[CR]Sturmey-Archer S5

(Example: Framebuilders:Doug Fattic)

From: <Wdgadd@aol.com>
Date: Mon, 26 Nov 2001 17:10:17 EST
To: classicrendezvous@bikelist.org
Subject: [CR]Sturmey-Archer S5

On my ride today I noticed a wheel among a large pile of trash in front of a house that had just been sold. The hub was unmistakably an epicyclic S-A type, so for laughs I checked to see if it was anything other than the ubiquitous AW. Glad I stopped-it was an 36 hole S5 marked 69, laced to, unusually, an alloy Ambrosio 26" rim. Came back with the car and grabbed it! Questions: What would anyone suggest I use for shifters? The only bike I've ever seen with an S5 was a Raleigh Sprite with the hideous T handle double top tube levers. Could I use a 4 speed trigger on the drive side and just a friction lever on the bellcrank? Sutherlands mentions S5.1 and S5.2 hubs with indicator chains on both sides-any advantage? Looks like a simple conversion (assuming parts are available). Would it work as an FW with only a 4 speed trigger? I assume the bellcrank just selects the 150% super high gear. . Does anyone know where I can get the nicer machined bellcrank assembly and the "nail" shaped pushrod that goes with it? Mine has a stamped one, broken and crudely welded. Thanks for any info!

Best Regards,
Wes Gadd