Hub gears or the usual derailleurs?

Question

I'm a complete amateur when it comes to bicycles so need help! I've just bought a bike with Shimano nexus 8 speed hub gears, but am now wondering if I should have gone for the usual derailleur gears. I aim to use the bike for days out, mostly on road, although a small amount of light off roading may be on the cards at some point. Being a complete novice, can you advise me on things like the possibility of the gear system going wrong, the ease and costs of replacement or fixing, their general use in long distance riding as opposed to only commuting (ie, I've read that their range is more limited than derailleurs but HOW much more limited? I only tend to use 4 or 5 gears on a 21 speed anyway), etc etc. ANY info or advice will be really appreciated (including what your choice would be!)

Answer 1

Many that commute or tour long distances actually prefer the nexus 8 speed.With a 48 tooth chain wheel and 16 tooth rear sprocket it delivers almost the identical gear ranges of most 2x9 derailleur systems(but in eight equal steps). You'll probably find that the way it is set up will be fine. You'll have heaps of miles on it before you need to change anything. Then you can decide if you want to change the ratios.

The biggest advantage of this system is maintenance. The chain is heavier and lasts much longer(It doesn't need to twist). There is only one chain ring and sprocket to replace when you eventually were them out. The down side is that they lose a bit more transfer efficiency outside of fifth gear(1:1). (generally only in the order of a few percent)

Shimano don't recommend them for off road use since dirt can work it's way into the hub. This doesn't stop too many people.

It will probably outlast many of its derailleur cousins. If by some chance you do manage to break it, your probably best to throw it away and get a newy.(it is cheaper than a groupset anyway)

Answer 2

I doubt if the hub will break. Shimano have been refining them for years and years now and they are virtually bomb proof. There is nothing to destroy if you crash the bike, unlike a normal derailleur where it would fall off or break just by looking at it the wrong way. I'd be more concerned about the rest of the bike and taking it off road. Dont think those types are meant for the dirty stuff.

Answer 3

Don't worry about the gears, they'll likely last longer than the rest of the bike.

Answer 4

hub gears are more fiddly to fix. Derailleurs work fairly well and are easy to fix.