Shimano Alfine 11: Master Your Hub's Oil Change

The Shimano Alfine 11-speed internal gear hub (IGH) is a remarkable piece of cycling technology, offering a wide range of gears within a clean, low-maintenance package. Unlike many other internal gear hubs that rely on grease, the Alfine 11 uses a unique oil lubrication system. This design offers superior lubrication and cooling but necessitates a specific maintenance routine: the oil change. For new owners, particularly those with a Priority Apollo featuring the SG-S7001-11 model, understanding this process, including what your kit provides and the nuances of the lubricant, is crucial for ensuring the hub's long-term performance and reliability.

Unveiling the Shimano Alfine 11-Speed Hub

The Alfine 11-speed hub stands as a high-end option in Shimano's IGH lineup, distinguished by its sophisticated engineering and a Shimano CenterLock disc-brake fitting. It offers an impressive overall gear range of 408%, providing ample ratios for varied terrain and riding styles. While it shares some similarities with its 8-speed Nexus and Alfine counterparts, its internal mechanisms are more complex, designed for a broader and smoother gear progression.

A Marvel of Engineering: How It Works

At its core, the Alfine 11 hub can be conceptualised as a two-speed gear (offering reduction or direct drive) that feeds into a six-speed gear (providing direct drive or five increase options). This six-speed section is further broken down into a three-speed intermediate gear driving a two-speed final stage. This intricate arrangement of four selectable clutches and four automatically selected, spring-preloaded roller clutches allows for the eleven distinct gear ratios. Interestingly, the hub could theoretically yield twelve ratios, but one is a near-duplicate, leading to only eleven being utilised. Three gear ratios even engage all three gear trains in series, showcasing the hub's mechanical depth.

Gear Ratios and Efficiency Explained

The Alfine 11 boasts remarkably even steps between gears, making for a smooth shifting experience, with the exception of the lowest step, which is approximately twice as large. This larger initial step isn't necessarily a drawback, as it can prevent excessively frequent shifts during acceleration. For comparison, consider the following gear ratios and step percentages:

In terms of efficiency, gears 1, 7, 8, and 9 are generally considered the most efficient as they utilise only a single gear train. Conversely, gears 5 and 6, which engage all three gear trains, are likely the least efficient. A point of discussion among enthusiasts is the use of helical gears in the first stage of the Alfine 11. While these contribute to a quieter operation, they generate axial thrust loads that are supported by non-rolling-element bearings. This design choice can lead to issues, particularly when pedalling hard in gears 1-6, as the first-stage sun pinion is forced against a retaining clip rather than a fixed shoulder, potentially impacting long-term durability under high torque.

The Alfine 11's Unique Lubrication: Oil Over Grease

A defining characteristic of the Alfine 11-speed hub is its oil-based lubrication system, a significant departure from the grease lubrication found in most other internal gear hubs. This oil lubrication is highly desirable because it allows for superior internal cleaning by flushing out wear particles and ensures that all intricate moving parts are thoroughly lubricated. However, this advantage comes with the necessity of regular oil changes to maintain optimal performance and prevent the accumulation of abrasive contaminants within the hub.

Is My Alfine 11 Kit Complete? Understanding Your Purchase

A common question for new Alfine 11 owners is whether the oil change kit includes the necessary lubricant. To clarify, the official Shimano oil change kit (typically including the TL-S703 tool) absolutely includes the genuine Shimano SG-700 oil. If you're purchasing an aftermarket kit, it's crucial to check the product description carefully. Some aftermarket kits provide only the tools (syringe and hose), assuming you will purchase the oil separately, while others may bundle them with genuine Shimano oil, as was the case with the Amazon kit you linked. The key distinction lies not in the kit's origin, but in the type of oil you use.

While the official Shimano SG-700 oil is the recommended choice, it is known to be expensive. Some riders opt for alternative lubricants such as Phil Wood oil (which is more viscous and may reduce leakage) or even automatic transmission fluid (ATF), which is thinner and better suited for very cold climates but more prone to leakage. However, it is paramount to understand that using any non-Shimano lubricant will unequivocally void the warranty implications on your hub. Therefore, if warranty retention is a priority, sticking with genuine Shimano SG-700 oil is the only advisable path, even if sourced separately or through an aftermarket tool kit.

Regarding oil quantity, the standard oil change involves around 25ml of fresh oil, with another 25ml often recommended for an initial flush. While larger jars of oil are available for multiple changes, be mindful that, like brake fluid, opened oil may degrade over time. The recommended change interval is every 5000 km or every 2 years, with an initial break-in oil change advised after the first 500 kilometres of riding.

The Essential Alfine 11 Oil Change Procedure: A Step-by-Step Guide

Performing an oil change on your Shimano Alfine 11 hub is a relatively straightforward process, designed to be done without removing the wheel or disassembling the hub. It's an essential part of the break-in procedure for new hubs and crucial for ongoing maintenance.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin, gather the following items:

• Your bicycle with the Shimano Alfine 11 hub.
• Shimano SG-700 oil (50 mL total, 25 mL for flushing if desired, 25 mL for final fill).
• A syringe with a hose and a 3 mm threaded fitting (the Shimano TL-S703 tool or a suitable aftermarket equivalent). A 50 mL syringe is preferable for efficiency.
• A 3 mm hex key.
• A cup, waterproof ziplock bag, or similar container for old oil disposal.
• Plenty of paper towels or rags for spills.
• Optional: A bicycle workstand to make access easier.

A good tip is to go for a short ride beforehand to warm up the hub oil. This makes it less viscous and easier to extract, significantly speeding up the process.

Step-by-Step Walkthrough

1. Locate and Remove the Nipple: Rotate your wheel so the oil nipple (marked with an oil symbol) is at the top. Insert your 3 mm hex key into the nipple. It might be tight due to an internal rubber ring; turn it towards the left (counter-clockwise) with the key handle pointing forward until it loosens. Fully unscrew and safely store the nipple.
2. Attach the Hose: Screw the hose from your syringe firmly into the hub's oil port. Ensure the syringe is fully pushed in (plunger down).
3. Extract Old Oil: Rotate the wheel half a turn so the nipple (and now the hose) is at the bottom. Pull the syringe plunger to suck out the old oil. This may take some time as the oil slowly drains. It's normal to extract only 10-20 mL, especially if your hub has experienced some oil leakage over time. For the first oil change on a new hub, you may see tiny aluminium shavings, which is normal for break-in.
4. Dispose of Old Oil: Turn the wheel again with the hose facing up. Disconnect the syringe and dispose of the grey, stinky, waxy-smelling old oil into your designated container. Remember, this oil is a vivid translucent green when new, so the colour change is a clear indicator of its condition.
5. (Optional) Flush the Hub: For a more thorough cleaning, suck 25 mL of fresh oil (or dedicated flushing oil if using a Rohloff kit) into the syringe. Connect it to the hose and inject the oil into the hub.
6. Cycle the Gears for Flushing: Secure the syringe between the spokes (or remove it and replace the nipple temporarily). Spin the pedals and shift through all 11 gears, allowing the fresh oil to circulate and clean the internal components. Stop the wheel with the brake, not your fingers.
7. Extract Flushing Oil: Remove the syringe from the spokes (if secured), turn the wheel so the hose is downwards, and suck out the flushing oil. Again, it's okay if you don't get every last drop. Dispose of this oil.
8. Add Fresh Oil: With the wheel still positioned so the hose is at the bottom, suck 25 mL of fresh, clean Shimano SG-700 oil into the syringe. Connect it to the hose and inject the new oil into the hub.
9. Close the Hub: Turn the wheel with the nipple opening facing up. Disconnect the syringe and unscrew the hose. Get the nipple and your 3 mm hex key and screw the nipple back in firmly. Wipe away any excess oil immediately.

You've now successfully completed an Alfine 11 oil change! Remember to properly dispose of the used oil according to your local regulations.

Addressing Common Alfine 11 Concerns

While the Alfine 11 is a robust hub, owners may encounter a few common issues. Understanding these can help in diagnosis and maintenance.

The Curious Case of Oil Leakage

One of the most frequently reported issues with the Alfine 11 is oil leakage, particularly from the large right-side bearing seal. This isn't necessarily a sign of a faulty hub but can be exacerbated by changes in temperature and atmospheric pressure, which can effectively pump oil out. If your hub leaks, adding oil between scheduled changes is advisable to ensure continuous lubrication. To minimise leakage during storage or transport, it's recommended to lay the bicycle on its right side with a rag underneath the hub to catch any drips. Persistent, heavy leakage should be inspected, but minor seepage is often considered normal.

Shifting Sensitivity and Skipping Gears

The Alfine 11's cable shift control is notably sensitive to adjustment and build tolerances. The total rotation of the cassette joint is limited, meaning each shift corresponds to a small angle, demanding precise setup. New hubs often experience cable stretch, which can throw off the external adjustment. Sometimes, the 'correct adjustment' (aligning dots in gear 6) isn't the 'optimum adjustment,' requiring a bit of trial and error (up to 1.5mm variation) to find the most reliable setting.

Skipping in certain gears is another common complaint. This can occur even in new hubs or those with burrs on the pawls if the sun locking pawls aren't fully extended. The design of the helical gears in stage 1, which can force the sun pinion against a retaining clip under hard pedalling, may also contribute to this, especially in lower gears (1-6). Additionally, internal clearances are tight, meaning any small debris (shrapnel) inside the hub can cause gears to jam or be damaged.

A significant factor in perceived skipping, particularly for bikes equipped with belt drives, is the belt drive tension. According to experts, many belt-driven Alfine 11 bikes come with belts that are not tensioned high enough. A "snapping" or ratcheting belt can feel identical to a hub skipping during a test ride. Conversely, an overtightened belt can also interfere with shifting. Ensuring correct belt tension is crucial before assuming a hub fault.

Hub Adjustment and Longevity

Like any cup and cone hub, the Alfine 11's bearings require precise adjustment. The right side of the axle should be clamped in a vice to accurately remove play before locking down the lock-nut. While a tiny amount of play might have been acceptable in older hubs, modern high-quality hubs like the Alfine 11 should be adjusted with no discernible play to prevent damage to the races and other internal components. Compared to the Alfine 8-speed hub, the 11-speed is internally only slightly more complex. However, for very hard use or touring with heavy loads, the Alfine and Nexus 8-speed hubs are often considered both stronger and cheaper options, despite their grease lubrication system being less ideal for internal cleaning than oil.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: How often should I change the oil in my Alfine 11?

A: For a new hub, the first oil change is recommended after 500 kilometres as part of the break-in procedure. Subsequently, it should be changed every 5000 kilometres or every two years, whichever comes first.

Q: Does the official Shimano Alfine 11 oil change kit include oil?

A: Yes, the official Shimano oil change kit (Shimano TL-S703) is designed to include the genuine Shimano SG-700 oil along with the necessary tools (syringe and hose).

Q: Can I use an aftermarket oil change kit with my Alfine 11?

A: Yes, you can use an aftermarket kit for the tools (syringe and hose) as long as they are compatible with the hub's oil port. However, it is crucial to use genuine Shimano SG-700 oil to maintain your hub's warranty. Using non-Shimano oil, regardless of the kit, will void the warranty.

Q: What if my Alfine 11 hub leaks oil?

A: Minor oil leakage, particularly from the right-side bearing seal, is a common characteristic of the Alfine 11 and can be influenced by temperature and pressure changes. It's advisable to add oil between regular changes if leakage is significant to ensure proper lubrication. Storing the bicycle on its right side with a rag underneath can help manage drips.

Q: Why is my Alfine 11 skipping gears?

A: Gear skipping can stem from several issues: imprecise cable adjustment (which is very sensitive on the Alfine 11), internal issues with pawl extension, or problems related to the helical gears under high torque. If you have a belt drive, incorrect belt tension (either too loose or too tight) can also mimic hub skipping. Always check belt tension first if applicable.

Q: Is the Alfine 11 hub better than the 8-speed version?

A: The Alfine 11 offers a wider gear range and more even steps. However, for very heavy-duty use or if budget is a concern, the Alfine and Nexus 8-speed hubs are often considered stronger and more cost-effective. The 11-speed's helical gears can also present specific wear characteristics under high loads in lower gears. The 'better' choice depends on your specific riding needs and priorities.

By understanding the unique characteristics of your Shimano Alfine 11-speed hub and diligently following the recommended maintenance procedures, particularly the regular oil changes, you can ensure many years of smooth, reliable, and enjoyable cycling. Proactive care is the key to unlocking the full potential and longevity of this impressive piece of bicycle technology.

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