Shimano Nexus 7 vs Nexus 8 [Gear Your Ride Up]

Don’t know which gear hub to opt for? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered. 

When it comes down to the two powerhouses Shimano Nexus 7 and Nexus 8, you’ve got nothing to worry about. 

So, which one to choose when it comes down to Shimano Nexus vs Nexus 8?

We’ve discussed the key difference between the two in detail. The key differences include in terms of V-Brake, Rapidfire Plus, and Revoshift features. Other than that we’ve mentioned the price, weight, and gear ratio differences too. Along with the bottom gear and top gear sizes differences. 

So without any further ado let’s dive in. 

Quick Comparison

Before moving into an in-depth analysis let’s have a look at the most impactful factors. 

We’ve listed the most crucial differentiating factors for both Nexus 7 and Nexus 8.  Let’s have a look. 

FactorsNexus 7Nexus 8
V-BrakeNoneAvailable
Rapidfire PlusAvailableNone
Bottom Gear and Top Gear36 inches and 88 inches30 inches and 92 inches
RevoshiftSL-7S31SL-7S30SL-8S31 SL-8S30
Gear Ratio307%244%
Weight1860 to 1460 grams 1550 to 2040 grams
PriceCHECK LATEST PRICECHECK LATEST PRICE

Have you glanced through it? Pretty sure you’re interested to know more about it.

So, let’s dive into the detailed comparison

Shimano Nexus 7 vs Nexus 8: In-depth Analysis

The Shimano Nexus Inter-7 is one of the most reliable gear hubs available. This 7-speed hub provides a wide range of riding comfort in different conditions. The customer’s Nexus 7 reviews are also pretty decent. 

Similarly, Shimano Nexus Inter-8 is also regarded as one of the best ones out there. Shimano Nexus 8 reviews speak for themselves. You can find most of the Shimano Nexus 8 parts on Amazon. 

These gears are not caged by Shimano gs or sgs as the gears are hub gears. Not derailleur gears. 

Now, let’s move on to the most important part. Here are the factors that differentiate the two. 

V-Brake:

V-brakes are controlled by a cable that passes from one side to the other. It tugs the 2 halves together. Another name of V brakes is direct-pull cantilever brakes

The Nexus 8 has quite a few models of V-brakes compatible with the dealer’s manual list. These are SG-C6010-8V, SG-C6000-8V, SG-8R31-VS, SG-8R36-VS and SG-8R60-VS. 

On the other hand, the Nexus 7 does not come with a V-brake model. 

Winner: Shimano Nexus 8

Rapidfire Plus:

The RAPIDFIRE PLUS is designed for rapid switching. This allows cyclists to shift down 3 gears in 1 motion.

One of the reasons why people prefer the Shimano Nexus 7 gears is because of the Rapidfire Plus. This Rapidfire Plus option of Nexus 7 sets it apart from all the others. This feature gives the Nexus 7 a different dimension.

Nexus 7 uses SL-7S50 as the Rapidfire Plus model. 

On the flip side, the Nexus 8 does not contain any Rapidfire feature. 

Shimano Nexus 7 vs Nexus 8 [Gear Your Ride Up]

Source: cdbike.discount.de

Winner: Shimano Nexus 7

Bottom Gear and Top Gear:

For both the Nexus 7 and Nexus 8 models the ratio of the chainring and the sprocket is the same. But the Nexus 8 has an additional gear. Thus, you’ll find an evident size difference between the bottom and top gear.

For the Nexus 7, the bottom gear measures 36 inches. And the top gear measures 88 inches

Alternatively, for the Nexus 8, the bottom gear measures 30 inches, and the top gear measures 92 inches. 

Winner: Shimano Nexus 8

Revoshift:

Shimano Revoshift is the trigger that shifts the gear. The Revoshift is located on both the handles of the bike. 

The Revoshift has a dual-diameter shifting collar. This gives the bikers a firm grip on the gear shifter. 

Although both the Nexus 7 and Nexus 8 have the Revoshift, their models are different. Both use different models of the Revoshift. 

Nexus 7 uses the SL-7S31and the SL-7S30 model for Revoshift. 

Shimano Nexus 7 vs Nexus 8 [Gear Your Ride Up]

Source: cdn.spotlightspeed.com

On the other hand, Nexus uses the SL-8S31 and the SL-8S30. 

Winner: Tie

Gear Ratio:

The gear ratio determines how far you’ll go with each crankshaft rotation. 

Shimano Nexus 8 gear ratio has risen to 307 percent. Compared to the Shimano Nexus 7 gear ratio of 244. 

The INTER-8 hub also has a tighter gear ratio. This allows for a faster and more comfy cycling cadence.

Winner: Nexus 8

Weight:

As you could guess, the Nexus 7 and Nexus 8 belong in different weight classes. 

You’ll find 2 versions of The Nexus 7. One weighs around 1860 grams and the other weighs around 1460 grams respectively.  

In contrast, you’ll find several versions of the Nexus 8. The weight of these ranges from around 1550 grams to 2040 grams

Winner: Shimano Nexus 8

Price:

Although both the Nexus 7 and Nexus 8 have similar functionality, their prices vary by some margin. 

The Nexus 8 is on the more expensive side. Shimano Nexus 8 price hovers around the $180 price range. 

On the other hand, Shimano Nexus 7 price is on the cheaper side. It costs around $100 approximately. 

The pricing varies from vendor to vendor. 

Winner: Shimano Nexus 7

Final Verdict

You see, both the versions are quite similar performance-wise. The final verdict depends on your perspective. You should have, at least, some technical information on Nexus 7 and 8. 

В Nexus 7 нет системы V-brake, но есть функция Rapidfire Plus. Это похоже на противоположность Nexus 8. У него есть опция V-brake, но нет функции Rapidfire Plus. 

Again for the Nexus 8 the low gear is smaller and the top gear is bigger. Which gives a wider range of gear selection options. 

Furthermore, for Revoshift the two models use different components. These components are compatible with the 7 gear hub and the 8 gear hub respectively. 

In addition, you find the lightest version of the gearing hub for the Nexus 7. Weighing around 1460 grams. On the other hand, the heaviest version is available for the Nexus 8. Weighing around 2040 grams. 

And finally, go for the Nexus 7 model if you want the cheaper options. But let’s say you do have the budget for the Nexus 8. Then our suggestion would be to go for the Nexus 8. 

Other than these, both models have similar features. Even the Shimano Nexus 7 problems are similar to the Shimano Nexus 8 problems. As a result, the Shimano Nexus 8 maintenance is also similar to the Shimano Nexus 7 maintenance

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

We’ve curated some frequently asked questions with answers for your consideration. 

Which Is Better, Alfine Or Nexus? 

Alfine is better when it comes to exterior looks. When it comes to braking, Both of which have rim brakes.Whereas the Nexus 8 Premium has roller brakes and the Alfine has disc brakes. Apart from these, there are no significant differences between the Shimano Nexus and the Alfine model. 

Do The Nexus Hubs Last Long? 

Yes, the Nexus speed hubs last for quite a while. Even the less expensive Shimano Nexus or Alfine hubs may last for about 15,000 kilometers without needing to be changed. When maintained properly, a decent internal gear hub may last for years for a typical biker. Shimano provides great longevity.

Are Internal Gear Hubs In Bikes Better?

Yes, Internal gear hubs in bikes are much better than the traditional derailleur. You will not have to pedal to switch gears, unlike a standard derailleur system. This is useful for cycling in stop-and-go busy traffic, and it also makes downshifting on a steep incline a lot simpler.

Conclusion 

Hope this helps you answer your query about Shimano Nexus 7 vs Nexus 8

But wait, I have one more piece of information for you. The Nexus 7 is good for hilly regions. But as the Nexus 8 has a wider range it can tread in more hilly conditions.

Ride safe!

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