DF> Rather than use an obsolete, and near impossible to repair piece of 
 DF> equipement like a 3 speed hub, I have a different 
 DF> solution. Go with 2 speeds instead. You could use a 
 DF> standard double chainring crank with a front 
 DF> deraileur and an old 5 speed hub. Instead of 
Take that one step further, and use a triple  crank on the front, and you're 
back to three speeds.
 I defense of the 3-speeds, though, I've seen those last for twenty years 
with no more than normal use and maintenance. Yeah, they are hard to repair, 
but if you take care of them, you won't need to repair them for a long time. 
I like them for their compact, self-contained design (albeit a tad heavy). 
Still, they probably weigh less than all the derailleurs, freewheels, and all 
that combined.
 Just my "three" cents' worth!
Dave
--- Maximus 2.01wb
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