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The Enviolo calls itself a CVT or continuously variable transmission. This means there are no distinct gears at all, it works by using a series of large ball bearings that tilt between two orbital rings to generate the different gear ratios.
The Enviolo gear range is 380% meaning its gear range is quite a lot lower than the Rohloff. Interestingly the Enviolo’s easiest gear is the same as gear number 6 on the Rohloff hub. So in simple terms you have the same range of gears as if you only used the upper 9 gears of the Rohloff or another way of putting it, like having a 9 speed chain and cassette gear albeit quite a small cassette.
Additionally, the hub weighs around 700g more than the Rohloff at 2.5kg and does cause more drag on your drivetrain perhaps due to the fact that it is larger and full of oil, with tight seals to contain this.
The chart above provides a visual comparison of gear ratios across four different drivetrain systems: Pinion, Rohloff, Enviolo, and a traditional Derailleur system.
Disclaimer: The chart above is intended as a visual representation to compare the relative gear ranges and costs of the Pinion, Rohloff, Enviolo, and Derailleur systems. While it provides a general overview, it may not reflect the exact specifications and performance of each system. For precise details, it’s always best to consult the manufacturer’s technical documentation or look at Sheldon Brown’s excellent website.
Pinion (12 gears, 600% range): The Pinion gearbox stands out with the widest gear range of 600%, offering exceptional versatility for a variety of terrains. This system is particularly advantageous for riders who need extensive gear options for steep climbs or high-speed descents.
Rohloff (14 gears, 540% range): The Rohloff hub offers a 540% gear range across 14 gears, making it a reliable and robust choice for long-distance touring and heavy-duty off-road riding. Its wide gear range ensures smooth transitions and adaptability to different riding conditions.
Enviolo (CVT, 380% range): The Enviolo system, with its continuously variable transmission (CVT), provides a 380% gear range. While it may not offer as wide a range as the Pinion or Rohloff, its stepless shifting delivers a smooth and intuitive riding experience, ideal for urban environments and casual riding.
Derailleur (11 gears, 450% range): The traditional derailleur system provides a 450% gear range, commonly found on many mountain and road bikes. While it’s cost-effective and widely used, it requires more frequent maintenance compared to the other systems, and its gear range is narrower than that of the Pinion or Rohloff.
This comparison highlights the trade-offs between gear range, ease of use, and maintenance requirements. Riders can choose the system that best suits their riding style and needs, whether it’s the robust performance of the Pinion, the durability of the Rohloff, the simplicity of the Enviolo, or the familiarity of the derailleur.
You can learn more about Pinion here >>
As you can see both hubs are very different and both have their own strengths and weaknesses. The Enviolo may be more appropriate for the urban environment and for people who aren’t going to ride as far at the weekends and the Rohloff may best suit the avid adventurer, those searching for long climbs over difficult terrain in all conditions. Our advice would be to choose the hub that best matches your style of riding and the demands you place upon it, but of course it also has to be within your budget. And if you don’t mind a bit more work, maintenance and ongoing cost of a chain and cassette then the derailleur option could still be the best one for you.
The key to unlocking your perfect ride lies in experiencing the gears first-hand. Whether you’re drawn to the durability and gearing range of Rohloff, the smooth adaptability of Enviolo, or the classic efficiency of a traditional chain and cassette, the real test is in the ride. Come visit us at our Nailsworth showroom for an exhilarating test ride and discover which gearing system sings to your cycling soul.
