Originally Posted by Bandera

For those who are ignorant of the FG riding experience the simplicity of the direct drive design imposes stresses, limitations and safety considerations that FW machines simply do not.

Riding FG on the road is not like riding FW in some important ways and having well designed purpose built FG machines can make the difference between a pleasant ride and an uncomfortable and/or dangerous experience.

FG machines Do Not Coast, Ever.

Easing over rough road surfaces by coasting and getting weight off of the saddle is not an opinion on a FG machine.
A lively predictable handling frameset that allows for good control and and an acceptable level of comfort is required.
This is not inexpensive frame tech and a chaepo saddle will not do.

A dead straight, perfectly aligned and round/true drive train on a FG is required to withstand the heavy loads imposed by powerful riders climbing while standing on hills and/or starting off in a "big" gear as well as spinning high RPM on rough road descents. Dropping a chain on a FG has dire consequences, not so much on a FW machine.
This is not inexpensive drivetrain tech and a chaepo saddle will not do.

Wheels on a FG machine take a beating on rough surfaces & under high start loads while the rear must endure a ******ing pedal pressure load FW machines will never experience.
This is not inexpensive wheel tech and a good set of tires are required.

A seemingly simple machine operated at pace on open public roads requires a high-ish precision of technology, even if it's quality 19th century tech, that FW machines may. A certain amount $ to be put up to purchase but less than common touring/MTB or road machines.
Once acquired it can last for generations of use with no "upgrades" and no Di2 batteries to change.



This where it's appropriate to borrow the Old School Harley Rider's wisdom:

"If you have to ask the Question you wouldn't understand the Answer."

-Bandera