Which bike? Hub gear or derailleur?

Lucky Saddle

My Specialized Crossroads died last week under the wheels of a taxi. Luckily I survived intact but I need a new bike! I only cycle up to 3 miles at a time, sometimes with loaded pannier on back rack, but I would quite like something faster this time. I've tried the Ridgeback Nemesis ( hub gear, 8 speed internal) and I like it because my other bike had hub gears, but it's quite heavy. I also tried Specialized Vita, which has derailleur gears ( which I worry about slipping and maintenance) but it was light and probably faster.
Any ideas please? Budget is ideally under £500 but could prob do £600.

jeepie

Hi Lucky Saddle,

I've got one bike with a hub and one with a derallieur. So far I prefer the hub for commuting and it's cost me a lot less. As you are doing a short distance I think the weight shouldn't be too much of an issue. Just make sure your LBS can service your hub.

Cheers

J

stickman

Hub gears, definately.