This drivetrain is centrally mounted, low maintenance, damage-resistant, and delivers up to twice the torque of current eBike motors.

Today, we’re talking about eCVT bicycles and why they might be the future of eBike tech. We’ll dive into how eCVTs work, their advantages and disadvantages, and the companies pushing this innovation forward.

The Evolution of eBike Drivetrains

eBikes are the fastest-growing bicycle category, and that boom has fuelled rapid development in motors and drivetrains.

E-bike motors are smaller, lighter, quieter, and more efficient than ever before. Power delivery is smoother, pickup speeds are quicker, and new innovations are changing their design.

One of those innovations is a fully integrated drivetrain where the motor and gearbox are built into one unit. This solution simplifies the drivetrain, weather seals the gear components, and improves the weight distribution of the bike.

Some integrated drivetrains have now taken it even further by stripping out the gearbox components and using an electronic continuously variable transmission (eCVT) instead.

eCVT Bicycle Drivetrains

An eCVT is just like other motor gearbox units, however, the difference is that it uses two electric motors and a planetary gear set to achieve variable gear ratios.

If that sounds like something from a hybrid car, you’re spot on. The design is similar to the eCVT used in vehicles like the Toyota Prius.

Here’s a brief explanation of how an eCVT works.

How Do eCVT Bicycles Work?

There are two motors in a bicycle eCVT.

• The direct motor provides pedal assist, like any standard mid-drive motor
• The speed ratio motor provides pedal assist, and it adjusts the bike’s gear ratio by spinning the front sprocket faster or slower via a planetary gear.

By adjusting the speed ratio motor to a very fine degree, the system can provide infinite gear options. These gears are changed smoothly and instantly, with zero rider interruption.

There are more advantages to eCVTs too.

The Advantages of eCVT Bicycles

Completely Effortless Riding

Riding with an eCVT is completely effortless, as they continuously adjust to keep you at your preferred cadence, no matter the speed or incline. All you have to do is choose a cadence you like, and the motor takes care of the rest. And should you come to a stop, the motor will automatically put you in the ideal gear for takeoff.

For those who prefer manual control, shift buttons will provide instant gear changes, even under a full pedal load. The shifting on these systems is faster than any other bicycle drivetrain – it takes just half a second to go from the lowest to the highest gear ratio.

Increased Durability & Reduced Maintenance

Durability and low maintenance are also major advantages. With fewer exposed parts and fully sealed internals, eCVTs are far less prone to damage than derailleur drivetrains. Additionally, there are significantly fewer components that wear out over time, which cuts down on servicing and replacement parts.

Some eCVTs support chainless drivetrains altogether, pairing with either drive shafts or belt drives instead of traditional chains. These alternatives are cleaner, quieter, and longer-lasting, further reducing the need for regular cleaning or adjustment.

High Torque Output & Reverse Mode

In terms of performance, these systems pack a serious punch, with their dual motors delivering up to 200Nm of torque, which is significantly more than most motors, and perfect for mountain bikes or fully laden cargo bikes.

And for those same cargo bikes, a unique benefit is the reverse mode. Because the system can spin the front chainring backward as well as forward, parking is especially easy.

Wide Gear Ranges and High Drive Efficiency

eCVTs also offer exceptionally wide gear ranges, up to 1000%, which means you can crawl up steep inclines and still cruise comfortably at high speeds. This range is roughly double that of most bicycle drivetrains.

Power transfer is handled more efficiently than with traditional CVTs, which often lose energy to friction in sliding pulleys or rotating spheres. Instead, eCVTs use motor control and planetary gear sets to deliver excellent overall efficiency.

Even better, eCVTs can constantly fine-tune the bike’s gear ratio for peak motor efficiency, helping you get the most out of every charge.

Regenerative Braking & Better Weight Distribution

Some systems go even further by incorporating regenerative braking. This means you can recover energy while braking or descending, extending battery range and reducing brake pad wear. In some designs, you can even back-pedal to slow the bike down.

And lastly, thanks to their centralised, mid-mounted design, eCVTs also contribute to improved weight distribution, which translates into better handling, especially on off-road terrain.

As you can see, eCVTs offer many benefits. But there are some trade-offs too.

The Disadvantages of eCVT Bicycles

Pedal Lag & Weight

There’s a slight delay (around 20 to 40 milliseconds) between your pedalling input and the motor response. It’s minor, but noticeable, similar to the difference between using a rear hub with 24 engagement points versus one with 72.

Weight is another factor. eCVTs tend to be heavier than a motor and derailleur combo. For example, a DJI Avinox system paired with a SRAM derailleur setup is roughly 500 to 1000 grams lighter than its eCVT counterpart.

Battery-Powered Shifting & Noise

These systems also rely entirely on battery power for gear shifting. If your battery dies, you could be stuck in the lowest gear. That said, most manufacturers build in a reserve capacity for enough shifts to get you home.

Noise may also be a drawback with this motor-gearbox configuration, as a dual-motor setup typically generates more sound than the best single-motor systems. That said, without large spur gears in the mix, overall noise levels remain relatively low.

Strange Pedalling Characteristics (Some Designs)

In some designs, the pedals drop to a resting position when stationary or without battery power. That could be a nuisance if the battery temporarily disconnects while riding, such as when hitting a bump.

Additionally, some entry-level eCVTs can feel less direct under high-torque situations. This is because you’re engaging the internal components (such as a belt or two) before you engage the external chain.

Difficult Repairs

And finally, repairs can be more complicated. With more electronics and sensors involved, fixing an eCVT usually requires a trained technician and specialised tools. As with any motorised system, it’d be prudent to only use a system with good local support.

Right, that’s the full list of trade-offs. Let’s now take a look at the companies pushing this technology forward.

Who’s Building eCVT Bicycle Drivetrains?

Revonte ONE

The first eCVT I want to show you is the Revonte ONE.

The stats are excellent on this unit with a monstrous 200Nm torque, 480% gear range, and 4.7kg weight. To put this weight in perspective, it’s heavier than the Pinion MGU (4.1kg) and Intradrive GD8 (4.5kg) but lighter than the Valeo Smart eBike System (4.9kg).

I tested a prototype Revonte ONE two years ago, and it was already performing exceptionally well. It shifted through the gears smoothly and unobtrusively, with only a very slight delay between pedalling and motor response.

A cool thing about the Revonte design is that the direct motor is set perpendicular to the speed ratio motor to minimise the packaging size.

Sadly, Revonte recently filed for bankruptcy. They’ve sold their intellectual property to another company in the eBike space, so expect it to reappear under another brand.

Owuru E2

Currently found in Decathlon bikes, the Owuru E2 is optimised for smooth city riding. It’s a touch lighter (4.6kg) than the Revonte, but it has a smaller gear range (265%) and less torque (65 to 120Nm).

The E2 has a different layout from other motors. The crank is connected to the planetary gear set via a belt, and the direct motor is connected to the gear set via a separate belt. The combined motors supply power to the small output sprocket.

As a result of its design, this motor feels a bit spongy under strong pedal input. That makes it great for cruising and less ideal for high-performance riding, which luckily, is not its intended use.

Driven Orbit Drive

Orbit Drive is a development from the team behind the wild Driven drivetrain, and it connects to the rear wheel via a drive shaft. By using a chainless drivetrain that’s protected from the elements, Driven reduces bike maintenance even further.

The specs are comparable to other eCVTs with a torque rating of 90Nm and a weight of 4.6kg.

However, Orbit Drive takes a completely different approach when it comes to design. The two motors are connected to a gear set just like normal, but instead of a planetary gear, this is a variable speed bevel differential built around the crank.

The direct motor is connected to a bevel gear on one side of the “orbit”, and the speed ratio motor connects to the other. When the speed ratio motor engages its side of the “orbit”, the output can spin faster.

One thing working against this design is that bevel gears inherently have higher losses than straight-cut gears, and there are a lot of them here. But if other aspects of drivetrain performance are excellent, a reduction in efficiency can easily be overlooked.

Villiger Dynamic Drive

Villiger Technik, known for its agricultural equipment, is entering the eBike world with a lightweight eCVT called Dynamic Drive.

It’s still in development, but the stats suggest a serious contender – it’s said to be 20% lighter than other motors (3.8kg), while offering 100Nm torque and over 1000% gear range.

Ellio

The last eCVT drivetrain you should know about is by Ellio. This Belgian company specialises in two-wheel drive eBikes that can travel at 45km/h.

The Ellio eCVT layout is completely different to the others as it has been built using modified e-bike parts. The direct motor is found at the front wheel, the speed ratio motor is above the crankset, and the planetary gear is in the rear hub. Two drive belts connect everything up.

Ellio bikes have fully automatic gear changing, regenerative braking and massive batteries for extra range. All you have to do is set your cadence (from 55 to 90 RPM) and the bike will do the rest.

Unique to this bike is a ‘cruise control’ feature, which maintains your cycling speed even as you vary your pedal inputs. And another cool feature only possible on a two-wheel drive bike is the traction control. Ellio bikes can identify wheel spin or loss of grip, and reduce the torque delivered to the wheel (or wheels) to regain traction.

Before I sum everything up, let’s quickly chat about why eCVT bicycles aren’t mainstream yet.

Why Aren’t eCVT Bicycles Mainstream?

Bringing a new motor and gear system to market is expensive and difficult. It takes years of R&D and millions in investment.

It typically requires the backing of a major company (like Bosch or Shimano) to get the technology off the ground. These brands have deep resources, tonnes of experience, and can quickly scale up production and secure partnerships to get their product out there.

Most eCVT projects are startups. While the technology is impressive, mass adoption will take time – unless a major player decides to bring it into their lineup.

Are eCVT Bicycles the Future of eBikes?

With automatic gear changes, seamless shifting, increased durability, and chainless drivetrain options, eCVTs offer compelling advantages.

There are still challenges to solve, like reducing weight, minimising pedal lag, and expanding service networks. But the potential is enormous.

As the tech matures and bigger brands get involved, I predict eCVT bicycles will become a common sight on roads, trails, and bike lanes in around a decade.

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The post Are Chainless eCVT Bicycles The Future of eBike Tech? appeared first on CYCLINGABOUT.com.

In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the best dynamo lights. We’ll start with the technical basics – lumens, lux, and beam shapes. Then I’ll cover features like adjustable beam modes, USB charging, and how to choose the right light for your bike.

Once you have a solid understanding of how they work, I’ll share my top picks for the best dynamo lights currently available, both for on-road and off-road riding. We’ll compare them side by side, focusing on their beam shapes to highlight how each performs in real-world conditions.

Keep in mind: there’s no one-size-fits-all solution. The ideal light for you will depend on your riding conditions, the beam shape you prefer, how much brightness you need, and whether USB charging is a priority.

This article was originally published in April 2017 but has been updated in May 2025.

Lumens and Lux

The light output at the source is measured in lumens (lm), which is a helpful unit for comparing the raw output of different LED bulbs.

Lux measures the brightness at a specific distance – that is, the amount of light falling on a surface. In Germany, regulations define lux by measuring the illumination cast on a white wall from 10 metres away.

For most everyday, non-technical riding, a light rated at 80 lux or roughly 200 lm is more than sufficient. But if you’re tackling more demanding terrain, look for lights with at least 100 lux or 300 lm for improved visibility and safety.

Keep in mind that lumens and lux reflect different aspects of performance. Two lights with the same lumen rating can deliver dramatically different results depending on how their beams are shaped. For instance, a wide-beam, high-lumen light may result in low lux, while a low-lumen light with a tightly focused beam can achieve a much higher lux value (as illustrated in the diagram above).

That’s why evaluating beam shape is crucial when choosing a dynamo light.

Beam Shape

The beam shape is arguably the most important aspect of a dynamo light.

A light might boast a high lumen output, but if it doesn’t project light where you actually need it, it’s not much use. By combining a well-designed reflector with a moderately bright LED, you can achieve highly effective illumination using a fraction of the lumens.

The most reliable way to compare beam shapes on different dynamo lights is by using a camera setup and a test rig. Don’t worry, you’ll be able to compare photos of all the different dynamo light beam shapes at the end of this article.

Here are some websites that compare dynamo light beam shapes:
Fahrrad Zukunft
Fahrrad Beleuchtung
PeterWhiteCycles
Busch & Muller

Off-Road and On-Road Lights

Dynamo lights are generally categorised as off-road or on-road, based on how they distribute light. However, many modern cut-off beam models now offer high beam modes that make them powerful enough for off-road riding as well.

Off-road lights usually feature a round beam, much like a handheld flashlight. This design is ideal for lighting objects above your line of sight, such as low-hanging branches or trail markers. Because the beam is round, these lights can also be mounted upside down without altering the beam shape.

On-road lights feature a cut-off beam designed to light up the road efficiently and safely. The beam usually begins about 50 cm in front of the front wheel and expands in both width and distance the farther it projects.

Much like a car headlight, a reflector inside the light is engineered to limit glare at eye level, reducing the risk of blinding oncoming traffic or pedestrians. High-end reflectors can also layer the light, dimming the area closest to the rider and intensifying the brightness further out where it’s most needed.

Lights with cut-off beam shapes are often labelled as StVZO-compliant, referring to Germany’s road safety regulations. These are widely regarded as the international standard for road-legal dynamo lights and hubs.

Adjustable Beam Modes

Some dynamo lights come with adjustable beam modes, allowing you to switch between brightness levels to suit different environments. A high, long-range beam is ideal for dark rural roads, while a lower, cut-off beam works better in well-lit urban areas.

This flexibility allows you to optimise visibility for changing conditions, with high-beam modes also improving illumination while cornering. Switching between modes is typically done via a handlebar-mounted control.

Light Sensors

Some lights come with integrated light sensors that automatically switch between day and night modes. These sensors typically include a slight delay to avoid reacting to temporary changes, like oncoming car headlights, ensuring smooth transitions without unnecessary flickering.

Dynamo Lights With USB Charging

Some dynamo lights include a built-in switch that diverts power from the light to a USB charging port, providing a neat and cost-effective way to charge your devices with fewer cables.

Typically, hub dynamo USB chargers perform best when the light is off, but many newer models now allow you to charge your devices and keep your lights on simultaneously. When paired with a powerful hub like the Shimano DH-UR700 or SON 29 S (which deliver up to 50% more power than standard hubs), you’ll have more than enough power for all your needs.

For a detailed overview of the best hub dynamo USB chargers, check out my resource HERE.

What Speeds Are Required For Dynamo Lights?

Most dynamo lights begin producing usable light at speeds around 8 to 10 km/h (5–6 mph) and reach full brightness between 15 and 30 km/h (9–13 mph). Below 5 km/h, illumination drops off significantly – unless you’re using a high-output hub like the Shimano DH-UR700 or SON 29 S.

At very low speeds, many lights still provide some illumination thanks to built-in standlights. These are typically powered by small capacitors that charge during your ride.

Top-tier dynamo lights often include a small internal battery or supercapacitor. These storage cells help maintain consistent brightness and reduce flicker at lower speeds, making them ideal for slow climbs or technical terrain. They also keep the light shining brightly for a short time after you stop.

I’ve listed all the best dynamo lights with built-in batteries or supercapacitors at the end of this article.

Mounting Your Dynamo Lights

Dynamo light beam patterns are generally designed for mounting at fork crown height, just above the front wheel. However, this isn’t always feasible. Alternative mounting options include placing the light higher on the handlebars, on aero bars, or atop a front rack with a tray.

Lower mounting positions, like on a rack deck or fork blade, tend to emphasise the foreground, which can lead to shadows from obstacles such as rocks or leaves. This setup may also limit your long-range vision, as the bright foreground causes your pupils to constrict, making it harder to see further ahead.

My Full Dynamo Setup Series

If you want to learn it all, it could be worth digging into my full series on dynamo setups:

Dynamo Hubs
Dynamo USB Chargers
Dynamo Wiring
Buffer Batteries
Rim Dynamos

Best Dynamo Lights: Cut-Off Beam

SON Ladelux (800+ Lm)

The SON Ladelux is one of the most impressive dynamo lights I’ve come across. It features a powerful 150-lux low beam and an even brighter 200-lux high beam, delivering excellent visibility in all riding conditions.

A built-in 1200 mAh buffer battery ensures that the high beam remains available regardless of your speed, and also keeps your USB-powered devices charged when you’re stationary.

The beam shape is notably wide and square, with consistent brightness across the entire spread. There’s a concentrated patch of illumination near the top centre, ideally positioned to reach the farthest point on the road.

One potential downside is the stark contrast between the brightly lit area and the dark periphery. With little transition at the beam edges, the intense light could make the surrounding darkness feel even darker, creating a tunnel-like effect while riding.

A standout feature is the magnetic USB connector, located on the handlebar, along with the high and low beam switch. This clever design helps prevent water ingress and makes it easy to keep your phone or bike computer topped up during long rides.

SON Ladelux

Lumens at 20kph: 762 (high beam)
Maximum Illuminance: 200 lux
Battery For Low Speed: 1200 mAh
USB Charging: Yes
Price: €479

B&M IQ-XL (600+ Lm)

The B&M IQ-XL is one of the brightest dynamo lights available, delivering the highest lux rating of any light between 25 and 30 km/h (around 260 lux) and peaking at 300 lux.

Its beam shape is impressively wide, extending several metres beyond the reach of the Ladelux on either side. Like the Ladelux, it features a focused patch of light near the top centre of the beam, aimed to illuminate the farthest point on the road, while also offering slightly more low-level illumination around the main beam.

A handlebar-mounted button allows you to activate high beam mode. At 250 lux, the high beam projects even farther and is available from speeds as low as 10 km/h, reaching full brightness just under 50 km/h.

However, the IQ-XL lacks an internal battery, so brightness does drop at lower speeds. Still, it manages to produce around 40 lux at just 8 km/h (more than virtually all dynamo lights), so you’ll have plenty of illumination even when climbing hills.

B&M IQ-XL

Lumens at 20kph: 481 (high beam)
Maximum Illuminance: 300 lux
Battery For Low Speed: No
USB Charging: No
Price: €299

Supernova M99 DY PRO (600+ Lm)

The Supernova M99 DY PRO is a high-powered dynamo light known for its exceptionally wide beam shape. Compared to models like the Ladelux and IQ-XL, the M99 offers much more low-level illumination directly in front of the wheel and to the sides, enhancing peripheral visibility and making it easier to read the terrain around you.

With 11 LEDs and advanced control electronics, the M99 DY PRO delivers up to 1,000 lumens and 200 lux. However, the light takes some time to reach its full potential – you’ll need to be riding above 20 km/h to notice a clear advantage over most 200-lumen lights, and it only reaches peak brightness at speeds over 30 km/h.

The M99 DY Pro includes both high and low beam modes, making it versatile for city commuting and off-road use. However, it lacks a battery assist, so light output at low speeds is limited and can flicker. Additionally, the beam shape isn’t very uniform – several bright spots appear in the centre, which some riders may find distracting.

Supernova M99 DY PRO

Lumens at 20kph: 419 (high beam)
Maximum Illuminance: 200 lux
Battery For Low Speed: No
USB Charging: No
Price: US $319 on Amazon

Igaro C1 (550+ Lm)

The Igaro C1 is another ultra-bright dynamo light that excels at fast device charging. At speeds above 23 km/h (14 mph), it delivers more USB power output than any other dynamo light charger on the market.

While its beam isn’t as bright or wide as some of the other models, it offers a concentrated central hotspot and a fairly broad spread. There’s also a generous amount of low-level illumination directly in front of the wheel and to the sides, making it especially useful for low-speed riding.

What really sets the C1 apart is its high level of configurability. Using a companion app, you can fine-tune how power is distributed between lighting, charging, and storage. These settings automatically adapt based on your speed, battery level, and ambient light.

Additionally, the built-in supercapacitors supply power when you’re riding at low speeds, helping to eliminate flickering and maintain a consistent, high-lumen output.

The light is housed in a single-piece CNC-machined aluminium shell, sealed for an IP69 waterproof rating. USB-C ports and sockets come with rain covers, and the toughened front glass and vibration-resistant internals make it highly durable for demanding rides.

Igaro C1

Lumens at 20kph: 575 (both beams)
Maximum Illuminance: 80+ lux
Battery For Low Speed: Supercaps
USB Charging: Yes
Price: £317

Purple Dog Companion (300+ Lm)

The Purple Dog Companion, designed and built by Nicola Banishki, combines a light and a USB charger in one unit. A handlebar-mounted remote allows you to switch between powering external devices or illuminating your path, with adjustable power levels for each mode. Impressively, it even lets you charge devices and light your way simultaneously.

The Companion has a narrower beam compared to the other lights here, focusing more light farther down the road. This makes it better suited for higher speeds rather than slower riding. It’ll be best used on tarmac roads.

Thanks to its internal battery, it can maintain full brightness at any speed, and there’s the option to dim it down to about 20% brightness when you don’t need maximum illumination. The light is available with two LED colour options: warmer or cooler.

Purple Dog Companion

Lumens at 20kph: 225
Maximum Illuminance: 40 lux
Battery For Low Speed: 1600 mAh
USB Charging: Yes
Price: €395

B&M IQ-X (300+ Lm)

The B&M IQ-X is a popular dynamo front light known for its excellent foreground illumination, making it especially useful for slower-speed riding and cornering.

With a 300-lumen output, it excels at illuminating the road ahead over longer distances, outperforming the next three lights I’ll cover. However, this combination of strong near-field and long-range lighting creates a trade-off: a noticeable dark band between the two areas.

The IQ-X also provides good side visibility, thanks to a separate LED positioned behind side openings in the light’s housing. These LEDs remain faintly illuminated even when stationary.

Overall, the light is sturdy and well-constructed with a durable metal housing. The only minor drawback is the on/off button, which has a slightly spongy feel when pressed.

B&M IQ-X

Lumens at 20kph: 300
Maximum Illuminance: 100 lux
Battery For Low Speed: No
USB Charging: No
Price: US $129 on Amazon

B&M Lumotec IQ Cyo Premium (250+ Lm)

The Cyo Premium (80 lux version) is easily one of my top recommendations in the mid-range dynamo light category. It delivers a relatively high light output with a wide and evenly distributed beam.

While it doesn’t quite pack the punch of the B&M IQ-X, the tapering beam shape results in a more even distribution of light, which will be especially nice for road use.

B&M Lumotec IQ Cyo Premium T Senso Plus

Lumens at 20kph: 260
Maximum Illuminance: 80 lux
Battery For Low Speed: No
USB Charging: No
Price: US $102 on Amazon

SON Edelux II (200+ Lm)

The SON Edelux II dynamo light is renowned for its reliability and excellent beam shape for road use. It’s the dynamo light I’ve personally used for nearly a decade without a single issue.

It shares the same reflector as the B&M Cyo Premium, so the beam shape should look almost identical. The main differences lie in the materials and construction.

The Edelux II features an anti-reflective glass lens, unlike the plastic front panel of the Cyo Premium. This allows slightly more light to pass through and significantly reduces side-scatter, which some riders find distracting (though others appreciate the additional peripheral visibility). It also boasts a durable metal housing that’s highly waterproof, offering better long-term protection than the plastic casing of the Cyo.

In terms of beam colour, the Edelux II has a slightly warmer tone, while the Cyo Premium appears a bit cooler.

At around twice the price of the Cyo Premium, the SON Edelux II is worth the extra cost only if you value its warmer beam colour, reduced side glare, and premium build quality. For added versatility, SON also offers an upside-down lens option, allowing for under-bar or low front-rack mounting.

SON Edelux II

Lumens at 20kph: 210
Maximum Illuminance: 95 lux
Battery For Low Speed: No
USB Charging: No
Price: US $220

B&M IQ-XS (200+ Lm)

The best value dynamo light I can recommend is the B&M IQ-XS. This compact light actually offers a wider beam than the SON Edelux II and Cyo Premium, making it slightly better suited for off-road use and cornering.

Its beam shape is broad and evenly distributed at moderate speeds, starting just in front of the wheel and extending up to 15 to 20 metres. However, the wider spread means it may not provide enough illuminance for high-speed descents or demanding terrain.

The IQ-XS offers reliable everyday performance and solid build quality (including a metal housing), especially impressive given that it costs half as much as the Cyo Premium and just a quarter of the price of the Edelux II!

B&M IQ-XS

Lumens at 20kph: 210
Maximum Illuminance: 80 lux
Battery For Low Speed: No
USB Charging: No
Price: US $54 on Amazon

Best Dynamo Lights: Round Beam Shape

kLite Bikepacker Ultra V2 (1300+ Lm)

The kLite Bikepacker Ultra V2 is one of the brightest dynamo lights on this list and is designed with durability in mind. It’s fully waterproof, vibration-resistant, and built to withstand the demands of off-road riding.

Renowned for its outstanding off-road brightness, the Bikepacker Ultra is a favourite among ultra-distance racers. It provides significantly more illumination ahead and to the sides than most dynamo lights, making it ideal for slow-speed riding and tight turns. Its three horizontally mounted LEDs each contribute different characteristics, resulting in a beam that’s more oval than round.

There are two beam configurations. The ‘Race’ version (two spotlights and one floodlight) is designed to project light far down the trail, making it ideal for descending rough terrain at high speeds. In contrast, the ‘Adventure’ version (two floodlights and one spotlight) features a wider beam shape with strong foreground illumination, better suited for tackling technical terrain at slower speeds.

kLite Bikepacker Ultra V2

Lumens at 20kph: ±1000
Maximum Illuminance: -
Battery For Low Speed: Supercapacitor
USB Charging: Yes (comes in kit)
Price: US $500 (full kit)

Sinewave Beacon 2 (750+ Lm)

The Sinewave Beacon 2 is a powerful dynamo light with a round beam shape. While the light is undoubtedly bright, the beam shape is more like a narrow torch beam, so it’d actually be better for higher speed riding on tarmac roads where you don’t need to see through corners.

A key highlight is this light’s versatile power options – you can run it via a dynamo hub, an external USB battery pack, or both simultaneously. When connected to a battery pack, it also supports a blinking mode for added visibility.

It provides reliable smartphone charging at speeds of around 17 km/h, but can also power small USB devices at speeds as slow as 5 km/h.

Sinewave Beacon 2

Lumens at 20kph: 451
Maximum Illuminance: -
Battery For Low Speed: No
USB Charging: Yes
Price: US $350

Exposure Revo (800+ Lm)

The Exposure Revo is a high-quality, ultra-bright dynamo light featuring four LEDs. It reaches its maximum 800-lumen output at around 27 km/h, making it ideal for fast-paced riding.

When you come to a stop, the Revo’s supercapacitors provide up to ten minutes of light at 400 lumens. It can also continue running for up to an hour at a gradually decreasing brightness. These supercapacitors will recharge fully after just 15 minutes of riding, and help the light return to full output quickly when you’re regularly stopping and starting.

A neat feature on the back of the light is the dedicated output port for powering the Exposure RedEye rear light.

Exposure Revo

Lumens at 20kph: ±500
Maximum Illuminance: -
Battery For Low Speed: Supercapacitor
USB Charging: No
Price: US $300 on Amazon

Note: If you make a dynamo light purchase through the Amazon links, a small cut goes to supporting CYCLINGABOUT. It’s no cost to you, and the money goes a long way to creating more great resources.

My Full Dynamo Setup Series

If you want to learn it all, it could be worth digging into my full series on dynamo setups:

Dynamo Hubs
Dynamo USB Chargers
Dynamo Wiring
Buffer Batteries
Rim Dynamos

The post A Guide To The Best Dynamo Lights For Bicycle Touring and Bikepacking appeared first on CYCLINGABOUT.com.

Personally, I use the Cinq Plug6 Plus to charge a range of devices, including my iPhone, AirPods, speaker, eReader, headlamp, Insta360 camera, Garmin InReach, and a battery pack.

This article was originally published in March 2012 but has been updated in May 2025.

If you’re bikepacking off-road or tackling steep mountain trails, you might want to consider using a power bank or solar panel instead of relying solely on a dynamo charger. Dynamo systems aren’t very efficient for charging high-power devices like smartphones unless you’re maintaining an average speed of 12 to 15 kph (7.5 to 9 mph).

That said, hub dynamos are still capable of charging low-power devices such as GPS trackers, navigation units, or small battery packs – even at speeds as low as 5 kph (3 mph). This makes them a reliable option for off-road ultra-endurance racing.

If your route involves a mix of riding speeds, especially stretches where you’re often below 12 km/h, it’s a good idea to include a buffer battery in your setup. This helps keep your devices powered during slow climbs or stops, like waiting at traffic lights. Thankfully, many modern hub dynamo USB chargers now come with integrated buffer batteries.

The above is a very brief introduction – if you want to learn it all, it could be worth digging into my full series:
Dynamo Hubs
Dynamo Lights
Dynamo USB Chargers
Dynamo Wiring
Buffer Batteries
Rim Dynamos

Key Stats For Benchmarking Hub Dynamo USB Chargers

To make comparison easier, I’ve detailed the key specifications of each hub dynamo USB charger in this guide and grouped them into three distinct design categories:

• Steerer Integrated – These chargers are built to fit cleanly inside your fork’s steerer tube for a sleek setup.

• Front Light – These are dynamo-powered front lights that also function as USB chargers.

• Inline – Typically compact boxes or tubes, these chargers need to be mounted externally or carried in a bag.

The main specifications used for comparison are:

• Speed at 2.5W – The speed required to generate 2.5 watts, the baseline requirement for charging a smartphone.
• Power at 20 kph – The maximum USB output power when riding at 20 kph.
• Power Output Graph – A graph showing the charger’s power output curve, if available.
• Buffer Battery – If the charging system includes a built-in buffer battery, its capacity is noted here.
• Price – The retail price of the hub dynamo USB charger.

Within each design category, chargers are also ranked by their power output at a steady cycling speed of 20 km/h.

Integrated Hub Dynamo USB Chargers

Cinq Plug6 Plus

The Cinq Plug6 Plus is the hub dynamo USB charger I currently use, chosen for its sleek integration and strong power output at speeds below 18 kph. It includes a 1100 mAh buffer battery hidden within the steerer tube, which kicks in when your speed drops below 12 kph. The unit allows you to power lights and charge a device simultaneously, although with both running together, it’s better at maintaining a phone’s charge than fully recharging it. The USB-C port is neatly concealed beneath a rotating, ratcheting top cap.

One drawback is its limited waterproofing – water can collect inside during heavy rain. Because of this, I avoid using it in downpours and always cover it with the included waterproof cap. Also, if you’re looking for a short USB-C-to-iPhone cable, there’s a 15 cm option available on Amazon, and for USB-C to USB-C, there are 15cm options and 10 cm options.

Speed at 2.5W: 12 kph
Power at 20kph: 4.6 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: 1100mAh
Price: US $359

Forumslader V6 Ahead

The Forumslader Ahead V6 ranks among the most powerful dynamo USB chargers at higher speeds, featuring built-in buffer batteries that ensure a stable charge even when stopped. The bigger battery requires more length inside the steerer tube (290 mm) than the smaller battery (190 mm).

A key advantage of Forumslader products is their continual updates, incorporating the latest technology and circuitry, made possible by their small-scale production. For extra protection of the USB port, an aftermarket dust- and water-resistant cap is available HERE.

Speed at 2.5W: 14 kph
Power at 20kph: 4.6 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: 2100 or 7350 mAh
Price: €255

Cycle2Charge V3+

The Cycle2Charge V3+ dynamo USB charger provides great value for its price. It generates the minimum power required to charge a smartphone at 15 kph (2.5W), with the majority of its output occurring between 20 and 25 kph. Like the Plug6 Plus, it includes a rotating dome that protects the USB port when not in use.

Speed at 2.5W: 15 kph
Power at 20kph: 4.3 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: No
Price: €80

Sinewave Reactor

The Sinewave Reactor is known for its solid reliability and decent performance. Its electronics are cleanly integrated into the fork steerer, giving it a sleek look and making it more resistant to theft. Made in the USA, it has earned high praise from numerous users. It’s also available in eight different anodised colours!

Speed at 2.5W: 17.5 kph
Power at 20kph: 3 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: No
Price: US $220

Cinq Plug5 Pure

The Cinq Plug5 Pure is a more affordable option compared to the Plug6 Plus, as it doesn’t include an integrated buffer battery. Since its maximum output is only 3.1 watts, it’s better suited for low-power devices like a Garmin GPS or Spot Tracker, rather than charging a smartphone.

Speed at 2.5W: 14 kph
Power at 20kph: 3.1-watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: No, but it is designed to be used seamlessly with the Smart Power Pack II
Price: €159

Gunzel Charge Elite

The Gunzel Charge Elite is an unusual hub dynamo USB charger. Its performance from dynamo input is relatively weak, but it stands out for its ability to be externally charged at 30W and to deliver power just as quickly to a compatible device. It’s better to think of this as a fast battery bank that’s conveniently located inside the steerer tube of your bike.

Speed at 2.5W: 40 kph
Power at 20kph: 1.7 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: 7000 mAh
Price: €170

Lights With Hub Dynamo USB Chargers

Purple Dog Companion

The Purple Dog Companion is a combined light and USB charger, designed and built by Nicola Banishki. A handlebar-mounted remote allows you to toggle between charging the internal battery and powering external devices like a phone, with adjustable power levels for each mode.

Optimised for road use, the Companion features a soft-colored LED, a cut-off beam pattern for oncoming traffic, and the ability to dim the light down to around 20% brightness, regardless of your speed. When extra brightness is needed, it can draw from its internal battery to maintain full output.

Speed at 2.5W: 15 kph
Power at 20kph: 5 watts (manufacturer claim)
Power Output Graph: No
Battery: 1600 mAh
Price: €395

Purple Dog Stalker

The Purple Dog Stalker is an even brighter light than the Companion, equipped with a high beam and automatic power management that intelligently switches between charging its internal battery and powering a USB device. It uses the same USB circuitry as the Companion.

Instead of a single LED, the Stalker features an LED matrix that emits a brighter white light and supports both road and high beam modes. In high beam mode, it delivers significantly more light above the horizon, though road-level illumination is slightly reduced compared to the Companion. A remote control lets you dim the light at any speed (~20% brightness), and the internal battery ensures maximum brightness is maintained even when you slow down or stop.

Speed at 2.5W: 15 kph
Power at 20kph: 5 watts (manufacturer claim)
Power Output Graph: No
Battery: 1600 mAh
Price: €425

SON Ladelux

The SON Ladelux is not only one of the brightest dynamo front lights on the market, but it also delivers some of the best USB charging speeds. It’s integrated USB charger enables easy charging of external devices via a magnetic port, with a status indicator conveniently located on the handlebar switch.

As for lighting performance, it boasts a powerful 150-lux low beam and an even brighter 200-lux high beam, providing outstanding visibility in all conditions. The built-in 1200 mAh buffer battery ensures the high beam remains available regardless of your riding speed, as well as power to your devices when you stop.

Speed at 2.5W: 12 kph
Power at 20kph: 4.7 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Battery: 1200 mAh
Price: €479

Igaro C1

The Igaro C1 is another ultra-bright dynamo light that delivers fast device charging. Above 23 km/h (14 mph), it outperforms all other dynamo lights in terms of USB power output.

What sets it apart is its exceptional configurability. Through an app, you can control how the generated power is allocated between storage, lighting, and USB output. These preferences are then automatically adjusted based on your speed, battery charge, and surrounding light conditions.

Speed at 2.5W: 13 kph
Power at 20kph: 4.5 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Battery: Supercapacitor
Price: £317

Spanninga Nomad

The Spanninga Nomad is by far the most budget-friendly light and USB charger combo on the market. Its compact design includes a discreetly placed USB port on the side of the lamp. Although its light output is lower at 40 lux, compared to 90 lux from B&M and 70 lux from AXA, it provides higher USB power at 20 kph than both competitors.

Speed at 2.5W: 18 kph
Power at 20kph: 3.4 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Battery: No
Price: US $50

Sinewave Beacon 2

The Sinewave Beacon 2 is a powerful dynamo light with a round beam pattern and an integrated USB charger. It uses the same internal electronics as the Sinewave Revolution and Reactor, providing reliable smartphone charging from around 17 kph.

A key highlight is its versatile power options – you can run it via a dynamo hub, an external USB battery pack, or both simultaneously. When connected to a battery pack, it also supports a blinking mode for added visibility.

Speed at 2.5W: 17 kph
Power at 20kph: 2.9 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Battery: No
Price: US $350

B&M Lumotec IQ2 Luxos

Originally launched in 2012 (so it’s a bit dated now), this 90-lux dynamo light features a built-in handlebar switch and USB charger. Its sleek, integrated design is a strong point, though its charging performance has received mixed feedback. Nonetheless, it’s a reliable dynamo light with a well-shaped beam that’s ideal for on-road use.

Speed at 2.5W: No data
Power at 20kph: No data
Battery: No
Price: US $260

AXA Luxx70 Plus

The AXA Luxx70 Plus is comparable to the Lumotec IQ2 light, featuring a handlebar switch that lets you toggle between the LED light and USB charging. Its standout advantage is the excellent price, and by all reports, it performs reliably as well.

Speed at 2.5W: No data
Power at 20kph: No data
Battery: No
Price: US $150

In-line Hub Dynamo USB Chargers

Igaro S1 Pro

The Igaro S1 Pro is a notably high-performing dynamo hub charger, especially at low speeds. It has dual USB-C ports, status indicators, and super-capacitors that add power to your device when you’re cycling at slower speeds. The S1 Pro is IP69 waterproof and mounts directly to your handlebar near the stem.

Speed at 2.5W: 14 kph (manufacturer claim)
Power at 20kph: 6.8 watts (manufacturer claim)
Power Output Graph: HERE (manufacturer claim)
Buffer Battery: Internal super-capacitors with four minutes of stationary power
Price: £260

Lumi-Con Bike Harvester PM

The Lumi-Con PM offers amazing specs for the price. It integrates up to 3500 mAh worth of batteries that can kick in when you drop to low speeds, or store any excess power for when you’ve finished your ride.

Speed at 2.5W: 15 kph (manufacturer claim)
Power at 20kph: 5.5 watts (manufacturer claim)
Power Output Graph: HERE (manufacturer claim)
Buffer Battery: 3500mAh
Price: €161

Busch and Müller K-Werk

The B&M K-Werk is a new dynamo-powered USB charger from the renowned dynamo lighting specialists at Busch & Müller. It’s one of the most powerful options available, reaching maximum output at around 20 kph. A strap mount allows it to be attached to your top tube, and its large internal battery keeps your devices charged even when you slow down or stop. At a steady 15 kph, it takes roughly 10 hours of riding to fully charge the battery.

Speed at 2.5W: 14 kph
Power at 20kph: 4.6 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: 4900 mAh
Price: €180

Forumslader Pro V6

The Forumslader Pro V6 comes in a more budget-friendly inline version than the Ahead V6 (mentioned earlier), designed to fit neatly inside a handlebar bag. It’s one of the most powerful dynamo USB chargers at higher speeds, with built-in buffer batteries that maintain a stable output even when stationary.

A standout feature of Forumslader products is their ongoing evolution – thanks to small-scale production, they’re frequently updated with the latest technology and circuitry.

Speed at 2.5W: 14 kph
Power at 20kph: 4.6 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: 7500 mAh
Price: €122

Fahrradlader V3.1

The Fahrradlader V3.1 is a small open-hardware project by an electrical engineering student in Germany. The Fahrradlader V3.1 delivers big power at 20kph for very little money, plus it has four supercapacitors that keep the power flowing temporarily when you ride at low speeds. This model is not waterproof and appears to only be made in small numbers (you might need to get your name on a list).

Speed at 2.5W: 16.5 kph (manufacturer claim)
Power at 20kph: 5 watts (manufacturer claim)
Power Output Graph: HERE (manufacturer claim)
Buffer Battery: Four super-capacitors with stationary power
Price: €35

Igaro D2 Pro R3

The Igaro D2 Pro R3 charger features dual USB-C ports, status indicators, and a metal casing. It’s compact, IP69 waterproof, and hand-assembled in the UK. The charger comes with a five-year warranty, and Igaro will ship warranty replacements anywhere in the world for free.

Speed at 2.5W: 14 kph (R2 model)
Power at 20kph: 4.1 watts (R2 model)
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: No
Price: £160

Lumi-Con Bike Harvester P5

The Lumi-Con P5 offers excellent specs for the price. It integrates up to 7000mAh worth of batteries that can store any excess power for when you’ve finished your ride.

Speed at 2.5W: 14 kph
Power at 20kph: 4 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: 2x 3500mAh
Price: €159

Velotor Sport E2 Base

The Velotor is a compact dynamo charger that performs reasonably well at lower speeds, but really comes into its own above 30 kph. At higher speeds, like descending a mountain at 55 kph, it can deliver up to 10W of power, making it one of the highest-output USB chargers available.

Speed at 2.5W: 16 kph
Power at 20kph: 3.6 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: No
Price: €197

Sinewave Revolution

Weighing just 38 grams and fully waterproof, this compact charger connects directly to phones or power banks. It’s a popular choice thanks to its known reliability and Sinewave Reactor-matching performance at a lower price. Expect around 2.5W at 17 kph, 3W at 20 kph, and up to 4.5W at 30 kph. Like all Sinewave products, it’s proudly made in the USA.

Speed at 2.5W: 17 kph
Power at 20kph: 3 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: No
Price: US $120

kLite Micro

kLite, the small Australian company known for rugged lighting and dynamo systems built for remote backcountry adventures, now offers the kLite Micro – a compact, waterproof USB charger. While its power output is modest, it’s ideal for smaller devices like GPS units or trackers.

Speed at 2.5W: 18 kph (manufacturer claim)
Power at 20kph: 3 watts (manufacturer claim)
Power Output Graph: HERE (manufacturer claim)
Buffer Battery: No
Price: US $100

kLite Dual USB Charger

The kLite Dual USB charger is built with reliability in mind. It uses thicker internal cabling and smoothing capacitors to deliver ultra-consistent power, ideal for direct charging of sensitive devices (according to kLite, these components take up nearly half the unit’s volume). It also features dual USB output ports and an input for a solar panel, making it one of the most versatile options available.

Speed at 2.5W: 18 kph
Power at 20kph: 2.8 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: Available separately
Price: US $170

Busch and Müller E-Werk

Though somewhat dated, the E-Werk is notable for letting you adjust both voltage (2.8 to 13.3V) and current (0.1 to 1.5A) to suit the charging needs of various devices. While this flexibility sounds promising in theory, it can make the charger more complex than necessary. This feature is only beneficial if you frequently ride at very high speeds (over 40 kph). In terms of performance, the E-Werk delivers smartphone-level charging at around 17.5 kph and exceeds 7 watts by the time you reach 45 kph.

Speed at 2.5W: 17.5 kph
Power at 20kph: 2.8 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: Available separately for €105
Price: €179

Busch and Müller USB-Werk

The USB Werk is Busch and Müller’s newer model, though it’s becoming a bit dated itself. It’s a simplified version of the E-Werk, featuring a small built-in buffer battery. It can deliver smartphone-level charging (around 2.5 watts) at 20 kph.

Speed at 2.5W: 20 kph
Power at 20kph: 2.5 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: 300mAh
Price: €110

USB2BYK

Speed at 2.5W: 20 kph (manufacturer claim)
Power at 20kph: 2.5 watts (manufacturer claim)
Buffer Battery: No
Price: €39

Kemo M172N

The Kemo M172N is a dynamo USB charger featuring a built-in switch that lets you toggle power between your lights and USB devices. It’s a great value and reportedly performs very well when your average speed stays above 25 kph.

Speed at 2.5W: 22 kph
Power at 20kph: 2.3-watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: No
Price: £40

PowerBUG

Another affordable charger from Poland is the PowerBUG. Although it requires relatively high speeds to reach smartphone-level charging, it’s definitely budget-friendly.

Speed at 2.5W: 25 kph
Power at 20kph: 2.3 watts
Power Output Graph: HERE
Buffer Battery: No
Price: €38 (169 zł)

Ullmann Power Station 4

Speed at 2.5W: No data
Power at 20kph: No data
Buffer Battery: No
Price: €130

VeloCharger MK2

Speed at 2.5W: No data
Power at 20kph: No data
Buffer Battery: No
Price: £105

BioLogic ReeCharge Dynamo Kit

Speed at 2.5W: No data
Power at 20kph: No data
Buffer Battery: No
Price: US $39

Learn About:
Hub Dynamo USB Chargers HERE
Dynamo Wiring Systems HERE
Buffer Batteries HERE
Dynamo Lights HERE

The post List of Hub Dynamo USB Chargers That Power Your Electronics While You Ride appeared first on CYCLINGABOUT.com.

This new test paired four dynamo hubs with various lights and USB chargers, measuring performance across speeds from 0 to 30 km/h. The results were surprising, revealing just how much performance can vary, even among hubs all rated at 6 volts and 3 watts.

The SON 28 Classic dynamo hub, which has long been used for the majority of all dynamo light and USB charger benchmark tests over the years, now lags behind the performance of newer SON hub models. And that performance gap has real-world implications, especially when it comes to charging your devices or lighting your way.

Let’s dive into the details.

Hub Dynamo Lab Test

Andreas Oehler tested four different SON hub dynamo models for FahrradZukunft:

• SON 28 Classic: Standard 6V 3W dynamo hub
• SONdelux 12: Dynamo hub for high-speed use
• SON 28 12: Most powerful current SON hub
• SON 29 S: New 40 magnetic pole dynamo hub

These four hubs were connected to three different dynamo lights and USB chargers:

• SON Ladelux: All-new light and USB charger from SON
• B&M E-Werk USB Charger: Powerful new charger from Busch & Müller
• Supernova M99 DY Pro: Super bright dynamo light from Supernova

Method

The various SON dynamo hubs were mounted in the FahrradZukunft test rig and spun at different speeds.

The setup assumed a 28″ wheel with a 700 mm diameter. Electrical output from the hub, along with the charge and discharge power of the charging adapter’s buffer battery, was measured using a GMC Metrahit 29S. A programmable electronic load (Array 3711A) simulated the USB power draw.

Once everything was in place, drive power was calculated based on the measurements.

You can see the full test over at FahrradZukunft.

Results: SON Dynamo Hub Output Power

The graph above compares the four SON hubs when paired with various lights and USB chargers. Speed (in km/h) is shown along the horizontal axis, while power output (in watts) is displayed on the vertical axis.

For context, the minimum power required to charge a smartphone is around 2.5 watts. And most smartphones need between 3 and 4 watts to keep the screen fully lit during navigation.

While the graph offers valuable insights, I’ve broken down the power differences in percentage terms in the tables below, using the SON 28 Classic as the baseline. This makes it easier to see just how much more (or less) powerful each hub is in comparison.

SON Ladelux Light & USB Charger

Whether you’re charging devices or powering lights, the SON 29 S consistently outperforms the SON Classic across all speeds, delivering 40 to 57% more power, with the most significant gains at lower speeds. This translates into a noticeable improvement in real-world use: you’ll reach the 2.5 W minimum charging specification for a smartphone by just 5 km/h, and over 6 watts by 15 km/h!

The SON 28 12 is slightly less powerful than the SON 29 S but still offers a substantial upgrade, with a 27 to 39% power increase over the Classic. As a result, it reaches the minimum charging threshold for a smartphone (2.5 watts) about 4 km/h sooner than the Classic.

As expected, the SONdelux produces less power across all speeds, but it remains close behind the SON Classic throughout the range.

B&M K-Werk USB Charger

When charging with the K-Werk at 10 km/h, the new SON 29 S delivered its strongest performance, producing 125% more power than the SON Classic. That’s right, 11 km/h is all the speed you need to achieve 4 watts of power, which provides a decent charge for most smartphones. While the hub’s power output remains impressive at 15 km/h, it has fully plateaued by 20 km/h.

The SON 28 12 also shows a solid improvement at lower speeds, offering 28 to 38% more power than the Classic. However, like the SON 29 S, its output levels off around 20 km/h.

Interestingly, while the SONdelux produces about 12% less power than the SON Classic at lower speeds, it overtakes all other hubs by the time you reach 30 km/h – delivering the highest USB charging output in the test.

Supernova M99 DY Pro Light

Shifting focus from USB charging to lighting, let’s look at the Supernova M99 DY Pro dynamo headlight.

At 10 km/h, the SON 29 S delivers 75% more power than the SON 28 Classic, and this results in a significantly brighter beam and reduced flickering. Even at 20 km/h, the 29 S still provides nearly 50% more power than the Classic.

The SON 28 12 offers more modest gains, delivering between 10% and 44% more power than the SON Classic, or roughly half the improvement seen with the SON 29 S.

As expected, the SONdelux lags behind in output. It produces less power than the SON Classic across the board, resulting in a dimmer beam (especially at lower speeds). At 10 km/h, it delivers only about half the power of the SON 29 S, making the difference in brightness quite noticeable.

SON Dynamo Hub Comparison

Recent dynamo hub testing indicated that the new Shimano hub could produce more power (especially between 5 and 15 km/h), but I hadn’t realised how much variation there is among SON hubs too.

Running an average across all tests and speeds:

• The new SON 29 S delivered 45% more power than the SON 28 Classic
• The SON 28 12 was 24% more powerful than the SON 28 Classic
• The SONdelux was 6.3% less powerful than the SON 28 Classic

More power means brighter lights or stronger device charging at a given speed. But keep in mind, it also results in increased drag, which can slow you down.

Or to put it another way: the power the SON Classic generates at 15 km/h can be matched by the SON 28 12 at just 12 km/h, and by the SON 29 S at only 10 km/h. In contrast, the SONdelux would require you to travel at 16 km/h to achieve the same output.

Which SON Hub Dynamo Is The Best?

The best SON dynamo hub for you depends on how and where you ride.

For off-road adventures and bicycle touring, where strong lighting and USB charging at low speeds are essential, the SON 29 S or SON 28 12 are your top choices.

The new, high-output SON 29 S is especially impressive, generating 4 watts at just 11 km/h when paired with either the SON Ladelux or K-Werk USB chargers. At the same speed, it can also power the M99 DY Pro’s high beam mode without flickering.

For road and gravel riding, where average speeds tend to be higher, the SON 28 Classic or SONdelux will be more than adequate.

With either the Ladelux or K-Werk USB chargers, both hubs hit the minimum charging specification for a smartphone at approximately 11 to 13 km/h. And by 15 to 16 km/h, they’re producing around 4 watts, which is enough power to keep a smartphone screen continuously powered for navigation.

How Do SON Dynamo Hubs Compare To Other Hubs?

Previous testing has revealed significant differences in dynamo hub power output.

When paired with a kLite USB charger, Shimano hubs produced 30 to 60% more power than the SON Classic at speeds between 15 and 20 km/h. In contrast, the SP dynamo hub delivered 6 to 47% less power than the SON Classic under the same test conditions.

While the current testing uses a different protocol and equipment (making direct comparisons difficult), we can reasonably expect the SON 28 12 to match or outperform the Shimano 3D32, and the SON 29 S to exceed the output of the Shimano UR700.

Summary

This test highlights the significant differences in power output between various SON dynamo hubs.

On average, the new SON 29 S delivers 45% more power than the SON 28 Classic, while the thru-axle versions of the SON 28 offer a 24% boost.

For cyclists who typically ride below 15 km/h, especially on long-distance tours or bikepacking trips, a higher-output dynamo hub is well worth considering if consistent USB charging or bright lighting is a priority.

• Dynamo

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All About Buffer Batteries With Pass-Through Charging For Dynamo Hub Systems

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The post The New SON 29 S Dynamo Hub Generates 45% MORE Power (Lab Test) appeared first on CYCLINGABOUT.com.

Pinion currently leads the space with its robust gearboxes, which offer broader gear ranges and smaller gear steps than traditional derailleur systems. It remains the only brand featured in DH World Cup racing.

Meanwhile, Effigear has expanded the field with two distinct gearbox models of its own.

But a new wave of innovation is rapidly emerging.

In this article, I’ll walk you through various innovative designs – ranging from derailleur-in-a-box concepts to planetary systems, belt-and-pulley configurations, spur gear mechanisms, and even a unique chain-driven gearbox featuring hinged gear clusters.

Let’s dive in.

RatioX CVT Bicycle Gearbox

Let’s start with a fully automatic gearbox with no shifter, no cables, no battery, and no electronics! The RatioX transmission is a purely mechanical device that maintains your optimal pedalling cadence regardless of speed or gradient.

This type of gear system is known as a continuously variable transmission (CVT), and that means it can have not just 10 or 12 gears, but an infinite gear ratios between two set points. The system operates much like the belt-and-pulley setups found in scooters and snowmobiles.

Gearing adjustments are handled automatically via centrifugal forces acting on weights and springs, which vary the size of the pulleys. The transmission even remains synchronised with your coasting speed, ensuring you’re always in the ideal gear when you resume pedalling.

Belt and pulley gear CVTs are known to have a fair bit of drag, making RatioX best suited for eBikes with rear hub motors. In this configuration, the motor delivers propulsion directly to the wheel, so it’s only a bit of your pedal power that will be lost to drag.

The RatioX gearbox is lighter than a Pinion (2kg), has a 360% gear range, is housed in a watertight and dustproof casing, and uses grease instead of oil, reducing maintenance needs and eliminating leaks. It’s a clever mechanical gearbox that I hope gains some popularity.

You can read more about the RatioX bicycle gearbox on the RatioX website.

Peyman CVT Gearbox

The Peyman CVT is another fully mechanical, automatic gearbox that appears to be a more affordable alternative to the RatioX system.

Initially, Peyman developed a compact, belt-driven CVT mounted at the rear wheel – an approach that was retrofittable to any bike. More recently, they’ve shifted to a larger version integrated into the crankset. This updated design offers an impressive 1000% gear range, far surpassing that of any other current gearbox.

As crank speed and torque increase, the CVT visibly shifts to a higher ratio on the pulleys – it’s a fascinating process to watch. While the original rear-mounted version lacked the ability to maintain gear position during coasting (it automatically drops to the lowest ratio), the crankset-mounted prototype may offer a solution to this limitation.

Head over to PeymanCVT.co.uk for more.

Praxis HiT Gearbox

For a more lightweight and efficient gearbox solution, we turn to the Praxis HiT. Still in the prototype phase, this chain-driven gearbox incorporates hinged gear clusters – a concept enabled by Praxis’ acquisition of the Vyro 2X chainring patent.

Each gear cluster consists of a larger outer cog that folds over a smaller inner cog in four segments. This unique mechanism enables smooth shifting between gear sizes, even under high pedalling loads up to 1000 watts.

The HiT can be configured with anywhere from 4 to 16 speeds, depending on the number of clusters used, offering the potential for wide gear ranges. While the prototype uses an industrial chain, adopting a custom chain design could reduce the overall gearbox size by up to 25%.

Shifting is fully electronic and wireless, with support for both sequential and non-sequential shifting. This means you could go from the 1st gear to the 4th in one shift.

Thanks to its perfectly straight chainline, the system is expected to have low drivetrain drag. The efficiency is estimated to fall between 92% and 96%, as the system effectively combines two singlespeed drivetrains, each with losses of around 2 to 4% (eg. 0.98 × 0.98 = 0.96).

Another key advantage is its flexible integration: input and output placement can be adapted to suit various frame designs, from high-pivot mountain bikes to urban commuters.

You can learn more about the HiT bicycle gearbox on the Praxis website.

WRP Cassette In A Can

Williams Racing Products (WRP) has been teasing working prototypes of a derailleur in a box for a while.

The latest design is impressively compact, and it fits the Pinion 6-bolt mounting standard. While we can’t see inside, we can see that the input and output have now been moved to the crankshaft, and it uses two cables for shifting.

One cable is connected to an Archer D1X wireless shifter and remote, and I suspect the second cable is tensioned by a spring located inside the down tube. This spring would power one direction of the shifting, while tensioning both cables just like the spring in a derailleur.

It’s safe to assume the sprockets are very small, so don’t expect many speeds or a wide gear range on this one.

UNNO Derailleur In A Box

UNNO Bikes holds a patent for a derailleur-in-a-box, suggesting that functional prototypes may already exist.

What makes this system unique is that it doesn’t use a derailleur. Instead, the cassette itself moves side-to-side to change gears. While this is an innovative approach, it also presents packaging challenges, as the lateral movement of the cassette must be accommodated within the confines of the gearbox.

Nuseti Inner Drive System

Stepping away from traditional chains, we have a drivetrain entirely housed within the frame.

Nuseti has spent over a decade developing its Inner Drive System – a fully enclosed drivetrain designed for minimal maintenance, easy cleaning, and outstanding durability. With all gear components sealed inside the frame, they’re fully protected from the elements. This design also simplifies rear wheel removal, since the drivetrain remains mounted to the bike.

At its core is a proprietary 16-speed planetary gearbox located at the crankset, developed in collaboration with gearbox software specialists KISSsoft. It offers a wide 573% gear range with evenly spaced steps for consistent pedalling performance.

One of the standout features is the fully enclosed Gates Carbon Drive belt, integrated inside the chainstay. Belts are perfect for this setup: they don’t stretch, require no lubrication, operate quietly, and can last up to 30,000km – especially when shielded from dirt and moisture.

Shifting is controlled via levers on either side of the handlebar, similar to SRAM’s road and gravel systems. The current prototype is built into a full-carbon monocoque frame, with total bike weight projected between 10–12kg (22–26lb), making it one of the lightest gearbox-equipped bikes available.

Shimano Planetary Bicycle Gearbox

Shimano has recently filed a new gearbox patent that represents a major shift from its earlier derailleur-in-a-box concepts. This latest design introduces both eBike and non-eBike designs.

The internal layout reveals a large spur gear connected to a multi-stage planetary gear set featuring stepped gears. While the patent doesn’t specify the exact number of gears, it does outline gear ratio ranges between 250% and 444%.

One standout element is the offset between the crank and sprocket. This configuration could allow the gearbox to be rotated vertically, similar to the Effigear Original, giving full-suspension frame designers greater flexibility in tuning anti-squat performance.

Fox Factory Gearbox

And finally, there’s Fox Factory (renowned for their suspension systems), which has secured a patent for a gearbox design that tackles one of the biggest hurdles in gearbox tech: shifting under load.

Most gearboxes require a reduction in pedal force to shift gears, as attempting to shift while any pawls are engaged can cause damage. Fox’s solution involves a shift ring that automatically moves the pawls into a disengaged state under torque, allowing smooth gear changes even when the drivetrain is under load.

Although the patent doesn’t specify the number of gears, the compact layout resembles the Effigear Mimic, suggesting it could accommodate up to nine gears within its design.

Summary

I hope these new gearboxes sparked some excitement about the rapidly evolving world of drivetrain technology.

Let me know which design you like best and why. Also, if you come across any prototype gearbox drivetrains in development, feel free to share them in the YouTube comments. I’d love to explore and analyse their designs in future videos.

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What might come as a surprise, though, is that in both these events and adventure riding more broadly, aero bars aren’t primarily about speed. Most riders agree that their greatest benefit is the added comfort they provide over long distances.

Let’s get aero!! This article was originally published Dec 2018 but has been updated in May 2025.

Why Bikepacking Aero Bars Are Awesome

Enjoy A New Riding Position
Aero bars provide an alternative riding position that’s especially valuable on long-distance rides. By shifting your upper body weight onto your elbows and upper arms, you’ll reduce strain on your wrists and hands. They also let you stretch out more, engaging different muscle groups in your back for greater comfort over time.

Cut Through The Wind
Wind resistance is typically the biggest force working against you when cycling. Aero bars help reduce your frontal profile, allowing you to ride faster with the same amount of effort. This is a huge advantage in headwinds and a great asset for riders aiming to cover longer daily distances.

Expand Your Mounting Options
If you’ve ever removed aero bars after an ultra event, you’ve likely missed the extra space they provide for mounting accessories. In a bikepacking setup, aero bars are perfect for attaching bike computers, lights, smartphones, or feed bags. You can also add a Profile Design UCM ($11 on Amazon) to increase horizontal mounting space.

Aero Bar Adjustments For Bike Travel

Touring and bikepacking bikes vary a lot in frame geometry, and since comfort takes priority over speed in these disciplines, you’ll benefit from aero bars that offer maximum adjustability.

Here are the aero bar adjustments to look out for:

Armrest Adjustment. Many aero bars come with fixed or minimally adjustable armrests. For bikepacking, you’ll likely want to bring the armrests closer to the saddle to improve comfort. Models like the Bontrager Race Lite (pictured above) excel in this area, offering a broader range of positioning options.

Arm Pad Adjustment. Most arm pads can be angled inward by up to 15 degrees to fine-tune your fit. They’re also available in various thicknesses. Profile Design, for example, offers 16mm and 20mm pads, with the thicker option being more comfortable on rough dirt roads.

Extension Adjustment. The forward extensions (often called “skis”) are typically adjustable in length, width, and angle. These adjustments help you dial in a position that balances comfort, control, and aerodynamics.

Height Adjustment. Some aero bar systems are compatible with riser kits, which can raise the bars by 20–70mm (around 1–3 inches). This height tuning helps maintain a proper hip angle and shortens your overall reach, both of which contribute to a more relaxed and sustainable riding position.

Frame Design & Aero Bars

There are two main frame geometries used for bike travel:

• Frames built for flat handlebars (black outline), which typically have longer top tubes
• Frames designed for drop handlebars (white outline), which usually feature shorter top tubes

Since riding in an aero position involves reaching further forward, drop bar bikes, with their more compact top tubes, are generally better suited for aero bar setups.

That said, there are a few products available that can help you achieve a comfortable aero position on flat-bar bikes.

The first option is aero bars with sliding armrest mounts, such as the Bontrager Race Lite Clip-On. This design lets you position the arm pads and extensions significantly closer to your body (typically by 40–80mm), helping to compensate for the longer top tube found on flat bar bikes.

Another solution for flat bar bikes is a steerer-mounted adapter like the Fred Bar. It places the aero bars directly above the stem, effectively reducing the reach from your saddle to the aero bars by up to 80mm.

Weighing in at just 140 grams, the Fred Bar was initially created for flat-bar bikes but works equally well for riders with drop bar bikes that want a shorter and more comfortable riding position. A side benefit to the Fred Bar is that you can quickly add or remove your aero bars from your bike by simply removing your stem top cap.

Aero Bar Setup Height

On a touring or bikepacking bike, it’s generally best to position your aero bars a few centimetres higher than your saddle. This isn’t primarily for comfort, but to help maintain a consistent hip angle when switching between your aero and regular riding positions.

A significant change in hip angle would normally require a different saddle position relative to the crankset – hence the steep seat tube angles found on time trial bikes. Those lower, more forward setups also demand saddles with a wider, more padded nose for comfort.

For bike travel, it’s smart to start with a higher aero bar position. From there, you can gradually lower the bars until you strike a balance between aerodynamic efficiency and the ability to hold that position for long durations.

If you notice yourself sliding toward the nose of the saddle, it’s a sign that your position may be too aggressive – try either moving the saddle forward or raising your aero bars. In cases where your aero bars are only slightly lower than your saddle, simply sliding the saddle forward on the rails can help accommodate the change in hip angle.

While you can raise your handlebars if there’s room on the steerer tube, using an aero bar riser kit is often the better solution. Riser kits allow you to fine-tune your aero bar height independently from your handlebar setup.

And if you prefer an aggressive handlebar setup (low height relative to the saddle) but want to preserve proper hip rotation, a riser kit with up to 70mm (3 inches) of elevation can make all the difference.

Extra Low Aero Bar Heights

Looking to get even more aerodynamic? You should look into:

Dual-Position Seatposts
A smart solution for managing hip angle changes is the Redshift Switch seatpost. With a quick adjustment, you can slide your saddle forward by 50mm (2 inches), effectively increasing your seat tube angle by a few degrees. When you’re done riding in the aero position, you can shift your seat back to a more suitable location for riding upright.

Time Trial Saddles
Lower, more stretched-out positions put extra body weight on the saddle’s nose, so finding the right saddle is essential for comfort. Trying out a few time trial or triathlon saddles can make a big difference. If your riding position isn’t too aggressive, the Selle SMP Pro is a versatile choice that works well for both time trials and road riding.

Aero Bar Shape and Construction Material

Aero bars typically feature two separate extensions, known as skis, though some models connect the extensions at the front. Most riders prefer individual extensions since they allow you to adjust the width between the armrests.

Extensions come in various shapes to accommodate different wrist angles, with more angled up designs generally feeling most natural.

Aero bar extensions are made from different materials too, including aluminium, carbon, and titanium. Aside from a modest weight difference of around 40–50 grams, the materials don’t significantly impact performance.

Fold-Up Armrests

There are two main reasons to choose fold-up armrests.

First, they free up valuable space on narrow drop handlebars by folding out of the way, allowing you to use the top of the bars rather than losing that area. Fold-up armrests also provide a better fit for bikepacking stem bags (more on that below).

The drawback? Fold-up armrests don’t offer any forward or backward adjustment – they’re fixed in place. For this reason, I suggest only installing fold-up armrests once you’ve finalised your aero bar position.

Mini Aero Bars

These compact and lightweight aero bars (around 200 grams) are intended for short rides, like sprint-distance triathlons.

Although the weight savings may be appealing, most riders who have used mini aero bars for bikepacking find that the short extensions put excessive pressure on their wrists, causing discomfort after only a few minutes.

That said, mini aero bars might still work if you place very little weight on your upper body, typically requiring a very short and upright riding position to avoid wrist strain.

Other Aero Bar Designs

BarYak

BarYak aero bars are specifically designed for bikepacking with flat handlebars. Unlike many other aero bars, their wide elbow pad spacing makes it possible to fit feed bags on either side of the stem. While the extensions aren’t as short as mini aero bars, they are still shorter than most, so that’s something to consider.

Additional benefits of the BarYak system include adjustable bar ends that let you set your preferred wrist angle, lots of room for accessories, and the ability to mount a Revelate Sweetroll handlebar pack at four locations instead of just two.

Jones Gnarwhal

A lesser-known option for achieving an aero bar-style position is the Jones Gnarwhal. This single bar-end attachment mounts out front on a Jones Loop bar, resembling a rhino horn or narwhal tusk.

The Gnarwhal has received mixed feedback. Some riders find that simply resting their arms along the ends of the Loop bar offers a very similar position (without needing the Gnarwhal). If you choose to try it, be sure to add thick foam padding beneath your bar tape to maximize elbow comfort.

Bikepacking Bags and Aero Bars

Stem Bags

Aero bars usually compete for the same handlebar space as stem bags (aka feed bags).

However, many riders get around this by mounting their stem bags further out to the sides or even attaching them directly to the aero bar extensions. For example, Jonas Deichmann positioned his stem bags outward during his 97-day ride from Alaska to Argentina (see photo above).

Bikepacking Bags Designed For Aero Bars

Bikepacking handlebar packs are generally easy to mount on bikes equipped with aero bars.

However, some packs are specifically designed for aero bars, such as the Revelate Pitchfork and the Restrap Race Aero Bar Bag. These bags attach at four points, ensuring a secure fit while minimising pressure on your brake and gear cables. Additionally, they sometimes include built-in storage on either side, providing a convenient location for snacks or a rain jacket.

Ortlieb Handlebar Bags

Using aero bars with a touring Ortlieb handlebar bag can be challenging, but it’s definitely doable.

One solution is the KLICKfix Handlebar Adapter E bracket, which offers a wide 110mm spacing – enough to mount your aero bars inside the bracket. To maintain easy access to the Ortlieb bag while it’s mounted, you may also need an aero bar riser kit (as shown above).

Another option is to mount the handlebar bag lower using a t-bar, though this requires sufficient spacer height beneath your stem to accommodate the setup.

Recommended Touring & Bikepacking Aero Bars

Note: If you want to buy any of these aero bars, doing it via the Amazon links gives CyclingAbout a small commission (no cost to you), which goes into creating more valuable resources for the bike travel community.

Profile Design Sonic Ergo

550 grams – 39A (US $180), 26A (US $190), 52A (US $190), 50C (US $274)

The Sonic Ergo is one of the most popular aero bars on the market, largely due to its wide range of configuration options. It offers four different extension bends, two armrest pad thicknesses, and riser kits that allow up to 70mm of height adjustment ($36 on Amazon). The extensions are adjustable for length, width, and rotation, and the arm pads can be angled inward by up to 15 degrees.

If you want some extra hand space on the top of your drops, you can also add the flip-up bracket kit (US $83 on Amazon).

Bontrager Race Lite Aero Clip-On

550 grams and US $139 on TrekBikes

The Bontrager Race Lite aero bars are the most affordable option here and offer adjustable forward and backward armrest pad positions via the sliding armrest mounts. This makes them a comfortable fit on both drop and flat handlebar bikes (without needing the Fred Bar).

However, it’s worth noting that the extensions come in only one shape, and there is no riser kit available.

Pro Missile Clip-On

484 grams and US $209 on Amazon

The Pro Missile Clip-On aero bars provide excellent armrest adjustability thanks to their sliding mounts, similar to the Bontrager Race Lite, though they come at a higher price point.

They’re available with three extension shape options, and while a riser spacer kit is available, it’s rare and carries a steep price tag, typically between $100 and $200.

RedShift Quick-Release

640g and US $200 on Amazon

If you plan to frequently install and remove your aero bars, the RedShift Quick-Release system is a great choice. These removable aero bars can be attached or detached in seconds, and the clamps can even be used across multiple bikes.

You can choose between two extension shapes: the more comfortable L-bend (recommended) or the flatter, more aerodynamic S-bend.

The main trade-offs with these bars are their slightly higher weight and limited armrest adjustability.

BarYak Expedition

484 grams and US $382

As mentioned earlier, BarYak aero bars provide space for feed bags and accessories, along with additional mounting points for a BarYak Talon drybag harness.

The main drawback is their limited length and armrest adjustability. That said, they can be an excellent upgrade once you’ve dialled in your ideal position using more adjustable aero bars.

VAP Butterfly 3

€290 on VAP Cycling

This innovative product merges a stabilised bikepacking front bag (available in 11 or 15 litres) with an integrated aero bar setup.

While the extensions come in two length options, the limited armrest adjustability makes this kit better suited for drop bar bikes.

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Two years in, and it still feels like a privilege to immerse ourselves each day in the rich cultures, vibrant traditions, and breathtaking landscapes of this vast and diverse continent. Meeting the incredible people who call it home is the cherry on top.

This page offers a country-by-country overview of our journey so far, including the exact routes we’ve followed. We tend to steer clear of main roads whenever we can, which means the vast majority of our adventure has unfolded on dirt roads and rugged 4×4 tracks.

We’ll do our best to keep this page updated with all our downloadable routes as the journey unfolds.

Our Bike Journey Around Africa

Feel free to download any of our GPX files below. Here’s how:
Hit the link > click “More” > “Export as File” > “GPX Track”

Disclaimer: These are our actual routes. We don’t necessarily suggest following them to the letter, as we’re only human and occasionally end up on less-than-ideal tracks, including hike-a-bike sections or restricted areas that require prior permission. If you plan to use our routes, be sure to research land access, road conditions, water sources, and food resupply points thoroughly beforehand.

Namibia

3,092 km or 1,921 mi
Windhoek → Opuwo → Puros → Swokopmund → Aus
View & Download HERE

Our cycling journey through Africa kicked off in Namibia. This might be an unconventional starting point, but its short window of cooler weather lined up perfectly with our timeline. Over three months, we rode from Windhoek north toward the Angolan border, before swinging south and eventually crossing into South Africa.

The remote northwest region of Kaokoland pushed us to our limits. We tackled rugged 4×4 tracks like Van Zyl’s Pass and the Ojitheka track – routes where food and water are almost impossible to source. Every kilometre was hard-earned, with deep sand, rocky trails, and our heavily loaded bikes turning even short distances into gruelling efforts. Just thinking back on it is exhausting!

Scattered throughout this region are traditional Himba villages. The Himba are known for their striking appearance. They coat their skin with otijze, a mix of butterfat and ochre that protects against the sun and insects. Their hair is sculpted into thick ochre-covered plaits, sometimes forming elaborate veils over their faces.

Etosha National Park offered our first true safari experience. In this arid environment, wildlife gathers around scarce waterholes, creating dramatic scenes of lions, rhinos, elephants, and antelopes all jostling for a drink, though some clearly take priority over others.

A major highlight was Twyfelfontein, a UNESCO-listed site near Brandberg Mountain, where thousands of ancient rock engravings depict scenes of Namibia’s early life. It’s like an open-air museum carved into the stone.

After catching our breath along the cool Atlantic coast in Swakopmund, we headed inland again toward the surreal dunes of Sossusvlei. Watching the sunrise from the top of those massive sand hills, surrounded by a rippling desert landscape, was unforgettable.

South Africa & Lesotho

4,122 km or 2,561 mi
Springbok → Cape Town → Knysna → Pietermaritzburg
View & Download HERE

South Africa is vast and incredibly diverse, and we were determined to experience as much of it as possible using a six-month visa!

We entered from Namibia by boat into Richtersveld National Park, a truly unique place known as the world’s only arid biodiversity hotspot, where 40% of the plant species are found nowhere else. From there, we cycled through the flowering Kamiesberg mountains, explored the striking Cederberg Wilderness (a definite favourite), and continued south to Cape Town.

Following the coastline past Betty’s Bay to see the penguins, we ventured through the Overberg district and into the dramatic Swartberg mountains. This was an unforgettable cycling route, you can see in our video HERE. After the exhilarating descent down Swartberg Pass, we rolled through the somewhat underwhelming Garden Route before crossing the expansive Great Karoo en route to Lesotho.

Lesotho turned out to be one of the true highlights of our journey. This mountainous, landlocked country within South Africa is home to sweeping highlands, where locals wrapped in traditional Basotho blankets ride horses through the mist. The roads were gruelling, but the jaw-dropping views made every climb worth it.

Eventually, we made our way to the historic town of Pietermaritzburg before heading across the border into Eswatini.

Botswana (4X4)

3,632 km or 2,257 mi
Johannesburg → Kruger NP → Drakensberg → Maun
View & Download HERE

While travelling through South Africa, we quickly realised that without a 4×4, we’d miss out on many incredible wildlife encounters. So, we rented a car and hit the road.

Over a month, we explored Marakele and Kruger National Parks, the Drakensberg Mountains, Makgadikgadi Pan, the Okavango Delta and more, camping most nights under the stars.

Driving through these parks was an adventure in itself. Every bend in the road brought the chance of a new wildlife sighting. We were lucky enough to spot everything from rhinos and leopards to elusive African wild dogs and even an aardvark! As committed wildlife watchers, we often spent entire days out in the car, from the first light of dawn to the last glow of sunset.

The highlight of our safari month was a guided expedition into the Okavango Delta. This extraordinary inland oasis is teeming with wildlife like nowhere else on Earth. To get a sense of what it’s like, check out our safari video HERE.

Botswana’s guides are exceptionally skilled and deeply knowledgeable, offering a window into animal behaviour that few ever get to witness. Thanks to their expertise, we watched lions roaring and mating, and leopards silently stalking their prey, all at just the right moments. Their level of training and understanding was a cut above the rest.

Eswatini

239 km or 149 mi
Mangcongco → Lobamba → Hlane → Lomahasha
View & Download HERE

Our next stop was Eswatini, formerly Swaziland – a small nation bursting with rich cultural traditions and renowned for its spectacular, high-energy dancing.

One example is the Umhlanga Reed Dance, which is a vibrant annual ceremony in which up to 40,000 young women gather to cut reeds and present them to the Queen Mother, traditionally to reinforce the windbreak surrounding her royal residence. The event culminates in the girls dancing and celebrating in brightly colored attire, creating one of the largest and most stunning cultural spectacles on the continent.

We also had an unforgettable time watching wildlife in Hlane National Park, which is home to a thriving population of white rhinos. One of the most surreal moments was when a group of ten rhinos settled down to sleep just metres from our campsite. We could hardly believe our eyes when we unzipped our tent.

Mozambique

1,435 km or 892 mi
Naamacha → Maputo → Vilankulos → Machipanda
View & Download HERE

Mozambique isn’t exactly known as a cycling destination. With just one main road stretching from Maputo to Beira, we expected a monotonous, traffic-heavy ride. But we couldn’t have been more wrong.

There’s a unique, infectious energy in Mozambique that’s hard to describe. Smiles are everywhere, and each day felt like a celebration. The streets are also alive with colour. People dressed vibrantly, buildings were painted nicely, music was in the air, and there were an impressive number of women cruising by on bicycles.

Even with our limited Portuguese, the locals were patient, friendly, and eager to lend a hand – when they weren’t playfully trying to overcharge us for fruit and veggies (sharpen those bargaining skills!).

That said, eating out was one of the real joys of our time in Mozambique. The cuisine is rich with spices, coconut, and peanuts, and bursting with bold flavours. And the fresh bread sold in even the tiniest towns? Absolutely delicious.

The beaches along the coast were another highlight. They are stunningly beautiful and often completely deserted, as a result of most towns sitting further inland on the main highway.

Central Mozambique’s roads, however, were in rough shape. They were so rough that we were often faster on bikes than the cars and buses around us. We would’ve loved to stay longer, but the steep visa fee for Australians (about US $7 a day) made it tough to justify extending our time.

Zimbabwe

1,391 km or 864 mi
Mutare → Harare → Masvingo → Victoria Falls
View & Download HERE and HERE

Zimbabwe has faced significant challenges over the past few decades, and it’s clear in many aspects of daily life. Buildings are often in disrepair, small villages lack resources, power cuts are frequent, and many highly educated people struggle to find work.

Yet, despite these hardships, Zimbabweans are perhaps the friendliest people in the region. With a strong command of English and a solid education, they were always eager to chat. They were also not afraid to debate difficult geopolitical issues or ask deep philosophical questions about our way of life! And if they weren’t in the mood for a conversation, they’d simply offer help in any way they could.

We loved exploring the country’s quiet, traffic-free backroads and found wild camping a breeze. As the sun set, we’d seek out a peaceful patch of bushland away from homes and enjoy a perfect night’s sleep.

Some of our favourite spots included Great Zimbabwe, the ancient hilltop ruins of a city dating back to between the 11th and 14th centuries, Hwange National Park, where elephants even decided to drink from our second-story swimming pool, and Victoria Falls, one of the largest and most awe-inspiring waterfalls in the world. For the best views, make sure to see Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side.

Zambia

3,419 km or 2,124 mi
Livingstone → Mwinilunga → Lusaka → Kasama
View & Download HERE

Zambia may not be a major tourist destination, but its stability and rare geopolitical neutrality (especially in the context of the continent) sparked our curiosity. These factors made us want to dive deeper and explore the country more thoroughly.

What struck us right away was Zambia’s incredible cultural diversity. There are 72 languages and dialects spoken across the country. In some areas, the local language would change daily, so just as we’d mastered “hello” and “thank you,” it was already time to learn a new version.

When it came to landscapes and wildlife, Zambia delivered some memorable moments. We loved crossing the expansive floodplain near Mongu, where homes are cleverly built from reeds. Kafue National Park offered beautiful river scenery and rich bird and aquatic life – plus we had an unexpected visit from lions at our campsite!

We also timed our trip perfectly to witness the bat migration at Kasanka National Park, where up to 10 million fruit bats take flight each evening, crowding the treetops for a month of feeding.

While the bats feasted on the season’s wild fruits, we found food to be a challenge in Zambia. Shops were often poorly stocked, fresh vegetables were scarce, and restaurants in small towns were few and far between.

On top of that, Zambia faces serious power issues. Days without electricity were common, which made things tough during the hot season, especially when all you wanted was a cold drink or a break from the heat.

Still, despite the difficulties for cyclists riding around on small backroads, Zambia had just enough depth and intrigue to keep us exploring for three full months.

Tanzania

2,095 km or 1,302 mi
Sumbawanga → Njombe → Mikumi → Moshi
View & Download HERE

Crossing from Zambia into Tanzania felt like stepping into a whole new world. Swahili replaced the languages we’d grown used to, and the presence of a larger middle class was immediately noticeable.

Street food was everywhere, fresh fruit stalls lined the roads (hello, fresh juice!), and even the tiniest shops were stocked with an impressive range of products and flavours. We felt at ease almost instantly.

But just as we were settling in, the rainy season arrived – and it came in hard. Roads turned to rivers, mud was knee-deep, and serious flooding was widespread. We crossed deep rivers with strong currents, watched trucks slide off washed-out roads, and saw firsthand how quickly half the country’s roads can become impassable in the wet season.

Sure, we could have stuck to the main roads that remain open year-round – but that’s never been our style.

We loved riding the remote backroads of the Maasai Steppe. In some of these rarely visited areas, adults would literally run away at the sight of us on bikes, and occasionally people would lock themselves inside their homes when we stopped to ask for directions.

But the Maasai we did connect with turned out to be among the warmest and most generous people we’ve met so far.

Tanzania (4×4)

1,746 km or 1,085 mi
Arusha → Tarangire → Serengeti → Lake Natron
View & Download HERE

Having grown up enchanted by The Lion King (movie), a 4×4 safari into Tanzania’s protected wildlife areas felt like a must, especially since many of these places are completely inaccessible by bicycle.

Ngorongoro Crater was a definite standout. With its steep crater walls and vast open grasslands, the setting is stunning… and jam-packed with wildlife. The animals are incredibly easy to spot, and within just a few hours, we had seen all of the “Big Five.” One of the most unforgettable moments was watching a wildebeest give birth, and seeing her calf running and playing within half an hour.

The Serengeti was just as magical. A whole pride of lions lounging in a tree was a rare and lucky sight, and something seldom seen outside of Tanzania. We also saw cheetahs playfully stalking giraffes, a cluster of lion cubs tucked under a tree, and a leopard perched high above with its kill swaying gently in the breeze.

We spent time with the Datoga and Hadzabe tribes near Lake Eyasi. The Hadzabe are known to be some of the last hunter-gatherers in Africa. They showed us how they hunt and the different arrowheads required for each animal. The Datoga are known to be great blacksmiths, and they have historically traded their incredible arrowheads with the Hadzabe in return for bush meat and honey.

Our journey ended with a visit to Lake Natron. The lake’s extreme alkalinity and scalding temperatures make it inhospitable to most life (flamingoes are an exception!). It’s beautiful, but also one of the deadliest lakes on the planet.

OUR VIDEOS:
Ngorongoro Crater
Serengeti National Park
Hadzabe Tribe
Datoga Tribe
Lake Natron

Kenya

1,313 km or 816 mi
Nairobi → Kabarnet → Nyahururu → Mwingi
View & Download HERE

Crossing into Kenya, we were immediately struck by how widely English was spoken and how seamless everyday transactions became. Kenyans use a mobile payment system called M-PESA, which lets people send and receive money on any phone. Once we got set up, we barely needed to think about cash again – it was a game-changer.

Nairobi felt like the most cosmopolitan city we’d visited in Africa. It’s full of life, with restaurants, bars, cafes, cinemas, and sprawling malls scattered throughout. It’s also incredibly lush. Mature trees line many streets, giving parts of the city an unexpectedly serene beauty.

We took on the Kenya Bike Odyssey bikepacking route, which led us through tea plantations, pine forests, natural hot springs, private conservancies, and around the base of Mount Kenya, the continent’s second-highest peak (5,199 m / 17,057 ft). The diversity of landscapes was astonishing.

One of the biggest surprises was just how much wildlife we spotted from the saddle. I’m talking giraffes, hippos, hartebeest, and even the endangered Grévy’s zebra, of which fewer than 2,000 remain in the wild.

A major highlight was hiking Mount Satima and the Dragon’s Teeth, an alpine trail between 3,000 and 4,000 metres (10,000 to 13,000 feet). It’s marked by dramatic rock formations and sweeping views as far as you can see. Kenya really has a bit of everything!

Ethiopia (4×4)

2,934 km or 1823 mi
Addis Ababa → Gonder → Lalibela → Jinka
View & Download HERE

Ethiopia might just be the most intriguing country in all of Africa. Nearly everything about it stands apart from its neighbours. The calendar, cuisine, religion, high-altitude landscapes, unique wildlife, tribal diversity, and even the way time is measured.

We were eager to visit, but Ethiopia has a notoriously tough reputation among long-distance cyclists. In many villages, large groups of children and teens swarm cyclists, begging, jeering, and often throwing stones. On uphill climbs, it’s common for kids to follow for kilometres shouting “you, you, you!” or demanding money. The closer you get to tourist hubs, the more intense this becomes.

We made the sensible call to explore Ethiopia without our bikes.

We started at Lake Tana, dotted with centuries-old monasteries and churches, many tucked away on islands. From there, we headed to Gonder to wander its remarkably preserved medieval castles, and then drove into the dramatic Simien Mountains. The landscapes here are spectacular, and we were lucky enough to spot glamorous gelada monkeys (pictured above), soaring bearded vultures, and the endangered walia ibex.

Our next stop was Lalibela, home to an extraordinary complex of 11 churches carved entirely from solid rock. You’ve likely seen them featured in National Geographic magazine. These impressive monolithic structures feature intricate stone columns, arched interiors, and beautifully carved murals, all made using nothing more than basic tools like chisels and hammers.

From there, we flew to the Bale Mountains, south of Addis Ababa. On the high-altitude plateau that sits above 4,000 metres, we witnessed the elusive Ethiopian wolf, the world’s rarest wild canid, stalking prey across the stark alpine landscape. We also briefly spotted a serval navigating the rocky terrain.

Southern Ethiopia was a true cultural highlight. We were fortunate to meet some of the region’s tribal communities, whose traditions have remained largely untouched by Western influence for generations. Scarification, colourful beadwork, painted bodies, stretched lips and ears, and hair styled with ochre and butterfat all tell rich stories of identity and heritage.

Egypt (4×4)

2,670 km or 1659 mi
Taba → Cairo → Aswan → Farafra
View & Download HERE

Egypt was the country I was most excited to visit before arriving on the continent. However, it’s currently not ideal for cycling, so we opted for other means of travel.

Although riding within towns and cities is possible, police checkpoints are frequent, and you’ll need permits to cycle between most towns. In some areas, like the route between Aswan and Luxor, you might be allowed through, but expect to be closely followed by police escorts, which can quickly become frustrating.

The pyramids of Giza lived up to all the hype that has been bestowed upon them for over 4000 years. Yet somehow, their extraordinary scale, perfect geometry, enchanting shape and unbelievable longevity were just the beginning of our journey into understanding the advanced life of ancient Egypt.

From Cairo, we flew to Luxor, a city that offers a glimpse into the staggering wealth and power of ancient Egypt. Our breaths were taken away by the Temples of Karnak and the well-preserved tombs dug into the Valley of the Kings. Inside each of the lengthy royal tombs are colourfully-painted sunken reliefs, as well as perfectly-carved hieroglyphics that not only describe ancient life, but provide great insight into the gods and religious rituals of the time.

We then spent four days slowly drifting from Luxor to Aswan on the Nile. This leisurely pace gave us time to absorb the lush farmlands, dramatic sandstone cliffs, scattered ancient ruins, and the remnants of quarries that supplied the stone for grand monuments some 4,000 years ago.

Along the way were greeted by the Temple of Horus. This is likely the best-preserved Egyptian temple, as it was entirely buried by sand and rubble for millennia. It’s hard to imagine a sandstone structure with a monstrous 36-metre high entrance (120ft) disappearing into history, but this fact only makes you realise how much of human civilisation must be lost to time.

After a packed ten days diving into ancient Egyptian civilisation, we escaped to the surreal White Desert. Towering chalk formations sculpted by wind dominate this hauntingly beautiful landscape. Over two days in a 4×4, we climbed dunes, searched for crystals, and camped under a sky bursting with stars – a peaceful contrast to the crowds and chaos of the cities.

Coming Up Next On Our Bike Journey Around Africa

Kenya Part II

Uganda

Rwanda

Burundi

Tanzania Part II

Malawi

• Gear
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The post My 5-Year Bike Journey Around Africa: Trip Summary, Map & GPX Routes appeared first on CYCLINGABOUT.com.

With taller handlebars relative to the saddle, you can expect less hand numbness and reduced strain on your neck and back.

So, what’s the best way to quickly find the bikes with upright riding positions?

Stack To Reach Ratio

For many years, I used the stack-to-reach ratio (STR) to quickly compare the riding positions of bikes in my Touring and Bikepacking Bike Buyer’s Guides. This is simply the frame stack divided by the frame reach.

For example, a frame with a reach of 400mm and a stack of 600mm would have a STR of 1.50 (600/400=1.5). And a more upright bike (ie. taller handlebars relative to the saddle) might have a 390mm reach, and a 640mm stack (640/390=1.63).

This worked well when bikes were designed around similarly long stems with similarly wide handlebars. But frame, stem, and handlebar designs have recently evolved, so it’s time to update my method for calculating the upright riding positions of bikes.

Longer Top Tubes & Shorter Stems

Modern bike frames use longer top tubes than previously.

This extends the overall wheelbase length, providing more ride stability for rough roads. It also pushes the front wheel further in front of the rider, reducing the tendency to pitch forward after a hard front impact. Ultimately, the longer frame gives the rider better overall bike control.

Shorter stems are necessary to offset the longer top tube length. Shorter stems offer a more ‘direct’ or ‘neutral’ steering feel, which is often desirable on a bike carrying any front luggage (you can read more about the nuances of stem length HERE).

Here’s the problem, though: frames with a long reach and short stem make the STR lower without actually changing the rider’s position (see image above). This makes the stack-to-reach ratio no longer useful for gauging the upright factor of many bikes.

Average Stack (AS)

I experimented with new formulas that would help me classify bikes into low, mid and upright frame geometries. They got pretty complex, as I tried accommodating stack and reach, top tube and head tube lengths, stem lengths, bar widths, and even seat tube angles.

But what I landed on was shockingly simple.

I’m using the average stack (AS) height of the full-size range of any given bike. Once I have this figure, I can classify touring or bikepacking bike models into ‘low’, ‘mid’ or ‘upright’ frame geometries across entire bike categories.

For a gravel bike, the AS is usually between 575 and 600mm. Mountain bikes often fall between 600 and 630mm. And touring bikes are commonly 630mm or more.

As Average Stack doesn’t account for the length of the frame, it’s no magic bullet. However, my research has found that bike frames are surprisingly uniform in length once you’ve accounted for things like the seat tube angle and stem length.

Once I reclassified the 320+ bikes in my buyer’s guides into their low, mid or upright designations, the modern bikes with short stems were overwhelmingly the models that required reclassification. That’s exactly what I was hoping to achieve, so that’s mission accomplished as far as I’m concerned!

When Average Stack Can Lead You Astray

One way AS can lead you astray is on bike models that don’t accommodate all rider heights.

For example, a bike model might not have an XXS or XS frame size, but will have an XL and XXL. And a different bike model might have an XXS and XS frame size, but nothing beyond XL. These size ranges skew the average stack, classifying the bike more or less upright than it should be.

The good news is that this is more of an exception than a rule. Most bike brands service both shorter and taller riders in their size ranges.

The Best Way To Find Upright Riding Positions

Ultimately, Average Stack is a blunt tool that provides a quick way to determine whether a touring or bikepacking bike is performance or comfort-oriented. It’s much better to look at the individual bike sizes.

The best way to compare bike sizing is using a web tool like Bike Insights.

If you haven’t seen this nifty website, you can visualise the size differences between any two bikes. This is useful when determining the best bike size for you, as manufacturers do not have a standardised way of sizing them.

I’ve uploaded the latest frame geometry numbers of every bike found in my Touring and Bikepacking Bike Buyer’s Guides to this website to make sizing up your next bike as easy as possible.

The Buyer’s Guides Are Updated

The Touring and Bikepacking Bike Buyer’s Guides now use Average Stack to identify the bikes with upright riding positions.

If you have already purchased these guides, you can also search your email system for your original “Gumroad” receipt. That will take you to your portal with the latest book(s), along with the buyer’s guides from previous years.

Failing that, please contact me using a private message on Facebook or Instagram (note: I’m currently cycling through Africa and don’t always have an internet connection).

If you’re a new customer, awesome! My guides will teach you everything about bikepacking or touring bikes, before allowing you to compare over 320 bikes in the back of the books. These guides are updated yearly – for free – so you can always keep on top of the latest bikes and information.

You can get the Bikepacking Bike Buyer’s Guide HERE.
You can get the Touring Bicycle Buyer’s Guide HERE.

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The post How I Calculate Upright Riding Positions for Modern Bikepacking Bikes appeared first on CYCLINGABOUT.com.

The Brompton G Line is an all-new folding bike with bigger 20” wheels and the widest handlebars and tyres of any Brompton before it.

The Brompton G Line has been designed to ride like a typical bike across varied terrain, thanks to a more stable frame geometry and modern features such wide tyres, hydraulic disc brakes and an 8-speed internal gear hub.

This is in contrast to a typical 16″ Brompton, which is a short-distance bike that folds into a tiny form suitable for busy public transport.

Kinetics has now developed various upgrade kits for the Brompton G Line. They offer belt drive upgrade kits, as well as special dropouts that allow you to fit the ultimate internal gear hub – the Rohloff Speedhub, which has 14 gears and a 526% gear range.

Let’s start with a quick overview of the benefits of belt drive bicycles.

Benefits of Belt Drive Brompton Bikes

Belt drive folding bicycles mean you never have to clean or lubricate a chain. This keeps your bike clean, and you’ll never get grease on your hands or pants again.

Belts are typically longer-lasting than chains too. Most cyclists go years without needing to replace a belt or sprocket – expect to ride three to four times further with a belt than with a chain.

Belts are also great in adverse conditions. This is partly due to the sprocket design, which effectively sheds debris from its surfaces. In addition, a belt drivetrain is usually paired with an internal gear hub, which also helps to seal away your critical gear components from the elements.

Ultimately, belts save you a lot of time. You will spend less time maintaining your bike, sourcing replacement parts, or dropping your bike at the shop for repair.

You can read more about why I think belts are better than chains HERE.

Brompton Frame Modification

The Kinetics G Line belt drive kit is simple to fit, however, it will require permanent frame modification. This will void your frame warranty.

As a bicycle belt is one piece (it cannot be split in two), cutting your rear dropout is necessary. Kinetics uses an angle grinder with a 1mm cutting disc to make this modification, but customers also use a hacksaw or a Dremel with a cutting disc. Now, the belt can be squeezed through the gap.

The dropout is reinforced with a stainless steel “joining plate” that connects the two dropout mounts with the rear rack mount. This plate can be seen in the image below.

Customers should apply touch-up paint over the cut to prevent surface corrosion. This corrosion would only be cosmetic, but it is best avoided.

Belt Drive Brompton Tensioner

Kinetics has also created a special belt tensioner for the Brompton G Line.

The smooth “snubber roller” pushes the belt firmly onto the rear sprocket to prevent skipping. It can be adjusted up and down to ensure the belt stays in place.

A second “tensioner sprocket” has been printed with the Gates Centertrack design. This sprocket keeps the belt tracking straight and features side plates to guarantee the belt will not fall off when the bike is folded.

If you need to remove the rear wheel for a puncture, it’s similar to chain drive. You can half-fold the Brompton, unhook the tensioner, and remove the belt from the front sprocket to remove the rear wheel. The big advantage is that you’ll never get grease on your hands.

Brompton G Line Joining Plates & Dropouts

Unique stainless steel joining plates and dropouts have been developed by Kinetics too. These are different for Alfine and Rohloff hub owners.

The belt tensioner goes on the inside of the frame for the Alfine hub, and the joining plate mounts to the outside. A 5mm bolt connects the joining plate to the rack mount for extra reinforcement.

The belt tensioner mounts on the outside of the frame for the Rohloff hub, and the joining plate goes on the inside. The Rohloff rear sprockets sit further out than the Alfine rear sprockets, which requires the tensioner to match the belt alignment.

A great thing is that Kinetics also offers a Rohloff OEM dropout to suit the Rohloff OEM axleplate. This makes wheel installation and removal very easy with Rohloff hubs.

Belt Drive Brompton Gearing

A front belt sprocket replaces the front chain sprocket. The 60-tooth front belt sprocket can be used with 22 and 24-tooth rear sprockets on the standard Shimano Alfine hub to provide gear ratios similar to the standard Brompton G Line gearing (54-20T or 50-20T).

The gear ratios are much lower when you upgrade to the Rohloff 14-speed hub. With a 63-tooth front sprocket and 19-tooth rear sprocket, the low climbing gear is under 20 gear inches (~1.55 development). This is similar to the climbing gear you’d find on a mountain bike!

Belt Drive Brompton Upgrade Kit Pricing

The belt drive Brompton upgrade kits cost £395.

This isn’t cheap but includes the full belt drivetrain (~£270 by itself) along with the special components required to make a belt drive Brompton G Line. Kinetics is happy to modify your frame and fit the kit if you live in the region.

You can get the Kinetics belt drive kits HERE.

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The post Belt Drive Brompton G Line Folding Bikes Are Now Available appeared first on CYCLINGABOUT.com.

The post How Do You Avoid Catching Malaria When Cycling Across Africa? appeared first on CYCLINGABOUT.com.