miniebiker said:
I guess this is the answer.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EZ2_sXwdaiw
Variable gearing is definitely better for hills, but only at moderate and lower power can "through the gears" using bicycle components be reasonably reliable.
What we really need is a proper multi-speed geared hubmotor with proper metal gears and cooling system for the smaller motor enclosed. The reasons we don't have them already are:
1. I'm not a mechanical engineer
2. Ebike design is dominated by pedalists
3. Motorcycle companies either don't understand how fun 5-10kw can be with a lightweight silent bike, or they're stuck in the box with a motor driving a chain because that's what they know. At least we have a member inside one plugging for what's really needed and being ignored.
I have no doubt that a 5kw 2 speed actively cooled hub motor is possible in the 5-8kg range, and if I could, I'd build one to prove it.