Cycling UK Forum

Biospace wrote: ↑21 Jul 2023, 1:29pm A traditional 3sp SA bike could work very well in combination with a front hub motor. Has anyone here tried this?

Biospace wrote: ↑18 Jul 2023, 10:04am The point has been briefly mentioned in this topic, that typically a bike with a SA 3sp will be a one which is highly practical and designed for easy use, with laid back geometries, longevity, sensible handlebars, perhaps an older style and highly effective bell, a chainguard and paint finish which is durable.

The sort of bike which will invariably work no matter how long it's been sandwiched behind others at the back of your storage space, or even if left out in all weathers if the chain is fully-enclosed. There's little chance of it attracting the eyes of thieves, even if left for days in a public place with the most minimal lock. These are qualities which are often overlooked, but possibly more important than we believe.

Carlton green wrote: ↑27 Jul 2023, 10:25am

Biospace wrote: ↑18 Jul 2023, 10:04am The point has been briefly mentioned in this topic, that typically a bike with a SA 3sp will be a one which is highly practical and designed for easy use, with laid back geometries, longevity, sensible handlebars, perhaps an older style and highly effective bell, a chainguard and paint finish which is durable.

The sort of bike which will invariably work no matter how long it's been sandwiched behind others at the back of your storage space, or even if left out in all weathers if the chain is fully-enclosed. There's little chance of it attracting the eyes of thieves, even if left for days in a public place with the most minimal lock. These are qualities which are often overlooked, but possibly more important than we believe.

I’m suspecting that those bikes with fully enclosed chain-cases are easier peddling or faster too. How can that be? Well, their chains probably stay clean and don’t loose their oil whereas on other bikes it’s easy enough to forget to clean and oil your chain, and when you do get around to it it’s ‘noticeable’ what a difference a clean and well (sae 20 works for me) lubricated chain can make. Don’t ask me how I know .

jimlews wrote: ↑27 Jul 2023, 2:05pm The first solo crossing of Iceland was by Horace Dhall riding (but mostly pushing, I suspect) a Raleigh cycle equipped with a three speed Sturmey Archer and full chain case. That was in 1933.

Horace's achievement has previously been mentioned on one of Carlton's posts.
However, the search facility on this site does not seem up to the job of finding it !