I have the 8sp Alfine as well. It has been around 1.5 years.

Around a month after getting it, my gears started slipping. Part of the break-in. I didn't know about the cable adjusting thing, but it was a 5 minute fix.

Things were great. The next problem I had was my trigger shifter screen died. I could shift fine, but the numbers didn't change. I got a new thumb shifter (I wanted something sleeker) from microshift. After a week or two I needed another cable adjustment. All good now.

I have found the Alfine hub to be quiet and reliable. Shifting is a little different than a derailleur, you want to ease up a bit before shifting, but you'll adjust fast.

My rear ended is a bit heavier but this isn't a real issue. If you want the lightest bike ever, don't get an IGH.

If you don't need the gear range, you can probably downgrade to a 3speed. These are less complicated.

I use almost all of my gears. It is a bit hilly where I live and lots of gradual climbs. Sustained flats I use gear 6-7. In stop and go traffic, 3-4. Hills get 1-2.

I love having an igh. Love shifting at the light.