Hello guys. I own a Brompton M6L (Sturmey Archer BWR) that I plan to convert into a 5-speed.

My questions are:

1) is it recommended? I read some satisfactory reviews about 5-speed internal hub, while some other said that it needs frequent tune-ups.

2) any recommended 5-speed internal hub model that is reliable and fits into my current rear wheel? (FYI: Sturmey Archer is preferred, and I plan to use my Brommie mostly for urban commuting).

Thanks in advance

You need to find the 5 speed hub with a Narrow axle with 28 spoke holes to fit the 117 wide frame , first ..


there was one , but I dont see it in the current S-A catalog.

Whats wrong with the M6L? I have an M3L with a Schlumpf Mountain drive Crank-set ..

its a wide range gear combo suited for my Hilly Town.

low range uses the BSR gears twice.. ( 54:15 chain drive combo)

Thank you for your fast response, fietsbob.

The reasons are: the dual shifters always make it feels awkward to shift up from 2nd and 4th gear, and I'm a fan of "pure" internal gearing.

Schlumpf Range shift is a button where the crank dust cap would be. 3rd is high , 3rd in low range , 4th is low in high range
Both being planetaries they can happen simultaneously.

Glasgow Scotland Brompton dealer and frame builder has rear portions and forks to even run alfine 11 speed and Rohloff Disc brake hubs

and a disc brake fork. Brompton Forks & Rear Frames ? Kinetics


There was a ebay seller in south east asia that may have bought up the remaining 5 speed hubs to sell complete wheelsets.

DIY search..

Will do. Thank you, fietsbob.