Originally Posted by
wandt
I switched to a 5 speed S-RF5 rear hub. I love it...covers enough range without being much heavier than the 3 speed. Singlespeed-style drivetrain is much better...not a problem for you if you have a 3 speed. […] For shifting, I went with the SA thumbie-style shifter after unsuccessfully modifying a gripshifter.
This is exactly what I would like to do. I have been planning on getting a M6L like you started with, but the klunky 2x3 gearing is a turn-off. I would love some more details on your conversion. Specifically:
- Where did you buy the hub, or did you get a whole new wheel?
- What size cog and chainring are you using?
- What gear range do you have?
- Where did you get the SA thumbie shifter?
I am assuming that swapping in the 5-speed hub is no big deal, as it is the same locknut width as the three-speed hub. From your experience with the conversion, would I be able to convert a 1-speed Brompton as easily (my reason for starting with a 1-speed would be to minimize the total cost of the bike -- no need to buy a 3-speed bike just to throw away the hub and shifter).
Thanks!