Originally Posted by Alekhine
1. Building up a new Mercian for heavy loaded touring. I'm trying to figure out a Goldilocks wheel solution to offset the spinning weight and potential sluggishness of a Rohloff speedhub. Suggestions for strong but comparatively light touring rims and tires are welcomed; try to keep it within reason $$-wise (no custom-built $1000 superwheels, in other words), since I'm spending most of my gaudy excesses on the frame and the speedhub already. Probably in 700 x 32 size...
2. OEM version of the Rohloff worth it, compared to the normal Rohloff?
3. Other component and Rohloff gearing suggestions are welcome.
4. You're great for helping. Bicyclists
are the best people.
1. I like the Mavic T520 & MA3, also the Sun CR18. I hear good things about Velocity too, but haven't worked with them too much.
2. OEM is definitely preferable. For maximum versatility, go for standard vertical dropouts with an eccentric bottom bracket and ISO disc brake mount. This will let you use any type of gearing system, and the ISO mount will let you use the OEM2 axle plate for easy wheel changes.
Alternatively, Rohloff dropouts are also compatible with various different gear systems. There are a couple of different ways you can attach a (ptui!) derailer if you decide to take such a backward step.
My Thorn Raven is geared 53/17 with 559 wheels. Gives me gears from 22 - 114 inches. I might replace the 17 with a 16, 'cause I occasionally wish for a higher gear and almost never use the bottom gear. (I should note that I haven't done any loaded touring on this bike...If I did, I'd probably leave the gearing as it is.)
Using a bigger chainring and sprocket reduces chain wear and frame flex.
Sheldon "
Rohloff" Brown
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