The best component by far is the SA XL-FDD dyno drum brake hub, ALWAYS works with zero fiddling. My first one has 26,000 miles, including 8,100 on 2 tours.
Next best is IGH rear hubs, preferably also with drum brake, like my SA XL-RD5w, that I can easily change the gear range with $7 cogs. Just as useful as any 1x. The Nexus 7i has a similar range, but with closer jumps.
I really like sweptback bars that actually have better hands and torso comfort than any drop bar.
Best rims for medium width tires is Velocity Dyad.
A good example of this kind of bike, is the Brooklyn Driggs with a 3 or 7 speed IGH. They have rim brakes that are at least better than dumb Shimano roller brakes. I ride my Roadster bikes up to 133.6 miles so far, the 73 lbs my bike is makes very little difference to me. It takes 12 hours to do this of course. All rounder steel bikes are far better for my uses. Alu is OK if you don't need a long top tube.
Last edited by GamblerGORD53; 05-06-21 at 09:43 AM.