As someone who spends 8-12 hours per week on one of a few bikes (and has built several others), I can tell you this unicorn does not exist. Any machine with moving parts will require some manner of service. Routine maintenance on any chain-driven analog bike - even with a derailleur - is extremely simple stuff… basically, give it an occasional spray-down, degrease the chain and rear mech, and give it a shot of lube.
That being said, Gates belt drives are very cool, and I nearly built up my latest bike with one… but the frame I used wouldn’t work with it. (The frame needs a disconnect on the chainstay or seatstay to install a belt).
Are you looking at e-bikes with rear hub motors, or pedal assist (motor attached to cranks)?
Because I want a belt drive and more than one gear, it’s coming down to torque-sensing mid-drives with “CVT” rear hubs. This is pushing my price point to 4 car payments, but that’s not really changing the financial aspects here.
I’d love a Serial 1, but that’s the equivalent of me wanting an Aston Martin. The current leading contender is the VVolt Sirius.
Oh, I’m not expecting maintenance free at all. I just want to avoid having to stop roadside to re-mount a chain on a sprocket, or fix a broken chain (which is more prevalent on ebikes because of the increased yeet of the motor).
So I have just a regular old single speed cruiser bike, which is awesome for just riding around Point A to Point B. It’s not for off-road on good on steep hills, but you’re a dazzling Houston urbanite, so that shouldn’t be a problem.
I have considered a one-speed e-bike. However, there’s an element of future-proofing in getting one with a CVT. Plus, my preference is to need to inject the bare minimum of human power into getting around, so the gearing will be necessary even on Houston’s marble-flat topography.
750W mid-drive motor, carbon belt drive, a throttle (rare on mid-drives), motor cut-off brakes and a CVT automatic transmission. It comes with fenders and lights included (many don’t), currently listed at $3200.
Update: I spend $750/month for my car lease payment and insurance. I have averaged 188 miles/month over 42 months on this car so far. Such a waste of money.
If it’s raining, it’s unlikely that I can’t reschedule. If that’s not possible; Uber.
I know there will be some workarounds that I will have to make, but for what I am saving I can afford to take a limo for those journeys where a bike is impractical.
