I think the only three complaints that I can actually accept about the pinion set up are:
1\. Increased drag.
2\. POE on the crank free wheel.
3\. Added weight.
The drag doesn't really matter to me, as I honestly can't sense it compared to tire selection, pressure, inserts, etc and I'm not an XC racer.
The added weight is realistically about 500 grams if you compare a built up Katipo to a Nomad, for instance, with the same build. Maybe less if you have a cheaper derailleur drive train. And the weight is in a better location for mountain bikes on the pinion.
The POE is probably the biggest issue if you are someone who likes to do trialsy style moves a lot, and I can understand how that would be frustrating. The benefit for that kind of riding though, is that you don't have a relatively delicate drive train to destroy...
So, pluses and minuses, but for the PNW with 99% of my riding being winch and plummet, I am 100% sold.
Dec. 7, 2022, 10:44 a.m. - Morgan Heater
I think the only three complaints that I can actually accept about the pinion set up are: 1\. Increased drag. 2\. POE on the crank free wheel. 3\. Added weight. The drag doesn't really matter to me, as I honestly can't sense it compared to tire selection, pressure, inserts, etc and I'm not an XC racer. The added weight is realistically about 500 grams if you compare a built up Katipo to a Nomad, for instance, with the same build. Maybe less if you have a cheaper derailleur drive train. And the weight is in a better location for mountain bikes on the pinion. The POE is probably the biggest issue if you are someone who likes to do trialsy style moves a lot, and I can understand how that would be frustrating. The benefit for that kind of riding though, is that you don't have a relatively delicate drive train to destroy... So, pluses and minuses, but for the PNW with 99% of my riding being winch and plummet, I am 100% sold.