Originally Posted by
Steely Dan
. . . the simplicity of a single speed bike really, REALLY appeals to me, but because my commute route takes me directly along the stupidly windy shores of lake michigan, i just don't know how a single gear ratio could work comfortably and enjoyably for both 30 knot headwinds and tailwinds.
I'd suggest taking a look at (if you haven't already) the SA S3X FG hub. I poo-poo'd it when I first heard it was coming out, took a second more serious consideration of it when I had a little arthritis flare up in my knee, and for the past year of every-day commuting use, have found it to be a revelation.