Priority Continuum Onyx with NuVinci CVT & Gates Carbon Drive

[@MikeGloss]

Been riding it for over a year. It is a near ideal winter commuter when paired with studded tires. I swapped out the lights for B&M dynamo lights (my version didn't have the rear light). The IQ-X is a great upgrade. The rack from priority looks great on this thing! Priority has great customer service. I wear massive boots in the winter and they don't rub the chain stay. One thing that wasn't mentioned is in the city where there are lots of lights, this bike is incredibly fast and easy. You can continuously shift as you accelerate, maintaining optimal efficiency, and so this bike won't be as fast as a road bike or fixed gear on a wide open trail, but downtown you are the speed king. For longer distances though, you may not care as much about this speed off the line and opt for a lighter bike. The hub aint light, so there's your big tradeoff.

[@superwrestler07]

How is it going off a curb at around 12 mph?

[@mojondro]

This is probably the best commuter bike i have ever seen and a nice review on your part,nice to see the channel growing man it is a great channel

[@pragmatist7455]

The value for money on this bike is off the charts. I'm very happy with my purchase so far. One thing to note that you touched on is that this bike is very stiff. I guess this lends itself to commuting, toughness, and carrying things, but it does mean it's more at home on the road as opposed to gravel. I'm working on softening it up a bit with a carbon bar and suspension seat, and possibly wider, more compliant tires.

[@jonathangarza1656]

Now that is a commuter bike i would really like to have and that's saying something as i have always stuck with mountain bikes. Commuter bikes just never gave off that grow up feel and classy look. This one does plus all the components you get are fantastic. When ever i decide to get a commuter bike this will be the one i want

[@KandiKlover]

It's basically a light touring bike with a straight bar.

[@ChiquiDraculin]

@@KandiKlover oooooooooool

[@helmc2]

@KevCentral I purchased a Priority Continuum Onyx back in December this year for an all season commute of 5 miles round trip in Chicago. You mentioned questioning the durability of the paint/logo on the chainstay and I can tell you that after 5 months of daily commutes in Snow, Rain, etc that my bike looks brand new still. In fact, there isn't a single spot of rust, corrosion, or anything on this bike. I had a problem with my pedals (which were all metal unlike yours) and also a creaky bottom bracket, but Priority came through strong sending new parts and even offering to cover the costs of having a mechanic install them. Things I've swapped on my bike: Brooks C17 saddle, Thompson Elite Seat Post, Bontrager Satellite Elite grips. I've also added some more lights and a nice bell, but I genuinely believe this bike is the best commuter value available.

[@KevCentral]

Great info. Thanks for sharing!

[@trionic5]

How is it going uphill?

[@KevCentral]

Not bad at all. Not the lowest low I’ve ridden, but very easy

[@helmc2]

I agree with Kev, not bad at all. Overall this bike is geared out of the box for a modest commute, the range isn't super low or super high, however riding around Chicago I've never needed a lower gear and rarely thought I would like a higher gear.

[@wildbill23c]

How's the ride? Pretty rough? I noticed it doesn't have any sort of suspension on it...my mountain bike don't either, but I'd think for the price the Priority bike would...considering it has hydraulic brakes and a CVT, it should have a suspension system I would think...maybe not as big of an issue for a commuter bike?

[@MrDoomey375]

I've been drooling over that bike for awhile, good to know it's a good purchase!

[@mikieson]

that is a great looking bike for sure..would like to try out just for the gearing and belt..

[@MrLazer1211]

I've had a NuVinci on my commuter for a few years now, but no experience with the shifter, they make a model that has a torque sensor that will auto adjust and it does so extremely efficiently! Tried riding my wife's bike that has the shifter and was totally thrown off! The gearing isn't as wide as most cassette bikes but for where we live and ride it handles hills just fine and down hill riding can be unexpectedly fast! Plus the added bonus of a carbon belt that with well over 2k miles on it has yet to wear out or stretch (No seriously, I haven't had to make a single adjustment to it yet other than when I refit new tires/tubes!) No real upkeep required on the hub. Although as a preventative person I did take it in about 100 miles ago and had it cleaned out and relubed (about $25 for the upkeep) I have mine fit on a Townie peddle forward bike that was up fitted as I have lower back issues and a pure upright bike is not something I can handle for more than about 30 minutes at a time. My wife however has a Bike Friday - Pocket Rocket folding bike and the name really lives up to what it can do! I don't think you could go wrong with their Internal Gear Hub, it's smooth and as stated in the video, efficient! It really makes riding fun and effortless, you don't have to think about the bike or if your peddling when shifting. Hell you can even shift from a dead stop and be ready for that hill right after the light if you want!

[@stevenn6722]

Great choice Kevin, those bikes are amazing And that shifter has got to be the most ingenious thing I've ever seen

[@KevCentral]

👍🏼 I agree. It is a great 🚲

[@Arfonfree]

Love your videos. And while this bike is more expensive than your usual [video] fare and cheaper than my usual bike, it's got me thinking. I want that belt drive! Thanks, Kev

[@leonelgarcia835]

Love the bike videos, keep doing them they are great! Greetings from Mexico

[@anonymousgoat3669]

Great shot at the end with the barge going by.

[@KevCentral]

👍🏼

[@bountyboy8]

hi Kev, I really appreciate your videos and respect your opinions and the research you do. I'd like to know what you think k about the GT brand? I purchased a GT aggressor pro on sale @ "dicks" but it was a toss up for me between the giant talon. I like it so far but how does it compare to the talon? talon is $530 & GT was on sale $299. any input would be appreciated thanks

[@Stryford1]

A commuter bike is all I'll need these days, so this Priority bike is very interesting to me. Thanks for the review!

[@demonstructie]

At $999 that's a great value prop. One thing that would take it to the next level would be a carbon fork, but it's already an impressive package as it is.

[@whenhen]

demonstructie One of the benefits of a non carbon fork on a commuter is the possibility of mounting front racks to the bike. I know Priority sells a front porteur rack in their website.

[@dualzwieldz8837]

I have watched many a video of yours and they keep getting better, I am always ready for more! Fantastic Channel

[@KevCentral]

Thanks 👍🏼

[@Phil55JS]

Great review! that bike looks great value for the price. The looks are amazing and good quality parts. Thanks for showing this brand

[@D_Boone]

I didn't know they made CVT's for bikes. Awesome!

[@johnwelch557]

This manufacturer will be around forever it seems. At least one YTer uses them for distance touring. I'd love to have one! THANK YOU!

[@alexpetree2038]

I've been re-watching most of your videos and waiting for new ones. This couldn't have came at a better time!

[@ericr7162]

I used to have a bike with the same carbon belt drive, it’s nice and quiet and smooth

[@mustangjosh94]

Looks like a well sorted bike. I’ve seen some single speed belt drive setups but never one with a cvt.

[@KevCentral]

It is a great combo. Thanks for commenting.

[@nitrous07me]

I like how the lights work off that hub

[@Scor-ah]

Excellent !! I just purchased a Priority 600x, going to use it to cycle The Great Divide...thanks for your review

[@danieljr6869]

Thank you for letting us know about Priority Bicycles. I love their hassle-free philosophy and am already shopping on their site for my first bike. I'll gladly pay $500 for my first bike if it means low-maintanence, comfort, and durability.

[@Sycoholic]

Was looking at buying a commuter from State Bicycle Company, but I think I'll give Priority a look too!

[@ThePsychodo]

I looked heavily into the continuum for a commuter but was afraid of trying the belt drive here in Colorado. Great review!

[@radiohobbyist13]

ThePsychodo I have two of their belt drive bicycles and couldn't be happier. Don't be hesitant to try something new. I'll NEVER go back to a chain and a derailleur!

[@bengt_axle]

Gates is a Colorado company!

[@jaimekilloran2683]

Hey, thanks for the all the great bike review videos. I really enjoy watching them. When will you do a comparison of the Priority Onyx and Priority 600. I've watched each separate review and you said you planned on doing a comparison. I assumed you meant a side by side video. I'm interested in buying a Priority and I can't decided if I should get the Onyx or the 600. Thanks!

[@tokuchaan4693]

To my eyes this is the best commuting bike I ever know. For this much well thought out components, one grand is great value. Will you do a long term review of this bike? Or catch up review in 3-months later? Great review as always!

[@garolstipock]

When they were new to the market I put a nuvinci n360 on a Cannondale Hooligan (2010?). Transformed the bike as that 3-gear igh it starts with just leaves you wanting. It did add quite a bit of noticeable weight but that's a bike for fun with little pretense at speed, tho it was pretty decent there. Great little bulldog. About the same time also, the Gates carbon drives were new also. I put the first gen Gates drive on a Van Dessel WTF, with a shimano alfine 8 IGH. This sweet looking Onyx brings all if it together. A very well thought out lo-to-no maintenance commuter

[@charlesholland6851]

That really looks like a sweet bike. I wish I lived somewhere where I could commute around without driving!

[@ShogunSamurai]

Awesome review. Definitely will check them out.

[@andycapo9you]

This bike with a pair of 28x1,5 Schwalbe g-one allround skin wall tires will look amazing

[@mazditzo]

hope it will be available worldwide

[@whenhen]

Fantastic review as always! My only wish is that the Onyx would have a step through model. I realize that Priority offers a lower end step through model, but the lack of a dynamo hub and light on that model is definitely a major drawback

[@KevCentral]

Let them know. I’m sure they release what they think will sell.

[@bennetthasty7886]

I hope you get to review the apollo gravel I want it soooo bad!!!!!

[@jackduffy1817]

So what I consider to be the safest handle bars on a bicycle are drophandlebars, Becaus they have the less protrusions for the Bycycl to hang up on the North, South, East, And West, Of the Machine. In my 10 years of commuting, And Booting, Racing and Paceing, Climbing and Grinding, Sprinting and Raceing down the Great North Road. Dropped Bars are the tops.

[@Regantdarcy]

I eventually want to get either the priority 600 or 600x for a world bicycle tour. But right now I want to get a hybrid with a carbon belt drive to replace my Giant Escape 2 hybrid for commuting & fitness. I am torn between the Priority Continuum Onyx & Priority Brilliant L Train. I know you have both, so figured I’d ask your opinion. My Giant Escape 2 is an 8 speed & had rim brakes and so does the L-Train which i prefer. While the Continuum has a lot of extras like a rack & lights. But I already have those accessories. I am curious about the difference btween the Enviolo CVT system on the Continuum & the Alfine hub on the L-Train.🤔 Which is closer to the Giant Escape 2 in ride & gearing? I live out here on Long Island NY. There aren’t many hills, but the bike path I use along the south shore gets some strong winds coming off the Atlantic where lower gearing comes in handy. But I also like to go fast, so a good high end is important too. Thanks.

[@Jonathan906]

A nice thing about the minimal branding is how easily you can add bits of color like, for example, a gold seatpost while maintaining a good look to the bike.

[@samus4799]

I’m saving pennies for a different belt drive bike that has caught my eye on Marketplace; a Scott Sub Speed 10 in green. But if I miss out on that, this is up next.

[@jesse143pitman4]

Can we see more video's on the xr-pro pls

[@dogedoge7132]

Yo nice video man jeep up the great work

[@robgrif7589]

Great video and I must say I really like this bike. And as far as the chainstay issue... Maybe using pedal extenders would resolve that problem. Just went to the Priority website and saw thay have a bike with a pinion drive train(Priority 600). I would love to have both!

[@motopolak]

This bike is quite intriguing. I like minimal maintenance, which this accomplishes with the belt drive and no batteries needed to power the lights. The main question I have is concerning the CVT hub.... what range of gears does it effectively give you? I live in an area with a lot of hilly terrain and would like to compare with a standard 1x10 or 1x11 MTB setup to see what kind of hills you can tackle, as well as how fast you can go on flat or slightly downhill sections.

[@KevCentral]

I would say it’s about like a 1x9, not the lowest of lows or highest high - but very useable range.

[@SamsonBrock42]

Excellent, thorough review!

[@aayushparmar3482]

That engineering tho💜

[@wargywirry4186]

Love this guy

[@joelrussell1662]

Love the idea of me commuting on this bike if only it came with the option to omit the dynamo hub & light system.

[@karvind]

Bought it finally.. it’s a good bike.. little expensive but worth for bucks

[@noahhunsaker3400]

Hey KevCentral, I've really been considering this bike from chain reaction cycles. It's called the Vitus Nucleus 275 VRS 2018. I really think you should have a look at it. It should cost waayyyy more than it actually does. It is far-below $1000 and has an air fork, tapered steerer tube, and strays away the xc geometry you find on bikes in this price point. Seems to be a REALLY GOOD value. I really think you should check it out.

[@gregoryyount6907]

Well thought out. Thanks.

[@rexjaime8052]

Great review! How heavy is the bike?

[@mitchlabrador]

You should try the Priority Current… right up the e alley. Love your videos.

[@bikelifemedia2191]

That moment when you’re looking for a hub but buy a bike

[@dcmsr5141]

Wow what a bike!! Just subbed . glad I foiund your channel.

[@jakecole7447]

CVT in a car ? Sure that known but in a bike ? never heard of it before but looks promising, as long as it will hold up !

[@event4216]

After commuting on a hardtail, IGH sure makes rear feeling heavier to me, but then I don't have to deal with low running chain collecting road dirt and cleaning derailler. And belt with no greasy leg on right side is really appealing bike part) Wish my bike had disc brakes to not wear out rims but....yeah. I think you've got some very appropriate commuting machine. Will stay tuned on NuVinci - probably that would be my choice when I wear out Nexus8.

[@sarcasmo57]

More that twice the price of the Slada. Is it twice as good?

[@KevCentral]

This isn’t the Priority model that compares to the Sladda. That’s the Classic Plus / Classic Plus Gotham Edition. The Continuum is an entirely different level of bike. No comparison as it is a more useable bike for multiple roles.

[@sarcasmo57]

Fair enough then, thanks for the reply.

[@tfeledy]

Excellent review - thanks!

[@MrHockaluger]

Very cool looking bike. Would be nice to try out that cvt system, but this time around I'm looking to get a steel framed all road roadbike.

[@andys4971]

That CVT looks so cool

[@Icedookie]

how fast can you go on flat terrain?

[@crocodilecrox3758]

This is new to me. Awesome bike!

[@yngugly4188]

You should try out the Canyon Urban.

[@derbersdiscoveries5938]

The contact pattern on your front rotor looks like it needs a washer under the caliper mounts. I had similar and didn't notice until my pads were crumbling apart. Try using Truckerco. Organic brand pads and 1/16th washers to calibrate to perfection. My $.02... I'm looking into a skinny tire bike and this may be my next choice. It looks soooooo nice.

[@KevCentral]

Thanks, but it’s working fine after gosh knows how many hundreds of miles. No signed of excess wear or issues.

[@derbersdiscoveries5938]

@@KevCentral, gotcha. I have ebikes that are heavy so, brake pads are replaced often. Thanks for humoring me

[@martind349]

Chrome fender supports glinting on roommate calf in the dying red light

[@angelasenov2526]

Enjoy your new steed, sir! And keep up the good work with your reviews!

[@FauzanLubis]

That's a cool bike, I think it would be cooler if its on matte space gray

[@limchoonteck1]

Impressive commuter bike.

[@mrchadden501]

I see that Raleigh box, is that from your current bikes or a new one?

[@KevCentral]

Good eye. New 😁

[@mrchadden501]

KevCentral nice! Just serviced my family’s fleet of Raleigh’s today. Very solid bikes, but I’m more of a Cannondale/Felt/Schwinn Signature guy myself.

[@johnd1216]

Will you review the Priority Turi?

[@nicholasmcgibbon6756]

Love your videos and was wondering when the next video on the mongoose xr pro or hyper carbon pro is coming?

[@wildbill23c]

Great review. I just ran across that bike as well...yes, I want one, no I cannot afford one LOL. However, it seems this bicycle is very well designed and thought out. That CVT got my interest...even with my 12 speed mountain bike...yeah mountain bike, not sure why they called it that because its gearing isn't for riding in the mountains so with that said, it never seems to have the right gear, and to get home I have a pretty good hill to climb which the bike I have now won't do it very well.

[@Romin.777]

Actualy the CVT is a Dutch invention from Daf. Daf was a Dutch truck and Car builder, they had this in a car and was called a "variomatic" Way back in the sixties and seventies. The fun thing was that they could reach the same speed when driving backwards. We even had races like this wich destroid a lot off those Daf cars. Ghehe

[@pancakepuff45]

The variomatic was not the first CVT. The very first CVT was invented in 1879 in the US.

[@Romin.777]

pancakepuff45 If that's the case i stand corrected. ;)

[@modemfox]

I got this same bike, but I live in florida. For me the pedals were a bit ify, and the front fender accent piece wouldn't stay on so I had to epoxy it on. I had the same complaint with the lights, mine have a switch but it only turns them on or off, if there is any charge in the capacitor you have to wait a while for it to turn off. I also got mine with the rear rack and it's a little bit of a pain to install. I've had it a few months so far and I love it; though I have a few complaints, since I live in hot weather I try to wear as little as possible, and not wearing riding gloves those grips get a little wet from sweat and then you have a hard time holding on to them, so I disliked that, and that seat, well, lets just say bruised taint. I had to replace it with a more comfy seat. Also, when I had talked to them I was concerned about what size I should get, because their medium and large frame models both say 6'2" tall riders can be on them. When talking to them I was steered to the large model. Well I have a 32" inseam and that top tube is only about ½" away from my crotch on solid ground, so if the rear or front wheel is even slightly on an incline, I have to lay it sideways or give the boys a crunch if you know what I mean. Overall I would have to say, outside of all that I love this bike. Although even though it's stealth in color people stop me all the time and ask about it including local police, I was hoping it wouldn't stand out as much because of all the theft in my town, but it attracts a ton of attention, so if you are near a high crime area, I REALLY suggest good locks in a visible place, or ALWAYS take it inside with you like I do.

[@KevCentral]

Thanks for sharing. I love mine. Best daily commuter bike I’ve ever owned.

[@superwrestler07]

Any problems going off curbs at about 10-15 mph?

[@KevCentral]

I don’t do curb hopping on it. I keep bikes with dynamo hubs on streets and walks

[@lucianoloya5215]

Great review, thank you.

[@omera967]

Please please please review the Priority 600 next. Thanks.

[@KevCentral]

I’m trying to get my hands on one, but it’s looking like it may be a month. I’m really excited to see that bike.

[@omera967]

KevCentral Looking forward to what your thoughts are about it. So far I'm hearing great things about that bike.

[@gromit576]

I will wait for your review before I make my decision to get one. I would like to hear your experience with rear IGH versus BB mounted gear hub (Pinion).

[@KevCentral]

Hopefully I’ll have a chance to check one out 🤞🏻

[@kbbenkwith539]

Awesome! Great Content

[@tpacalypse]

What size is your bike? And how tall are you?

[@iantang2866]

I want one :)

[@Montblanc1986]

Interesting bike Kev, I wonder why not just get an extra wheelset and cassette for XC hardtail for those days when your not hitting the trail.

[@KevCentral]

The frame isn’t designed for XC

[@Montblanc1986]

KevCentral I mean for your x caliber etc

[@KevCentral]

That doesn’t have a nuvinci and dynamo

[@barryandricks7107]

Whats your average commuter speed on this bike? I'm looking to commute a few days a week (about 6 miles) and want to be able to average about 15mph. Your video makes the ride look very smooth and maybe deceiving on your actual speed.

[@Luigi13]

The company has raised its prices from what you mentioned of $999 now is $1299 will they include the rack as well? I am a little put off by the color though I would prefer if they offered at least three different colors. Instead pf black I would choose white and or light blue. Oh well?

[@wouter_scholten]

I've ridden and reviewed the original N171 and nuvinci 360 hubs (not the 330) but with those hubs exact setting of gear is not really possible, as micro-adjust isn't possible due to stiction. But not a problem. What I told nuvinci (via JB in NL) they should do is let the shifter be not actually shift but guide, and let the hub do any shifting via the forward motion, so indirect low force switching. I don't know if switching is easier with the latest hubs, but the main thing I noticed with the nuvinci is that it removes the constant thinking with a front/rear derailleur system, that I noticed was gone when riding with the Nuvinci. I dislike rotational shifters, they should make a lever that can be operated by a finger, I also suggested that many years ago. Efficiency loss is likely 10% vs derailleurs, which you will in reality not notice except when measuring all rides. Just FYI...

[@KevCentral]

Thanks for sharing. I find that I’m more efficient with the CVT as I can always be in the exact gear I want. No gear hunting.

[@wouter_scholten]

Well, this is what I did have from time to time, which is why I mentioned that small adjustments to the gear ratio are not so easy to do in the cases I wanted a slight change. But perhaps it's about feel, as I agree with a derailleur system I tend to switch more. With the Nuvinci, once you used it enough then you get a feel for how much to turn to get you close (enough) to the ratio you want. Micro adjust may not work but also not be needed. I had the same issue as you with the hill/flat indicator, it can be interpreted in 2 ways. But I never looked at it in use, and with derailleurs too, I never look at the indicators. Have you tried an Alfine 11 Di2? That's the next hub I'd like to try...

[@Gromitdog1]

For $999 thats a pretty smokin deal. What is the make/model of the front dynohub?

[@RadhaPublishing]

How about the riding position on this bike, I would like a comfortable up right position like a cruiser bike, how do you feel about it, thanks and best regards from Peru

[@bwinmaine]

I realize that I am a late comer to this video, but I couldn't help but notice your reaction to the graphic indicator for the CVT shifter. To me the graphic made perfect sense so I asked myself what might make you have an opposite reaction so I watched again and asked myself whether maybe the direction of rotation of the grip shifter might be the opposite of what one might intuitively expect. Sure enough! You would think that if you want to ride faster you would twist the shifter forward. Nope. Rotating it back makes the bike go faster. Rotate it forward to ride slower. Am I just imagining the inversion of intuition?

[@fendermon]

The shifter picture/display in general is absurd. If you are looking at that display while riding you have bigger problems :) And, for the record...the picture makes no sense even if you do look at it.

[@blob4444333221]

Have you thought about reviewing the retrospec amok? I think it's a pretty interesting commuter bike

[@roye2479]

Kev, a couple questions: how much friction does the CVT\Belt generate compared to a chain & cassette? And you didn't rate the brakes, how is the stopping power?

[@michaelhammond4150]

Please do a review on road bikes start with Trek

[@supremeflagship8965]

Hi Kev. Can you shift Nuvinci hub under load? Or is it a big no-no?

[@shy6701]

That's quite nice actually

[@joshuaolson7723]

How’s the drivetrain holding up? Any slipping? Have you had to change the belt?

[@avv2231]

This is when you buy another bike when you really don't need another bike. I just did! LOL

[@System-br1tx]

That shifter is awesome do they make that for mtbs ?

[@KevCentral]

After riding the Continuum the manager of the local bike shop contacted NuVinci about a MTB version. He said they mentioned that the unit is tough enough, but not recommended, but they may be releasing a MTB version in the near future.

[@B.NorbertoPalomino]

Do a review for the hyper havoc fs

[@KevCentral]

Check videos. That was the first big box bike covered

[@Ishizkos]

Thats a pretty snazzy bike. I wanted a sladda to convert to more internal speeds but then they died. so that was out of question. I was gonna seek out another belt driven bike. these priority bikes seem like a pretty good start. unsure whaty Ill do I may buy one from them or use the large ammount of sladda parts I got from ikea to make my own. the belt drive system fits on SA hubs.wich I like! so I was thinking about getting a vintage CCM or raleigh and making it modern, however if not I may just get a Onyx. thats a very nice looking ride.

[@seansutherland6270]

I wonder if a CVT belt drive like that could be adapted to be used on a hardtail Mountain bike

[@amiteshpaul6675]

Hey KevCentral?! What are your thoughts on the giant Talon 3 ? Compared to the trek Marlin 5 and Raleigh Tokul 3???

[@KevCentral]

Looks like a decent bike to me

[@jf0314]

Nice bike work stand at the beginning of the video, can you tell me who makes it?

[@KevCentral]

It’s a cheap stand I purchased on eBay

[@criswphoto]

Thinking about getting an Onyx. I ride up a few hills to work which are pretty steep. I have a 9 speed now and it's a little tough. But doable. Is this going to give me similar performance up hills? Is the 600 model worth the extra cost just for the better hill climbing efficiency? It's quite a bit more money.. Hoping the Onyx will be good enough for hills.

[@justintrinh8766]

this is a cool bike!