailleur systems and as they can take larger steps in a straight line, you end up with a similar gear spread to a derailleur bicycle, without all the overlapping and unused gears. The 9 speed Sram I-motion hubs that we’re using for this release of bicycles have a 340% gear range, as compared to a typical 24 gear derailleur bicycle which is usually about 450%.

Internal hub gears have been around for quite some time with their introduction in the classic English 3 speeds which were not necessarily perfect. In recent years this gearing system has been experiencing a renaissance with significant advances in technology which have overcome a lot of the issues with the original system.

A further advantage to internal hub gears is that they are able to be shifted while stationary. This is particularly useful when riding in traffic or urban situations.

To quote an internal hub enthusiast ‘Clean and pure, the derailleur is the PC and the internal hub gear the MAC drive train according to design!’