Originally Posted by
FlatTop
I truly don't understand this obsession with three speed bikes, but they get me revved up like no other. It must not be a common affliction given the number of them getting discarded and not rescued.
Actually, I quite understand my own reason for being drawn to them. The mechanical "oddity" of the 3 speed planetary transmission, the clean uncluttered chain line, the easy shifting, easy maintenance, and a clean classic look. Not as light as a 10 speed, but lighter and more useful than most of the old balloon tired coasters out there. It's a practical bike.
A 30 year old road bike - is really no match for a new road bike. But... 3 speeds are timeless.