Nexus 5 vs. Automatic Extreme

Two gear systems, two ways to ride

When you are about to buy a Livelo #2, the choice of gear system is an important decision. Regardless of whether you choose the Nexus 5 from Shimano with manual shifting or the Automatic Extreme from Enviolo, you will have a safe and pleasant experience when cycling. Your choice is personal and depends on what you want to get out of your cycling experience. Do you want to be able to actively control the resistance when you pedal, for example in a hilly environment, or do you want the gearing to be automatically adjusted up and down hills? The choice between Shimano's manual Nexus 5 and Enviolo's automatic system Automatic Extreme is therefore not only about the level of technology but above all about the type of cycling routine you prefer.

Manual hub gear: Shimano Nexus 5

Shimano Nexus 5 is an established and well-proven hub gear system that is developed to handle everyday cycling in varying conditions. With its five fixed gears, it covers all the needs that arise during varied riding in an urban environment, commuting or hilly terrain. The gear shifting is done via a clear control on the handlebar, where you actively select the gear depending on the speed and resistance you desire.

The manual control provides a direct and clear response to pedaling. You feel exactly when the gear engages and can adapt the power transmission to your own cycling style. This means a more engaging cycling experience, where you are constantly involved in how the bike reacts to the environment. When facing a hill, you shift down, and as the speed increases, you can gradually shift up for more efficient propulsion. If you want to train, you can easily adjust the gear for the desired resistance.

Nexus 5 is also durable with low maintenance requirements. Since the gears are encapsulated in the hub, they are protected from dirt, rain and wear, making the system very reliable over a long period of time. When service is required, the technology is relatively simple, making Livelo #2 with Nexus 5 easy to service.

Automatic transmission: Enviolo Automatic Extreme

The Enviolo Automatic Extreme uses a stepless technology that continuously adjusts the resistance based on your pedaling frequency. You set your preferred cadence, such as a leisurely or more active pace, and the system then ensures that you maintain that rhythm regardless of speed or incline.

In practice, this means that the bike always adapts to you. At red lights, it automatically downshifts so that you start in a light gear. When you accelerate or encounter a hill, the adjustment occurs gradually without noticeable gear changes. Everything happens seamlessly, giving a smooth and comfortable pedaling feel.

For many, Automatic Extreme is a good fit in an urban environment where the traffic rhythm is constantly changing. You get a more relaxed cycling experience and don't have to worry about shifting gears. The bike feels responsive and regardless of the weather, headwind or incline, the system delivers the same smooth pedaling feel.

Which gear system is right for you?

The choice between Shimano Nexus 5 and Enviolo Automatic Extreme is ultimately about how you like to ride and what role Livelon should play in your everyday life. If you want to influence every part of your riding and decide the gear and resistance in every situation, you should choose Nexus 5. If you are more comfortable and want to avoid the shifting torque, choose Enviolo Automatic Extreme which provides a seamless adaptation of pedaling resistance against terrain and speed.

If your rides often involve heavy city traffic with lots of stops, starts and varying paces, an automatic transmission can make a big difference in comfort. If you enjoy riding at a more leisurely pace and prefer to control the bike's behavior yourself, a manual transmission can provide a more engaging experience.

Both gear systems are of high quality and work excellently with the Livelo #2. The decisive factor is not which is best in itself, but which best matches your habits, needs and expectations of your electric bike.