We sell and service Human Power Augmented a.k.a. Electric bikes and ride them enthusiastically ourselves. See also our folding bikes at Folding Bikes West.
We invite you to visit our store, phone or email us. We are one of the last Internet shopping cart-free sanctuaries.
Electric Bikes Northwest
4810 17th Ave NW
Seattle, WA 98107 - Map
ph: 206/547-4621
Email form
Summer Hours:
Monday thru Friday: 11–6
Saturday: 11–4
Today manufacturers offer an astonishing selection of componentry for shifting gears. Shifting has been made easier by the introduction years ago of index (or "click") shifting technology and the twist grip handle bar control.
There is renewed interest in internally geared hubs. Some of us may remember the English 3-speed systems of old. Today not only 3-speed but 4-, 5-, 7- and 8-speed hubs are proliferating.
It may be hard to make the case that more than a few gears are needed on many electric bike rides. Some of us engage but a few. The number of gears is usually not as important as how low the lowest and how high the highest gears are. This is measured in 'gear inches' (found elsewhere on this web site).
Shifting gears—despite the fabulous development of technology—remains a modest mystery to some riders and awkward to many more. Fewer gears to fuss with can mean a more pleasant ride.
The purpose of gearing is of course to add leverage. In the case of the electric bike the added motor power typically equates up to several times that of what a rider can pedal. A few gears is usually sufficient on an electric bike.
Here is how some of our models are geared:
Internal hub:
Derailleur:
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