Originally Posted by Dahon.Steve

Having ridden a 3 speed all year long here are some observations.

Direct drive can become uncomfortable after 20 miles or more of riding. I find in the beginning, you want a higher gear and often think it’s too low. By the end of the ride, you’ll wish for gear that’s one step lower. However, 1st gear is too low that you maybe stuck with an uncomfortable 2nd gear.

My suggestion is to do the following.

a. Shift to First Gear at every full stop --- Once you start getting tired of feel discomfort, shift to first gear at every full stop You may not be able change the gearing but this helps greatly.

b. Pace yourself -- Don’t spinout in second gear because this can hurt your knees and wear you down. At the start of each ride, it’s easy to spin out in first gear. Don’t do it! Accept 2nd gear for way it is and don’t try to make it go faster. If you really feel second gear is too low, buy a smaller cog for the rear wheel. You will gain the extra speed but you’ll tire earlier than before.

c. Avoid spending too much time in 3rd gear -- You really need strong legs to ride in 3rd gear all day long. I only shift to this gear in down hills because it’s waaaay too high and the friction losses make you pay for the extra speed. There’s a temptation to shift to this gear with greater frequency at the beginning of each ride because second feels too low. However, riding in this gear all day tires you quickly.