An internal geared bike appears trim and clean compared to a bicycle with external gears and chain. In this type of bike, the gears are contained within a closed gearbox that don’t require maintenance. Although this technology has been around for many years now, internal geared bikes are quite new in the sport of cycling, as of the year 2011. The transmission system is comparable to cars. This low-maintenance bicycle provides simplicity and smooth shifting, which cannot be found in regular bicycles.
Benefits
Internal geared bike is cleaner than a regular bike, as the chain and gears are not exposed. While the chain on a regular bicycle can be clogged with dust, mud, and debris over time, an internal geared bike protects its gears from such hazards. The grease applied on the chain can also wear off over time, while a bicycle with internal gears doesn’t require any lubrication beyond that which is provided by its manufacturer. General cleanliness, smooth shifting, and low maintenance are the main advantages of internal gears. Also, the rider can change gears even when his bike is not in motion, unlike with a regular bicycle. This means you don’t have to find the right timing to shift gears. You can do so anytime you need to. Also, gears slipping, chains falling off, and grease on the rider’s pants will all be eliminated.
Driveshaft
The chain on a regular bicycle is replaced by a driveshaft on an internal geared bike. The gears connect the pedals to the driveshaft, which allows the shaft to transfer pedal power into a gearbox mounted on the rear wheel. Such power spins a rod that mover the rear wheel, powering the bicycle. The driveshaft is impenetrable to dirt and debris, unlike the chain on a normal bike. Note: some internal geared bike still has the regular chain but, just the same, gears are protected.
Hub Transmission
The hub transmission on an internal geared bike replaces the stacked gear system of a regular bicycle. Factory-lubricated and sealed by the manufacturer, this hub transmission doesn’t require maintenance, therefore it doesn’t need to be opened. The gears are protected from dirt, rain, and debris as they are switched over inside the hub. Inside, the different gears move around a central fixed gear. There is a different number of teeth on each gear. The different methods in which the gears combine act to provide the different gear ratios or speeds on the bicycle. Debris that might get into the stacked gears of a regular bicycle will not affect a sealed hub transmission.
Check out custom internal gear hub bikes from Zize Bikes, the maker or extra sturdy bicycles for everybody, including bicycles for heavy people which are able to support riders up to 550 pounds.
Watch this video and find out the difference between external bicycle gear derailleur and an internal geared bike.