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by ashald 1068 days ago
I've got an X3 that is rock solid even after me and the bike flying apart in an attempt to avoid collision with a truck. And its design is the primary reason why I decided to start biking again to begin with - I just find it so pleasantly satisfying I just want to ride it. So IDK, but I haven't seen a viable alternative yet.
2 comments
madeofpalk 1067 days ago
The S/X3 was the worst bike they made. I regret foolishly 'upgrading' from S3 to X3. The eshifter in it was notorious for reliability.

I'm convinced the S/X3 is why the company is going under.

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nicbou 1068 days ago
What about it makes it so satisfying?

If you're not into bikes, try a few of them. I find any properly tuned bike to be an absolute joy to use, although I never tried a Van Moof.

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dirtyid 1068 days ago
For me, it's just nice/satisfying using a aesthetically designed piece of kit, even if not top of the line performance. Which is issue for bikes, since a well tuned bike makes a huge difference. I don't like looking at all the bits of gear drive system, I like aesthetics of single speed, but riding one PIA. Ended up with a slick belt drive + internal hub setup. Van Moof (which I was considering buying) was basically the only ebike vendor that had similar aesthetics, and cover for chain/belt drive option. Checked my aesthetic boxes enough that I was fine if performance was average because it's ebike and I won't be physically struggling if something goes out of tune anyway. Support killed it for me though, and it seems like killed the company as well.
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nicbou 1067 days ago
Belt drive and gear hub is an awesome combo indeed. I'm spending a stupid amount of money to build a gravel bike with that setup, since it doesn't really exist.

I like a different aesthetic but to each their own. A bike you love is the best investment you can make.

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sorenjan 1066 days ago
There are some that use Shimano Alfine, like the Priority Apollo and Shand Leveret, and others that use Rohloff like MiTech R-Gravel and Shand Cycles Stooshie Rohloff. They're still much rarer that derailleur bikes, though the latest innovation is using a rear derailleur and a 2 speed gear hub with the Classified Powershift.
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sorenjan 1067 days ago
Have you looked at bikes with the Pinion gear box? They recently launched an e-bike version too.

https://pinion.eu/bike-selection/

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dirtyid 1067 days ago
Briefly a year ago, the tiny chain wheel looked silly but it's growing on on me. The ebike motor looks great though. I think this might be it.
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oblio 1067 days ago
From what I see those bikes are crazy expensive.
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