[Closed] WTF- Hub gears and rear mech.

Brompton have been doing it for yonks. The Canyon looks much better than a Brommy though...

A set of planetary gears in Canyon's rear hub mimics the spread of a three-ring crankset

In addition to the claimed improved durability relative to a three-ring, Canyon say their Mach 3 hub requires almost no maintenance, allows for narrower pedal stance widths, and also makes for much better chain retention as a mini chainguide can then be used full-time up front. The system is based on a 32T chainring so as to maintain maximum compatibility with various suspension designs, and the 142x12mm rear dropouts leave enough room to tuck the shift actuation mechanism inside the stays for better protection from rock impacts.

Solution to a problem that doesn't exist?

Why would you want a narrower stance?

hmmmm... I wonder if this might be the 3-speed lightweight hub gear I've been dreaming of? If it's mimicking a triple, then I guess it'd maybe give you 42/36/22 x your single cog (say 16T)... wonder what it weighs?