FoldieNoob

Hi,

I have a 3sixty folding bike. Is it possible to change the current Sturmey Archer 3 speed S-RF3 rear hub for a Shimano Alfine 11-speed rear hub without changing the rear triangle?

Thanks for any advice

Jipe

No, its not possible since the SA hub has a much smaller OLD of 110mm than the Alfine 11 which has an OLD of 135mm.

FoldieNoob

thanks a lot for the advice. Looks like I have to buy a new rear triangle if I want to upgrade

Jipe

The only possible upgrades with your current triangle (without widening it) are other SA IGH, 5 speed and 8 speed or the Brompton 6 speed with a wide range 3 speed BWR IGH + 2 sprocket and a derailleur.

tcs

...and 4 speed.

FoldieNoob

Thanks a lot for the reply. I figured I need a 135mm rear triangle upgrade to do this upgrade

the other question I have is must I use a disc brake with Shimano Alfine?

Jipe

Yes, a 135mm OLD rear triangle is the most versatile and no, the Alfine is compatible with a disc brake but you can also use a rim brakes.