> Scott Minneman wrote:
> > Yesterday's picture shows how, in addition to the Shimano splines for
cogs,
> > one can mount a single-speed freewheel on the hub (which seems like an
> > "unclear-on-the-concept" choice to me).
> >
> Marcus Coles:
> To me this part actually makes sense, I see the ability to install a
> free wheel as just a side effect of the driver design.
> With the use of Shimano style splined cogs they are obviously not going
> to unscrew so the reverse lock nut is unnecessary and a standard hub
> thread can be used for the locknut, this was the route taken by Shimano
> with the original non-Dura-Ace Uniglide hubs locking sprocket, which
> used the same set-up although the thread was not extended beyond the
> first sprocket. By threading the whole driver it allows for juggling
> of chain line with spacers.
> As a bonus besides the ability to spin on a freewheel one could use a
> BSC Bottom Bracket lock-ring instead of the one supplied.
>
> I can't wait to get my grubby little hands on one of these.
>
> For more classic mix and match action I suppose one could install a
> multi-speed free wheel and a derailleur, after all the axle looks fairly
> long, just don't forget to buff off those logos and add an oil filler
> cap. ;-)
I can't wait either. This is going to be fun. I've always had one question about the hybrid setups the British developed. Did anyone ever think of running a double chainring up front with a single SA cog/chain tensioner in the rear? I've never seen one. It seems simpler than a double cog/derailleur and would allow either Alpine gears or a half-step of sorts, depending on the rings chosen. With an Alpine set up there might be a too-much-torque issue. But a double 46/43 for example would offer intermediate gears on an AW or FW and still give one the weatherproofness and simplicity of a hubgear. Of course the "coolness" factor is without question.
Craig Montgomery
Tucson