Ben,
Thank you for the very long well worded response.
I’m grateful.
But please don’t ever mention e-bikes again! I’m not going to even try one. I’d rather give up cycling and buy a proper internal combustion motorcycle. I’m an ex motorcycle rider.
Although some feel e-bikes useful and, no doubt they are to some. But no never not for me.
Thank you so much again.
Best to you and everyone.
John
Agree. Even if I only had one breath left I would never ride an E-bike. They are an abomination. I have ridden a traditional bicycle all my life as they are most environmentally friendly mechanical means of transport. To ride an Ebike when I could ride a normal bicycle would seem a total betrayal to cycling and all cyclists that have gone before me. I don't see how they can even consider themselves as cyclists. As you allude they are really MOTOR cycles which is literally what they are.
Re your original gearing question. On my Rohloff I have the std 16T rear sprocket with 42T front chain ring. I normally ride flattish undulating terrain, but with some weight 5-10kg in the rear panniers sometimes more. I tend to find myself riding maybe either of 9,10 or 11 gear, but not sure as the markings have now worn off my twist grip. Wind, gradient, weight carried and how I am feeling may cause this to vary. Fortunately my health is still good and I like to think I am still a moderately strong rider. I do have a 17T rear sprocket and I think another 38 or 39T front sprocket but have never used them. I have toured in very hilly and mountainous terrain with the 16/42 set up with no problems. There has been no gradient I couldn't get up, yet. I've both 700c and 26" wheels.
Hope this helps.
