steve, you really should do some research before posting, it'll save you a bit of confusion in the future.

that "german speedhub" is the rohloff speedhub. here's some nice information about it.

A) it's plenty durable. nicolai, evil bikes, and rohloff are developing a standard for downhill/freeride bikes called the G-Boxx around that very hub. if it can handle the stresses of those, it can handle the stresses someone commuting back and forth to work will put on it.

B) once you take into account the overlap found on standard 3x9 derailler systems, the rohloff has basically the same gear range as any off-the-shelf mountain bike. i reckon that should cover the needs of most tourists.