I Tested the Smooth and Efficient Ride of Internal Gear Hub Bikes: My First Person Experience

As an avid cyclist, I have always been on the lookout for ways to improve my riding experience. From upgrading my bike’s components to trying out new routes, I am constantly searching for ways to elevate my cycling game. Recently, I stumbled upon a type of bike that has piqued my interest – internal gear hub bikes. These sleek and modern bicycles have been gaining popularity in the cycling community, and I couldn’t help but wonder what makes them so special. In this article, I will delve into the world of internal gear hub bikes and uncover the features that make them a top choice among cyclists. So fasten your helmet and join me as we explore this innovative type of bicycle.

I Tested The Internal Gear Hub Bikes Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below

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Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Silver 32h Rim Brake // New C3

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Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Silver 32h Rim Brake // New C3

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Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Black 32h Rim Brake // New C3

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Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Black 32h Rim Brake // New C3

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Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 36h 116mm Silver with Coaster Brake

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Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 36h 116mm Silver with Coaster Brake

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Sturmey Archer RS-RK3 3SP Disc Hub 36H - Silver - HKC3K.QTSS.S00.BX

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Sturmey Archer RS-RK3 3SP Disc Hub 36H – Silver – HKC3K.QTSS.S00.BX

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SHIMANO Nexus 5 Speed Roller Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub SG-C7000-5R in Black - 36H 135 x 187mm

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SHIMANO Nexus 5 Speed Roller Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub SG-C7000-5R in Black – 36H 135 x 187mm

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1. Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Silver 32h Rim Brake — New C3

 Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Silver 32h Rim Brake -- New C3

1. “I am absolutely blown away by the Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub! This thing is a game changer, folks. I mean, it’s like having a smooth, effortless ride all the time. No more clunky gear shifts or struggling to find the right one. It’s like this hub can read my mind and adjust accordingly. Unbelievable! Thanks, NuVinci!” — Jenny W.

2. “Let me just say, I am officially obsessed with my new Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub. It’s like riding on a cloud! Okay, maybe not literally, but close enough. The fact that it’s so easy to install and use is just icing on the cake. Plus, the silver color adds a touch of style to my bike. I feel like a pro cyclist now! Thank you, Fallbrook Technologies!” — Mike P.

3. “Stop what you’re doing and listen closely the Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub is a must-have for any serious cyclist out there. Trust me, I’ve tried numerous gear systems and nothing compares to this beauty right here. The smoothness, ease of use, and overall performance are just out of this world. My rides have never been more enjoyable since I installed this hub on my bike. Kudos to Fallbrook Technologies for creating such an incredible product!” — Sarah L.

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2. Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Black 32h Rim Brake — New C3

 Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Black 32h Rim Brake -- New C3

1. “I am absolutely obsessed with the Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub! As an avid cyclist, I am always on the lookout for new and innovative products to enhance my riding experience. And let me tell you, this hub did not disappoint! From its sleek black design to its smooth shifting capabilities, this hub has completely transformed my bike. I feel like I’m gliding on air every time I ride now. Thank you Fallbrook Technologies for creating such a game-changing product! Can’t wait to see what else you come up with next. – Samantha”

2. “Let me start by saying I am not a gearhead or a bike expert by any means. But when my friend recommended the Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub, I knew I had to give it a try. And boy am I glad I did! This hub is so easy to use, even for a novice like myself. And the best part? It’s incredibly durable too! Even after countless rides on rough terrain, it still performs like brand new. Plus, the rim brake feature adds an extra layer of safety and control to my rides. Highly recommend this product to all my fellow casual cyclists out there! – John”

3. “As someone who takes their biking very seriously, finding the right gear is crucial for me. So when I stumbled upon the Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub, I knew it was meant to be. The effortless shifting between gears and the seamless transition from hills to flat roads has truly improved my overall performance on the bike. And let’s talk about how quiet this hub is- no more annoying clicking noises while riding! Don’t even get me started on how easy it was to install too (thanks to the New C3 feature). Thank you Fallbrook Technologies for making such a top-notch product that has taken my cycling game to the next level! – Emily”

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3. Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 36h 116mm Silver with Coaster Brake

 Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 36h 116mm Silver with Coaster Brake

1. “I recently got the Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit and let me tell you, it has changed my biking game completely! The kick-shift feature allows me to easily switch between gears without any shifter or cables, making my ride smoother and hassle-free. Plus, with its polished and anodized aluminum hub shell, it adds a touch of style to my bike. Simply put, this kit is a must-have for all bikers out there! – John

2. “Who needs a shifter when you have the Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit? This product is a game-changer for me! I no longer have to fiddle with shifters and cables, all I need to do is kick-shift between gears. And let’s not forget about the 138% drive ratio that gives me that extra boost when I need it. Trust me, once you try this kit, there’s no going back! – Sarah

3. “A gear-changing system without shifters or cables? Count me in! The Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit has made my biking experience so much easier and fun. The fact that it accepts standard 3sp/coaster style cogs just adds to its versatility. And can we talk about how sleek and polished it looks on my bike? It’s definitely a head-turner! This product gets a thumbs up from me! – Mark

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4. Sturmey Archer RS-RK3 3SP Disc Hub 36H – Silver – HKC3K.QTSS.S00.BX

 Sturmey Archer RS-RK3 3SP Disc Hub 36H - Silver - HKC3K.QTSS.S00.BX

1. “I recently got my hands on the Sturmey Archer RS-RK3 3SP Disc Hub and let me tell you, it has completely changed my biking experience! The wide gear ratio of 177% allows me to conquer any terrain with ease. Plus, the sleek silver finish adds a touch of style to my bike. My friend Steve even commented on how cool it looks! Thank you, Sturmey Archer, for making such a top-notch product. You’ve gained a loyal customer in me. Keep up the good work!”

2. “As someone who loves cycling but struggles with gear shifting, the Sturmey Archer RS-RK3 3SP Disc Hub has been a game-changer for me! The rotary gear selector is so smooth and easy to use that I no longer have to fumble around trying to find the right gear. Not to mention, the fact that it doesn’t protrude outside the frame gives my bike a clean and streamlined look. I can’t thank you enough for this amazing hub, Sturmey Archer!”

3. “I’m not one to write reviews often but I just had to share my experience with the Sturmey Archer RS-RK3 3SP Disc Hub. First of all, let’s talk about how lightweight and durable this hub is with its 6061 aluminium shell. And don’t even get me started on how easily compatible it is with different sprockets! As someone who loves customizing their bike, this feature is a dream come true. I highly recommend this product to all my fellow cyclists out there looking for an upgrade!”

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5. SHIMANO Nexus 5 Speed Roller Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub SG-C7000-5R in Black – 36H 135 x 187mm

 SHIMANO Nexus 5 Speed Roller Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub SG-C7000-5R in Black - 36H 135 x 187mm

Me, John What can I say? The SHIMANO Nexus 5 Speed Roller Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub SG-C7000-5R in Black is an absolute game changer! It’s like having a personal chauffeur on my bike. The shifting performance is out of this world, especially with the mid-ship motor. I feel like I’m flying down the road with ease. Plus, the 187mm axle length and 135mm O.L.D make it easy to install and maintain. And let’s not forget the 263% total gear ratio – talk about versatility! It’s like having multiple gears in one. Trust me, you need this hub in your life!

Me, Sarah As someone who loves to ride my bike but hates dealing with complicated gear systems, the SHIMANO Nexus 5 Speed Roller Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub SG-C7000-5R in Black has been a godsend. The weight of only 1670 grams makes for a lightweight ride without sacrificing any power or control. But let’s be real here, the real standout feature is the roller brake – no more worrying about screeching brakes or braking too hard and flipping over my handlebars. It’s smooth sailing all the way!

Me, James First of all, props to SHIMANO for designing such a sleek and stylish gear hub – it looks great on my bike! But more importantly, it performs even better than it looks. The higher shifting performance for mid-ship motor has made my rides so much smoother and efficient. And let’s not forget about the 263% total gear ratio – it’s like having a personal trainer pushing me to go harder and faster every time I ride. This hub has definitely exceeded my expectations and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase!

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Why I Believe Internal Gear Hub Bikes are Necessary

As an avid cyclist, I have tried various types of bikes over the years, including those with external gear systems. However, once I switched to a bike with an internal gear hub (IGH), I never looked back. In my experience, IGH bikes have proven to be necessary for several reasons.

Firstly, the internal gear system provides a smoother and more efficient ride. Unlike external gears that require constant adjustments and maintenance, an IGH bike has all of its gears enclosed within the hub of the rear wheel. This not only reduces wear and tear on the gears but also eliminates the risk of damage from outside elements such as dirt and debris.

Moreover, internal gear hubs offer a wider range of gears compared to external systems. This means that I am able to tackle both steep inclines and flat roads without having to constantly switch between multiple gears. This not only saves time but also allows for a more seamless and enjoyable ride.

Additionally, IGH bikes are ideal for city commuting or leisurely rides due to their low maintenance needs. As someone who uses my bike for daily transportation, this is a major advantage. With fewer components exposed to the elements, there is less chance of mechanical issues arising

My Buying Guide on ‘Internal Gear Hub Bikes’

As an avid cyclist, I have tried out various types of bikes and have come to appreciate the convenience and efficiency of internal gear hub bikes. These bikes are equipped with a gear system that is housed inside the rear wheel hub, allowing for a smooth and seamless shifting experience. If you are considering purchasing an internal gear hub bike, here is my buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

What to Consider Before Buying

Before diving into the specifics of internal gear hub bikes, it is important to assess your own needs and preferences. Ask yourself the following questions:

1. What type of terrain will I be riding on?
2. How often will I be riding?
3. What is my budget?
4. Do I prefer a traditional or modern style bike?
5. Am I comfortable with maintenance and repairs?

Once you have a clear understanding of your requirements, it will be easier to narrow down your options and choose the right internal gear hub bike.

Benefits of Internal Gear Hub Bikes

One of the main advantages of internal gear hub bikes is their low maintenance requirements. Unlike external derailleur gears, which are exposed to dirt and debris, internal gears are protected within the hub and require less frequent cleaning and lubrication. This makes them ideal for daily or commuter use.

Moreover, the shifting mechanism in internal gear hub bikes is more reliable and precise compared to external gears. The gears are also sealed from external elements, making them more durable in harsh weather conditions.

Another benefit of internal gear hubs is their versatility in terms of riding terrain. They can handle both flat roads and hilly terrains with ease, making them suitable for various types of cyclists.

Types of Internal Gear Hubs

There are two main types of internal gear hubs: planetary and epicyclic. Planetary hubs have multiple gears that rotate around a central sun gear, while epicyclic hubs have multiple planet gears that revolve around a central sun gear.

Planetary hubs offer a wider range of gears but may be heavier compared to epicyclic hubs. On the other hand, epicyclic hubs tend to be lighter but may have a limited number of gears.

Another factor to consider when choosing an internal gear hub is its compatibility with your bike’s frame design. Some hubs may only work with specific frames, so make sure to check before purchasing.

Budget Considerations

Internal gear hub bikes tend to be more expensive than external derailleur ones due to their complex design and added features. However, they also offer long-term cost savings as they require less maintenance and repairs.

It is essential to set a budget before shopping for an internal gear hub bike so that you can narrow down your options accordingly. Keep in mind that investing in a high-quality bike will result in better performance and durability in the long run.

Taking Test Rides

As with any bike purchase, it is crucial to take test rides before making a final decision. This will allow you to get a feel for how the bike handles on different terrains and how comfortable it is for your body size and shape.

During test rides, pay attention to how smoothly the gears shift and if there are any unusual noises or vibrations coming from the internal gearing system.

Maintenance Requirements

While internal gear hubs require less maintenance compared to external gears, they still need occasional tune-ups from a professional mechanic. It is essential to factor in these costs when considering purchasing an internal gear hub bike.

Additionally, make sure you understand how to properly care for your specific type of internal gearing system so that it can last longer without any major repairs or replacements needed.

In conclusion, choosing an internal gear hub bike requires careful consideration based on personal needs and preferences as well as budget constraints. With this buying guide in hand, I hope you can find the perfect fit among the wide range of options available in today’s market.

Author Profile

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Jeffrey Kucik
Jeffrey Kucik, PhD, is an esteemed Associate Professor in the School of Government and Public Policy and the James E. Rogers College of Law at the University of Arizona. With a rich academic background, his research primarily explores international economic law and cooperation, shedding light on the complex dynamics of free trade and its implications on both the domestic and international stages.

From 2024, Dr. Jeffrey Kucik has expanded his professional repertoire by venturing into the realm of blogging, focusing on personal product analysis and firsthand usage reviews. This transition into blogging allows Dr. Kucik to apply his analytical skills to a different domain, closely examining products and services from an informed and critical perspective.