Originally Posted by Dahon.Steve
Agreed.
I destroyed my first Dahon folder to the point where the frame cracked from abuse. The AW-3 hub was still shifting like new. An incredible device considering it has not changed since the 1930's when the product was introduced.
If only SA could have made a hub with direct drive at 52' and a low of 22', would there be a need for a Rolhoff?
Uhhh Steve they were introduced in 1902. But I completely agree that it is hard to improve on. I have seen them take amazing abuse and still keep going. I have one that my brother rode dry for 2 years and I do mean RODE. I broke it down, cleaned it, replaced a bad pawl spring, reassembled, oiled it and it is still going strong. I agree that the gearing could have been better but the bulk of them were used on flat ground by mashers not spinners. As far as I know the 24 tooth is a direct swap out but you may have to lengthen the chain a bit. I have usually swapped all of mine out for 20 tooth just as a matter of course but the 22 or 24 would be much better suited for touring.
Aaron
