Revolute Hub1: This Hub You Can Install on Your Ebike Yourself

Focused Design
Revolute designed the Hub1 exclusively for electric bikes, streamlining their engineering efforts towards this specific market. While this focus sets certain constraints on marketing, it also provides a clear direction for development. The Hub1 caters to various electric bike types, from urban commuters to heavy-duty cargo haulers.

In terms of competition, the Hub1 positions itself in the middle ground. With six gears and a gear range of 396%, it falls short of models like H+B Hightech's 3X3 or Rohloff's Speedhub E-14, which boast wider gear ranges. However, it surpasses top Enviolo models like the Enviolo Trekking and Enviolo Heavy Duty, offering a broader range than their stepless shifting hubs.

Revolute Hub1 Gear Hub in an Electric Cargo Bike
The Hub1 finds applications in electric cargo bikes as well.

Innovative Mechanics
The Hub1 features a double planetary gear with helical gears, a design reminiscent of automotive transmissions. While planetary gears are common in electric bike hubs, Revolute's helical gearing sets it apart. The angled gears ensure smoother operation with gradually increasing pressure as the teeth mesh. However, this design sacrifices some efficiency compared to traditional spur gears.

Smooth Shifting under Load
Modern gear hubs allow shifting under load, eliminating the need to pause pedaling or stop to change gears. Revolute achieves this with a double-cable system that diverts hub power to facilitate smooth shifts, both up and down. This robust shifting mechanism enhances stability, especially on electric bikes with powerful motors.

Revolute Hub1's Shifting Mechanism
Revolute employs a grip shift for gear changes, offering a tactile feel with clearly defined gear steps. Smaller step sizes in lower gears provide ample options for uphill climbs, while larger differences in higher gears optimize speed on flat terrain and descents.

Forward-Thinking Features
Another standout feature of the Hub1 is its lack of backward rotation when the bike comes to a stop, thanks to its hill start assist function. This prevents unintended reverse gear engagement, particularly beneficial when stopping on inclines with heavy loads. Additionally, the Hub1 can be shifted into neutral gear for backward maneuvering, ensuring practicality in everyday usage.

Routine Maintenance
Regular oil changes are essential for maintaining optimal hub performance. Revolute recommends an initial oil change after 1,000 kilometers or one year, with subsequent changes dictated by mileage. However, apart from oil maintenance, the Hub1 requires minimal servicing, offering a significant advantage over derailleur systems.

Revolute Hub1 Installation
The Hub1 is compatible with various electric bike dropout standards, including open dropouts and thru axles. Adapters accommodate different axle widths, with future compatibility considerations for wider axles. The Hub1 is available in wheel sizes ranging from 20 to 29 inches, accommodating different brake disc sizes.

Revolute Hub1 Gear Hub Mounted on an Electric Bike

If you opt for the Hub1 conversion kit from Revolute, it includes:

Revolute Hub1 gear hub with Bowden cable quick-release clutch
Grip shift
Bowden cable set with cables, sleeves, and tensioners
Adapter set with brake block adapter, torque arm, screw adapter, plug-in adapter
Brake disc
Sprocket or belt sprocket
Initial oil set
Screws and small components
User manual

The Hub1 will be available for purchase on the Revolute online store starting February, with a starting price of €1,198.