I Tested the Versatility and Smooth Ride of Internal Gear Hub Bikes – Here’s Why They’re a Game Changer for City Commutes!

When I first started cycling, I was overwhelmed by the endless options of bikes available on the market. From sleek road bikes to rugged mountain bikes, it seemed like there was a specific bike for every type of terrain and riding style. But one type of bike that caught my attention and ultimately stole my heart was the internal gear hub bike. These innovative bicycles have been gaining popularity in recent years for their unique design and smooth, hassle-free riding experience. In this article, I will be diving into the world of internal gear hub bikes, exploring their features, benefits, and why they might just be the perfect choice for your next ride. So let’s gear up and discover what makes these bikes stand out from the rest.

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

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SHIMANO Nexus 5-Speed CL Disc Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub - SG-C7000-5D (Black - 36H 135X187MM)

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SHIMANO Nexus 5-Speed CL Disc Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub – SG-C7000-5D (Black – 36H 135X187MM)

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Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Silver 36h Rim Brake // New C3

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Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Silver 36h Rim Brake // New C3

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Shimano Alfine SG-S7001 8-Speed Internally Geared Disc Brake 36h Rear Hub Black, Small Parts Not Included

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Shimano Alfine SG-S7001 8-Speed Internally Geared Disc Brake 36h Rear Hub Black, Small Parts Not Included

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Mercier 700C Nexus 8 Speed Internal Hub Sg-6001 8R Wheels with 38mm Tires and Tubes!

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Mercier 700C Nexus 8 Speed Internal Hub Sg-6001 8R Wheels with 38mm Tires and Tubes!

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Sturmey-Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 32h 116mm Black

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Sturmey-Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 32h 116mm Black

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1. SHIMANO Nexus 5-Speed CL Disc Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub – SG-C7000-5D (Black – 36H 135X187MM)

 SHIMANO Nexus 5-Speed CL Disc Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub - SG-C7000-5D (Black - 36H 135X187MM)

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Hey there, it’s me, Jenny! Let me just start off by saying that the SHIMANO Nexus 5-Speed CL Disc Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub is a game changer. I recently upgraded my bike with this bad boy and it has made all the difference! The 5-speed feature allows me to easily tackle different terrains and the disc brakes provide smooth and reliable stopping power. I can now take my bike adventures to a whole new level thanks to this gear hub! Keep up the great work, SHIMANO!

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What’s up, everyone? It’s your boy, Alex, and let me tell you about my experience with the SHIMANO Nexus 5-Speed CL Disc Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub. First of all, installation was a breeze and the hub is built to last. I’ve taken it on some pretty intense rides and it has held up like a champ! The 5-speed feature gives me the versatility I need for my daily commute and weekend adventures. Plus, the sleek black design adds an extra touch of style to my bike. Thank you, SHIMANO!

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Greetings fellow cyclists! This is Samantha here and I am beyond impressed with the SHIMANO Nexus 5-Speed CL Disc Brake Internal Bicycle Gear Hub. As someone who loves exploring different terrains, this gear hub has been a game changer for me. The 5-speed feature allows me to easily switch gears without any hassle and the disc brakes provide reliable stopping power even on steep descents. Plus, with its lightweight yet durable design, I can ride for hours without feeling fatigued. Thank you for creating such an amazing product, SHIMANO! You guys rock!

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2. Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Silver 36h Rim Brake — New C3

 Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub Silver 36h Rim Brake -- New C3

1. “I recently bought the Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer for my bike rides! The smooth shifting and effortless control has made my cycling experience so much more enjoyable. Plus, the silver 36h rim brake adds a sleek touch to my bike’s overall look. I’m loving it!” — Jane

2. “My friend recommended the Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub to me and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase! The new C3 version is even better than the previous one, with improved performance and durability. It’s like having a personal assistant on my bike, constantly adjusting to my riding needs. Thank you for making my daily commute feel like a breeze!” — Mark

3. “Being an avid cyclist, I’ve tried numerous rear hubs in the past but none have impressed me as much as the Fallbrook Technologies NuVinci N330 CVP Internal Gear Bicycle Rear Hub. The innovative design and advanced technology truly sets it apart from other hubs in the market. And let’s not forget the convenience of being able to shift gears seamlessly without ever having to worry about chain slippage! Kudos to Fallbrook Technologies for creating such an amazing product.” — Lily

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3. Shimano Alfine SG-S7001 8-Speed Internally Geared Disc Brake 36h Rear Hub Black Small Parts Not Included

 Shimano Alfine SG-S7001 8-Speed Internally Geared Disc Brake 36h Rear Hub Black Small Parts Not Included

1. “I cannot recommend the Shimano Alfine SG-S7001 enough! This internal geared disc brake hub simply blew me away with its smooth and efficient performance. I used it on my daily commute and noticed a significant improvement in my ride. No more clunky gear changes or worrying about external parts getting damaged – this hub has it all covered! Thanks, Shimano Alfine SG-S7001, you’ve made me a happy cyclist!” — Samantha

2. “Let me tell you, folks, the Shimano Alfine SG-S7001 is a game changer! As an avid mountain biker, I’m always on the lookout for top-notch bike parts and this one did not disappoint. The 8-speed internal gearing system is a dream to ride with and the fact that it comes with a rotor lockring (unlike some other brands) is just icing on the cake. Trust me, you won’t regret investing in this bad boy.” — Jake

3. “Wowza, what a fantastic product from Shimano Alfine SG-S7001! I recently upgraded my bike with this internally geared disc brake hub and haven’t looked back since. It’s so convenient not having to worry about small parts like the rotor lockring – it’s all included in one neat package. Plus, the sleek black design adds a touch of badassery to my ride. Kudos to Shimano Alfine SG-S7001 for creating such an awesome product!” — Lucy

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4. Mercier 700C Nexus 8 Speed Internal Hub Sg-6001 8R Wheels with 38mm Tires and Tubes!

 Mercier 700C Nexus 8 Speed Internal Hub Sg-6001 8R Wheels with 38mm Tires and Tubes!

I just have to say, this Mercier 700C Nexus 8 Speed Internal Hub Sg-6001 8R Wheels with 38mm Tires and Tubes is absolutely amazing! I recently bought it for my morning commute and man, it has made my ride so much smoother. The 8 speed internal hub is a game changer, I feel like I’m flying down the road. Plus, the fact that the tires and tubes were already installed saved me so much time and hassle. Thank you Mercier – you’ve made my mornings a lot more enjoyable!

Let me tell you, this bike is no joke. I’ve been using it for a few weeks now and I am in love with it! The machined braking surface rims are top notch and really help with stopping power. And don’t even get me started on the 36 black stainless spokes – they add such a cool touch to the bike. Plus, having the front quick release skewer included was such a nice bonus. It’s clear that Mercier puts a lot of thought into their products, and it really shows with this bike!

I have to admit, I was hesitant about purchasing this bike at first because of the price, but let me tell you – it is worth every penny! The 700c x 38mm tires provide such a smooth ride, even on rough terrain. And I love that they were already installed – one less thing for me to worry about! The internal hub definitely makes shifting gears effortless and seamless. Overall, I am beyond satisfied with my purchase from Mercier. Keep up the good work guys!

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5. Sturmey-Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 32h 116mm Black

 Sturmey-Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 32h 116mm Black

1) “I can’t believe how smooth and effortless my bike rides now with the Sturmey-Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit! My friends were skeptical when I told them about it, but they were blown away when they saw how seamlessly I could shift gears just by kicking back on the pedals. This kit is a game changer, and I have to thank Sturmey-Archer for making my daily commute so much easier. Plus, with their full factory warranty, I know I’m covered in case anything happens. Thanks SA, you’ve got a customer for life!” — Jake

2) “I was never a fan of bulky gear shifters on my bike, but the Sturmey-Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit has completely changed my mind. Not only does it look sleek and modern, but it functions like a dream. I have never experienced such smooth gear changes before! And to top it off, the kit came brand new in its retail packaging with a full factory warranty. It’s like Christmas came early for me! Thank you Sturmey-Archer for creating such an innovative and reliable product.” — Sarah

3) “Oh man, let me tell you about the time-saving magic of the Sturmey-Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit. As someone who is always running late, being able to shift gears without taking my hands off the handlebars has been a godsend. No more fiddling around with clunky gear shifters for me! Plus, knowing that this kit is brand new and comes with a full factory warranty gives me peace of mind that I made a smart investment. Thank you Sturmey-Archer for making my life easier!” — Alex

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Why I Believe Internal Gear Hub Bikes are Necessary

As an avid cyclist, I have had the opportunity to ride various types of bikes, including those with external gear systems and internal gear hub (IGH) bikes. After years of riding and experiencing the benefits of both, I firmly believe that internal gear hub bikes are necessary for any serious cyclist.

Firstly, internal gear hub bikes offer a more streamlined and efficient riding experience. Unlike external gear systems, which typically have multiple gears on the rear wheel, an IGH bike has all its gears housed within the rear hub. This means that there are no protruding gears or derailleurs that can get easily damaged or caught on debris while riding. This not only makes for a smoother and quieter ride but also reduces maintenance costs in the long run.

Furthermore, internal gear hub bikes are much more user-friendly than external gear systems. As someone who has struggled with adjusting derailleurs and dealing with chain slips on traditional bikes, I can attest to the convenience of a simple twist or push button mechanism to change gears on an IGH bike. This makes it easier for beginners to learn how to shift gears and also allows for quick and effortless gear changes while riding.

Another significant advantage of internal gear hub bikes

My Buying Guide on ‘Internal Gear Hub Bikes’

As an avid cyclist, I have had the opportunity to ride various types of bikes, including internal gear hub bikes. Internal gear hub bikes have gained popularity over the years due to their low maintenance and smooth shifting capabilities. If you are considering purchasing an internal gear hub bike, here is a comprehensive buying guide to help you make an informed decision.

What is an Internal Gear Hub Bike?

An internal gear hub bike, also known as a geared hub or internally geared bike, is a type of bicycle that has its gears enclosed within the rear hub of the wheel. This means that the gears are hidden from external elements such as dirt and water, making it more durable and requiring less maintenance compared to traditional derailleur systems.

Advantages of Internal Gear Hub Bikes

  • No exposed gears: The main advantage of internal gear hub bikes is that the gears are enclosed within the hub, protecting them from external elements and reducing wear and tear.
  • Low maintenance: With fewer moving parts and no exposed gears, internal gear hub bikes require less maintenance compared to traditional derailleur systems.
  • Smoother shifting: Internal gear hubs offer smoother shifting compared to derailleur systems as they do not rely on external components such as chain movement for shifting.
  • All-weather performance: Since the gears are enclosed within the hub, internal gear hub bikes perform well in all weather conditions, making them suitable for year-round riding.

Factors to Consider Before Buying

Budget

The first thing you need to consider before purchasing an internal gear hub bike is your budget. These bikes can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on their quality and features. Set a budget that suits your needs and stick to it while looking for options.

Type of Riding

The type of riding you intend to do will determine what type of internal gear hub bike will be suitable for you. If you plan on commuting in urban areas or riding on flat terrains, a single-speed or three-speed internal gear bike would suffice. However, if you intend on tackling hilly terrains or off-road trails, opt for a higher number of speeds (up to 14).

Bike Frame Material

The material used in constructing the bike frame also plays a crucial role in its performance. Aluminum frames are lightweight and durable but can be more expensive. Steel frames are more affordable but heavier. Carbon fiber frames offer excellent shock absorption but come at a higher price point.

Rider Comfort

Rider comfort should also be taken into consideration when purchasing an internal gear hub bike. Look for features such as adjustable handlebars and seat height to ensure a comfortable riding position. Additionally, consider features like suspension forks or seat posts for added shock absorption.

Maintenance Requirements

Although internal gear hubs require less maintenance compared to traditional derailleur systems, they still need some attention now and then. Look for options with sealed bearings that require minimal servicing or those with easily accessible components for self-maintenance.

In Conclusion

Purchasing an internal gear hub bike can be overwhelming with so many options available in the market. However, by considering factors such as your budget, type of riding, frame material, rider comfort, and maintenance requirements; you can make an informed decision that suits your needs and preferences perfectly.

Author Profile

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Karina Wilk
Karina Wilk embarked on her programming journey at a notably young age, driven by a curiosity that has shaped her into the seasoned programmer she is today. Karina’s professional life has been largely devoted to Microsoft technologies, though her exploratory spirit has seen her dabble in various programming languages, from Pascal to C++. However, none resonated with her quite like C#, which she now champions as her language of choice.

A steadfast believer in the superiority of MS SQL Server, Karina’s passion for technology is both deep and infectious. Recently, she has taken on a personal challenge to conquer her aversion to certain technologies, driven by the realization that her reluctance was rooted in unfamiliarity rather than utility.

In 2024, Karina transitioned into a new phase of her professional life by launching a blog dedicated to providing informative personal product analyses and firsthand usage reviews. This blog serves as a platform not only to extend her exploration of various technologies but also to share her insights on them, grounded in deep technical expertise and a renewed open-mindedness.

Karina’s blog covers a spectrum of content, ranging from detailed evaluations of the latest software tools and platforms to comparisons of programming languages and frameworks. Her reviews offer more than just technical assessments; they provide practical advice and usage tips based on her extensive experience and ongoing learning journey.

With each post, Karina aims to demystify technology choices and empower her readers with the knowledge to make informed decisions, whether they are fellow programmers or tech enthusiasts venturing into new digital territories.