Here is a picture of my ride.
I've already given my first thoughts....
Here are my second thoughts. I ordered a complete new rear wheel with everything except my 7 speed cassette on it. I am really glad I ordered the wheel. I don't not feel comfortable lacing a wheel. I ended up going to a bike shop and paying $8 to change my cassette to the new wheel. It wasn't that big of a deal, but I waited until 6pm to start the project and the bike shop was closed. Then they didn't open until noon the next day and I had to leave it for a day. Then work got in the way and the project sat until yesterday.
I don't mean to beat a dead horse here, but the most frustrating thing was the lack of pictures and/or diagrams. I kept having to go from the garage to the computer to look at pictures. My hands were greasy so I had to get one of my kids to operate the mouse and keyboard.
I ended up putting it on and off about 3 times trying to get it lined up just right. Over all I had about 2-3 hours into the whole install. Now that I have done it once, next time would only take 1 hour.
First test drive. Wow the gear box is noisy!!! After one block I went back home and checked the chain tension. Loosened the chain and went back out. Still really loud. Greased chain and tried again. Still same noise level. Instructions say gear noise will subside with use. I have never driven a staton gear drive. I don't know if this normal. I took it out for a 3 mile ride. I don't know if I got used to it or it got quieter, but it sounded better toward the end of the ride.
My MB experience:
1. Beach cruiser with HT. then HT with SBP shift kit
2. Tandem with Honda 50 on staton friction drive
3. Beach cruiser with scooter guy and Titan 50 (China Honda clone)
4. Now, Subaru35 with a Staton axle mount.
(I list that so you know my experience when I give my thoughts)
This is the least powerful system I have owned. I don't have a speedo nor did I radar it. It feels like 20-22 WOT. I am 235lbs. My tandem two up does 31. The scooterguy did 40+ (way to much) HT did 30+
I would like to kick up the gear ratio. It pulls really well, however, I would gladly give some of the acceleration up to have better top end. Staton only sells one gear ratio. If they ever offer a higher one, I will try it. (I really don't mind pedaling when I start)
The center of gravity is really good!! Really turns/leans nice. It is the quietest ride I have. Having the exhaust down and that far behind me really is nice.
They main reason for buying this new system was for my 15 year old son to use it. I didn't want it fast at all. I also didn't want it breaking down. Didn't want to worry about him adjusting the drive system...ever. I think this system and motor will do what I am trying to achieve. I will post follow up thoughts in a few more miles.....