Well strange I have a R&M charger 3.
Always interesting to read some real life impressions, the more the better, to get a range of opinion. The recent E2E report also gives a flavour of touring with a R&M E-bike, and range anxiety plays a part in that as well. But there's also an element of that with a non assisted bike, there's been a few times I've been miles away from the end of the ride and doubting I'd make it! There's a reasonable argument to be made that if you're looking for a touring E-bike, then how nicely it rides without assistance is worth consideration. My Bosch powered Trek would fail on that, it's pretty awful! I had a test ride on a Multi-charger with the Vario hub, I found it a bit odd, but didn't have long enough to get used to it, otherwise it really was a fantastic bike. I didn't try riding that without the assistance, I'd guess it'd be hard work.
I also have a ST Thudbuster on that bike, is that the version you have? I think it's great, added as I fond the ride harsh, though the way I ride it probably contributes to that. What is it you don't like? Have you tried swapping the elastomers? Might be worth a try, if they didn't come with the bike replacements are only a fiver each. I've stopped noticing mine, it's just less jarring than it was, still not as comfortable as my non assisted bikes, but again that might be as much about the rider.
