Originally Posted by
supton
I've still got a hankering for one of these old 3 speeds, but I'm not so sure. It's hilly around here (ask PastorBob), so I'm hesistant to believe I'd run other than a 22T rear cog (or maybe even deeper) -- will the chainguard still fit over such a big change?
I just passed up on a Sprite with a 5speed hub. I did not get a good vibe on Sheldon's site about these; from what little I know of hubs, it sounds like I'd be more happy with the FW 4 speed, if I were to "upgrade" from the AW wide ratio 3 speed (single control, better longevity?). Anyhow, since I'm more interested in riding, and possibly riding in lousy weather on this bike, is going for the non-5speed hubs a good move? [I also passed up on a bike with a Dynohub, on the fear of finding parts for that old beast.]
22t cog will fit on a standard chain guard, it may or may not fit if you have a full chain case. I would take the 5 speed over the FW any day. Some FW parts are expensive and pricey. Dyno hubs are a non issue, they either work or they don't. They are dead simple to work on with one major caveat, DON'T separate the magnet from the ring! I have torn all of mine down at some point or another for cleaning and greasing.
I have an FG hub that I am going to have converted to a 5 speed, I can use the extra gear and it is cheaper than trying to source the two part indicator chain that the F series hubs require.
Aaron
