Reliable Touring Bike Parts

it's not better, just different.

standard 8 speed set-up would be cheap and easy to run, but likely to wear out quickly, so best to change chain every 1,000-1,500 miles to prevent wear and tear on drivetrain.

Rohloff obviously will last a bit longer with chain wear, but when it go wrong, you're stuck.

The 8 speed is cheaper, but also heavier with only a 300% gear range and is grease filled. To service you have to strip the hub. The 11 speed has a 400% range and is oil filled. Changing the oil doesn't involve stripping the hub and can be done at home.