Originally Posted by SmallieBiggs

Perhaps wait until there is more than one negative review before you start shouting 'I told you so.'

I have high hopes for the Alfine 11 that the OP's experience certainly puts in doubt, but a sample size of '1' is not really enough to formulate my final opinion.

FWIW, I have an Alfine 8 that has kicked arse sine the minute I installed it. THe only problem I have had is that the cassette joint got gummed up and required cleaning after 1-1/5 winters of riding with no maintenance except for oiling the (now rusty) chain.