[David Robb]

Hi all,
I’m thinking about changing my FW 4 speed hub on my F frame for a Sturmey Archer s-rf5 hub. I was wondering if anyone has used this hub on an F frame and if so what their thoughts are on this upgrade.
Thanks in advance.
David

[RoyB]

Hi David
I have done just that on a Mk3 only a couple of months ago. I found it ok after a bit of fiddling to set it up, but I still find the ratios a bit too widely spaced for me. I calculated the 4th (high) gear to be equal to my normal road “cruising” cadence, so that I have one higher and 3 lower. They are 94, 78, 59, 44 and 36. The jump down from 78 to 59 is a bit too much when I come to an incline, so I might just have to use it for flat rides! Fitting was no problem as my forks OLD was 120 and I think the hub was advertised at 118. SJS did the build for me.
Roy

[David Robb]

Hi Roy,
I’ve been away and just came across your reply.
Thanks for the insight. I am going to get mine from SJS but will build it up myself. What size sprocket/chainwheel do you have on yours?
I will be using my bike to bomb around my local area, which is flatish so I should be fine.
Thanks
David

[RoyB]

Hi David
I’ve got the original 52t chainset with a 14t sprocket but I’d like to try to convert to a cotterless BB, which will probably be a 48t and a 13sprocket. It gives about the same gearing. I really noticed when riding my road bike how much I clicked up and down the close ratio cogs, so I guess I won’t ever be comfortable with the gaps on the SA hub!
Roy

[Les Crook]

Going to go down this route myself. To my mind it seems the most sensible way of extending the range, hence flexibility of this brilliant machine. I too am a constant adjuster of ratios on my road bike, but 5 gears and thick thighs will carry me to the pub and back.

[Author]

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