DIY builder section

The Rohloff Speed hub is a premium internal gear hub renowned for its durability, precision engineering, and wide gear range. Developed by Rohloff AG in Germany, the Speed hub is a popular choice among touring cyclists, mountain bikers, and commuters who value low maintenance and high performance. Offering 14 evenly spaced gears, the hub delivers a vast range with seamless shifting, comparable to traditional derailleur systems but with significant advantages in terms of reliability and upkeep.

Key features include:

• 14-speed transmission: The Rohloff Speed hub provides a broad gear range (526%) with equal steps between gears, making it suitable for steep climbs and fast descents alike.
• Sealed system: The fully enclosed design protects the internal mechanism from dirt, water, and debris, ensuring reliable performance in all weather conditions and requiring minimal maintenance.
• Durability: Built to last for tens of thousands of miles, the Speed hub is engineered for longevity and is a favorite for long-distance tours and expeditions.
• Twist shifter: Unlike derailleur systems, the Rohloff hub uses a twist grip for rapid and precise gear changes, allowing the rider to shift through multiple gears at once, even while stationary.
• Maintenance: Only requires an oil change every 5,000 km (or annually), making it highly convenient for long-term use.

The Rohloff Speed hub is often considered the pinnacle of internal gear hub technology, offering unparalleled reliability, making it a premium choice for cyclists who demand top-level performance with minimal maintenance.

Cost is $1400+

Smaller Wheels (Typically 20" or smaller):

• Advantages: 
  • Compact and lightweight:  Contributes to a lighter overall velomobile, improving acceleration and climbing ability.
  • Lower center of gravity: Enhances stability, especially in tight turns.
  • Increased maneuverability:  Ideal for navigating crowded areas and tight spaces.
• Disadvantages: 
  • Harsher ride:  Smaller wheels are more susceptible to bumps and vibrations.
  • Lower top speed potential:  May limit high-speed cruising efficiency.
  • Increased rolling resistance:  Can require more effort to maintain speed on smooth surfaces.
• Best for: Urban commuting, tight courses, velomobiles where compactness and maneuverability are paramount.

Larger Wheels (Typically 26" or larger):

• Advantages: 
  • Smoother ride:  Larger diameter wheels absorb bumps and vibrations more effectively.
  • Higher top speed potential:  Better rolling efficiency at higher speeds.
  • Reduced rolling resistance:  Less effort required to maintain speed on smooth surfaces.
• Disadvantages: 
  • Larger and heavier:  Can increase the overall weight of the velomobile, affecting acceleration and climbing.
  • Higher center of gravity:  May slightly reduce stability, particularly in sharp turns.
  • Reduced maneuverability:  Less agile in tight spaces.
• Best for: Touring, long-distance riding, velomobiles where speed and comfort are prioritized.

Considerations:

• Frame Design: Your velomobile's frame will dictate the range of compatible wheel sizes.
• Rider Size and Weight:  Heavier riders may benefit from larger wheels for increased strength and stability.
• Terrain:  Consider the type of terrain you'll be riding on.  Rough roads favor larger wheels, while smooth roads allow for more flexibility.
• Gearing:  Wheel size affects gearing ratios.  You may need to adjust your gearing to optimize performance with different wheel sizes.

3R Engineering offers a variety of velomobile designs that can accommodate different wheel sizes.  Contact us to discuss your specific needs and we can help you choose the perfect wheel size for your project!

•  Building a velomobile yourself can cost anywhere from a few thousand dollars to significantly more, depending on the materials used, complexity of the design, and whether you source parts yourself or buy pre-made components; a basic DIY velomobile could cost around $2,000 - $5,000, while a more advanced custom build could reach upwards of $10,000 or more.  
•  The material costs for the University of Virginia's HPV project (2020) totaled $4,065, excluding labor and experimental losses. The price of carbon fiber, in particular, has surged significantly since the pandemic, with some grades now costing nearly twice as much as they did just a few years ago. 

• The camber angle on a recumbent trike refers to the angle at which the wheels are tilted relative to the vertical axis when viewed from the front or rear. This angle can significantly impact the trike's handling, stability, and performance.  
•  The optimal camber angle for a recumbent trike depends on the intended use, rider preferences, and specific design considerations. A slight negative camber is often preferred for performance-oriented trikes to enhance cornering and handling, while a neutral or slight positive camber might be better for stability and comfort, especially for long-distance touring or casual riding. Adjusting the camber angle should be done carefully, considering the trade-offs between stability, handling, tire wear, and aerodynamics.