Originally Posted by mgagnonlv
- Internal gears should be more durable. However, a derailleur system is easier to repair in the field: a nice option while touring.
The last two elements are important for me.
The last option is critical when touring. A derailluer system can be fixed in most parts of the world but a hub gear system is not! I have trouble finding a quality wrench in New York City that will take the time to bother with a Stumey Archer hub. Most shops will tell you to just buy a new one because it's dirt cheap. In fact, asking them to service the hub cost almost as much as a brand new wheel.