Scott's eCargo Bike Rohloff Conversion
We recently assisted Scott in converting his Riese and Muller Load 60 from a Vario to a Rohloff hub. This was a smart choice, as he enjoys going on bikepacking expeditions with his family.
For those of you who aren’t familiar with the difference in these two internally geared hubs, let us explain:
The Vario hub is a continuously variable transmission (CVT) system. This means that instead of distinct gear steps, the rider can smoothly transition between a wide range of gear ratios. Vario hubs often provide a seamless and smooth shifting experience and are very low maintenance, but offer a shorter range of gears. These systems are great alternatives to the classic chain and derailleur if you’re looking for a lower maintenance ride and don’t plan on riding on many steep hills or rugged terrain.
The Rohloff hub is a specific type of internally geared hub known for its robustness and durability. It features a set number of distinct gears (usually 14), each with a specific ratio. Rohloff hubs are known for their low maintenance, large range of gears, efficiency, and ability to handle a variety of conditions. This makes them popular for touring, bikepacking, and commuting.
Equipped with his recent upgrade, Scott eagerly embraced the journey that lay ahead. He shared the adventure of his weekend expedition along Big Salmon Road, a trail that runs alongside the scenic Salmon River in Idaho. The route ends at a boat ramp at the edge of the Frank Church wilderness area.
Scott spent the day cruising along the scenic river with ease, taking in the beauty of the nature around him before arriving at his campsite later that evening. “The first 10 miles are paved and then it turns to gravel. We stayed [the night] at a beach at Carry Creek boat ramp”, said Scott. “It is truly an amazing early summer or fall ride as it tends to get too hot during the late summer months.” His electric cargo bike allowed him to carry all the gear necessary, and even tow along a trailer with extra supplies, without having to break a sweat.
With the help of his new Rohloff hub, he was able to make the most of his battery capacity. “Happy to report that we rode 42 miles round trip and I only used a little less than half my battery capacity. It was so nice to just be able to get up to speed with the Rohloff and cut the power and cruise along at 10 to 12 mph,” he reflects. This flexibility allowed him to tackle hills with ease and even reach speeds of up to 29 mph on downhill stretches.
Accompanying Scott on this adventure was his wife on a Trek bike, as well as Una, his canine companion. “Una had her ears tucked back for arrow efficiency,” he humorously notes. Una, now around 16 months old and weighing approximately 75 lbs, added an extra element of excitement to the journey.
Ready to elevate your cycling experience? Converting your bike’s gear hub could be the game-changer you’ve been searching for. If you’re contemplating this upgrade or have questions about the process, don’t hesitate to reach out here. Our team is here to provide the guidance and information you need. Your journey to a smoother, more personalized ride begins with a simple message. Let’s gear up together!
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Check out Scott's Riese & Muller Load here:
The Load 60. Low centre of gravity, high standards. Perfect handling in every situation – on...