I’ve tried several ways to get more “speed” out of my trike.
My trike came with a Schlumph Speed Drive, a Shimano Ultegra rear hub and 12-27 cluster – worked better than advertized – I could barely push the top gear when active and make much use out of it (I did manage to spin out at 50 mph going down Hwy 101 from Lincoln Beach to Tillimook – but this was a rare occurance).
My second change (a minor one) was replacing the the 12-27 cluster with an 11-28 custom cluster – loved this option, used it for 2 STPs. This allowed me to test my ability to spin without resorting to using the speed drive – very managable and eye opening.
I became used to not using the speed drive and realized that I didn’t need it.
When the Shimano Capreo small wheel group came out, I read reviews about it and this seemed like the better option to simplify the drive train and shave some weight as well.
My third change to the drive train was a major one. I replaced the speed drive with a TruVativ Elita crank set with 30/42/55t chain rings, and laced a new wheel to a Capreo Small wheel rear hub and a 9-26 cluster, making the drivetrain is much simpler to maintain…
During my winter training, riding with this new configuration was adequate with the trainer I was using (able to get my heart rate up, spin etc.)
With the weather becoming warmer, riding outside is the preferred option. I noticed that my gearing wasn’t sufficient on some of the roads I ride.
Simple is better, so I changed out the 55t with a 58t and love the change – the best $40 spent!
