Originally Posted by
Robert_in_ca
I'm planning on having a custom bike built for me using a Rohloff hub and I'm really considering using the belt drive system from
this company.
On paper it looks great. What do you guys and gals think of this idea?
One bike I was considering was having Spot Brand bikes custom build me one of their Highline's with touring provisions and rohloff droputs.
I haven't looked at the specs of the system you are considering or the Spot bikes so these are just general comments to consider:
- I wouldn't want to be pioneering any concepts on my touring bike. I would only be interested in using proven components that are readily repairable/replaceable. Parts break all the time for reasons no one could foresee so assuming you'll have no problems is overly optimistic. The question is what will you do when you do have problems?
- if you are going custom make sure the company building your bike is heavily into touring. A really nice custom touring bike isn't a cross bike with extra braze-ons or a mtn bike with longer chain stays. Get someone who knows what the bike will be put through and who understands what makes a great touring bike to build it for you. If not take your money to a company like Thorn that builds high end production bikes specifically for Rohloff hubs.
- if you want to try the belt drive out just make sure your bike can be easily retrofitted to a chain drive if things don't pan out.
Enjoy your new bike. I hope the belt systems works great...
