Gear reviews

Review: Pinion P1.18 Gearbox with Gates CDX Belt

Bicycle Junkies13571.4k views

Cycling the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route

The review you’ve all been waiting for! We have cycled more than 8500 kilometers with the Pinion P1.18 Gearbox, so I guess it’s time to publish our user review now. We’ve received quite a few emails of curious people, so here it is. Keep reading to find out how we experienced the Pinion Gearbox!

Soon after jumping on our Pinion bikes we were forming our opinion on this gear system. But in order to write a reliable review, we wanted to put the P1.18 to the test and cycle at least 7500 kilometers with it. Unpaved, paved, rocky, sandy, muddy, wet, dry, hot and cold, the Pinion has been there with us. And how did it perform and how is it still performing?

 

Cycling the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route

Cycling the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route

About Pinion

Being former Porsche gearbox engineers, the guys at Pinion have the ambition to develop top products for the best bicycles on the market. They have been on the market since 2011 and are revolutionizing bicycle transmission in the form of their Pinion Gearbox. Apart from the P1.18 we were able to test, the Pinion family includes three other gearboxes: the P1.12 for mountain biking and bicycle touring, the 9 speed P1.9 XR for e-bikes and the P1.9 CR engineered particularly for urban bikes. All their transmissions are 100% “Made in Germany”. The name and number of the gearboxes correspond to the amount of gears, in our case 18 gears.

What is the Pinion Gearbox exactly?

The Pinion box is an enclosed unit with seals between the housing parts, which prevent water and dirt from affecting the transmission. The complete transmission consists of two consecutive sub-transmissions with 6×3 gears. This is multiplied to yield 18 gears. Due to the sealing system the box cannot leak any oil.
The box itself is located at the position of the crankset, which means that you need a specially designed frame in which the box fits to be bolted with six bolts. The 18 gears are evenly spaced with an 11.5% increase per gear. The box itself weighs 2698 gram and makes you about 800-900 EUR lighter (compared to same Santos bike with Rohloff).
Visit Pinions website if you are interested in more technical information on the Pinion Gearbox

Pinion P1.18 review

Comparison to the Rohloff Hub

Not sure if it’s fair to compare these two internal gear systems, because of the price difference, but I guess many people want to know how the Pinion performs compared to the Rohloff hub. Let’s start with some numbers:

Data Pinion P1.18 Rohloff Hub
Price + 800-900 EUR 1000 EUR
Weight 2698 grams* 1985 grams*
Number of Gears 18 14
Gear range 636% 526%
Gap between Gears 11.5% 13.6%
Warranty 5 years 2 years
Oil change interval Every 10.000km / Once a year Every 5.000km / Once a year
Maintenance – Replace internal gear cable every 10.000km
Gates Belt CDX CDC and CDX

Pinion Ratio Rohloff and derailleur

 

* Detailed Weight Table

Below is a comparison of a detailed weight table; the parts and their weight to make each system work:

Pinion Rohloff Derailler (XT)
Gearbox incl. cables: 2698g Hub incl. shifter, cables and cable guide: 1820g Shimano XT Cranks incl. Bottom Bracket: 860g
Shifter: 95g Cranks + front sprocket: 680g Shifters and cables: 255g
Crankarms: 435g Rear sprocket 22T: 87g Deraillers (front + rear): 139 + 249g
Rear hub: 250g Gates CDC 118T Belt: 84g Rear hub: 338g
Gates CDX 118T Belt: 92g Cassette: 223g
Front sprocket 32T: 188g Chain: 273g
Rear sprocket 32T: 188g
3946g 2671g 2337g

Those are the facts, but I’m sure you also want to know if we did notice any difference in riding behaviour? And yes, we did. First of all, we felt no resistance in any of the gears and with that the gearbox is very silent and smooth. And secondly, the steps are smaller between gears and therefor there’s always a right gear for you; uphill or cruising on the flats.

testing The Pinion 1.18 in the field

As we’ve mentioned in the beginning of this post we’ve put the gearbox to the test for about 8500 kilometers. For us the break in period for the gearbox to run smoothly was around 1000 kilometers, contrary to the 500 that Pinion mentions. We could feel the teeth running more smoothly every day, while gears 1, 2 and 17, 18 took a bit longer, probably because we don’t use these often enough. At this point we found the gearbox much smoother and more silent than the Rohloff and were falling in love with the system. Shifting is direct and easy with changing multiple gears at the same time. It is silent and we feel absolutely no resistance. But after 1500 kilometers, Ellen started to have issues with the cranks: ticking and creaking with every kick. We dismounted the cranks to discover they already had worn out. The same thing happened to my cranks, but after about 2000 kilometers. This probably has to do with the fact that my pedal frequency is a lot higher than Ellen’s. In both cases Pinion sent us new cranks and the second pair were the CNC milled ALU cranks instead of the Forged ALU cranks we had initially. While we waited for the cranks, we could keep going as we shifted the cranks a quarter turn, so the issues with the cranks were no direct show stopper, just annoying.
Happy with our new cranks we continued our smooth and silent ride crossing the United States on the Great Divide Mountain Bike Route.

But again, after about 6000 kilometers the ticking in Ellen’s cranks returned. This time it’s not a continuous ticking and creaking, but an irregular sound. We think it has to do with weather conditions; temperature and humidity seem to influence the amount / presence of ticking and creaking. Some days it’s gone, some days it’s there. I guess the cranks are a point of attention for Pinion and need improvement. Right about the same time my front sprocket came loose, even though it was tightened at the required amount of torque and a local bicycle mechanic came to the rescue.

Apart from the irregular ticking in Ellen’s cranks, both boxes are performing very well and we have not had new issues with the system. 8500 plus kilometers on the odometers and still going strong.

So, in short, the gearbox itself is performing as expected, but we experience that the accessories, especially the cranks, do have start-up problems.

Gates CDX (Centre track) Belt

A couple of years ago I tested the CDX belt for about 17.000 kilometers and found that the belt wore out faster than the unbeatable CDC belt. Since there is no CDC / Pinion combination, we were relying on the CDX belt once more. The general opinion is that the CDX wears out faster, that it has more resistance and stuck little stones may cause the belt to break. But, is this really still the case? I have no equipment to test the resistance or the tearing strength for that matter, it’s all about how I feel the belt is performing compared to my personal experience with the CDC belt on the Santos Travel Lite with Rohloff and belt. And that being said, I don’t see any reason why the belt would break due to sand and little rocks. I do notice that the durability is less than the CDC, since there’s visible wear and tear around the belt’s teeth (not a lot though). I also find that the CDX belt more easily grinds when it’s dry. In my opinion, once the durability of the CDX improves, the CDX is just as good as the CDC. And I do hope they figure out something to minimize the grinding, which make the belt system sound like a cheap worn out chain…
Note: in the mean time Gates has introduced a new and improved Centre Track system which is not mounted on our bikes at the moment. Maybe I get the chance to test that in the future and maybe that is the improvement I’ve been looking for.

And someting to keep in mind: don’t tension the CDX as much, it’s not necessary at all and will improve your riding experience.

Gates CDC Belt

Gates CDX Belt

Conclusion

The way the gearbox itself performs is something we both got used to very easily and it definitely has advantages over the Rohloff hub: it’s silent and smooth, we feel no resistance in any gear, the steps are smaller and the range is wider. But the Pinion still has one start-up problem that needs improvement; the cranks.
Would I prefer the Pinion over the Rohloff? If money was no object and with improved cranks I’d certainly say yes. Is it necessary? Not really. The Rohloff has been a loyal partner for more than 20.000 kilometers and we have been able to cycle anywhere we wanted in any condition. But the Pinion does have its advantages over the Rohloff. Is it worth the money? That’s totally up to you, I don’t know the value of money for you and that is something you have to decide for yourself.

PROS CONS
18 gears Heavier (see weight table)
636% gear range Requires a specially designed frame
11.5% gap between gears Price
Silent Cranks (start-up problems)
No resistance
Very smooth
5 year warranty

If you have any questions or remarks, please comment below!

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135 comments

Bart Linssen November 4, 2015 - 21:48
Mooie vergelijking. Ik dacht alleen dat de roloff pas na 10.000 km of 1 jaar olie verversing nodig heeft.
Bicycle Junkies November 4, 2015 - 22:04
Dankjewel Bart voor je reactie. Volgens Rohloff dien je de olie te verversen na 5000 kilometer of 1 jaar en wij hebben ons daar redelijk netjes aan gehouden. ;)
Stephen Jones November 4, 2015 - 22:46
Thanks for the review! Despite your cranking problems, I have great hope that they will overcome them soon enough.
Pa November 5, 2015 - 03:34
Wat een uitgebreid technisch verhaal. Fantastisch. Pa
Bart November 5, 2015 - 08:13
Je hebt helemaal gelijk. Moet ik het toch vaker gaan doen :)
Richard November 5, 2015 - 09:22
Specially designed frame? Irregular clicking? No matter how you try to honey it up those two things condemn this product to laughably inconceivable.
Bicycle Junkies November 5, 2015 - 17:48
Richard, a specially designed frame is not a flaw of the system, it's just something you have to consider. I agree with the creaking of the cranks, which is something that needs improvement in our opinion, because no matter what, it's part of the whole system. But, it's something they should be able to overcome. We are not honeying things up by the way; because it really is a nice system and we like cycling with it, that's our personal opinion and experience.
Bicycle Junkies November 5, 2015 - 17:49
You are welcome Stephen! I have great hopes too! ;)
Peter de Visser November 17, 2015 - 08:26
Verdraaid interessant verslag gelardeerd met technische gegevens. Met genoegen gelezen. Zeer opmerkelijk dat naast dit ingenieuze, high tech speeltje zoiets schijnbaar simpels als een cranck snel problemen oplevert.
Bicycle Junkies November 17, 2015 - 21:06
Dankjewel Peter voor je reactie. Het is inderdaad jammer, maar ik vertrouw erop dat ze het probleem oplossen. Het blijft natuurlijk een persoonlijke ervaring, misschien dat anderen er helemaal geen last van hebben.
Stephen Jones November 22, 2015 - 05:17
If they don't figure it out (and I'm pretty sure they will), there is still the Rohloff which, all said and done, is still a very good system.
Stephen Keller December 18, 2015 - 19:38
I would really like to see that price comparison article for the three systems (derailleur, Rolhof and Pinion), especially if you could factor in on-going maintenance costs (chain/belt replacement, cog/cassette/chainring replacement, oil, etc.).
Bicycle Junkies December 29, 2015 - 14:53
Hi Stephen, we are working on such an article!
Wilfried December 30, 2015 - 17:29
Hallo E+E, Tikje (...) laat maar toch nog. Kun je iets beter aangeven wat er aan die cranks mankeerde? Het zijn delen die stilstaan t.o.v . andere delen dus dat "worn out" begrijp ik niet. En de tanden waren het ook niet omdat je verder kon door ze versprongen te hermonteren. Hebben ze een smal raakvlak op de trapas waardoor ze jouw trapkracht niet aankunnen en kantelen cq loswerken? Ben benieuwd! Groet en goede thuiskomst! Wilfried
Mark January 1, 2016 - 02:36
Hi, I just got a Tout Terrain Tanami Xplore and although I only have about 200 miles on it I'm really liking it. My previous bike had a Shimano Alfine 7 speed hub and personally I doubt I'll ever buy another bike with a derailer. BTW, Tout Terrain sells a few "last year" models on their website. Even with shipping and import fees into the US I saved a bundle and love the bike.
Bicycle Junkies January 2, 2016 - 12:27
Hi Mark, Good luck with your new bike! Us too, won't go back to a derailleur. Our next bike will have a Rohloff again.
Bicycle Junkies January 11, 2016 - 20:33
Hi Wilfried, De tandjes aan de binnenkant van de crank slijten sneller dan de tanden op de as. Het lag waarschijnlijk aan een verkeerde frase-methode. pinion heeft nu ook geadviseerd dat de boutjes van de crank met 8NM (ipv 5nm) vast gezet moeten worden. wij hebben nog niet verder kunnen testen of het nu wel verholpen is. op het moment dat je de cranks een kwartslag draait, verander je het aangrijpmoment van aanzetten en dus ook de plek waar de cranks het meest versleten waren. is dit een antwoord op je vraag?
Wilfried January 16, 2016 - 12:09
Hoi E+E, Het is nu duidelijk. jullie waren dus idd te sterk haha. dit sterpatroon van de cranks is helaas en "uiteraard" uniek wat toch wel een nadeel is zo hier en daar op de wereld... wilfried
Alastair February 5, 2016 - 15:18
How did you find the gear spacing, I've been looking at the P18 v P12 and the P12 looks adequate for touring. With the even %age spaces I wonder if both the P18 and Rohloff are just too close together. Also were you given any weight limitations? All I can glean from Pinion is a 110kg rider limit including backpack. Tout Terrain mention a 140kg limit including luggage. These seem quite conservative, particularly for a big guy on a long tour.
Mark February 5, 2016 - 19:09
I'm not sure about a weight limit, I'm not a world traveler. I do find myself skipping gears up shifting and down. I commute with a lot of hills so I'm ok with the extra gears.
Bicycle Junkies February 7, 2016 - 07:18
The gear spacing of the P18 is very small, so there's always the right gear to cycle in. We found that an advantage over the Rohloff. For serious touring the P18 is more suitable than the P12 in case you carry luggage. For very light bikepacking you might consider the P12. About the weight limitations; in the manual it is said that the limit is 110kg including rider and luggage, whcih is not enough for a 80kg guy. I asked Pinion about this and the answer was that we should not worry, they have put the weight limit mostly for serious mountain bikers who jump all over the place. I (Elmar) did carry more than 110kg in total and didn't have the feeling the Pinion was troubled by this. Since all the issues we experienced also happened to Ellen's Pinion box with less than 110kg.
Bicycle Junkies February 8, 2016 - 20:53
Hi Mark, I'm curious.. how is your Pinion box performing? Any troubles with the cranks? Pinion has changed the way the cranks are milled, I hope that solves the problem.
Mark February 8, 2016 - 21:08
I only have about 350 miles on the bike so far. At about 300 one of the crank arms fell off while I was riding. I put it back on and it's been ok. I contacted Tout Terrain and they basically said it was my fault for not checking if it was tight. Not happy about that, I don't know who installed them. Other than that it's been good. I got a great deal buying from TT but if I'd payed full price is be pretty pissed. Time will tell I guess.
G. Nelson Hollins February 18, 2019 - 21:26
it is normal to have to tighten the left crankarm bolt, monthly, as it becomes loose by design. Left crank turning counter clockwise constantly turns the bolt to the left also , making it looser. So, take it out ; wrap threads with thread-locker tape ; install ; ride 6 months without it able to come loose.
Bicycle Junkies February 12, 2016 - 14:53
I would be pretty pissed too... things like that should not happen and TT shouldn't blame you, especially since it happened after only 300m. Well, good luck and keep us posted!
Sciphot February 15, 2016 - 12:26
Hello, Dankjewel for your Instruktion Pinion Review! I'm at the moment having a custom made 12 speed Pinion constructed, a light travelling bike which I intend to ride long distances. I hope the crank problem is fixed! How did you change the oil on your long trips? Did you take oil along? And any special tools, for example a torque controlled wrench? Thanks for your help and GROETJES uit MÜNCHEN Sciphot
Mark February 15, 2016 - 18:30
Once a year or 10.000km is whats recommended for the oil, so for me, it'll be once a year and I'll do it at home LOL.I hope the crank problem is fixed also but in my case I think someone just messed up torquing the bolts. This year I have a 2 week, about 600 mile trip planned. If that goes well then maybe next year the I'd like to ride across the U.S.A. All the torque specs along with service videos are on the Pinion website. Mark
Bicycle Junkies February 18, 2016 - 08:46
Hi Sciphot, you are welcome! In the end we rode about 10.000 kilometers with the Pinion and we changed the oil, just to see how it works (it's not necessary) and it was really simpel. For our Rohloffs (we cycled almost 22.000km with those in this trip) we brought some oil along and changed it on the way. Pinion provides a special tool for the front sprocket, but it's really heavy! We didn't bring it. Just make sure the box and the cranks are tightened right and you should be fine! ;)
Mark February 29, 2016 - 23:13
So my crank fell off again at 450 miles. Guess I have to constantly check to see if it's tight LOL. I'm contacting Tout Terrain and Pinion to see what they have to say
Stephen Jones March 1, 2016 - 03:00
That's a little disappointing. I had big hopes for that. I guess, if I do lean towards non-deraileur, I'll be going Rohloff.
Mark March 1, 2016 - 03:04
I feel like I'm kinda stuck now.Hoping to get new cranks from somebody.
Alastair March 4, 2016 - 16:58
Many thanks for the previous reply and for having the best article on the Pinion I've been able to find. I was wondering if you knew of any other resources worth looking at in respect of the Pinion. Not the standard sort of review stuff as I've looked at them and none of them come close to this. But are there any really technical ones, maybe where they strip and rebuild, etc? I'd also be interested in any forward looking technical info, as in ideas about where this style of bicycle gearing may head. Derailleur/Rohloff/Pinion/Alfine efficiency comparisons, how light could they make a BB gearbox? Is there a chance the Pinion bridge plate could become a standard like a traditional BB shell did?
Berthold February 25, 2017 - 06:14
The online magazine fahrradzukunft.de has published data on efficiency, they show, that Rohloff is about 3 - 4 % better than pinion.
Mark March 4, 2016 - 17:12
So an update on my Pinion cranks. I didn't realize that there was a center shaft bolt that held the cranks on, which means that the 1st time it fell off the bolt was lost. After I put it back on it was just a matter of time till it fell off again. I sent a rather lengthy email to Tout Terrain and Pinion stating my unhappiness with them both. No one tried to figure out what happened, just "put it back on and tighten it". Pinion is now sending me 2 new cranks with new bolts so I am happy about that. I think I have the forged cranks and I asked them to send me the CNC cranks so we'll see.
Mark March 7, 2016 - 18:33
so, just an update. Today I received 2 new cnc cranks and bolts from Pinion. Turns out my old ones were the forged.I'm awaiting some assembly paste and Loctite that Pinion recommends for installation. To Pinions credit, they sent me the cranks without hesitation and got them to me quickly. Hopefully this will end this and I'll be able to get back to th riding my bike.
Bicycle Junkies March 9, 2016 - 11:52
Mark, good to hear you received the new cranks and that Pinion provided the service in the end. Now let's hope they really have resolved the issue, since it costs a lot of money and things like this don't give a lot of confidence. Keep us updated on the issue! Thanks!
Joey March 9, 2016 - 21:25
Hey thanks for posting this review. It's difficult to find content like this on the Pinion system. I'd like to know how people feel about use of the shifter: 1. Is it light action? Say, compared to the shifter on the Rohloff hub, how does it actually feel at the hand to shift? 2. I've noticed that the numbers on the shifter go right the way around the barrel, so to shift from 1st to 18th would require rotating the shifter almost 360 degrees which would take multiple twists of the wrist. Has anyone experienced this as an issue or is it quick enough to achieve a dramatic change in gearing? Joey
Jan March 18, 2016 - 20:53
Great article! For the first time, I'm planning to buy a worthy World Traveler (Santos), and I'm having a lot of trouble deciding between the Rohloff hub and the newer Pinion system. I'm leaning towards the Rohloff because it has proven itself countless times over, and the Pinion is more or less unknown territory for me. Price is also an option, here in The Netherlands a Pinion drive would cost exactly 1000 euros more than a Rohloff hub. I can spare the money, but only if I get a proven product. I also throw warranty in the mix. Here, the "unproven" Pinion went from 2 years warranty when it came out, to the current 5. This seems a lot compared to the 2 years of the Rohloff, BUT, here in The Netherlands, the importer for Rohloff guaranties LIFE LONG guaranty, if the oil in the hub is changed once a year, or every 5000 kilometers (Rohloff can "read" that information from the hub). So that is life-long on a proven product, versus 5 on an unknown one. Your article did help a bit, but I'll probably be milling it over for a few days before I make the decision. If I may, I also have a question? If you had the choice between Magura HS33 V-brakes, or Shimano XT disc-brakes, what would you choose, purely on personal experience? On my last bike (Koga Custom Made) I had a lot of trouble with my disc-brakes (squeaking like a tortured mouse), but they where of inferior quality to the XT disc-brakes.
Bicycle Junkies March 31, 2016 - 16:46
Hi Joey, To answer your questions; I find the shifting similar to Rohloff. Quick turning and shifting between multiple gears. It's only because you mention it, but I didn't really notice any issues making multiple twists, I may do so, but not conscience as so to speak. So, I guess it's quick enough to change gears. ;) Isn't there a local shop that makes it possible to test ride on a Pinion bike? Come to our shop and feel free to test! ;) Ellen
Bicycle Junkies March 31, 2016 - 17:01
Hi Jan, Thank you! And you are welcome! My first question would be: for what purpose are you buying the bike? Commuting? Travelling? Both? Long distance rides? Overseas? The Pinion drive system in The Netherlands will set you back almost another 1000 Euros, but I don't know the value of money for you personally. Test ride the bike and feel both systems before you make a decision. The Rohloff guaranty might be LIFE LONG, but the warranty isn't. After 2 years have passed, you will have to pay a fee in any case the Rohloff needs maintenance. As for the brakes; V-brakes are the cheapest solution, but need the most maintenance and have lesser brake power. Magura HS-33 rim brakes almost need no maintenance and brake power is more. If you choose not to buy the FIRMTECH brakes, you can always (in case of an emergency) exchange the Magura Brakes for V-brakes (which will be more readily available). Shimano XT disc-brakes are hydraulic as well and have the best brake power. The discs are readily available as well, but they do tend to squeak or drag every now and then, especially after rainfall. We are now riding with the Shimano XT Disc brakes for the first time and we have cycled too few kilometers to actually have an opinion. But, once we've done a couple of thousand kilometers, we'll write a review about them as well. I'm also very curious. ;) You can always come and visit us at Bike4travel in Rotterdam, we can show you a couple of different Pinion bikes, you can test ride them and we'll tell you more about brakes and stuff. And let us know your what you have decided to buy!
Pierce May 12, 2016 - 19:43
Hi So I am not alone. The creaking and clicking is starting to get to me. Just one more question for pinion p1.18 users, I have this on a tout terrain, nice bike, but no one ever seems to mention the delayed uptake click when starting from rest or when coasting starting to pedle again, there is a small gap between gear connect and drive connect. Is this everyone's experience? I think I need to change cranks too. My left hand crank has literally fallen off twice (1) once becaus when I picked up the bike no crank centre bolt was in place the second time? Incredible that a bike can be designed that actually unscrews a crank centre bolt? What is wrong with a left handed thread.
Bicycle Junkies May 12, 2016 - 20:01
Hi Pierce, Sorry to hear you have the same issues with the cranks. Make sure Pinion replaces them with the new ones. I do recognize the delayed uptake click; but I believe that that particular characteristic works as designed. And I also agree about the thread, we didn't understand that either. I'm curious to hear if Pinion will send you good replacement cranks, let us know!
Mark May 12, 2016 - 23:16
I had one of my cranks fall off twice. After the 2nd time I realized that the center bolt was missing. I sent a detailed and not so nice letter to Pinion and TT and told them I wanted new cranks. Pinion didn't blink and just wanted to know what size I had. I have had them on for a few hundred miles now and have had no problems. I think it originally was an assembly issue. Pinion now recommends using carbon/alloy assembly paste on the cranks on the crank spline and LocTite on the bolts. I did that with my new cranks and so far so good.I have about 900 miles on mine now and it is starting to loosen up nicely.I can shift between several gears at a time which can be useful on hills.I agree there is sometimes a gap when shifting gears but I'm getting used to it and am really enjoying my bike.
Pierce May 13, 2016 - 17:34
Yes have contacted seller and will contact pinion directly. Because these bikes and gear system are still rare in UK it is difficult to find anyone else to discuss these concerns. You start to become a bit neurotic about 'am i paying too much attention to the noise?' 'maybe its supposed to do that?' It is like reading an agony aunt page and realising you are not the only one. Looking forward to a happier future now .... assuming the cranks do the job. Thanks again for the 'lived experience' with the pinion.
Ben Nichols May 18, 2016 - 08:06
Very interesting review thanks. Nice that you rode it lots before writing. I have ridden rohloff and it is certainly nicer than derailleur, but I think that both Rohloff and Pinion are solutions to a non-existent problem. Even regular Deore transmission will give years of good service, all the bits are cheap and widely available. The main advantage of Rohloff and Pinion is that you do not need a dished rear wheel, but Rohloff rather mitigate this by not selling a 36 spoke hub. I guess that is one up for Pinion. Me I am sticking with the cheap stuff I can fix and replace completely myself!
Volker May 19, 2016 - 20:31
Hallo Jan and greetings from sicily. I just bike here from Munich, 2000km. A great tour! I used a Pinion 1.12 with a cdx belt on a bike that was built for me. I LOVE the Pinion (and yes, I also had problems with the cranks). BUT the real issue is the Hub. I use a cassette Hub with spacers. No good... I need a singlespeed in silver without the attachments for disc brakes. And not crazy noisy... The perfekt Pinion Hub! Do you have an idea? Would be great to hear from you! VOLKER
Pierce May 19, 2016 - 21:55
Cranks arrived today. So hope this helps. Will let you know.
Clint June 1, 2016 - 12:18
Thanks for the review. Thinking of a long-distance titanium bike with either Ultegra triple chain rings and Ultegra rear derailleur, or belt drive with Rohloff hub, or belt vs chain drive with Pinion transmission. Guess I will wait for someone to do the 3-way comparison you talked about. My question is whether you know of a Pinion distributor or frame builder who would incorporate the Pinion transmission in the U.S.?
Shane June 3, 2016 - 04:56
Viral bikes is starting to make bikes with the pinion system in the USA. I'm looking into getting one. The website is viral.bike
Michael June 6, 2016 - 17:16
Hi Ben This is not about non-existent problems! I’ve been riding my pinion bike for one year on tours, for grocery shopping and weekend joyrides in the woods and country. In mud and snow with an outside temperature at around freezing point, when the space between the rear sprockets of derailleur systems quickly clogs up, Pinion just pulls through unimpressed even when the chain tensioner is frozen fixed in its position. Being able to change gears quickly at traffic lights while standing or when the bike is heavily loaded on tours is not an issue. The low gears of the P1.18 give you a real advantage over derailleur systems on tours with plenty of luggage and inclines of more than 15%. The higher system weight is easily compensated. Since cleaning the drive train is done so quickly I am less reluctant cleaning the bike, which leads to an even better overall performance. All the above just makes it a superior bike to me compared to the previous derailleur I had. – I don’t want to go back to 3x10 or other. The only negative point is the creaking cranks. In the original instruction leaflet Pinion suggested to apply grease when attaching the cranks, this years’ service video suggests carbon paste, my dealer applied copper paste. …
Barry June 18, 2016 - 15:56
I've had my Pinion 1.12 on a made-to-measure Titanium frame MTB for just over two months now (MSG Bikes in Lancing, Sussex did the build). I had the (650B) wheels built up using the Hope singlespeed rear hub, which works extremely well with the Gates carbon drive I specified. It's been a miserable wet late Spring and early Summer here in the UK, so I've been shipping a lot of water and mud without any problems. The weight differential of the Pinion box means the bike isn't superlight, but it handles extremely well, with the gearbox weight nicely centered. A huge advantage on an MTB is the ability to change to/from any gear rapidly on encountering unexpected gradient changes - no more crashing cogs and chain drops, and no more bent rear mechs from hitting rocks and stumps. The only issue I've experienced is some loss of tension in the drive belt over time - I've twice retensioned, but don't know why; Gates belts aren't supposed to stretch and I can't see how the rear dropouts could be slipping forwards. But that has been the ONLY maintenance I've had to do. So far, so very good; hoping all continues as well.
William June 22, 2016 - 16:24
Nice to read you review. I too have graunching cranks. Furthermore my gears occasionally drop out with a loud report like a pistol shot. It only happens pedalling up long steep hills. Pinion have dismissed the graunching as a wrongly tensioned belt. I think they're mistaken. They haven't answered my request for advice about the gears dropping out. But they've asked me to get my dealer to send them back the whole thing because it's leaking oil. I've only had it three months. I'm very pleased with it - or I would be - but for the problems. I'm just hoping their customer service lives up to their product profile!
William Barwell June 24, 2016 - 15:05
I've got a few hitches to deal with though. Up a long steep hill there's an occasional instantaneous disengagement of the transmission, simultaneous with a loud "snap" like a pistol shot. If I were stood on the pedals (I never do) it would make me fall off. This has occurred from day one and I'm only now getting round to raising it with the manufacturer. It sounds and feels as if a pawl jumps the tooth of a ratchet. I was prompted to contact Pinion because two additional faults have occurred over the past fortnight. There's a film of oil appeared on the sprocket side - so there's a leak. And there's a graunching noise and a sensation I'd associate with crank / shaft attachment (anybody with bits of cartilage loose in the knee will know what I mean by graunching!) I've checked the torque on the bolts clamping the cranks to the shaft - they're not loose. Pinion replied: they blame the crank noise on belt tension. This can't be right cos it started with only the right pedal stroke. They've told me to get the gearbox back to my dealer and sent back to Germany to deal with the oil leak. They don't seem to address the occasional "snap" with instantaneous transmission disengagement.
ben June 27, 2016 - 09:31
Apologies if my previous post here was unduly negative. I am interested in the engineering problems of trying to improve on traditional bicycle transmissions, and am still skeptical about Rohloff and Pinion under general conditions. Time will tell! I am just wondering whether the various problems reported here and elsewhere with the Pinion cranks making a noise are actually more to do with the entire pinion gearbox moving slightly inside the rather large eqivalent of the BB shell in Pinion specific frames? This would also make a noise when you stand hard on the cranks. Certainly with a traditional BB assembly noise from down there is often a symptom of the BB being lose or BB bearing issues.
Will July 1, 2016 - 14:08
I would love to know who to contact about buying the gearbox kit. I sent pinion a mail but no answer, maybe no ones attending their email?
Bicycle Junkies July 3, 2016 - 13:20
I recognize the snap. For me most of the time it happened if the gear was slightly off, if you know what I mean. But also sometimes with no extra strength on the pedal, just kicking the pedals in a normal rhythm. We have mentioned this too to Pinion, but 'never heard of' was more or less the answer. It's too bad, these issues are still the case a year after we've been riding with the boxes...
Bicycle Junkies July 3, 2016 - 13:23
Ben, true. We've been thinking about that too. But for us, it was definitely the cranks and the slipping of the gears inside. When we took the cranks off, you could easily see the wear and tear and replacing them resolved the issue with the creaking sounds.
Bicycle Junkies July 3, 2016 - 13:25
Isn't there a dealer in your country? I have no idea who else to contact... :(
William Barwell July 3, 2016 - 14:22
Thank you for your corroboration. My dealer wasn't able to reproduce the "snap" when he rode it for a few minutes before dispatching the gearbox back to the manufacturer. I gather that the response from Germany is still "it's the customer's fault for getting the belt tension wrong". I only hope my retailer stands his ground on my behalf. No mention from Germany yet regarding my cranks. I admit I often ride with 20kg of luggage, and it's mainly steep hills which provoke the crank graunching and the snap. Do the people at pinion HQ read this forum?
Bicycle Junkies July 3, 2016 - 16:09
You're welcome. Well, we rode the Pinion with about 25-30kg of luggage and I (Elmar) weigh about 80kg. The belt shouldn't be tensioned too much, but I doubt that's causing the snap. If you can, (or your dealer) take off the cranks, you'll notice quick enough if they are worn out. I have no idea if they read this thread, if they do, they are welcome to respond and give their sight of the story. Are only goal is to be honest and help improve things.
Will July 4, 2016 - 19:19
I'm afraid not. I don't understand their reluctance to sell to individuals and smaller bike builders. With the 5 year warranty it does show they have confidence in their product.. I suspect the problems posted here about gears slipping and cranks falling off, is both a design and quality control issue which by now you'd expect they've sorted. I'd be willing to try one out if I could get one. I only need the kit not a complete bike.
Joost July 6, 2016 - 15:17
Many thanks for the review junkies. I was wondering if you have noticed any change in riding behaviour and balance between the pinion and the rohloff due to the placement of the gearboxes (central for pinion, aft for rohloff)? Pinion is heavier but claims optimum center of gravity.
Bicycle Junkies July 26, 2016 - 10:36
Hi Joost, you are welcome! No, I can't say I did. And if so, it must have been marginal. I guess if you carry some weight, the alleged advantage is neglect-able. I don't know physics well enough to pro or con the claim of optimum center of gravity, I think in the end you have to carry the total weight anyways. ;)
Brian July 31, 2016 - 02:28
Hello Junkies, thanks for hosting the de-facto Pinion owners forum. I picked up a 9XR on a TT Via Veneto in Feb. I'm curious if anyone else has experienced the occasional grind and mitigated it. At first, I thought the grinds occurred from too much load during shifting; but I'm still getting them after habitually stopping the cranks for a shift. Pierce's post make me suspect I'm sometimes spinning up the cranks too fast to get a solid engagement.
Bicycle Junkies August 4, 2016 - 14:21
Hello Brian, You are welcome! We've been in contact with Pinion and I hope they will soon join the discussion. I'm not sure I know what you mean with the grind sound, when exactly do you hear the sound? Does it come from inside the box, the gears themselves? Maybe someone else can help you out, who has experienced the same? Anyone?
Brian August 5, 2016 - 00:45
Actually, I feel a grind with my feet more than I hear it. Sounds are usually muffled by the commute music I'm listening to. The grind is accompanied by a slippage inside the gearbox. I think the grind is equivalent to the snap you and William report. I first encountered it during climbs as well. Higher input torque could impart the impression of a continuous snap instead of a grind. Unfortunately, I just experienced the grind even in a low torque situation. Looking closer at Pinion's design, I'm guessing some gear internal teeth are defective/ damaged and don't fully engage the pawl. I'll try to confirm this by localizing the effect to the particular gear. How often did you experience the snap/ 'gear slightly off' on the Pinion; and did it get worse, better, or stay consistent over time? Does Rohlhoff ever experience something similar? Thanks
Mark August 5, 2016 - 01:13
Hey, I thought I'd chime in here again. I initially had a problem with one of my cranks falling off. Pinion sent me 2 new cranks and I assembled them as Pinion recommends, using assy paste and LocTite.I don't believe they were assembled correctly the 1st time. Since then I have had no issues with them and now have about 2100 miles on my bike. One thing I notice about shifting is I put a little pressure on my twist grip and a little less pressure on my pedals and it shifts great. It just kinda falls into gear. It took me a while to get used to, kinda like heel/toe driving with a stick shift. Also, now with over 2000 miles it has really loosened up and I couldn't be happier. Thanks
William Barwell August 5, 2016 - 05:35
Hello there. My snap and momentary transmission failure is cured. It was as the chaps at Pinion suggested, a question of getting the belt tight enough. Their explanation: the torque amplification is upstream of the belt. This is peculiar to a bottom bracket gearbox, and so you can't just tension the belt according to a generic Gates belt-tension guide. I've tuned the belt to a vibration of 50Hz, and no more snaps! I'd previously had it tuned to 35 Hz. I suggest a diagnostic test: raise and lower the tension and observe the respective effect on your grinding. Best of luck!
William Barwell August 5, 2016 - 05:41
Hello there. My crank graunching is cured. Like you Brian I've had replacement cranks from the chaps at Pinion. Isn't it odd that this problem seems so simple to solve? It must likewise be easy to prevent.
Brian August 17, 2016 - 06:07
Thanks William, that appears to have been the issue. My belt tension was already around 40lbs, which is equivalent to 50Hz. Barely tightening the belt by a pound or two was just enough to stop the transmission drops. After a week of steadily increasing my demands, it is demonstrating its true potential. Of course, now I'll need to follow the rest of the advice here and install the CNC cranks. I'm getting a lot of pinging after they were serviced.
Wheelie Marc August 19, 2016 - 02:08
I'm about to take delivery of a titanium MTB with 1.18 Pinion and Gates Carbon belt. I was getting nervous about all the crank and gear crunching/snapping. But now, starting with W. Barwell's comments saying that the belt tension cured the issue I'm much more excited about the arrival of my new bike. Question: I've never heard of adjusting a belt to 50Hz. Does one need special equipment to adjust a belt to a specific frequency? Perhaps when I get the bike and see the instructions this will be self evident. In the event this is NOT in the instructions, how does one adjust a belt to a specific frequency? Also, once the belt is adjusted properly, does it need periodic adjustment? Thank for any help.
Leonid July 3, 2018 - 20:42
Please, see https://1drv.ms/f/s!AuECN02Vf11KgZhp6VcRro6rFCpKhA
Kyle August 25, 2016 - 22:02
How did the Pinon compare to the Rohloff regarding shifting under load? Same? Allowed more load? Less?
satrain19 October 4, 2019 - 12:49
The Pinion can't shift under load at all.
Leonid November 4, 2019 - 16:44
Up shift is no problems at all under load
Brian September 4, 2016 - 13:03
Marc, Special tools are needed to measure the Gates belt tension. The tools either measure tension directly or measure the frequency of vibration. See http://www.gatescarbondrive.com/Products/ACCESSORIESANDTOOLS# I suspect the belt may need periodic adjustment, if you use the perfect tension. While I've heard belts are not supposed to stretch, I suspect they still experience "chain-stretch" just to a much smaller degree. I didn't experience transmission drops until several months of usage, which seemed to slowly get worse over time. Using a higher tension than is needed likely accelerates wear on, at least, the belt. However, its possible that the Pinion oil change is the most significant periodic event, in practice. The belt may easily tolerate a few extra pounds of tension to counteract a year of stretch without premature wear. And, I doubt the yearly oil change can be done without re-tensioning the belt.
Franky January 7, 2017 - 11:39
I am using the Rohloff - Gates Carbon CDC-belt combination since 2011 (three bikes: Santos TM, Santos Race Lite and a Van Nicholas Tuareg - about 41.000 km all together). A periodic adjustment of the belt tension was never needed. Re-tensioning a belt after an oil change? Never heard of? Special tool for measuring the tension? I use a weight of one kilogram and a simple ruler. The belt on the MTB has a bit less tension due the muddy conditions. In fact: the first belt on each bike is still in use, even after 27.000 kilometers (on the Santos TM) it is still performing as normal.
VINCENT DEPILLIS October 11, 2016 - 22:54
I believe that my Pinion drive and cranks were not installed per manufacturer's recommendations. Some minor click clunk when standing on pedals in lower gear. Will reinstall transmission, tightening bolts in correct sequence, with correct torque and goop, same with cranks. Is this the only spot on the internet to have practical discussion about this stuff?
William October 12, 2016 - 06:38
Hello Vincent I haven't found another forum yet. This one is tricky to deal with on a smart phone. My replacement cranks, carefully installed, no longer creak. But even with a tightened belt I still drop out of gear - the metallic snap and 180 degree give in transmission - every few miles on hills. The chaps at pinion initially convinced me this was the belt being loose enough to jump teeth over the chainring. But I think it's actually something amiss in the box. The whole thing works like a dream otherwise so I'm just going to monitor the incidents and get back to the manufacturer if the problem escalates. William william.barwell@gmail.com
VINCENT DEPILLIS October 19, 2016 - 16:13
Hi William-- when you reinstalled your cranks, did you use "carbon assembly paste"? I have some, but I do wonder about intentionally assembling a metal to metal interface gritty grease! I have an email in to the Pinion folks, as to a recommendation for which goop, but no response yet. On a related topic-- are you using the Gates app for measuring belt tension?
VINCENT DEPILLIS October 25, 2016 - 17:48
So-- I reinstalled the transmission and cranks per spec, and clunk went away. It does seem strange to me that the crank installation requires "carbon asssembly paste". That seems like a bit of a kludge to me. I never did get a response from pinion as to what brand is best. I also have the "falling out of gear" issue that William Barwell references above. My next plans is to calibrate belt tension, using the Gates Iphone app. Interestingly, it seeems to me that the falling out of gear is NOT related to increased pressure on the pedals-- it seems kind of random-- and if anything more common when pedal pressure is light or intermittent. Curious whether anybody else is seeing this. I also have the
Steven January 2, 2017 - 10:56
I can't help but notice that most of the comments on here mention crank issues and the "falling out of gear" problem, yet many people still say they prefer the Pinion to the Rohloff. I would just like to know why? Has anyone experienced any issues with the Rohloff and is it really that much harder to shift than the Pinion? I have read countless articles, forums and reviews about the Rohloff and they all mention it's great reliability, lighter weight and ease of use. Are there some issues with it that I have missed that would make people want to choose the Pinion instead?
Vincent DePillis January 2, 2017 - 10:59
Hi Steven- I never had any issues with my Rohloff. Advantages of the Pinion: wider range, easier to change rear wheel, seems to have a better oil seal (my rohloff always leaked a little), weight in a better location on the bike, claimed to be more mechanically efficient.
aNDREAS January 5, 2017 - 11:38
Hi Steven. I suggest you test ride both systems. My personal comparison experience is that the Pinion gearbox does not give me the feeling of having to put in an extra effort due do internal gearbox friction (now, how subjective is this? ;-) ). Moreover you do not only have more gears but the gears are also closer to each other thus even with a heavily loaded bike you always(!) have the right gear; on long tours this is a big advantage. And as already explained by Vincent, dependent on the sprockets used you have lower gears and higher gears than on the Rohloff. As for the cranks I had them replaced for free. Pinion as well as the manufacturer mentioned faulty tolerances as a reason. (I guess it must have been a bad parts series. So over time I would expect to read less about this issue; XT cranks are attached in a similar way, so why should it the Pinion cranks be noisy?) I've got my bike for 1.5 years and couldn't be happier. Regards, Andreas
Brian January 22, 2017 - 20:57
Hi Steven, My scenario is more niche, as my bike is electric. The 9XR gear ratio and ability to motorize the rear wheel are substantial benefits over the Rohloff.
Mark January 10, 2017 - 05:49
I recently test rode a Pinion P1.12 equipped bike with Gates belt drive. I was impressed by how quiet the drivetrain was compared to the chain & derailleur drivetrain on my bike. The speed of shifts and the ability to change from any gear to any gear at any time, even stopped were great. There were two downsides, in my opinion, one of which I see covered here - downshifting under load going up a hill. This seemed to require backing off power significantly more before the shift selector would even rotate than my road bike requires for a smooth, quiet shift in similar situations. The other thing I noticed which I see as a downside is the Q-factor (width between crankarms and thus pedals) is almost 2cm wider than my road bike (Shimano Ultegra 68000 crankset). On a bike where adjustments of 1-2mm make a difference in comfort, 2cm is quite significant. I would appreciate hearing thoughts on this from those who have 1,000 or more miles on their Pinion bikes
Alan January 22, 2017 - 02:01
Hello Bicycle Junkies, Thank you for the excellent article and also inviting others to contribute with their comments. This seems the de facto place on the web for experienced Pinion information. I want to purchase a bike with an internal hub, but, am not sure which one to get, Rohloff or Pinion. I will be touring for weeks on Rail-Trails and gravel roads pulling a 70 pound Bob single wheel trailer. With a heavy load, I really like the idea to be able to shift when stopped. The Pinion does seem relatively new with some problems. Whereas the Rohloff seems to have a slight, constant oil leak when laying down the bike for extended periods. Since you have extensive experience with both the Rohloff and Pinion, I noticed you mentioned your next bike will have a Rohloff. Is the Rohloff better or is the Pinion worse? I would appreciate your thoughts and reasoning as to why you will get the Rohloff next. Again, thank you, Alan
Bicycle Junkies February 6, 2017 - 12:32
Hi Alan, We did choose the Rohloff for our next bicycle: https://www.bicycle-junkies.com/avaghon-x29/ We preferred it for various reasons: - price - proven technology - weight - rear wheel is stronger Oil leaks aren't so terrible as one might believe. By the end of this month I am attending a Rohloff course, to learn more about the system.
Scott R Hampton February 21, 2017 - 11:20
I am in the process of buying two new Hase Kettwiesel EVO's, both US Stock, full suspension, none folding frame, Nexus 8-speed rear, Schlumpf High-Speed front. For recumbent riders (and my curiosity) I'm buying a spare front boom, having a shop install the mount for a Pinion P1.18. I'll then have my cycle shop install the four leg spider for the chainring, strip out the Nexus 8, and match a rear gear, on one of the trikes. I'll be going with chain drive, not belt, since no belt drives are made long enough for a recumbent, and the boom chain adjustment system is already on the trike. Why all this trouble? Research, plus development of a possible Kit for a Kettwiesel upgrade to Pinion, if there becomes any interest once I post my findings. It is understood that changing the chainring on the four leg spider will be easy, but doing so on the rear will be a bit of a pain, since my trikes will have the Hase differential. I'll be working with my dealer/shop closely in finding that perfect set of gears for the trike, its smaller tires, local terrain, and my riding style. I will be comparing the two trikes in mainly daily commutes (Approximately 50 miles a day), and weekend rides. I'll also be watching for that Creak mentioned in your review, since my power angle will be much lower applied to the transmission case than a diamond frame, and attention to shifting because of the longer cables required to reach the twist shifter on the trike. Look for further information on my Facebook page.
Luc Bories March 8, 2017 - 17:06
Vandaag mijn Santos fiets met Pinion binnengeleverd voor herstelling omwille van speling op de as van de Pinion zelf. 9 maanden oud, 6200 km. De Pinion moet terug naar de fabriek Zijn er nog mensen die deze problemen kennen?
Bicycle Junkies March 15, 2017 - 14:51
Maybe you'll receive more replies if you ask your question in English Luc: Luc has an issue with his Pinion hub, 9 months old, 6200 kilometers: playing on the axes. The Pinion has to be returned, Luc wants to know if anyone of you recognizes this problem.
Sue Yerex August 15, 2017 - 04:54
I would like to hear more about this "gear skipping" and cures
Mark & Juno August 15, 2017 - 20:33
Hi there Informative articles on your site. Interesting comments on the Hilleberg. Last week our Nallo 3 GT started to leak from the seams after 12 hours of fairly constant rain and condensation the following day resulted in an impressive puddle at the foot of our bedding. Thought Nammatj 3 GT may be a more robust option but seems it would have the same problems, so may reconsider accommodation. We bought Santos Travel Lines (Rohloff and Gates belt drives) three years ago and have clocked up almost 10,000 Kms from summer cycle tours. Really reliable bikes which suit our type of travelling. As you had a long term stint with Santos Travel Lites, can you provide any tips on general maintenance and recommended replacement of specific parts after several long haul trips: e.g. replacement of eccentric bottom bracket, gear cabling, gear shifters... ? We live in the Middle East, so unless we plan an expensive stopover via the Netherlands, Santos maintenance shops are not an option. Regards Mark
ashok kumar behera October 22, 2017 - 14:54
I want to buy a P1.18 pinion gear box
nicolevelo October 29, 2017 - 19:10
How is the pinion gearbox evolving since the article came out in november 2015? Are the problems mentioned above solved now?
Bicycle Junkies December 10, 2017 - 15:59
In the shop we work in (Bike4travel) we have sold multiple travel bicycles with Pinion drive system (Santos, Avaghon, Idworx) and none of them returned with crank issues, or whatever issues for that matter. So, from my point of view I think it's safe to say Pinion has improved their cranks.
Dick Tchairdjian December 20, 2017 - 09:35
Excellent Article. Enjoyed reading all the comments too. I live in Canada, and I don't think the Pinion is available here on any bike. I know that in the USA, Co-Motion Bikes sells a few models for those who are into Bicycle Touring. I am curious if there are others too.. I wouldn't mind having one as a normal Road Bike.... The ones sold by Co-Motion are all handmade bikes and are quite expensive (~ US$7,000). The concept of the pinion gearing system is quite innovative... Hopefully, the price comes down a little so the mainstream market picks it up. ENJOY!
Zhivko Stoyanov January 22, 2018 - 21:10
Very nice info here. I appreciate it. Has anyone tried the new Pinion C-Line gear box ? Any opinions and comparisons to standard Pinion P-Line ?
Bicycle Junkies January 23, 2018 - 11:10
Thanks Zhivko. No experience with the C-line yet, we do sell E-bikes with the P1.12 system, but I wouldn't recommend that for normal touring bikes. The steps between the gears are too big to ride comfortably.
Zhivko Stoyanov January 23, 2018 - 22:09
I mostly ride mtb Enduro and in the city. I live in Sofia, Bulgaria. I consider one with Pinion as a city bike. I ride lots of kilometers in the town - around 6000 per year. On conventional derailleur based gear system I change my chain rings at about 2 years. I know that I totally do not need Pinion based city bike. It can not bring me the money back that I will give for it, not even a part of them. Well changing my sprockets and even my derailleur on the city bike costs me below 200 euro and I ride 11000 km with one set of sprockets - front and rear. So for 100 000 km if Pinion is working flawless, it will bring me back around 2000 euro, which is far less than the price of a Pinion based bike. I really doubt the system will go 100 000 without any problems (not even the belt). On the other hand this is too much ride to think about it. But I really like the tech behind Pinion. I just want to have one to ride it in the city or in the areas around. This is why I consider the Pinion C-12 system. And even more on the Pinion's site is written for some improvements on it.
Harry May 29, 2018 - 20:22
William: we have the snapping problem too. We’ve got two Poison Bike Ozon with a P1.18. They ride fine, but on the Pinion of my wife’s bike the snapping, the jumping of a tooth within the Pinion, was so severe and frequent is every gear, that we received a new gearbox. We went back to Nickenich, and after the mechanics adjusted everything according to the numbers Pinion give, we made a test ride. To the end of the street, with two more snaps/clack!s. Poison Bike installed a new P1.8. Now the gear just clack!s now and then in a long ascend. My P1.18 leaked oil like my Rohloff does. This was so apparent that Poison Bikes swapped the gearbox without a lot of arguing. So the statement that a Pinion can’t leak oil is utter nonsense. *Every* bolted container can leak oil. Do not fool yourself! The Gates CDX performs very well, when it starts to sound like the cheap chain, we just spray some water over it, preferably brush it. With a bit of silicon spray on the belt the squeaking stays away a considerable time. At least a day of three. If you don’t ride too much sandy roads.... We have Rohloff bikes too and I’m convinced Rohloff is tougher than Pinion. All the Rohloffs (five) we have in the vicinity leak oil, some more than others. Big advantage of Rohloff is the connection of the gear cable to the outer box. It’s simple and intuitive, something the connection of the Pinion gear cable certainly is not! I had to change the cable due to a assembly fault of Poison Bikes. Fortunately I was near Waimate, New Zealand, when my cable jammed. I had the use of the workshop there and spilled four gear cables before I got the thing right (with the help of YouTube!). The splendid Porsche engineers should have looked to Rohloff for this. Both Rohloff and Pinion ride fine, shift the same. One strength of Rohloff is that they make only one very good product, and one weakness IMHO of Pinion is that they try to introduce a new product every year. They want to expand too fast. I want to buy a new 29’ OR “ 27,5’ MTB this year, but have yet to decide for Rohloff of Pinion. All Pinion bikes are €500 more expensive......
Mac June 19, 2018 - 12:47
Harry, As an experienced owner of Rohloff and Pinion, which would you recommend? I'm having a custom touring bike built and can go either direction. I currently use a Rohloff but the extra gear range of the Pinion is very tempting.
Bicycle Junkie Ellen July 12, 2018 - 09:19
Mac, both Pinion and Rohloff have advantages, it depends on what you prefer. Pinion > more gears (P1.18), silent throughout all the gears. Wider range, smaller steps in between gears. But, heavier and more expensive to buy. We are currently riding with Rohloff, with the right sprocket combination I have enough range in the lower gears to ride up steep mountains. Why we went back to Rohloff? Weight and price.
Leonid Kuzmin July 13, 2018 - 07:25
Transmission Pinion C1.12 Gearbox in comparison with the planetary (planetary hubs Rohloff Speedhub and Shimano Alfine SG-S705) transmission. Benefits: 1. Minimal maintenance of the transmission. Maintenance consists of changing gearbox oil once a year, or every 10,000 kilometres. Guarantee gearbox Pinion C1.12 - 5 years; 2. Much more wide choice of rear chainrings, as the standard cassette body of the rear hub is used; 3. Since the Pinion C1.12 gearbox is in place of the BB, there is no special hub in the rear wheel: a. This makes it possible to use almost any rear wheel, which is especially important during long way bike touring far from bike stores; b. It is easy and simple to remove, and back install the rear wheel (for example, when puncturing); c. For a transmission with internal-gear hub, a special rear wheel is required; 4. The transmission works almost noiselessly; 5. There is never an incomplete (indistinct) shifting with a high noise level. Shifting completely binary - either shifted or not: a. In the internal-gear hub (especially in Shimano Alfine SG-S705), the gears can be in an intermediate position – the coupling is not complete and the noise is strong; 6. The transmission range is 600%. For comparison, a very expensive 14-speed bushing Rohloff Speedhub has a range of 530%. 11-speed bushing Shimano Alfine in 409%. 600% make it possible to go speedily lengthways the asphalt and climb comfortably along steep ground tracks; 7. A good balance of the entire bicycle - the heavy gearbox is located as low and forward as possible from the rider: a. The planetary heavy bushing is behind and quite high. Needless to say, a lot of weight is concentrated on the rear wheel. Especially if the bike has a carrier with heavy bags; Disadvantages: 1. Special frame construction. This frame is only applicable with the Pinion gearbox; 2. Quite a large interval between transmissions - 17.7%. For trips on forest roads and trails this is not a problem, but on the asphalt without bags and luggage the chosen gear may seem insufficiently optimal;
Harry July 12, 2018 - 15:55
Hi, I was meaning to update my comment. I was experiencing severe squeaking in my Pinion P1.18. I did all the routine checks: I already had a new CNC-crank (EN-AW 7075). Assembled the crank first with Cyclon Stay Fixed Montagegrease, when this didn't work with anti-seizegrease. Nothing worked. Before the squeaking there was a loud clocque in the box, which wentaway with a new oil change (I had new oil in it when the loud Clocque! appeared in the first place) I checked all the bolts, except the one that is unreachable under the chain ring. Nothing. I reached the point I wanted to give the bike to the Salvation Army. Instead, I brought the bike to Bongers Belt Bikes in Apeldoorn. They found the culprit. The one bolt I couldn't reach was broken in two. The head was just fixed, but not connected anymore to the frame. Now I have six new standard and superior hex bolts to attach the P1.18 securely to the frame. My bike is silent again. @Mac: I'd go for Rohloff. Pinion is great, but too expensive. And as for maintenance in the field: neither can be fixed if the gearbox itself is broken, but that is something I gather that will be very highly extremely unlikely. But the cable, the shifterbox and the shifters of the Rohloff are more maintenance friendly. This is a point where Rohloff excels and Pinion leaves a lot to be desired. I had to change a shifter cable due to bad assembly, when on holiday in New Zealand. Luckily I was near Waimate and there was a friendly shop owner that let me use his workshop and wifi [for watching and re-re-re-watching the Youtube manual from Pinion how to change the cable]. I spent four or five cables [it was among others a bicycle shop] before I finally had the cable fixed. As for number of gears: I have another setup on a MTB: a Shimano Nexus 8 with two chain rings in front (with derailleur), so I have 16 gears. I plan to do this with my Rohloff MTB: using two chain rings very close together, you not only extend the total range of gearing (with two chain rings far apart you extend it a lot), but can have another gearing all along. This setup (Nexus 8 x 2) allready functions for over ten years, on the road and in the field [and in a lot of mud!] I know this setup sounds crazy, but it works. To be sure it only works with a normal chain. And I use an old rear derailleur as chain tensioner: can be adjusted very precisely. Another advantage of Rohloff: as it is designed as an after market product for mountain bikes, if the gearbox goes to smithereens completely, you can always put in a normal wheel; every bike shop has normal wheels. No bike shop has anything from Pinion.
Colin Anderson January 6, 2019 - 12:39
I appreciate all this debate. I have 4 bicycles, all fitted with Shimano gear systems. Tired of all the maintenance, clusters, chains, issues in mud,snow, dry dust and rocky areas that threaten the drop out and rear derailer. After 30 plus years of riding bicycles, racing, doing mtb endurance races and road riding, I now confine my riding to doing mtb endurance riding and touring. The Rouloff and Pinion have been subjects of debate for many years, but I just have not taken the jump! Seriously considering the C1-12 for endurance mtb racing/riding. I am 80kg and load between 10 and 15kg to the bike. I ride dual suspension mtb’s, a single speed and a gravel bike. Any contributions to my choice would be appreciated.
Barry Philipson January 25, 2019 - 17:53
Hi Colin, I've got a Gilbertson Inferno fitted with a C12, I also got fed up with using a derailleur system in the winter. However, the Pinion hasn't been trouble free. Firstly avoid Gates drive if you're doing any kind of extreme mountain biking, I've snapped 2 belts and given it up as a bad job. They're just not strong enough so I've switched to a single speed chain set-up. When I switched I went from a 32x28 on the belt to 24x26 on chain drive and this has also made the gearing more suitable for my style of riding. More worryingly my gearbox has just developed an oil leak, I'm waiting for Pinion to come back to me on it but it obviously doesn't look good. At best I'm going to have to ship the box back to Germany for repair. The 5 year warranty is reassuring though. That apart, I'm still sold on the idea, the performance of the gearbox and the shifting are great in wet, muddy UK conditions, the weight is centrally located in the frame so the bike handles beautifully and it looks great. Hopefully this oil leak will be resolved as otherwise it's going to be an expensive mistake.
Leonid Kuzmin January 30, 2019 - 15:18
Hi Barry, You are right, generally Pinion chain solution is more simple, more robust and more multifaceted in use. Longlife chain with Longlife 30/26 or 30/30 chainrings and chain tensioner is a most multipurpose solution.
Leonid Kuzmin January 7, 2019 - 22:20
2 COLIN ANDERSON Please, consider: https://1drv.ms/f/s!AuECN02Vf11KgZhp6VcRro6rFCpKhA
 https://1drv.ms/f/s!AuECN02Vf11KgblJqIkUqL2SN8KGkQ and https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3086611523 and https://connect.garmin.com/modern/activity/3021081560
 Verily, one bike for all purposes. Regards, Leonid.
Harry January 8, 2019 - 11:48
Well, indeed I have to say that one of the greatest advantages of the Pinion is that you can change wheels at a relatively low cost: with the Pinion you can have the simplest wheels of all: no cassette or expensive Rohloff to consider. I have just converted my Rohoff-Mountain Bike to tubeless (with CushCore), but had to change the rims/spokes for the Rohloff. These are nice setups on the photo's!
Leonid Kuzmin January 8, 2019 - 14:30
Yes, I agree. It possible to use almost any rear wheel, which is especially important during long way bike touring far from bike stores.
Colin Anderson January 9, 2019 - 05:40
Leonid, thanks for your input. Great looking bike. Definitely the business! Can you confirm which gearbox is being used?
Leonid Kuzmin January 9, 2019 - 08:47
Hi Colin, It is C1.12 on all photos. In my opinion the C1.12 Gearbox is optimal for any multipurpose bike (Super Versatile Bike).
Cary Mendes June 19, 2019 - 21:49
Leonid, I looked at your bike photos. What all sizes of tire are you using on your everything bike...everything except fat tires I guess. I'm thinking I would need two bikes to ride 4.5 inch down to street riding tires. Thanks.
Leonid Kuzmin June 24, 2019 - 15:33
Hi Cary, For tough MTB races I use WTB Ranger TCS Light - 29x3.0 at front and Schwalbe Rocket Ron 29x2.35 at rear. For all other purposes Schwalbe G-One Speed Evolution - TLEasy - 29x2.35 See https://www.facebook.com/KuzminSkiTech/posts/1813324905401909
 and https://www.facebook.com/KuzminSkiTech/photos/a.197446770323072/1834481499952916
 Regards
Cary Mendes June 19, 2019 - 21:46
I'm wondering if the Pinion crank or gates belt short life problems have been fixed since this review was written? I really want to buy bike with Pinion or Rohloff and belt drive in the near future for all types of riding but first I'm looking for off the pavement type of bikes and guess I'll have to live without rear suspension. Thanks.
Bicycle Junkies June 24, 2019 - 10:10
Hi Cary, Yes, as far as I know and according to many customers who ride with Pinion the crank issues have been resolved. I don't know of any new cases. I don't know what you mean by short life belt problems. CDX with Expedition sprockets, mounted correctly and a stiff bike frame last a lot longer than your usual chain. Good luck choosing your next bike!
Cary Mendes July 3, 2019 - 14:09
I thought that you had problems with the CDX belt wearing faster than the CDC belt. And I can only use the CDX with the Pinion...still? Thanks again, Cary
Fred Juengling July 17, 2019 - 00:47
For what it's worth, this is my second full season of riding a Co-Motion Divide with a Pinion/Gates CDX combination and have experienced creaking/clicking since about the 500 mile mark. All riding is done on road, admittedly much of it with 50-60 pound touring loads. Three times now I have cleaned/greased and moved the crank arm position on the axle all without success, in fact the problem continues to worsen. I wonder if the noise arises at the pinion case/frame attachment points. Did you contact Pinion directly or your local bike shop or Gates, who I believe is the U.S. importer/distributor of Pinion?
Leonid Kuzmin July 23, 2019 - 12:01
Hi Cary, Pinion chain solution is more simple, more robust and more multifaceted in use. Longlife chain with Longlife 30/26 or 30/30 chainrings and chain tensioner is a most simple, pragmatic and multipurpose solution.
BARRY PHILIPSON June 24, 2019 - 18:23
Cary, if you're going to be doing trail mountain biking I found that Gates drive were not up to the stresses that they have to endure when pedalling very hard to get up short, sharp climbs. I snapped 2 and have reverted to using a chain and sprockets, so far with no problem. When I contacted my supplier, Gilbertson Bikes, they said others had suffered similar failures and they now recommend chains for mtbs. There are a few full suspension mtbs coming out now with Pinion but obviously they are chain drive with tension pulleys to take up the slack when the suspension is under load. Hope this helps.
Everton August 19, 2019 - 19:59
Hi guys I need some help. I have been dithering for far too long between Rohloff and Pinion. I change my mind every half hour. I've read the whole forum from top to bottom. I want to start touring again. I would like to travel around Europe - the flats and the mountain ranges. I figure I'll probably go for two weeks at a time and doing about 60km to 100km a day. Do you think a Rohloff would be enough for a fully-loaded bike, say, in the Pyrenees or on a steep gradient in the Alps? And would I have to get a special gear ratio?
Bicycle Junkies September 3, 2019 - 08:10
Hi Everton, a Rohloff hub would absolutely be enough for mountaines terrain. I have more than enough experience with it. I'd recommend front sprocket 50 and rear sprocket 22 when using a belt. Good luck!
Ray McNeal November 30, 2019 - 03:37
I would like to use the 18 gear gear box on my RANS Stratus recumbent. Is that possible?
Leonid December 17, 2019 - 20:21
Hi, Ray, No, you cannot use the 18 gear gear box on RANS Stratus recumbent. The frame does not have Pinion Gearbox slot. Regards
Colin Anderson December 17, 2019 - 15:39
Guys, I’ve send my letter of intent for 2020 Tour Divide from Banff to Antelope Wells. I want to build a dual suspension mtb (roughly 90 to 100mm rear travel and 100mm to 120mm front) a C1.12 pinion gearbox (versus a C1.18 - your opinions welcome on the options) using a chain on a titanium platform with 29r rims. I’m 59yrs of age currently. I’m aiming for 18 days as a best finish, but planning longest 22 days. I live in South Africa, so I need to work smartly and quickly to get everything right. What size from and rear chainrings are suggested? I’m generally a grinder type rider. Your thoughts and advice team!
CO Crawler January 4, 2021 - 15:46
Did you build that bike? I live in Colorado and was thinking that I would like to try a belt drive hard tail Rolhoff for the divide...or most any divide. I mean who wants to do maintenance!
Loki November 13, 2020 - 07:20
Pinion-Gates USA and Co-motion have done nothing to help rid my P1.18 of the intolerable clicking noise. I have finally accepted the fact that I have been hosed.by a couple of slick-willys. It appears that dogs can hear the frequency of the Pinions clicking more than a 50 meters away. I can no longer sneak through a small village without "calling in" the feral dogs. So I have packed up the bike in it's shipping bag and bike-flighted it black to the States. Now Im touring on a Rohloff bike and loving the peaceful solitude of touring at a fraction of the pinion's cost.
Harry January 5, 2021 - 12:35
Loki, See my comment/post of July 12, 2018. The origing of the clicking can be dovers I guess, but in my case it was a broken bolt, the one bolt you can't reach without get the chainring off. After the workshop had replaced the broken bolt my clicking was over.
Harry January 5, 2021 - 12:41
Oh yeah, and for this discussion: I bought me a second hand Idwox Rock 'n Rohler with chain and rohloff. I absolutely LOVE this bike and the Rohloff. Again with some oil leakage, now in the middle of the hub, but I don't really care about that anymore: the bike rides like a dream. I have ORigin8 Drop Ends, so I can ride the bike like a mountainbike as well as with a drop down handlebar. With Schwalbe G-One 2.4 inch tyres it's as fast as any gravelbike, but with the width of the tyres I can go everywhere on sand, gravel and dirt. The onlye bike I would like even better is a Santos Cross Lite or something similar (well, the Idworx Rock'nRohler is about similar I guess)
Colin Anderson January 5, 2021 - 12:51
Guys, whilst my first preference was to build a titanium frame dual Sussie with a pianism C1.12 gearbox, I could not find anyone you was willing to build me a dual Sussie in titanium. Thus, I’ve opted for a New Zealand brand called ZERODE in the Kapito 29r range. The frame is carbon and the build is exceptional.
Jeff Trester February 14, 2021 - 20:19
I have a pinion 18 gearbox. I had an oil leak during the first month I had the bike. We tried a couple of easy fixes which didn’t help and I returned the gearbox to Gates, They replaced it and sent the new one back at no charge, and I have not had a problem with it since, Including a 1200 mile trip down the North Pacific coast on the Pacific coast bike route.. I have not experienced the clicking that one person above described. I have found that the belt begins to squeak if it gets too dried out. On the advice of Gates this was easily fixed with a spray of silicone lubricant , which I have found needs to be repeated about every 500 to one thousand miles. I love it. And not being much of a bike mechanic, I feel more secure on the long treks through bad weather, rain and mud.
Boudewijn March 4, 2021 - 04:12
I have ro make a choice between Rohloff and Pinion, so just curious for all experiences.
Harry December 9, 2022 - 09:39
In performance and ease of use I can’t say I have any preference. Pinion has a somewhat cumbersome attachment of the gear cable. I had to replace a cable on a trip and was *very* lucky to be near a village in New Zealand with a general - also bicycle - repair shop. It was a PITA to change the cables. With Rohloff this is a relative breeze: you don’t have to open anything fragile. Pinion as well as Rohloff are downright lazy to implement a good shifter for a drop bar. Pinion doesn’t even has a (Cinq) drop bar-shifter for a P1.18. The choice is easy when you want a frame with thru-axles in the rear: Rohloff has no realistic option for that. An advantage for Pinion in this: different rear-wheels are a lot cheaper than with Rohloff. Kindernay has a thru-axle, but they are out of stock….
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