Sturmey-Archer Bicycle Hubs

This page describes Sturmey-Archer hubs from the 1930s onward, and gives links to information about them on this site and others.

Our pages about servicing Sturmey-Archer hubs will guide you to the best information we could find, including information no longer available from Sturmey-Archer, so, let's first list those pages here:

Quick Reference
2-speeds	3-speeds	4-speeds	5-speeds 1967-2000	5-speeds 2000-2009	5-speeds 2010-
7-speeds	8-speeds	Other rear hubs	Front hubs	Front brake hubs	Dynohubs

Quick Reference

Most Sturmey-Archer hub models produced since the 1930s...

Rows with white backgrounds in the table below are for "ghost" hubs -- no longer sold, not in the 2015 catalog -- though some of these are very common, or mostly the same as current hubs. Rows with yellow backgrounds are for hubs which are in both the 2010 catalog and the 2015 catalog. Rows with green backgrounds are for hubs in the 2015 catalog only. Hyperlinks from the model numbers in the left column will take you to servicing information on individual hubs. For old hubs where there is no hyperlink, look on Tony Hadland's site, the Sturmey-Archer Heritage site or the Veteran-Cycle Club library site (Links at top and bottom of this page). Harris Cyclery, SJS Cycles and Oldbiketrader in the UK maintain stocks of discontinued Sturmey-Archer hubs and parts.

Internal-gear hubs
Model	Speeds	Range	Gears(%)	Features
2-speeds
B2C	2	Wide	138 100	2-speed kickback hub, coaster brake, steel shell. Also see coaster-brake page.
S2	2	Wide	138 100	2-speed kickback hub, no brake, aluminum shell.
S2	2	Wide	100 71.4	Note, same model number as new S2 but different ratios. 1960s model with kickback shifting.
S2C	2	Wide	138 100	2-speed kickback hub, coaster brake, aluminum shell. Also see coaster-brake page.
S2K	2	Wide	138 100	2-speed kickback hub, coaster brake, aluminum shell with disc brake fitting
T	2	Medium	100 75	A rare 1930s model, made for club bicycles and tandems. If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
T-S2C	2 + reverse	Wide	138 100	2-speeds kickback, coaster brake, aluminum shell, reverse gear and second sprocket, made for a tricycle. This is a gearbox, not a hub and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with input and output chains, because the secondary sprocket attaches where the spokes would.
TB	2	Wide	100 75	A rare 1930s two-speed hub with cable/rod-operated drum brake. Similar to TBC If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
TBC	2	Wide	100 75	A rare 1930s two-speed hub with cable-operated drum brake. Similar to TB If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
TBF	2	Wide	100 75	A rare 1930s fixed gear two-speed hub with cable/rod-operated drum brake. Similar to TBFC If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
TBFC	2	Wide	100 75	A rare 1930s fixed gear two-speed hub with cable-operated drum brake. Similar to TBF If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
TC	2	Close	100 86.54	A rare 1930s model, made for club bicycles. See: sa-1938f2.jpeg (176k) If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
TF	2	Medium	100 75	A rare 1930s fixed gear model, made for club bicycles and tandems. The fixed-gear version of the T If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
3-speeds Servicing information
AB	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Basically an AW, with cable-operated drum brake.
AB3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	With cable-operated 90 mm drum brake. Still sold in 2010.
AB/C	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	With cable-operated 90 mm drum brake. Still sold in 2010.
AC	3	Close	106.66 100 93.3	A rare model, made for club bicycles, time trials.
AG	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Basically, an AW with a built-in Dynohub generator.
AM	3	Medium	115.55 100 86.54	A rare model, made for club bicycles.
AR	3	Ultra Close	107.24 100 93.24	A very rare 1930's model, made for club/racing bicycles. If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
ASC	3	Close	100 90 75	Fixed gear. Extremely rare, and lots of fun! This site has two separate pages devoted to this hub: See the main ASC Page for general info, and the ASC Tech Page for service instructions, cutaway and exploded diagrams. In 2010, SunRace/Sturmey Archer has introduced a new 3-speed fixed gear hub, the S3X
AT3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	"Elite" 70 mm drum brake and no-intermediate-gear (no neutral) internals. "Elite" indicates a hub with an aluminium shell.
AW	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	This is far and away the most common model, introduced in 1936. No-neutral-gear version still sold in 2010 --75th anniversary is coming up in 2011! Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
AWC	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Three speed coaster brake. No-neutral-gear version. Steel shell. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
AWC(II)	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Slight modification to the AWC. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
BWR	3	Extra-wide	63.8 100 156.7	Special Brompton extra wide-ratio 3-speed used with 2 sprockets and a rear derailer to make a 6-speed hybrid-gearing system.
CS-RF3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Hybrid gearing, fits a Shimano or SRAM 8- or 9-speed cassette. Available in sliver or black
CS-RK3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Hybrid gearing, fits a Shimano or SRAM 8- or 9-speed cassette. Disk brake fitting. Available in several colors.
K	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	The immediate predecessor of the AW If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
KB	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	With rod-operated drum brake. (Similar to the KBC) If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
KBC	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	With cable-operated drum brake. 1930's predecessor to the AB If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
KS	3	Close	112.5 100 89.9	A rare 1930s model, made for club bicycles and tandems. If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
KSW	3	Medium	116.6 100 85.7	A rare 1930s model, made for club bicycles and tandems. If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
KT	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Tandem hub with cable/rod-operated drum brake. Similar to KTC If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
KTC	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Tandem hub with cable-operated drum brake. Similar to KT If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
QS-RC3	3 + reverse	Wide	133.3 100 75	Coaster brake, aluminum shell, reverse gear and second sprocket, made for a tricycle. This is a gearbox, not a hub and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with input and output chains, because the secondary sprocket attaches where the spokes would.
RS-RB3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	New version similar to the AW, with an aluminum shell. Rotary shifting interface inside the dropout; band brake fitting, could be used for a drive sprocket.
RS-RF3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	New version similar to the AW, with an aluminum shell. Rotary shifting interface inside the dropout; no brake.
RX-RD3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	New version similar to the AW, with an aluminum shell. Rotary shifting interface inside the dropout; 70mm drum brake
SAB3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Steel shell, 70mm drum brake. No-intermediate-gear mechanism. Still sold in 2010
SBR	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	"Steelite" with 70 mm drum brake. "Steelite" indicates a hub with a steel shell.
S3C	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Coaster brake. After Consumer Reports rated the TCW IV "unacceptable" because the brake would fail completely if the shift cable was misadjusted, Sturmey-Archer completely redesigned the Tricoaster, so that the braking was independent of the gear-change. This model is safer than the TCW series, but is still prone to failure. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
S3X	3	Mid	100 75 62.5	SunRace/Sturmey-Archer's new-production 3-speed fixed gear, supplanting the rare ASC. A matching front hub, the HBT, is available.
S-RC3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Aluminum-shell version of the AWC(II), with coaster brake.
S-RF3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	New version similar to the AW, with an aluminum shell. Improved pullchain interface; no brake.
S-RK3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	New version similar to the AW, with an aluminum shell. Improved pullchain interface; disc brake fitting.
SW	3	Super- wide	138.4 100 72.23	This model was intended to replace the AW in 1957, but was so troublesome that it was withdrawn, and the AW re-introduced in 1958. The SW uses a unique 3-prong driver, and has crescent-shaped pawls that don't use pawl springs. When they work, they're very nice. They are light, nearly silent, and efficient. None of the internal parts are interchangeable with other models. See Brian Hayes's article on this site.
SX-RB3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Wide-body 3-speed (for wide dropout spacing) with threads on left side for band brake drum or sprocket.
SX-RK3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Wide-body 3-speed (for wide dropout spacing) with fitting for brake disk.
TCW	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	Coaster brake. Mark I, II, III, IV. Brake would fail if cable adjustment was incorrect, replaced by the S3C. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
TS-RB3	3 + reverse	Wide	133.3 100 75	Threading at left side for band brake -- could be used for a drive sprocket. High-polish aluminum shell, reverse gear and second sprocket: made for a tricycle. This is a gearbox, not a hub and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with input and output chains, because the secondary sprocket attaches where the spokes would.
TS-RC3	3 + reverse	Wide	133.3 100 75	Coaster brake, high-polish aluminum shell, reverse gear and second sprocket: made for a tricycle. This is a gearbox, not a hub and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with input and output chains, because the secondary sprocket attaches where the spokes would.
TS-RF3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	No brake, high-polish aluminum shell, reverse gear and second sprocket: made for a tricycle. This is a gearbox, not a hub and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with input and output chains, because the secondary sprocket attaches where the spokes would.
XL-RD3	3	Wide	133.3 100 75	90 mm drum brake, aluminum shell.
X-RD3	3 + reverse	Wide	133.3 100 75	70 mm drum brake, aluminum shell.
4-speeds Servicing information
AF	4	Close	109.1 100 90 75	Same as the FC.
FB	4	Wide	126.6 100 79.9 66.67	Like the FG, but with cable-operated drum brake. See rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
FC	4	Close	109.1 100 90 75	A rare model, made for club bicycles. Same as the AF.
FG	4	Wide	126.6 100 79.9 66.67	Basically an FW with a built-in Dynohub generator. I have one of these on my 1954 Superbe Roadster. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
FM	4	Medium	112.5 100 85.7 66.7	A rare model, made for club bicycles.
FW	4	Wide	126.6 100 78.9 66.67	The most common four-speed model. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
Older 5-speeds Servicing information
5-speed alloy	5	Wide	150 126.6 100 78.9 66.67	An S5-2 with a beefy alloy shell; late UK production. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
5-Star	5	Wide	Last dual-cable 5-speed hub -- a problem hub. "Elite" version with aluminum shell also was sold.
5-Star Elite, drum brake	5	Wide	Dual-cable, with drum brake -- a problem hub.
AB-5	5	Wide	Steel shell, 90 mm drum brake, introduced ca. 1999
AT5	5	Wide	Aluminum shell, 70 mm drum brake, dual cable; introduced in 1985
S5	5	Wide	The earliest 5-speed hub, a modified FW. The original S5 used two cables, a conventional 3-speed type on the right, and a bellcrank/pushrod unit on the left. The right lever/cable has 3 positions, and works as a normal 3-speed hub. The left lever/cable converts the hub from a medium ratio to a wide ratio 3-speed. Since the middle gear is direct drive, the left control has no effect on the middle gear. Most, if not all Sturmey-Archer 4-speeds can be converted to 5-speeds. The planet cage is the same but the axle and large sun gear must be replaced so they engage in both directions. See additional information. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
S5/1	5	Wide	Replaced the S5; used two pullchains rather than having a bell crank on the left side. Unreliable, tended to pop out of low gear. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
S5-2	5	Wide	Improved, reliable version of the S5/1. The S5-2 has a bit more internal friction than the plain S5. Axle assembly and axle gears are different. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
SAB-5	5	Wide	70 mm drum brake
Sprinter S5	5	Wide	5-speed single-cable; introduced 1993-1994
Sprinter Elite AT5	5	Wide	5-speed single-cable, drum brake, introduced 1993-1994
Sprinter S5C Coaster	5	Wide	5-speed single-cable with coaster brake, introduced 1993-1994
Summit S5	5	Wide	Ball locking mechanism, steel shell, ca. 1999
Summit S5C	5	Wide	Ball locking mechanism ca. 1999, coaster brake
X-RC5	5	Wide	Ball locking mechanism, probably Taiwan introduction, coaster brake
X-RD5	5	Wide	Ball locking mechanism, drum brake, probably Taiwan introduction
X-RF5	5	Wide	Ball locking mechanism, no brake, probably Taiwan introduction
X-RK5	5	Wide	Ball locking mechanism, disk brake fitting, large flanges. May not have existed.
2009- wider-ratio 5-speeds Servicing information
QS-RC5	5+ reverse	Wider	160 133.3 100 75 62.5	This hub is listed online as having rotary shifting but probably is the same as the QS-RCF(W) below, with pullchain shifting. Ratios are the same as pullchain-shifting hubs, and installation instructions and specifications are for a hub with a pullchain. Coaster brake, reverse rear and second sprocket. This is a gearbox, not a hub, and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with two chains, because there is a bracket that goes across where the spokes would be.
QS-RC5(W)	5+ reverse	Wider	Wider ratio, introduced 2009, pullchain shifting, coaster brake, reverse rear and second sprocket. This is a gearbox, not a hub, and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with two chains, because there is a bracket that goes across where the spokes would be.
TS-RC5	5	Wider	This hub is listed online as having rotary shifting but ratios are the same as pullchain-shifting hubs, and installation instructions and specifications are for a hub with a pullchain. This is a gearbox, not a hub, and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with two chains, because there is a bracket that goes across where the spokes would be.
TS-RF5	5	Wider	This hub is listed online as having rotary shifting but ratios are the same as pullchain-shifting hubs, and installation instructions and specifications are for a hub with a pullchain. freewheeling, second sprocket but no reverse gear. This is a gearbox, not a hub, and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with two chains, because there is a bracket that goes across where the spokes would be.
S5C(W)	5	Wider	Wider ratio, introduced 2009, coaster brake, steel shell.
S-RC5(W)	5	Wider	Wider ratio, introduced 2009, coaster brake, aluminum shell
S-RF5(W)	5	Wider	Wider ratio, introduced 2009, no brake, aluminum shell
XL-RD5 (W)	5	Wider	Wider ratio, introduced 2009, 90 mm drum brake, aluminum shell
X-RC5(W)	5	Wider	Wider ratio, introduced 2009, coaster brake, large-flange aluminum shell
X-RD5(W)	5	Wider	Wider ratio, introduced 2009, 70 mm drum brake, aluminum shell
X-RF5(W)	5	Wider	wider ratio, introduced 2009, no brake, large-flange aluminum shell
X-RK5(W)	5	Wider	wider ratio, introduced 2009, disk brake fitting, large-flange aluminum shell
Rotary-shifting 5-speeds new since 2010 Servicing information
RX-RC5	5+ reverse	Wide	156.25 125 100 80 64	Coaster brake, reverse gear and second sprocket. This is a gearbox, not a hub, and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with two chains, because there is a bracket that goes across where the spokes would be.
RX-RD5	5	Wide	Wider ratio, introduced 2009, coaster brake, steel shell.
RX-RF5	5	Wide	No brake, aluminum shell
RX-RK5	5	Wide	Disc-brake fitting,, aluminum shell
RXL-RD5	5	Wide	Large drum brake, aluminum shell
7-speeds Servicing information
AT7/Sprinter 7 Elite	7	Wide	168 145 124 100 80 69 60	7-speed single cable with drum brake. See also my article on 4, 5 and 7-speed Sturmey-Archer hubs
Sprinter 7	7	Wide	7-speed single cable, steel shell.
Sprinter 7 Coaster	7	Wide	7-speed single cable with coaster brake.
Summit X7	7	Wide	Different appearance, ball locking sun gears, otherwise like the Sprinter 7.
Summit S7C	7	Wide	Different appearance, ball locking sun gears, otherwise like the Sprinter 7 Coaster.
Summit X-RD7	7	Wide	Different appearance, ball locking sun gears, otherwise like the AT7.
8-Speeds Servicing information
X-RD8	8	Mid	305 238 210 186 164 145 128 100	Discontinued, drum brake
X-RF8	8	Mid	Discontinued, no brake.
X-RK8	8	Mid	Discontinued, fitting for disk brake
X-RR8	8	Mid	Discontinued, fitting for Shimano Rollerbrake
S80(W)	8	Wide	325 250 220 192 169 148 130 100	2009 model, no brake, steel shell.
X-RF8(W)	8	Wide	2009 model, no brake.
X-RD8(W)	8	Wide	2009 model, internal drum brake.
X-RK8(W)	8	Wide	2009 model, fitting for disk brake
Other Rear hubs
Model	Features
BR	Drum brake for rod operation (similar to BRC) If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
BRC	Drum brake for cable operation (similar to BR) If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
BRD	Drum brake for rod operation (derailer-compatible version of BR) If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
BRCD	Drum brake for cable operation (derailer-compatible version of BRC) If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
BRT	Tandem drum brake for cable operation (similar to BRC) If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
HBT30-R	Fixed gear/freewheel track hub. Available in several colors.
SAB	"Steelite" 70 mm drum brake for cable operation
SC	Coaster brake. See rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
SC1	Coaster brake. See rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.
ST	"Elite" (aluminum shell) 70 mm drum brake for cable operation
X-RD	Freewheel hub with 90 mm drum brake
X-RDC	Cassette hub with 90mm drum brake
Front hubs
Model	Features
HBT	Front track hub to match the S3X fixed-gear hub and HBT-30 fixed/free hub. Available in several colors.
Front brake hubs (servicing current models) (Installation)
BF	Formerly, drum brake for rod operation (similar to BFC) This name is also used for a 90mm cable-operated drum brake with a steel shell: (instructions and parts list for more recent model). If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for the older model.
BFC	Drum brake for cable operation (similar to BF). Technical information and parts list If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
BF/C	90 mm drum brake for cable operation (recent model is called the BF but refers to this one's technical info.)
BFT	Tandem drum brake for cable operation (similar to BFC) If you have a fast connection, you can see sales brochures for this model.
VT	70 mm "Elite" drum brake for cable operation
X-FD	Front hub with 70mm drum brake.
XL-FD	Front hub with 90mm drum brake
SBF	70 mm "Steelite" (steel shell) drum brake for cable operation. Also see info on Tony Hadland's site.
X-SD	Front single-side (tadpole tricycle front) hub with 70mm drum brake.
XL-SD	Front single-side (tadpole tricycle front) hub with 90mm drum brake.
Dynohubs (also see AG, above)
GH6	Front hub with built-in Dynohub generator.
HDS10	Front hub with new-model Dynohub generator. Instructions
HDS20	Front hub with disc-brake fitting and new-model Dynohub generator. Instructions
X-FDD	Front hub with 70mm drum brake and new-model Dynohub generator. Instructions
XL-FDD	Front hub with 90mm drum brake and new-model Dynohub generator. Instructions

Internal-gear hubs

Model

Speeds

Range

Gears(%)

Features

2-speeds

B2C

Wide

138
100

2-speed kickback hub, coaster brake, steel shell. Also see coaster-brake page.

S2

Wide

138
100

2-speed kickback hub, no brake, aluminum shell.

S2

Wide

100
71.4

Note, same model number as new S2 but different ratios. 1960s model with kickback shifting.

S2C

Wide

138
100

2-speed kickback hub, coaster brake, aluminum shell. Also see coaster-brake page.

S2K

Wide

138
100

2-speed kickback hub, coaster brake, aluminum shell with disc brake fitting

T

Medium

100
75

A rare 1930s model, made for club bicycles and tandems.

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

T-S2C

2 +
reverse

Wide

138
100

2-speeds kickback, coaster brake, aluminum shell, reverse gear and second sprocket, made for a tricycle. This is a gearbox, not a hub and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with input and output chains, because the secondary sprocket attaches where the spokes would.

TB

Wide

100
75

A rare 1930s two-speed hub with cable/rod-operated drum brake. Similar to TBC

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

TBC

Wide

100
75

A rare 1930s two-speed hub with cable-operated drum brake. Similar to TB

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

TBF

Wide

100
75

A rare 1930s fixed gear two-speed hub with cable/rod-operated drum brake. Similar to TBFC

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

TBFC

Wide

100
75

A rare 1930s fixed gear two-speed hub with cable-operated drum brake. Similar to TBF

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

TC

100
86.54

A rare 1930s model, made for club bicycles.

See: sa-1938f2.jpeg (176k)

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

TF

Medium

100
75

A rare 1930s fixed gear model, made for club bicycles and tandems. The fixed-gear version of the T
Sturmey-Archer TF

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

3-speeds Servicing information

AB

Wide

133.3
100
75

Basically an AW, with cable-operated drum brake.

AB3

Wide

133.3
100
75

With cable-operated 90 mm drum brake. Still sold in 2010.

AB/C

Wide

133.3
100
75

With cable-operated 90 mm drum brake. Still sold in 2010.

AC

106.66
100
93.3

A rare model, made for club bicycles, time trials.

AG

Wide

133.3
100
75

Basically, an AW with a built-in Dynohub generator.

AM

Medium

115.55
100
86.54

A rare model, made for club bicycles.

AR

Ultra Close

107.24
100
93.24

A very rare 1930's model, made for club/racing bicycles.
Sturmey-Archer AR

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

ASC

100
90
75

Fixed gear. Extremely rare, and lots of fun! This site has two separate pages devoted to this hub: See the main ASC Page for general info, and the ASC Tech Page for service instructions, cutaway and exploded diagrams.

In 2010, SunRace/Sturmey Archer has introduced a new 3-speed fixed gear hub, the S3X

AT3

Wide

133.3
100
75

"Elite" 70 mm drum brake and no-intermediate-gear (no neutral) internals. "Elite" indicates a hub with an aluminium shell.

AW

Wide

133.3
100
75

This is far and away the most common model, introduced in 1936. No-neutral-gear version still sold in 2010 --75th anniversary is coming up in 2011! Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

AWC

Wide

133.3
100
75

Three speed coaster brake. No-neutral-gear version. Steel shell. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

AWC(II)

Wide

133.3
100
75

Slight modification to the AWC. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

BWR

Extra-wide

63.8
100
156.7

Special Brompton extra wide-ratio 3-speed used with 2 sprockets and a rear derailer to make a 6-speed hybrid-gearing system.

CS-RF3

Wide

133.3
100
75

Hybrid gearing, fits a Shimano or SRAM 8- or 9-speed cassette. Available in sliver or black

CS-RK3

Wide

133.3
100
75

Hybrid gearing, fits a Shimano or SRAM 8- or 9-speed cassette. Disk brake fitting. Available in several colors.

K

Wide

133.3
100
75

The immediate predecessor of the AW

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

KB

Wide

133.3
100
75

With rod-operated drum brake. (Similar to the KBC)

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

KBC

Wide

133.3
100
75

With cable-operated drum brake. 1930's predecessor to the AB
Sturmey-Archer KBC

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

KS

112.5
100
89.9

A rare 1930s model, made for club bicycles and tandems.
Sturmey-Archer KS

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

KSW

Medium

116.6
100
85.7

A rare 1930s model, made for club bicycles and tandems.
Sturmey-Archer KS

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

KT

Wide

133.3
100
75

Tandem hub with cable/rod-operated drum brake. Similar to KTC
Sturmey-Archer KT

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

KTC

Wide

133.3
100
75

Tandem hub with cable-operated drum brake. Similar to KT

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

QS-RC3

3 +
reverse

Wide

133.3
100
75

Coaster brake, aluminum shell, reverse gear and second sprocket, made for a tricycle. This is a gearbox, not a hub and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with input and output chains, because the secondary sprocket attaches where the spokes would.

RS-RB3

Wide

133.3
100
75

New version similar to the AW, with an aluminum shell. Rotary shifting interface inside the dropout; band brake fitting, could be used for a drive sprocket.

RS-RF3

Wide

133.3
100
75

New version similar to the AW, with an aluminum shell. Rotary shifting interface inside the dropout; no brake.

RX-RD3

Wide

133.3
100
75

New version similar to the AW, with an aluminum shell. Rotary shifting interface inside the dropout; 70mm drum brake

SAB3

Wide

133.3
100
75

Steel shell, 70mm drum brake. No-intermediate-gear mechanism. Still sold in 2010

SBR

Wide

133.3
100
75

"Steelite" with 70 mm drum brake.

"Steelite" indicates a hub with a steel shell.

S3C

Wide

133.3
100
75

Coaster brake. After Consumer Reports rated the TCW IV "unacceptable" because the brake would fail completely if the shift cable was misadjusted, Sturmey-Archer completely redesigned the Tricoaster, so that the braking was independent of the gear-change. This model is safer than the TCW series, but is still prone to failure. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

S3X

Mid

100
75
62.5

SunRace/Sturmey-Archer's new-production 3-speed fixed gear, supplanting the rare ASC. A matching front hub, the HBT, is available.

S-RC3

Wide

133.3
100
75

Aluminum-shell version of the AWC(II), with coaster brake.

S-RF3

Wide

133.3
100
75

New version similar to the AW, with an aluminum shell. Improved pullchain interface; no brake.

S-RK3

Wide

133.3
100
75

New version similar to the AW, with an aluminum shell. Improved pullchain interface; disc brake fitting.

SW

Super-
wide

138.4
100
72.23

This model was intended to replace the AW in 1957, but was so troublesome that it was withdrawn, and the AW re-introduced in 1958. The SW uses a unique 3-prong driver, and has crescent-shaped pawls that don't use pawl springs. When they work, they're very nice. They are light, nearly silent, and efficient. None of the internal parts are interchangeable with other models. See Brian Hayes's article on this site.

SX-RB3

Wide

133.3
100
75

Wide-body 3-speed (for wide dropout spacing) with threads on left side for band brake drum or sprocket.

SX-RK3

Wide

133.3
100
75

Wide-body 3-speed (for wide dropout spacing) with fitting for brake disk.

TCW

Wide

133.3
100
75

Coaster brake. Mark I, II, III, IV. Brake would fail if cable adjustment was incorrect, replaced by the S3C. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

TS-RB3

3 +
reverse

Wide

133.3
100
75

Threading at left side for band brake -- could be used for a drive sprocket. High-polish aluminum shell, reverse gear and second sprocket: made for a tricycle. This is a gearbox, not a hub and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with input and output chains, because the secondary sprocket attaches where the spokes would.

TS-RC3

3 +
reverse

Wide

133.3
100
75

Coaster brake, high-polish aluminum shell, reverse gear and second sprocket: made for a tricycle. This is a gearbox, not a hub and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with input and output chains, because the secondary sprocket attaches where the spokes would.

TS-RF3

Wide

133.3
100
75

No brake, high-polish aluminum shell, reverse gear and second sprocket: made for a tricycle. This is a gearbox, not a hub and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with input and output chains, because the secondary sprocket attaches where the spokes would.

XL-RD3

Wide

133.3
100
75

90 mm drum brake, aluminum shell.

X-RD3

3 +
reverse

Wide

133.3
100
75

70 mm drum brake, aluminum shell.

4-speeds Servicing information

AF

109.1
100
90
75

Same as the FC.

FB

Wide

126.6
100
79.9
66.67

Like the FG, but with cable-operated drum brake. See rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

FC

109.1
100
90
75

A rare model, made for club bicycles. Same as the AF.

FG

Wide

126.6
100
79.9
66.67

Basically an FW with a built-in Dynohub generator.

I have one of these on my 1954 Superbe Roadster. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

FM

Medium

112.5
100
85.7
66.7

A rare model, made for club bicycles.

FW

Wide

126.6
100
78.9
66.67

The most common four-speed model. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

Older 5-speeds Servicing information

5-speed alloy

Wide

150
126.6
100
78.9
66.67

An S5-2 with a beefy alloy shell; late UK production. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

5-Star

Wide

Last dual-cable 5-speed hub -- a problem hub. "Elite" version with aluminum shell also was sold.

5-Star Elite, drum brake

Wide

Dual-cable, with drum brake -- a problem hub.

AB-5

Wide

Steel shell, 90 mm drum brake, introduced ca. 1999

AT5

Wide

Aluminum shell, 70 mm drum brake, dual cable; introduced in 1985

S5

Wide

The earliest 5-speed hub, a modified FW. The original S5 used two cables, a conventional 3-speed type on the right, and a bellcrank/pushrod unit on the left. The right lever/cable has 3 positions, and works as a normal 3-speed hub. The left lever/cable converts the hub from a medium ratio to a wide ratio 3-speed. Since the middle gear is direct drive, the left control has no effect on the middle gear.

Most, if not all Sturmey-Archer 4-speeds can be converted to 5-speeds. The planet cage is the same but the axle and large sun gear must be replaced so they engage in both directions. See additional information. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

S5/1

Wide

Replaced the S5; used two pullchains rather than having a bell crank on the left side. Unreliable, tended to pop out of low gear. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

S5-2

Wide

Improved, reliable version of the S5/1. The S5-2 has a bit more internal friction than the plain S5. Axle assembly and axle gears are different. Also see rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

SAB-5

Wide

70 mm drum brake

Sprinter S5

Wide

5-speed single-cable; introduced 1993-1994

Sprinter Elite AT5

Wide

5-speed single-cable, drum brake, introduced 1993-1994

Sprinter S5C
Coaster

Wide

5-speed single-cable with coaster brake, introduced 1993-1994

Summit S5

Wide

Ball locking mechanism, steel shell, ca. 1999

Summit S5C

Wide

Ball locking mechanism ca. 1999, coaster brake

X-RC5

Wide

Ball locking mechanism, probably Taiwan introduction, coaster brake

X-RD5

Wide

Ball locking mechanism, drum brake, probably Taiwan introduction

X-RF5

Wide

Ball locking mechanism, no brake, probably Taiwan introduction

X-RK5

Wide

Ball locking mechanism, disk brake fitting, large flanges. May not have existed.

2009- wider-ratio 5-speeds Servicing information

QS-RC5

5+
reverse

Wider

160
133.3
100
75
62.5

This hub is listed online as having rotary shifting but probably is the same as the QS-RCF(W) below, with pullchain shifting. Ratios are the same as pullchain-shifting hubs, and installation instructions and specifications are for a hub with a pullchain. Coaster brake, reverse rear and second sprocket. This is a gearbox, not a hub, and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with two chains, because there is a bracket that goes across where the spokes would be.

QS-RC5(W)

5+
reverse

Wider

Wider ratio, introduced 2009, pullchain shifting, coaster brake, reverse rear and second sprocket. This is a gearbox, not a hub, and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with two chains, because there is a bracket that goes across where the spokes would be.

TS-RC5

Wider

This hub is listed online as having rotary shifting but ratios are the same as pullchain-shifting hubs, and installation instructions and specifications are for a hub with a pullchain. This is a gearbox, not a hub, and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with two chains, because there is a bracket that goes across where the spokes would be.

TS-RF5

Wider

This hub is listed online as having rotary shifting but ratios are the same as pullchain-shifting hubs, and installation instructions and specifications are for a hub with a pullchain. freewheeling, second sprocket but no reverse gear. This is a gearbox, not a hub, and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with two chains, because there is a bracket that goes across where the spokes would be.

S5C(W)

Wider

Wider ratio, introduced 2009, coaster brake, steel shell.

S-RC5(W)

Wider

Wider ratio, introduced 2009, coaster brake, aluminum shell

S-RF5(W)

Wider

Wider ratio, introduced 2009, no brake, aluminum shell

XL-RD5 (W)

Wider

Wider ratio, introduced 2009, 90 mm drum brake, aluminum shell

X-RC5(W)

Wider

Wider ratio, introduced 2009, coaster brake, large-flange aluminum shell

X-RD5(W)

Wider

Wider ratio, introduced 2009, 70 mm drum brake, aluminum shell

X-RF5(W)

Wider

wider ratio, introduced 2009, no brake, large-flange aluminum shell

X-RK5(W)

Wider

wider ratio, introduced 2009, disk brake fitting, large-flange aluminum shell

Rotary-shifting 5-speeds new since 2010 Servicing information

RX-RC5

5+
reverse

Wide

156.25
125
100
80
64

Coaster brake, reverse gear and second sprocket. This is a gearbox, not a hub, and must be used in an intermediate position on the frame, with two chains, because there is a bracket that goes across where the spokes would be.

RX-RD5

Wide

Wider ratio, introduced 2009, coaster brake, steel shell.

RX-RF5

Wide

No brake, aluminum shell

RX-RK5

Wide

Disc-brake fitting,, aluminum shell

RXL-RD5

Wide

Large drum brake, aluminum shell

7-speeds Servicing information

AT7/Sprinter 7 Elite

Wide

168
145
124
100
80
69
60

7-speed single cable with drum brake. See also my article on 4, 5 and 7-speed Sturmey-Archer hubs

Sprinter 7

Wide

7-speed single cable, steel shell.

Sprinter 7
Coaster

Wide

7-speed single cable with coaster brake.

Summit X7

Wide

Different appearance, ball locking sun gears, otherwise like the Sprinter 7.

Summit S7C

Wide

Different appearance, ball locking sun gears, otherwise like the Sprinter 7 Coaster.

Summit X-RD7

Wide

Different appearance, ball locking sun gears, otherwise like the AT7.

8-Speeds Servicing information

X-RD8

Mid

305 238 210 186 164 145 128 100

Discontinued, drum brake

X-RF8

Mid

Discontinued, no brake.

X-RK8

Mid

Discontinued, fitting for disk brake

X-RR8

Mid

Discontinued, fitting for Shimano Rollerbrake

S80(W)

Wide

325 250 220 192 169 148 130 100

2009 model, no brake, steel shell.

X-RF8(W)

Wide

2009 model, no brake.

X-RD8(W)

Wide

2009 model, internal drum brake.

X-RK8(W)

Wide

2009 model, fitting for disk brake

Other Rear hubs

Model

Features

BR

Drum brake for rod operation (similar to BRC)

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

BRC

Drum brake for cable operation (similar to BR)

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

BRD

Drum brake for rod operation (derailer-compatible version of BR)

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

BRCD

Drum brake for cable operation (derailer-compatible version of BRC)

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

BRT

Tandem drum brake for cable operation (similar to BRC)

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

HBT30-R

Fixed gear/freewheel track hub. Available in several colors.

SAB

"Steelite" 70 mm drum brake for cable operation

SC

Coaster brake. See rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

SC1

Coaster brake. See rebuilding instructions in Sutherland's Handbook of Coaster Brake and Internally Geared Hubs.

ST

"Elite" (aluminum shell) 70 mm drum brake for cable operation

X-RD

Freewheel hub with 90 mm drum brake

X-RDC

Cassette hub with 90mm drum brake

Front hubs

Model

Features

HBT

Front track hub to match the S3X fixed-gear hub and HBT-30 fixed/free hub. Available in several colors.

Front brake hubs (servicing current models) (Installation)

BF

Formerly, drum brake for rod operation (similar to BFC) This name is also used for a 90mm cable-operated drum brake with a steel shell: (instructions and parts list for more recent model).

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for the older model.

BFC

Drum brake for cable operation (similar to BF). Technical information and parts list

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

BF/C

90 mm drum brake for cable operation (recent model is called the BF but refers to this one's technical info.)

BFT

Tandem drum brake for cable operation (similar to BFC)

If you have a fast connection, you can see
sales brochures for this model.

VT

70 mm "Elite" drum brake for cable operation

Dynohubs (also see AG, above)

GH6

Front hub with built-in Dynohub generator.

HDS10

Front hub with new-model Dynohub generator. Instructions

HDS20

Front hub with disc-brake fitting and new-model Dynohub generator. Instructions

X-FDD

Front hub with 70mm drum brake and new-model Dynohub generator. Instructions

XL-FDD

Front hub with 90mm drum brake and new-model Dynohub generator. Instructions

Official Site
Heritage site
Three-Speed Parts from Harris Cyclery
English Three Speeds, Care and Feeding
Internal-Gear Hubs
Sturmey-Archer Hubs, General Information
Sturmey-Archer 1902-1952
Sturmey-Archer 1935-38 Catalogues
Evolution of the Raleigh Sports
Sheldon's old Robin Hood
Martin Hanczyc's roadster pages.
Tony Hadland's Sturmey-Archer Pages including the 1956 master catalogue with rebuilding information for SWs and others.
Sturmey-Archer documents at the Veteran Cycle Club Library.
Hubstripping web site
John Allen's spreadsheets of internal-hub gear ratios
Retro Raleighs
SW Hubs by Brian Hayes
Jane Thomas's site with Sturmey-Archer service manuals.
Menotomy Vintage Bicycles Chat forum on English bikes.