Why hub gears?
Derailer gears have been most common on Australian bikes for at least 30 years. They are a good option for sporting and recreational bikes, because they are light, relatively cheap, and can provide a wide range of gear ratios. On a practical working bike such as a cargo bike, there are more important factors than weight and cost. Hub gears are much more robust, durable and reliable. By putting all the moving parts inside the wheel, hub gears offer a much better solution for working bikes. It’s almost impossible for the chain to fall off a hub geared bike. With a constant chain line, it’s possible to use a chain cover, keeping the bike’s greasy chain away from the rider’s clean trouser cuffs (and keeping grit and grime away from the bike’s drivetrain). A modern muti-speed hub requires little attention other than an annual service and adjustment.
Derailer gears have been most common on Australian bikes for at least 30 years. They are a good option for sporting and recreational bikes, because they are light, relatively cheap, and can provide a wide range of gear ratios. On a practical working bike such as a cargo bike, there are more important factors than weight and cost. Hub gears are much more robust, durable and reliable. By putting all the moving parts inside the wheel, hub gears offer a much better solution for working bikes. It’s almost impossible for the chain to fall off a hub geared bike. With a constant chain line, it’s possible to use a chain cover, keeping the bike’s greasy chain away from the rider’s clean trouser cuffs (and keeping grit and grime away from the bike’s drivetrain). A modern multi-speed hub requires little attention other than an annual service and adjustment.
