Originally Posted by
Bikepacker67
This could be used with a double or triple in front (with der.) No?
Cuz loaded touring with 31 gear inches is way too high a low gear for this engine!
The only problem you may run into is the cog used on older 3-speed hubs. They were designed for single speed 1/8" chain so in some cases a 3/32 chain will not work. You must use 3/32 chain with modern triple cranks. Modern 3-speed hubs use cogs that will work with 3/32 or 1/8 chain. Another thing to look out for is a 3-speed hub with coaster brake. You can't use that at all. The first time you rotate the cranks backwards you'll destroy the rear dérailleur your using as a chain tensioner. You don't need to connect a cable or shifter to the dérailleur, simply use the stop adjusters to lock the dérailleur in alignment with the cog.
Several years ago I built a bike with a 3-speed hub and 48-38-28 triple crank. The resulting 9 speed hybrid system had an enormous gear range and was a nice ride. So nice a person I allowed to use it made an offer for it I could not refuse!