In the last two weeks, I’ve written with some excitement about the possibility of running an internal gear drive train with a road bike setup with STI style shifter brakes. Bike Commuters let us know about a new bike, the Dynamic Synergy, that runs such a system with new shifters called the Versa from Taiwanese component maker Sussex. 

Yesterday, Bike Commuters posted a review of the bike and its new shifting system to positive review. They say the shifter mated to a Shimano Alfine 8 speed hub works well with the limitations of the gear choices and range of an internal hub. I’m not sure what market Dynamic is targeting with this, but it seems like the bike would be a good choice for performance oriented or long distance commuters. Unfortunately, the bike has standard road brakes with tight clearance making your tire/fender choices pretty limited. Still, it is an interesting concept to follow.

I’ve attempted to contact Sussex about the possibility that these shifters will be offered as an aftermarket product but have received no reply. We’ll let you know if you can look at upgrading an existing bike or will be limited to the Synergy as soon as well hear something.