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For Cycling Around Town, a Three-Speed Automatic - New York Times
For Cycling Around Town, a Three-Speed Automatic - New York Times:"For Cycling Around Town, a Three-Speed AutomaticBy MATTHEW HAUGHEYPublished: May 10, 2007If you’ve walked into a bike shop recently, you’ve probably noticed how complicated bicycles have become. In an era of carbon fiber, 27 or more speeds and disc brakes, riding a bike is not the playful pastime it once was.Skip to next paragraphEnlarge This ImageTo help get the 65 percent of American adults who don’t ride a bike back onto one, Trek designed its new Lime series with a focus on simplicity. The $579 Lime and the $499 Lime Lite, which eliminates a few features like a storage bin under the seat, are available in men’s and women’s models from dealers listed at www.trekbikes.com.The centerpiece of the Lime is a three-speed electronic shift system. A generator in the front wheel powers a small computer that automatically determines when to shift gears based on the bicycle’s speed. There are no visible cables or levers, and no batteries. The bike uses an old-fashioned coaster brake and puts the chain behind a covered guard so it will not catch on clothing.The result is a streamlined, easy-to-use bike suited for short rides in town. Shifting is smooth as you gain speed and clicks down appropriately as you come to a stop. As for maintenance, the hardest part is putting air in the puncture-resistant tires. MATTHEW HAUGHEYSphere: Related Blogs & Articles"