Understanding the Different Drivetrains for Your Moustache Bike

The drivetrain of an electric bike is what allows the bike to move forward when you pedal. Imagine it as the system that connects your legs to the wheels, propelling you forward. It's a bit like a car's gears, but for a bike!

The chain drivetrain is the traditional and most commonly used system. It includes several components:

• Crankset : Includes chainrings and cranks. You press the pedals to turn the chainrings.

• Chain : Connects the front chainrings to the rear sprockets, transferring the power from your legs to the wheels.

• Front and rear derailleurs: Move the chain between different chainrings and sprockets to change gears.

• Sprockets : The toothed discs at the rear, also called cassette or freewheel. The more teeth there are, the easier it is to pedal but the slower you go.

Today there are two evolutions of drivetrains:

• The integrated gear hub with chain or belt: Perfect for city commutes, it allows for easy gear changes, even when you're stopped. Plus, it requires very little maintenance.

• The belt drivetrain: The clean and quiet new option. No lubrication needed and it requires very little maintenance.

Choosing the right drivetrain will make your bike rides much more enjoyable and effortless.

The Chain Drivetrain

The chain drivetrain on an electric bike is a popular choice for many cyclists, whether they are amateurs or experts. Known for its robustness and efficiency, it is a key element of your bike.

Advantages

• Optimal efficiency: The metal chain transfers power from your pedals to the wheels with minimal energy loss, maximizing each pedal stroke.

• Durability: With regular maintenance, the chain drivetrain can maintain optimal performance.

• Versatility: Offers a wide range of gear ratios, ideal for all types of terrain.

Maintenance

• Cleaning: Regularly clean your chain to remove dirt and debris.

• Lubrication: Apply a specific oil after each cleaning to reduce friction and prevent corrosion.

• Inspection: Regularly check the condition of the chain and sprockets, and replace them if necessary.

The chain drivetrain stands out for its efficiency, versatility, and affordable price. With regular maintenance including cleaning, lubrication, and inspection, you can ensure optimal performance and extend the life of your chain. Feel the immediate power with every pedal stroke. The rhythmic click of the well-lubricated chain transforms every movement into smooth acceleration, taking you confidently across all terrains!

The Integrated Gear Hub

The integrated gear hub is an essential component for urban cyclists and daily commuters. Its main advantage lies in its ability to offer smooth and seamless gear changes, which is particularly practical during frequent stops in the city. Thanks to its reliability and ease of use, the integrated gear hub is ideal for urban commutes, daily trips, and leisurely city rides.

This type of electric bike drivetrain is available with both a chain and a belt system.

Advantages

• Ease of use: Easy to use, these hubs allow for quick gear changes, even when you're stopped.

• Low maintenance: Unlike derailleur drivetrain systems, the internal components of the hub are fully enclosed and protected from external elements like water, mud, and dirt. This significantly reduces wear due to corrosion and fouling.

• Durability: Designed to last, these hubs offer great reliability and a long lifespan.

2 Different Systems

Integrated gear hub with chain and Shimano Nexus: This versatile hub offers a fixed number of gears, ideal for city commuting. The Nexus 5 is particularly valued for its ability to change gears even when stopped, making your rides smoother and more comfortable. It covers a perfect range of use for our bike range.

Integrated gear hub with belt and Enviolo : Using continuous variable transmission technology, the Enviolo hub allows for smooth and seamless gear changes. This system offers progressive adaptation of pedaling resistance, ideal for adjusting your effort based on riding conditions. Furthermore, the Enviolo hub is very durable and requires little maintenance.

Enjoy a smooth ride with fluid and silent gear changes. As if you're floating on the road, every turn and climb is effortless, letting you savor the urban landscape.

The Belt Drivetrain

The belt drivetrain is a modern and innovative alternative to the traditional chain. It is increasingly popular for its cleanliness and low maintenance requirements. This type of drivetrain is associated with either an integrated gear hub like Shimano Nexus or a continuously variable hub like Enviolo.

Advantages

• Cleanliness : Unlike a chain, the belt does not require lubrication and remains clean, which is perfect for urban cyclists.

• Minimal maintenance : Highly resistant to wear, the belt requires little maintenance and has a longer lifespan than a chain.

• Silence : Belts are much quieter than chains. They produce little to no noise, making the ride more enjoyable.

• Constant tension: Belts do not stretch like chains, meaning they maintain constant and stable tension. This improves performance and pedaling feel.

Maintenance

Tension check: Ensure the belt is always properly tensioned to prevent any slipping. Perform this check at least once a month.

⚠️ If your wheel tightening seems loose, please check your belt tension.

Cleaning: Clean the belt with water and a cloth to remove dirt.

Discover absolute silence with a belt drivetrain. Every pedal stroke is fluid and noiseless, offering incomparable cleanliness and a zen experience, without the hassle of grease and grime. A well-tensioned and clean belt can have a lifespan of up to 10,000 kilometers!

Now that you know the differences between integrated gear hubs, chain drivetrains, and belt drivetrains, you are better equipped to choose the one that best suits your needs and riding style. Whether you're looking for the simplicity and durability of integrated hubs, the efficiency of a chain, or the cleanliness of a belt, your dream bike awaits ;-D