Originally Posted by
fishman473
...Sometimes usage can get heavy in the evening (photo editing, blogging), ...
That is a lot of power making you a real power user.
Originally Posted by
fishman473
...Does anyone have any recommendations for the newer, better-quality tire-rolling generators? That might be easier for swapping wheels, and I like the idea of being able to turn it off completely with no drag when not in use...
I assume you mean a bottle generator, the name is from the shape of them. I have an old Union on my utility and errand bike. I like it for riding home from the grocery store in the fall when the sun goes down early, but I can't imagine wanting to use one for four or five hours of the day. But if you want to go that route, the price is a lot better.
I do not know if the new bottle generators are any better than the old Union ones, you would have to do some research. You might be able to find an old Union at the used bike store run by Budget Bike on Regent, I bought one there several years ago, I think I paid $9. If you get a used one to try out, it might be due for some lubrication.
For several hours of use each day I think the dyno hub is the best option, especially for a power user. I am quite happy with my SP Dynamo hub. Whether the light is on or off, I can't tell the difference in drag. It costs more than most of them but was less than half the price of the SON. I could not fine a USA dealer, I bought mine new, shipped from Taiwan on Ebay.