[fulafel]

There's also the old low-maintenance way that is common for people who commute daily on city bikes - internal gear (or single speed) hub, and just ignore your chain apart from adding oil when it starts squeaking, and get it serviced once a year or so or when a problem appears. A newer variation is belt drive instead of chain.

[freetime2]

Yup I have a commuter bike with a belt and internal hub and I absolutely love it. Basically zero maintenance.

I think all city bikes should be belt and internal hub.