Originally Posted by
carlton
What is the highest gear that you use for any duration on your commute? If you don't use the higher gears much, then you could easily change the rear sprocket out for a larger one. Which would make all of your gears lower and a bit more suitable for climbing hills. Look here for some info on gears in general.
http://www.sheldonbrown.com/gears/
Thanks for everyone's input.
I brought my bike down to the dealer and changed the rear sprocket for a larger one and it definitely helps, but now I feel like I'm pedaling as fast on flat ground but it's taking me more time to get anywhere. Predictable, but frustrating nonetheless.
I'll look into the switching tires. Unfortunately, I can't change my route without endangering life and limb to scary traffic.
I really like the riding position suggestions. Good advice which I'm trying consciously to follow.
This is what the breezer site says about the 8-speed vs 7:
Nexus-8 hubs have a 305% gear range vs. the 245% range of Nexus-7 hubs. This equates to about a 65-gear-inch range vs. the 55-gear-inch range of the Nexus 7. The Nexus-8 top gear is about 3 times greater than its low gear.
With a larger wheel sprocket, which I've done, how does this relate to the range above? In other words, if I were to go for the 8, would my current bottom speed (with sprocket replacement) be equivalent to bottom speed on the 8? This would help me understand if there'd be a significant hill capability were I to trade.
Thank you all. You've been patient.