While there are an extensive variety of bicycle commuters out there, I tend to feel a bit atypical. What is practical for most is not always what I’m looking for. As much as it costs me time in maintenance and, to a certain extent comfort, I continue to find it most practical for me to commute on bikes I also race. This is not to say I will never own a “commuter bike,” just not right now. However, I can not help but be intrigued by the following product.

The Fallbrook NuVinci “transmission” can be applied to several different transport applications, as well as wind turbines. When I first heard about it today, I found that it is readily available in bicycle hubs. You can go to your local shop and, as long as they have a QBP account, order one up.

I am continually interested in internal gearing and hubs with enclosed shifting mechanisms. The NuVinci takes this to a whole new level. Here in Chicago we may not fully benefit from it (due to our lack of hills, etc.) but a fully loaded bike on it’s way home from the grocery store would surely benefit from one of these when you need to get up that expressway overpass.

Personally, I’d love to try one out just to feel the way it “shifts.” My current plan for a commuter – if I can get one together practically – is single-speed. But, I’d defiently consider one of these if possible. Only drawback I can see is weight. Available only in 36 hole means that you’ll get a strong, but heavy wheel. Either way, I just found it cool.