esthetics

[fazersmart]

Am a disabled bike rider ( use of one arm ) presently run a specialised hu8 shimano equiped hub gear . I have been an active club member for 30 years, and have difficulty keeping with derailure equiped bunch. The reason for choice of hub gear despite well versed practical application,s is the simplification of physicall input when changing gear. ? Has anyone any expierance in maintaining the pace on a club run. ? is the RST a suitable mount ? is there any need or plans to manufacture an RST with 700c wheels,and equipe it with calliper brakes, ps  The hu8 was purchased as a cheap option to evaluate the practicality of an RST.. Any infomation will be much appreciated, Cheers JIM.

[stutho]

I have owned a RST for almost a year during which time I have clock up about 3500 miles on it.  Is it as fast as a dedicated racing bike - no. However it is faster than a 'normal' touring bike and is a lot faster than a MTB.  I would put it on par with a quality hybrid.  

The Rohloff has gear spacing far more akin to mounting biking with very large  (13.5%) jumps between the gears.  Road gears are spaced much closer. Consequently you may find that although your hill climbing speed improves your flat speed may well stay the same.  

The number one worry for me when I bought mine was the switched from 700c to 26".  Now however I am convinced that it actually makes little difference providing the right tyres are chosen.  You would have to check with SJSC but I don’t believe there have any plans to build a 700c Raven.

SJSC offer a 100 day No quibble return policy on Ravens so maybe your best bet it to get one and see if you can keep up with your club members and if not return it.

I would recommend speaking with the people at SJSC about your requirement.  They may advice you to look at a Mercury instead.

Best of Luck
Stuart