Originally Posted by
KonAaron Snake
I personally hate IGH and think their multiple disadvantages far out weigh the minor advantages.
Tons of weight on the wheel. No QR is a major inconvenience. Indicator chains are a PITA and I find often break. Weird rhythms - they don't shift well while pedaling. Chunky shifting. All that for shifting while stopped and a slight maintenance advantage? No thanks.
For commuting in bad weather, IGH's make alot of sense. I found the Alfine 8 / J-tek to shift just as quickly as a good quality derailleur with far less upkeep. The only tradeoff is a very slight momentary easing of pedal pressure for the shifts when climbing. This is not an issue when spinning in the flats - no special attention necessary.