So far the i-9 is great, heavy but great. The steps are perfect for my commute and I think I dialed in the correct front chainring/rear sprocket combo (46/21) that lets me ride it in 5th which is the 1:1 gear most of the time. The bike is a tank weighing in around 40 lbs, but it is a great training tool. When I get on my lighter bikes they fly! Since you have an IGH bike you might want to check this place out if you don't already know about it. http://groups.yahoo.com/group/Geared_hub_bikes/