Electric bikes have become a universally preferred kind of vehicle. This rising popularity is very good for both the environment and bikers. However, some things about eBikes might be a little complicated to comprehend for new bikers or people who are planning to buy an eBike. As one of them, the concept of gearing systems is a matter that is often researched. To make things a bit easier for you, we will try to prepare a brief guide to electric bike gearing systems in this article.
Don't forget to check our fat tire and commuter e-bikes after reading this post.
The Basics of E-Bike Gearing Systems
Gear system is a mechanical system that aims to transmit torque (motion power) between gears in order to provide motion. Throughout history, this system was frequently used in different kinds of devices that need motion power. Besides regular bikes, eBikes also contain gearing systems. Through this system, the torque and power of the eBike become manageable. It balances the speed of your eBike, consequently it provides better battery life. In addition, you can climb hills or ride on rough paths with less effort.
Types of E-Bike Gearing Systems
There are different kinds of gearing systems for eBikes. Understanding these kinds is important to pick the best eBike. If you already have an eBike, you can know the limits and capability of your bike with this understanding.
The first eBike gearing system we want to inform you about is “Hub Gears”. Hub gears are very common among eBikes. They are located in the rear wheel hub, and they provide durability. These kinds of gears need low maintenance, and they are enclosed.
The second one is called “Derailleur Gears”. They are mostly common among traditional bikes. The most characteristic feature of Derailleur Gears is their openness. Through this, they provide a wide speed range.
The last one we will be looking at is the “Internal Gear Hubs”. They can be examined as the combination of the previous two gears that we looked at. These kinds of gears require low maintenance, and they are versatile.
We made a brief introduction to electric bike gearing systems above. On the other hand, we should detail them in order to know them better to understand every aspect.
Hub Gears and Their Benefits
An important portion of eBikers buy their bikes for urban commuting. Urban commuting includes activities like riding to work or shopping or just biking for fun, which hub gears are perfect for. In these activities you expect your bike to provide you ease in use and safety and hub gears are designed for that. In urban commuting, you will need to make many brief stops with your bike, a hub gear is beneficial in this aspect thanks to their smooth shift capability. They also require little maintenance thanks to their prevention of dirt.
Derailleur Gears Explained
Even if there is a big portion of people who buy an eBike for urban commuting, the number of outdoor enthusiasts within eBike owners is undeniable. If you are one of them, derailleur gears might be a better suit for you through their wide range of gear ratios. Thanks to that, you can obtain more efficient pedaling. On the other hand, they need more maintenance compared with the hub gears because of the different exposures.
The Versatility of Internal Gear Hubs
We explained the benefits of derailleur gears and hub gears. Internal gear hubs, on the other hand, combine all these benefits. Thanks to its enclosed structure, it makes internal gear hubs low maintenance. Also, it is perfect for both urban commuting and riding on different terrains. So, if you are looking for a bit versatility in your eBike, internal gear hubs might be the one for you.
How Gearing Impacts E-Bike Performance?
As we mentioned above, the type of gearing affects important subjects of eBikes like battery life, efficiency, speed and more. That is why we can say that it has a direct impact on the performance of your bike. That is why it is important to know your expectations from an eBike and choose the one that has the gear that fits your expectations.
Choosing the Right Gearing System for Your Needs
You need to choose the one gear system that fits your expectations. But what shapes your expectations? The subjects you should consider are the type of terrain you are planning to ride in and your riding habits. Urban commuting or a mountain adventure? Low maintenance or regular maintenance? These can be examples of questions you may ask.
Understanding Gear Ratios
Gear ratios are easy yet an important subject. It means the ease or difficulty of pedaling in your bike. High ratio equals to high speed; however, it is much tougher to pedal and requires more effort. Low ratio is the exact opposite. Gear ratio is another subject that you should consider your limits and expectations.
Shifting Techniques for Optimal Performance
Shifting techniques may fall into place completely over time with more practice. That is why, without rushing, consider shifting your gears before an incline. You should avoid cross-chaining, which occurs when the chain is at an extreme angle. Also remember that the right kind of shifting is important for the longevity of your gearing system. With enough practice, it will be completely fine and make your ride better.
Maintenance Tips for Gearing Systems
Maintenance of your gearing system is important for the sake of its longevity. That is why you should make sure that you are giving the proper maintenance that your gearing system needs to have the day-one performance from your eBike. Clean your chain and gears and lubricate them regularly. Make sure that the wear and tear is under control. Check the maintenance instructions of your eBike.
The Role of Pedal Assist and Throttle in Gearing
Pedal Assist and Throttle are closely tied to your gearing and affect it. Power consists of the effort you make in pedal assist. On the throttle, it gives you power according to the demand.
Common Gearing Issues and Troubleshooting
Misalignment, chain slippage, and difficulty shifting may occur in your gearing system even if you made the proper maintenance. There are many resources that focus on these problems, or you can search for a professional to have the best solution.
Upgrading Your E-Bike Gearing System
You can always upgrade your eBike gearing system. There might be many new models, and they can provide you with better quality riding compared to the current one. A professional may help you to upgrade it.
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