automatic gears a bicycle

[tommaguzzi]

I came across this on YouTube. I have never seen one before.
fast forward to 18.15 for the gear demo.

View: https://youtu.be/Zh_zh2hf3XE


I thought some of you might find this interesting.

 

[rogerzilla]

SRAM also did a 2-speed Automatix hub which changed up at a certain rpm, but SRAM no longer make the Automatix, or in fact any hub gears, Apparently the volumes were becoming so small that they could no longer get suppliers to make the components; unlike the old Sachs days, most of it had been outsourced. Also, Shimano were eating their lunch with the Alfine.

The concept of automatic gears on a bike is fundamentally flawed because the rider "feels" different at different times, e.g. at the start and end of a ride. I imagine most of you have a lower preferred cadence after 50 miles, as you get tired and slip into "limp-home" mode. An engine feels the same all the time.

 

[mickle]

I own a SRAM Automatix 2 speed hub. I love it to bits.

 

[keithmac]

They do an Alfine hubbed DI2 automatic ebike, (Raleigh make it I think?.

Would love to try one just to see if it's any good or not!.

 

[Gravity Aided]

Mustie 1 is a great place on YouTube. He repairs a few old bikes, but he mostly motorizes them. The problem with that Autobike was that constant and consistent pedal cadence made it work best, but even then I believe it was a solution in search of a problem. Sold on Tv, not through dealers, IIRC. Just not practical. With a motor, like an e-bike, it could be a useful application, maybe.