I see where we're failing to communicate. You are looking at the drivetrain as the entire system. And yes, it is slightly more efficient.

I'm looking at the whole package. With 1/4 to 1/2 horspower moving around 200 lbs of weight over mixed terrain, multiple gears allows the motor to be far more efficient with a slight loss of drivetrain efficiency. Think in terms of calories used per mile.

Az