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SPEEDHUB 500/14

"Quicker than the surf"


France 1994. The atmosphere at the "Tour de France" was exhilarating and working with the
teams and mechanics was exciting too. Our Rohloff S-L-T 99 chan has proven a success with
its reliability! So at last, a couple of quiet days on the Atlantic coast. Why not take the Moutain
bike on the beach?!Crazy idea, yes! Riding exactly where the surf runs out! After just 200m,
total stand still! The rear wheel is stuck fast in the wet sand. Changing the gears impossible!
Derailleur gears wont work when you are stuck! The next wave came and both rider and bike
received the first salt-water shower. Chain and sprockets are grinding full of fine sand. The
next wave came - now nothing works. The waves were rolling in faster than we could change
gears.
Still, it must feel great to have the waves roll out under the bottom-bracket. This idea didn't let
go of me.
The lights were now burning bright and late into the night. The construction department in the
Rohloff Company was working overtime. Successful gear changes and sprocket
combinations were investigated. Mountainbike, downhill, touring and everyday riders were
asked along with sports physicians: How many gears do you need and what has a gear hub got
to be capable of in order to achieve maximum riding fun? 1997: findally we had our answer
and put it to the test! Guess where...
The rear wheel is stuck fast in the wet sand. The first wave is coming. Change the gears down
while stuck. 1st gear, gentle on the pedals, riding further - 2nd - 3rd - 4th... These gears are
quicker than the surf!
30 km of beautiful sandy beach lay ahead of us. It is a great feeling to have the waves roll out
under the bottom bracket!

SPEEDHUB 500/14

This Owners Manual is also available in a variety of other


languages. Should you require a different version, you can
download it from our homepage under:
www.rohloff.de > Service > Downloads > Documentation
The following languages are available:

SPEEDHUB 500/14

Owners Manual

-English
-German
-Dutch
-French
-Italian
-Russian

General Use
Technical Information
Mounting
Service
Repairs
Appendix

TIP

-Owners Manual - Newest version


-Videos

The newest version of this Manual is available on the web under:


www.rohloff.de > service > downloads > documentation > owners manual
Further to the manual, the most important work, service and repairs on the Rohloff
SPEEDHUB 500/14 are shown in short films on the web.
www.rohloff.de > Technology > Workshop > Videos ...

II

WS 2.13E 2015-03

III

Contents

Contents
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions

Introduction
With the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 in the fast lane ...................................................... 1

Riding with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14


Safety information ............................................................................................................ 3
Changing gears ................................................................................................................. 5
Riding noises .................................................................................................................... 6
Break in period ................................................................................................................. 6
Pushing the bike ................................................................................................................ 6
Wearable parts ................................................................................................................... 6
Maintenance and care ....................................................................................................... 7
Transport/Info for the tour ................................................................................................ 9
Wheel removal ................................................................................................................ 11
Wheel installation ........................................................................................................... 14

Explaining the model codes ............................................................................................ 33


Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 with disc brake ................................................................. 37
Advantages of the separate options ................................................................................ 38
Model variations ............................................................................................................. 39

The wheel
Wheel stability ................................................................................................................ 41
Spoke lengths .................................................................................................................. 42
Calculating the spoke length ........................................................................................... 43
Determining the inner rim diameter ............................................................................... 44

Particular components
Which components are recommended? .......................................................................... 45

Special applications

Technical data
Technical data ................................................................................................................. 17
Weight comparison/Comparison of mechanical efficiency ............................................ 18
Sprocket ratios ................................................................................................................ 19
Smallest permitted sprocket ratios .................................................................................. 19
Table of distance travelled per crank revolution (20", 26" and 28") .............................. 20
Derailleur gears in comparison to Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 .................................... 21
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 in comparison to derailleur gears ..................................... 22

Securing to the frame

Particulars ....................................................................................................................... 47

All mounting processes


Contents .......................................................................................................................... 49

Maintenance of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14


Contents .......................................................................................................................... 86

Important service procedures


Contents .......................................................................................................................... 96

Interchangable parts system ............................................................................................ 23


Axle types ....................................................................................................................... 24
Torque securing .............................................................................................................. 25
Frame types/Drop outs..................................................................................................... 27
Mounting necessities OEM2 .......................................................................................... 30

Cable routing
Internal gear mech .......................................................................................................... 31
External gear mech ......................................................................................................... 32

IV

Appendix
Trouble shooting ........................................................................................................... 119
Bolt/tool info ................................................................................................................. 124
Wheel lacing for rims with a European spoke hole patter ........................................... 125
Wheel lacing for rims with a French spoke hole pattern .............................................. 126
Technical Data .............................................................................................................. 127
Pointers on the Serial No. ............................................................................................. 128
Grub screw of the External Gear Mech ........................................................................ 129
The correct spoke choice .............................................................................................. 130
Possible causes for flange breakages on bicycle hubs .................................................. 132
Notes.............................................................................................................................. 135
Index ............................................................................................................................. 136
V

Introduction

Introduction
With the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 in the fast lane
This handbook covers everything of interest about the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14. It
contains important information over the use, the component choice, the mounting, the service
and the repairs. Should you still have any questions or queries after reading this handbook
than please contact your local dealer or visit us on the web under www.rohloff.de.
Due to us constantly improving our products, the shape of the parts or the contents of the
package may vary from those illustrated in this handbook. We kindly ask you to show some
consideration.
The first chapter
Riding with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14
you will find everything you need to know about riding with the
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14.

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC DB OEM mounted in a frame with


adjustable Rohloff OEM dropouts

Warranty of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14


Each Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 has an individual Serial Number. This can be found
printed either on the hub shell sticker (<~ number 74770) or engraved into the hub shell
(>~ number. 74771).

ATTENTION
All entitlements to a guarantee are deleted if this serial No. Can not be produced.
Warranty claims can only be processed if the guarantee card can be presented with the hub.
Further information on the guarantee card can be found in the appendix under Pointers on
the Serial No..
To help us keep tabs on theft, it is advisable to register the Serial No. With us by way of
the guarantee card.
A more precise explanation of the guarantee conditions can be found on the guarantee card
itself which is included with every Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 purchased.

In the following sections


- Technical data
- Securing to the frame
- Shifter cable routing
- Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 variations
- The wheel
- Which components are recommended
- Special applications
you will find all the technical information needed to select the correct version of the
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 for your needs.
In the chapters
- Mounting
- Service
- Repairs
you will find all the technical information needed for the mounting and service of the
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14.
Please read the important safety information carefully.
Every bicycle equipped with a Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 should come complete with
the following:
-Aguarantee card (with dealers stamp and Serial Number).
-An owners Manual for the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14.
-An oil filling tube.
Please read the important safety information before riding off!

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14

Bike riding is fun but it is also tied up with dangers. When your bike is not regularly
maintained and kept in good condition, these dangers increase. These dangers, however, can
be prevented when you read this handbook and the following safety information carefully. A
incorrect fitment of the vital components could result in a crash, with possible life threatening
injuries.

Cycling through deep water with a SPEEDHUB is not permitted. Do not submerge the
SPEEDHUB as water will penetrate the gear-unit.
Unprotected transportation on a motor vehicle through heavy rain can also lead to water
penetration and should be avoided.
An oil change should be completed immediately if you believe water may have penetrated
the gear-unit. This will ensure any potentially penetrated moisture is rinsed back out.

Safety information

Mounting
We recommend all fitting and assembly of our products should be carried out by a
professionally qualified workshop.
Improper work and customizing may result in malfunction and this in turn could lead to
accidents occuring.
Please make sure that you have the correct Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 model for your type
of bike frame.

Check regularly:
That the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is correctly and securely mounted in the frame (quick
release axle max. 7Nm or threaded axle max. 35Nm).
That all hub cap screws are correctly tightened, especially on DB versions of the Rohloff
SPEEDHUB 500/14 that incorporate the use of a brake disc.

All the bolts must be secured to the given tightening torques.

That the hubs torque securing system is correctly fastened to the frame.

The smallest permitted sprocket ratio must not be undercut.

That the brake surfaces are free from oil and grease.

If a chain tensioner is in use at the rear, a chain guide must be used in conjunction up front to
prevent the chain from springing off the chainring.

That the shifter cables and connectors are correctly and securely connected (bayonet
connectors or external gear mech).

On rear suspension frames the chain must be kept at a suitable length that allows the rear
triangle to move the full amount of shock travel.

That the parts on your bike are not damaged or failing to function properly as the result of an
accident. The use of damaged parts can result in further accidents occuring.

When filling the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 with oil for the first time as well as when
changing the oil, make sure you use only Rohloff SPEEDHUB oils as recommended for the
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14.
Usage
Before riding with your Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 please follow the next few steps in order
to truly trust the products service.
Let your bike be regularly checked by a specialist workshop to make sure that it functions
safely.
When starting off, especially after a gear change, you must check the gear has engaged
properly.
Make sure you carry out the safety checks on all the other mounted components of your bike.
Before a long journey or tour, a test ride must be taken. Through this process any mounting
mistakes or loss of functions can be noticed and corrected. Also see Transport/Info for
the tour.
When utilizing a bicycle equipped with a Gates Carbon Drive belt transmission, it is
important to adhere to the manufacturers instructions printed within their Owners Manual.
Europe: www.carbondrive.net and US: www.gatescarbondrive.com
Http://www.g-boxx.com/pdf/Gates-Rohloff-manual-en.pdf
3

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC DB OEM mounted in a frame with


adjustable Rohloff OEM dropouts

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14


Riding noises

Changing gears
All 14 gears of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are selectable through one twist shifter, so that
in one turn it is possible to change up or down by one or more gears.
The mark on the twist shifter casing next to the gear numbers informs the user of which gear
has been selected. The assembly instructions show the twist shifter being fitted to the right
hand side of the handlebars, however, in special circumstances it is possible to fit the twist
shifter to the left hand side. When rotating the twist shifter in the direction of #14, a harder,
faster gear is selected. When rotating the twist shifter in the direction of #1, an easier, slower
gear is selected.
In contrast to other gear systems on the market, with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 there is
no delay between gear selection on the twist shifter and gear change in the hub. The moment
the notch can be felt in the twist shifter, the gear has been changed. Therefore a quick and
failure free gear change is possible whilst riding and also when stationary.
When changing, gear coupling elements inside the hub must move and when there is more
pressure on the pedals it is obvious there is more pressure on these coupling elements resulting
in a harder gear change. Whilst stationary or when there is less pressure on the pedals, the twist
shifter has less resistance and therefore a lighter gear change is possible. In a situation
whereby it is not possible to reduce the pressure on the pedals (e.g. hill climbing), it is still
possible to change gear quickly and smoothly. Simply change gear when the cranks are in a
straight up-down position where hardly any pressure is being applied upon the pedals.

ATTENTION
Changing gear with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 with pressure on the pedals is not
necessary when being used appropriately. However due to the robust construction of the
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 changing gear under pressure is possible and is not harmful to
the hub. It is however possible that when changing gears under high pressure the hub could
accidentally fall into a neutral gear, this is due to the coupling elements not seating correctly
into the next elements and therefore rebounding back. If this occurs the rider could lose
balance and crash. Changing gears under high pressure is at the riders own risk.
Particulars:

One of two different riding noises could be heard depending upon which gear is selected. A
construction characteristic produces a freewheeling noise which is can be heard in most gears
- particularly noticeable in gears #5, #6 & #7. A higher frequency is produced when riding
with a higher force upon the pedals. This causes the volume of the lower gears to increase
towards gear #7 - a typical characteristic of straight-toothed precision gears.
Different frame designs can amplify or deaden these audible noises because the tubes of the
frames react as a resonator for the sound waves. Larger diameter tubes offer more room for
sound waves thus the noise is amplified. Different noises are noticeable whilst freewheeling
depending on which gear is currently selected. This is due to different elements of the gear
mechanism rotating within the hub.

Break in period
All the gears and coupling elements of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are built from
specially hardened steel and are precision finished. In the first 1000km use, the Rohloff
SPEEDHUB 500/14 loses microscopic particles from all functioning components as part of
the hubs last fine filing. After this process is completed the riding noises quieten and the
changing of gears becomes easier. During this process it is not necessary to take extra special
care.

Pushing the bike


Should the bike be pushed, it is possible that the cranks could also start to turn. This occurs due
to the hub seal automatically activating the sprocket. Bad seals and a very light running
bottom bracket make it easier for the cranks to turn. A drop of Rohloff cleaning oil (Art.
#8402) through the holes in the sprocket onto the hub seal will reduce this acivating effect.

Wearable parts
The wearable parts are: The sprocket, chainring, jockey wheels on the chain tensioner, twist
shifter rubber grip, shifter cables and the brake disc. How quick the parts wear is down to how
the product is used and cared for (pressure, dirt, weather and care). To guarantee the safe
function, these parts must be replaced as soon as they are no longer capable of performing
correctly. Let the workings of your bike be regularly checked over by a professional bike
workshop.

If changing up and down slowly or under high pressure between the gears #7 and #8, it is
possible to fall momentarily into gear #11 or #14.
5

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14


Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14
Maintenance and care

Maintenance and care

The gears of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are protected from dust and harmful moisture
due to running in a oil bath. The maintenance and care of the Rohloff system is limited to the
following points:

The shifter cable tension can be


altered by the cable adjusters.
Winding the cable adjusters out
increases cable tension. For the
lightest possible gear change, the
tension should be just enough
that on the twist shifter there is
approx. 2mm rotational play
when in a selected gear. The mark
on the twist shifter body can be
aligned to the correct gear number
without altering the cable tension
by winding one cable adjuster in
and the other out.

-Chain and chain tensioner (where applicable) should in regard to regular use (at the latest
after riding in rain) be cleaned and re-lubricated.
-The cable box of the external gear mech should be demounted approx. every 500km,
cleaned and the cable pulley lightly greased from the hub-facing side.
-The shifter cable tension should be regularly checked, and when necessary altered by the
cable adjusters.
-The Rohloff shifter cables are made from high-quality stainless steel and run in a nylon lined
steel, spiral-wound cable housing which is protected at each end with a sealed ferrule. The
cables are routed lubricant free and must not be greased or oiled. The stainless steel/nylon
combination runs service-free.
Changing the oil in the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14:
The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is filled with 25ml of Rohloff SPEEDHUB OIL. This exact
amount of oil is optimum for both the bearings and gears of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14.
The oil must be changed at least once a year or every 5000km. This process enables us to
ensure any lost oil is replaced and any penetrated moisture is rinsed back out (see chapter
'Service', paragraph 1. 'Oil change').

A Tmuch
T Ecable
N Ttension
ION
Too
raises the
amount of friction within the
shifter cables and in turn raises the
force needed on the twist shifter to
select other gears.
3

On the versions with an internal


gear mech the cable adjusters are
to be found on the cable guide.
This can be found on the left hand
chain stay or attached to the left
hand brake boss of the frame.

On the versions with an external


gear mech the cable adjusters are
to be found on the cable box which
sits directly on the left hand side of
the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14.

Cleaning the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14:


Use only un-pressurized water and gentle cleaning fluids. Do not use a high power jet wash
system, brushes or abrasive materials for cleaning purposes.

ATTENTION
Water may pass under the SPEEDHUB seals when using a high pressure wash system,
steam cleaner, transporting the bicycle on a car through heavy rain or submerging the rear
wheel. For this reason, these situations should be avoided. If not avoidable, we
recommend that an oil change is performed immediately after so as to ensure any
potentially penetrated moisture is rinsed back out of the SPEEDHUB before it can do any
damage.
7

When lubricating the chain place a


thin thread of lubricant on the
outside of the chain over the centre
rollers, this process is carried out
quicker and easier when running
the chain backwards whilst
applying the lubricant.

To lubricate the chain tensioner


place a drop of oil on the left and
right side of the upper jockey
wheel on the pivot point.

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14


versions with external gear mech:
To lubricate the cable pulley
bearing remove the cable box and
place a little grease on the parts
arrowed in the diagram above.

ATTENTION
When using a disc brake in conjunction with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14, the hub cap screws should be
checked that they are correctly tightened before every ride.
To reduce the chance of a flange breaking due to unequal spoke tension, we recommend that this is regularly
checked by a professional bicycle mechanic.
8

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14

Transportation

Emergency repairs on the go

If transporting a bike fitted with a Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14, care should be taken that the
rear wheel is transported in an upright position. In a car or an aeroplane, there could be great
changes in the air temperature/pressure. When the wheel lies on its side, oil could seep out of
the seals because the oil is sitting directly over these seals on either the left or the right side.
Transportation in the upright position will prevent the air temperature/pressure in having an
effect over the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14. If it is not possible to transport the wheel in the
upright position due to according packaging requirements, don't worry. The leakage of oil will
not cause any damage.

Several repairs can be improvised in emergency situations

Info for the tour

Male or female connector lost or damaged (internal gear mech):


Join the hub cable and shifter cable together using an electrical terminal block.

The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 immediately proved itself the optimum gear system,
especially for tours and long journeys due to its durability, long life and the strength of the
final wheel itself. Of course, good materials should always be used, so that the other parts on
the bike start out not ruined, dirty, over lubricated, worn, so that their function is impaired or
even damaged. Therefore, we suggest that in regard to poor parts on the bike you should
always carry a few important tools with you. Our service team is on the net and you can Email
us at [email protected]. We endeaver to help with any technical problems and, when
neccessary, ship spare parts out all over the world. However, due to extremely high postage
costs or lack of service in some countries, this is not always possible. You should therefore
take consider carrying selected spare parts (in case of accident damage or excessive wear), a
range of tools and this Owners Manual along for the tour. Owners manual also available
online here: http://www.rohloff.de/en/service/downloads/documentation/index.html
Tools for on the go:
- 2mm allen key (male/female connectors, cable pulley screws)
- 2.5mm allen key (twist shifter securing screws)
- 3mm allen key (drain screw)
- 5mm allen key (securing bolts for torque arm/chain tensioner)
- 8mm wrench (for turning the shifting rod)
- 15mm wrench (for axle nuts where applicable)
- Chain lubricant and grease
- Torx TX20 (all other bolts of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14)
For long distance journeys the following should also be taken along:
- Oil change kit (Art. #8410)
- Sprocket tool (Art. #8501)
- Spare chain and sprocket, spokes and shifter cables
- Internal gear mech: spare hub cables (Art. #8271) or with a quick-change axle ring
(after Serial Number 25300) Hub cable Easy Set (Art. #8573) or the complete axle ring set
(Art. #8572)
9

Breaking of a hub cable (internal gear mech):


Remove axleplate and cable pulley, then use an 8mm wrench to select a suitable gear (e.g.
gear #7). Riding further is now possible using this one gear.
Breaking of a shifter cable (internal gear mech):
Pull the hub cable until a suitable gear is found (e.g. gear #7). Riding further is now
possible using this one gear.

Breaking of a shifter cable (external gear mech):


Remove the cable box and use an 8mm wrench select a suitable gear (e.g. gear #7). Riding
further is now possible using this one gear.
Safety ring (and pin) of the quick release on the torque arm (where applicable):
Use an M6 nut and bolt or improvise by using binding wire.
Loss of oil:
Loss of oil through sweat oil or the light leakage of oil through the seals is harmless.
Therefore, travelling further until the next scheduled oil change (every 5000kms or once
perAnnum) is not harmful to the gear-unit. See point 14 of oil leakagein the appendix.
If you re experiencing any problems, please contact your nearest Rohloff agent:
http://www.rohloff.de/en/company/contact/rohloff_world_wide/index.html

10

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14

Wheel removal

2. Loosening the torque support on versions with a long torque arm

To remove the rear wheel, please take note of the following steps:

2.1 CC versions

1. Separate the gear mech ................................................................................. 1.1 or 1.2


2. Loosen axle and where appropriate the torque arm .................................. 2.1 or 2.2
3. Removal of the wheel from the frame .................................................. 3.1 and/or 3.2

1.1 Separating the internal gear mech:


1

Bayonet
connector

Separating the gear mech involves


opening the bayonet connectors.
To do this easily, select a middle
gear, so that these connectors are
in an easily reachable position.
Next, to open the connectors, twist
the male and female parts 90 in
opposite directions whilst pulling
them apart.

Spring C
G
Open the quick release F by
pushing the locking pin G from the
inside of the frame in an outward
direction away from the wheel.

Open the axle quick release lever.

2.2 TS versions

ATTENTION

When opening the connectors, do


not hold the female connector by
the spring as this makes separating
the connectors considerably more
difficult.

1.2 Separating the external gear mech:


Separating the gear mech involves
removing the cable box. Cable box
sits over a hexagonal peg which
joins it to the external transfer box.
The wheel should be removed in
gear #14 to make remounting the
wheel easier. Loosen knurled head
screw D and remove cable box E.

Loosen the torque arm clamp bolt


by unscrewing it with a 4mm allen
key.

Loosen the axle nuts with a 15mm


wrench.

11

12

Pull the torque arm down in the


direction of the arrow to release it
from the frame.

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14


3.1 Removal of the wheel from the frame

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14


Wheel installation
Please take note of the following steps when mounting the wheel to the frame:

1. Installation of the wheel into the frame ............................................... 1.1 and/or 1.2
2. Securing of the axle and, where appropriate, the torque arm .................. 2.1 or 2.2
3. Joining of the gear mech ............................................................................... 3.1 or 3.2

ATTENTION

Remove the wheel from the


dropouts and the chain from the
sprocket.

A chain tensioner prevents the easy


removal of the rear wheel (when
mounted). The chain tensioner
must be pulled backwards in the
direction of the arrow to allow the
sprocket to pass the chain tensioner.
When, however, it is a DH chain
tensioner, the mounting bolt must
be loosened before the rear wheel
can be removed.

1.1 Wheel installation

On the OEM or OEM2 versions, the axle and the torque support are installed together.

Rohloff
SPEEDBONE

Axle peg

Support
peg

On the OEM versions, the axle and


the support block are released
together from the OEM dropout.

Support bolt

Axleplate
seat

Axleplate
seat

Support
block

On the OEM2 versions with


Rohloff SPEEDBONE, the axle
falls out of the dropouts at the
same time as the axle plate seat
falls away from the Rohloff
SPEEDBONE support peg.

OEM
dropout

Rohloff
SPEEDBONE

Axle peg

Support bolt

Support
peg
Axleplate
seat

Support
block

On the OEM2 versions with just a


support bolt, the axle falls out the
dropout at the same time as the
axle plate seat falls away from the
support bolt.

Axleplate
seat

On the OEM versions, the axle


must enter the long OEM dropout
first, followed by the support block
into the same slot.

On the OEM2 versions with


Rohloff SPEEDBONE, take care
that the Rohloff SPEEDBONE
support peg lines up with the axle
plate seat as the axle is entered into
the dropouts.

On the OEM2 versions with just a


support bolt, take care that the
support bolt lines up with the axle
plate seat as the axle is entered into
the dropouts.

After installing the wheel, close the quick release lever (CC versions - tightening torque: max. 7Nm/62in.lbs.) or
tighten the axle nuts (TS versions - tightening torque: max. 35Nm/310in.lbs.).

ATTENTION
13

A chain tensioner prevents the easy


installation of the rear wheel (when
mounted). The chain tensioner must
be pulled backwards in the
direction of the arrow to allow the
sprocket to pass the chain tensioner.
When, however, it is a DH chain
tensioner, then the mounting bolt
must be loosened before the rear
wheel can be installed.

1.2 Wheel installation - OEM or OEM2 versions

No loosening of a torque arm is neccessary with these versions. Simply open the quick release lever (CC versions)
or loosen the axle nuts (TS versions).
1

ATTENTION

Place the wheel into the dropouts,


taking care that the chain is sitting
properly on the sprocket and that
the hub cables do not get clamped
between the dropouts and the axle.

3.2 Wheel removal - OEM and OEM2 versions

OEM
dropout

Before closing the quick release lever or tightening the axle nuts, check that
both sides of the axle sit properly in the dropouts and that the wheel runs in
the center of the frame.
14

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14

Riding with the SPEEDHUB 500/14

2. Securing the long torque arm


3.1 Joining together of the internal gear mech:

2.1 CC versions
1

1
3

Spring C

G
Swing the torque arm into the
quick release block in the direction
of the arrow shown.

Close the quick release F by


pushing the quick release pin G in
the direction of the wheel, so that
the outside of the pin is flush with
the quick release block.

3.2 Joining together of the external gear mech:

2.2 TS versions
2

Swing the torque arm in the


direction of the securing clamp
until it is possible to push the
securing bolt through the holes of
the clamp and the torque arm.
Check that the axle is sitting
properly in the dropouts.

Tighten the axle nuts (tightening


torque: 35Nm/310in.lbs.).
With the nut and washer, tighten
the torque arm securing bolt with
4mm allen key (tightening torque:
6Nm/51in.lbs.).

15

Close the quick release lever (max.


7Nm)

To rejoin the gear mech, the male


and female bayonet connectors
must be joined back together. Pay
attention not to cross these cables
over when joining the hub and
shifter cables together. Push the
male connector into the female
connector until the spring locks
them together. Take care not to
hold the female connector by the
spring.

Rejoining the gear mech involves


remounting the cable box. Place
the twist shifter into gear #14 then
place cable box E over the
hexagonal peg I, so that the two
locating pegs H sit into the two
holes in the back of the cable box.
Turn the twist shifter back and
forth around gear #14 until the
cable box falls into place over the
hexagonal peg. Lastly tighten up
the knurled head screw.

ATTENTION

ATTENTION

Method 1:

Method 2:

Before closing the quick release


lever (max. 7Nm/62in.lbs.) or
tightening the axle nuts (max.
35Nm/310 in.lbs.), check that both
sides of the axle sit properly in the
dropouts and that the wheel runs in
the centre of the frame.

Should all 14 gears not be


selectable after fitting the cable
box, it will be down to the hub or
the twist shifter not being in gear
#14. There are two methods to
correct this.

Remove cable box and turn the


twist shifter into gear #1. Refit
cable box and shift until it can no
longer be turned. If you are not in
gear #14 of the twist shifter then
disconnect the cable box and turn
the twist shifter into gear #14.
Now reconnect the cable box to
have access to all 14 gears.

Remove the cable box and turn the


twist shifter into gear #14. Take an
8mm wrench and use it to turn the
hexagonal peg on the external
transfer box anticlockwise until it
reaches the end stop. Now the hub
is in gear #14, so the cable box can
be remounted.

16

Technical Data

Technical Data

Technical data

Weight comparison

Number of gears: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14
Gear increases: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . even 13.6%
Range of gears: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 526%
Frame spacing: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 135mm (XLVersion = 170mm)
Number of spoke holes: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32/36 (XLVersion = 32 hole only)
Spoke flange distance: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 58mm, symmetrical (XLVersion = 93mm)
Spoke hole circle diameter: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100mm
Spoke hole diameter: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2.7mm
Spoke flange width: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3.2mm
Axle diameter at dropout:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9.8mm
Axle overall width CC: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 147mm (XLVersion = 182mm)
Hollow axle inner diameter:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5.5mm, for quick release lever
Total axle width TS: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 171mm / TS long 179mm
Total axle width TS (XLVersion): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 206mm / TS long 214mm
Axle thread TS: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M10x1
Center disc mounting diameter: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52mm
Mounting bolt hole circle diameter: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 65mm
Brake disc mounting bolts:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 x M8x0.75
Distance between dropout and center disc mount: . . . . . . . 16.3mm (IS1999)
Weight: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1700g (CC), 1800g (CC EX), 1825g (CC DB)
Weight (XLVersion) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1980g (CC DB)
Oil volume: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25ml max.
Sprocket thread:. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . M34x6 P1, tolerance 6H
Sprocket type: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . for bicycle chain 1/2" x 3/32 (ISO Nr. 082)
Number of sprocket teeth: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 (optional: 13, 15 and 17)
Chainline: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54mm (58mm with 13tooth sprocket)
Chainline (XLVersion):. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 71.5mm (75mm with 13tooth sprocket)
Smallest permissible gear ratios (26):. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32/17, 30/16, 28/15, 26/13 (transmission factor ~ 1.90)
(Riders over 100kg/tandem): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 42/17,40/16,38/15,34/13 (transmission factor ~ 2.50)
Gates Carbondrive beltline: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54.75mm (XLVersion = 72.25)
Smallest permissible belt sprocket ratios (26): . . . . . . . . . 39/19, 39/20, 42/22, 46/24 (transmission factor ~ 1.90)
(Riders over 100kg/tandem): . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46/19,50/20,55/22,60/24 (transmission factor ~ 2.50)
Maximum input torque: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 100Nm
Gear control: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by twist shifter (version right or left)
Twist shifter angle per gear change: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21/273
Gear control transfer: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . via two shifter cables (pull-pull system)
Shifter cable movement per gear change: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7.4mm/96,2mm

The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is with a weight of 120g per gear, the lightest gear hub on the market. The gear range
is the same as high quality 27 gear derailleur systems due to the 14 gears within the hub being evenly spaced out at
13.6% increases. With the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 there is no longer a need for the following parts:

Inner gear ratios (hub rotation per sprocket rotation):


Gear #1: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.279
Gear #2: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.316
Gear #3: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.360
Gear #4: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.409
Gear #5: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.464
Gear #6: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.528
Gear #7: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.600
Gear #8: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.682
Gear #9: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.774
Gear #10: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 0.881
Gear #11: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.000
Gear #12: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.135
Gear #13: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.292
Gear #14: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1.467
The RohloffAG reserves the right to change the
technical specifications without prior warning.

17

-Front and rear derailleur


-Two shifters including
-Rear hub with cassette
-Small and middle chainrings
-The total average weight of all these components is approx. 1600g.
The weight of a fitted Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC OEM including twist shifter, shifter cables and cable guide is
approx. 1820g.
The comparison between the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 and the derailleur system shows only a slight increase in
weight. For that, the user receives a:
- Service-free,
- dirt-free full-encapsulated,
- user-friendly gear system and
- high reliability
- alongwith a long life span.

Comparison of mechanical efficiency


The mechanical efficiency* and consequently the size of the loss of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is entirely
comparable with that of the derailleur system.
The losses of a derailleur system consist of the friction caused by the bottom bracket, chain, cassette and the hub
bearings. The amount of friction loss depends on the size of the sprockets, the angle of the chain line and condition of
wear. In reality this proves to be 1 - 5%, leaving the derailleur system with a working efficiency lying between 95%
and 99%.
The losses of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are caused by the fricion coming from the bottom bracket, chain and
gearbox. Here, however, the chain runs in a straight line from just one chainring reducing sideways friction on the
sprockets. Most of the friction occurs when all the planetary gear sets are used within the gearbox. The overall
average loss of the gears within the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is approximately 1 - 5%, leaving the working
efficiency between 95% and 99%.
The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is, therefore, consequently an optimum choice for the everyday and sports rider.
* More detailed info over the working efficiency is to be found on the web under www.rohloff.de.

18

Technical Data
Sprocket ratios

Table of distance travelled per crank revolution 20" wheels (wheel circumference 1.51m)

The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 has a 526% range of gears, that means gear #14 is 5.26 times greater than gear #1.
The 14 gears are evenly spaced out over this range in 13.6% increases. Through the choice of chainring and sprocket
in use, the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 can be tuned for the specific riding purpose. The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14
comes standard with a 16 tooth sprocket. 13, 15 and 17 tooth sprockets are available as alternatives.
In the following tables the distance travelled per crank revolution is listed for gears #1 and #14. The listed distance
travelled per crank revolution is shown in the tables for a variety of sprocket ratios and wheel sizes (20", 26" and 28"
wheels).
When the particular wheel/sprocket/chainring size and gear is not listed in the tables, then the following formula can
be used to calculate the exact distance travelled per crank revolution of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14:

Distance travelled per crank revolution

= W x C S x IGR

Formula key:

Inner gear ratio IGR = hub revolutions per sprocket revolutions of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14

IGR

10

11

12

13

14

0.279 0.316 0.360 0.409 0.464 0.528 0.600 0.682 0.774 0.881 1.000 1.135 1.292 1.467

The tables or the following formula can be used to compare the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 to a derailleur gear
system:
Ratio of the derailleur gear system = C S
Ratio of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 = IGR x C S

Smallest permissible sprocket ratios (solo 100kg)


The sprocket ratio on the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 (e.g. 42:16) converts the slow rotational speed at the crank into
a fast rotational speed at the sprocket and reduces the input torque for the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 in the same
proportion. To prevent overstraining the hub, a minimum sprocket ratio of 1.90 must be used. With the available
sprockets these minumum ratios are achieved by: 32:17, 30:16, 28:15, 26:13. This resembles a derailleur
transmission of 22:40. Larger chainrings can be used without exceptions.

ATTENTION
If mounted on a tandem or if the rider weighs over 100kg, the following sprocket ratios must not be undercut:
34:13, 38:15, 40:16, 42:17. This equates to a transmission factor of 2.50.
19

Sprocket
Chainring
28 tooth
30 tooth
32 tooth
34 tooth
36 tooth
38 tooth
40 tooth
42 tooth
44 tooth
46 tooth
48 tooth
50 tooth
52 tooth

13 tooth
from
to
0,91m - 4,77m
0,97m - 5,11m
1,04m - 5,45m
1,11m - 5,79m
1,17m - 6,13m
1,23m - 6,47m
1,30m - 6,81m
1,36m - 7,16m
1,42m - 7,50m
1,49m - 7,84m
1,55m - 8,18m
1,62m - 8,52m
1,68m - 8,86m

15 tooth
from
to

0,90m
0,95m
1,01m
1,07m
1,12m
1,18m
1,23m
1,29m
1,35m
1,40m
1,46m

4,73m
5,02m
5,32m
5,61m
5,91m
6,20m
6,50m
6,79m
7,09m
7,38m
7,68m

Solo cyclists under 100k g


16 tooth
17 tooth
from
to
from
to

0,90m
0,95m
1,00m
1,05m
1,10m
1,16m
1,21m
1,26m
1,32m
1,37m

4,71m
4,98m
5,26m
5,54m
5,81m
6,09m
6,37m
6,64m
6,92m
7,20m

0,89m
0,94m
0,99m
1,04m
1,09m
1,14m
1,19m
1,24m
1,29m

4,69m
4,95m
5,21m
5,47m
5,73m
5,99m
6,25m
6,51m
6,77m

Table of distance travelled per crank revolution 26" wheels (wheel circumference 2.06m)

W = Wheel circumference
C = Chainring size
S = Sprocket size
IGR = Inner gear ratio listed in the following table

gear #

Technical Data

Sprocket
Chainring
28 tooth
30 tooth
32 tooth
34 tooth
36 tooth
38 tooth
40 tooth
42 tooth
44 tooth
46 tooth
48 tooth

13 tooth
from
to
1,24m - 6,51m
1,33m - 6,97m
1,41m - 7,44m
1,50m - 7,91m
1,59m - 8,37m
1,68m - 8,83m
1,77m - 9,30m
1,86m - 9,76m
1,94m - 10,23m
2,03m - 10,69m
2,12m - 11,16m

15 tooth
from
to

1,23m
1,30m
1,38m
1,45m
1,53m
1,61m
1,68m
1,76m
1,84m

6,45m
6,85m
7,25m
7,65m
8,06m
8,46m
8,86m
9,27m
9,67m

Solo cyclists under 100k g


16 tooth
17 tooth
from
to
from
to

1,22m
1,29m
1,36m
1,44m
1,51m
1,58m
1,65m
1,72m

6,42m
6,80m
7,18m
7,55m
7,93m
8,31m
8,69m
9,06m

1,22m
1,28m
1,35m
1,42m
1,49m
1,55m
1,62m

6,40m
6,76m
7,10m
7,46m
7,82m
8,18m
8,53m

Table of distance travelled per crank revolution 28" wheels (wheel circumference 2.18m)
Sprocket
Chainring
28 tooth
30 tooth
32 tooth
34 tooth
36 tooth
38 tooth
40 tooth
42 tooth
44 tooth
46 tooth
48 tooth

13 tooth
from
to
1,31m - 6,89m
1,40m - 7,38m
1,49m - 7,87m
1,59m - 8,36m
1,68m - 8,85m
1,78m - 9,35m
1,87m - 9,84m
1,96m - 10,33m
2,06m - 10,82m
2,15m - 11,31m
2,24m - 11,81m

15 tooth
from
to

1,30m
1,38m
1,46m
1,54m
1,62m
1,70m
1,78m
1,86m
1,94m

6,82m
7,25m
7,67m
8,10m
8,53m
8,95m
9,38m
9,81m
10,23m

Solo cyclists under 100k g


16 tooth
17 tooth
from
to
from
to

1,29m
1,37m
1,44m
1,52m
1,60m
1,67m
1,75m
1,82m

6,80m
7,20m
7,59m
7,99m
8,39m
8,79m
9,19m
9,59m

1,29m
1,36m
1,43m
1,50m
1,57m
1,64m
1,72m

Table of distance travelled per crank revolution for 27,5 (650B) and
Internet -> www.rohloff.de/service/download/description
20

6,77m
7,15m
7,52m
7,90m
8,28m
8,65m
9,03m

29" wheels ->

Technical Data

Technical Data

Derailleur gears in comparison to Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 in comparison to derailleur gears

The table shows which sprocket ratio on the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 must be used to resemble
the smallest transmission of a derailleur gear system.

The table shows which smallest and largest sprocket ratio of derailleur gears resembles the existing transmission of
the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14.

Smallest sprocket ratio of


derailleur gears

22/34
24/34
26/34
20/32
22/32
24/32
26/32
20/30
22/30
24/30
26/30

Gear #1 Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14


sprocket ratio

32/13
34/13
36/13
32/13
34/13
36/13
38/13
32/13
36/13
38/13
42/13

36/15
38/15
42/15
36/15
38/15
42/15
44/15
36/15
40/15
44/15
48/15

38/16
42/16
44/16
38/16
40/16
44/16
48/16
40/16
44/16
46/16
50/16

40/17
44/17
48/17
40/17
42/17
46/17
50/17
42/17
46/17
50/17
54/17

The table shows which sprocket ratio on the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 must be used to resemble
the largest transmission of a derailleur gear system.

Largest sprocket ratio of


derailleur gears

42/11
44/11
46/11
48/11
50/11
52/11
54/11
42/12
44/12
46/12
48/12
50/12
52/12
54/12

Gear #14 Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14


sprocket ratio

34/13
36/13
38/13
40/13
42/13
42/13
44/13
32/13
34/13
34/13
36/13
38/13
40/13
40/13

40/15
42/15
44/15
46/15
48/15
50/15
52/15
36/15
38/15
40/15
42/15
44/15
46/15
48/15

21

42/16
44/16
46/16
48/16
50/16
52/16
54/16
40/16
40/16
42/16
44/16
46/16
48/16
50/16

46/17
48/17
50/17
52/17
54/17
56/17
58/17
42/17
44/17
46/17
48/17
50/17
52/17
54/17

Sprocket ratio
(chainring/sprocket)
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14

38/13
40/13
42/13
44/13
46/13
48/13
50/13
52/13
54/13
38/15
40/15
42/15
44/15
46/15
48/15
50/15
52/15
54/15
38/16
40/16
42/16
44/16
46/16
48/16
50/16
52/16
54/16
40/17
42/17
44/17
46/17
48/17
50/17
52/17
54/17

Gear #1 resembles a
derailleur gear sprocket
ratio of

Gear #14 resembles a


derailleur gear sprocket
ratio of

22/26
22/25
22/24
22/23
22/22
22/21
22/20
22/19
22/18
22/32
22/30
22/28
22/26
22/25
22/24
22/23
22/22
22/21
22/34
22/30
22/30
22/28
22/27
22/26
22/25
22/24
22/23
22/34
22/32
22/30
22/29
22/27
22/26
22/25
22/24

48/11
50/11
52/11
54/11
58/11
60/11
62/11
64/11
68/11
42/11
44/11
46/11
48/11
50/11
52/11
54/11
56/11
60/11
38/11
40/11
42/11
44/11
46/11
48/11
50/11
52/11
54/11
38/11
40/11
42/11
44/11
46/11
48/11
50/11
52/11

22

or

or

or

or

24/30
24/27
24/26
24/25
24/24
24/23
24/22
24/21
24/20
24/34
24/32
24/30
24/29
24/28
24/26
24/25
24/24
24/23
24/36
24/34
24/32
24/32
24/30
24/28
24/27
24/26
24/25
24/36
24/34
24/34
24/32
24/30
24/29
24/28
24/27

or

or

or

or

52/12
54/12
56/12
60/12
62/12
64/12
68/12
70/12
74/12
44/12
46/12
50/12
52/12
54/12
56/12
58/12
62/12
64/12
42/12
44/12
46/12
48/12
50/12
52/12
56/12
58/12
60/12
42/12
44/12
46/12
48/12
50/12
52/12
54/12
56/12

Securing to the frame

Securing to the frame

Interchangable parts system

Axle types

There are basically two different versions of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14. One with a quick
release axle (CC versions) and one with a threaded axle (TS versions). The only other differences are
in the components. Due to the wide range of these componets, the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 can
be mounted on nearly every type of bicycle.

The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is available with two different axle types. The CC versions come with a hollow axle
for use with a quick release lever. The TS versions come with a threaded axle for use with standard M10x1 nuts for
securing to the frame. The 14 gear mechanism on both the versions is primarily the same.

Gear mech (two options)

Internal gear mech

External gear mech


(EX)

Torque securing (three options)


Long torque arm for
mounting to standard
frames

OEM mounting for


special frames with
Rohloff OEM
dropouts

Hub cap (two options)


For bikes using a rim brake typ
(CC / TS) on the rear wheel

OEM2 mounting
for frames with
international
standard disc
brake mounts
(IS2000)

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC (quick release axle)

For bikes using a disc brake


Typ (CC DB / TS DB) on the rear wheel
with EX - gear mech
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 TS (threaded axle)

+
23

24

Securing to the frame

Securing to the frame

With all gear hubs the axle tries to rotate whilst cycling. When cycling in a reduction gear, the axle attempts to rotate
backwards. When cycling in an increasing gear, the axle attempts to rotate forwards. The force with which the axle
tries to turn is refered to as torque. The amount of torque depends upon the force applied on the pedals and the gear
selected. This torque must be anchored by some means to the frame in order to create forward drive.

Depending on the type of frame one of three options can be used to secure the torque.
1) Standard axleplate with long torque arm
2) OEM axleplate
3) OEM2 axleplate
All three anchoring options ensure the axleplate is secured to the frame in two positions to prevents the axle from
rotating. The first point A is the axle peg that is secured to the left side dropout. This is the same for all three options.
The difference between the three options is point B. The hole pattern on the axleplates allow for individual
adjustment of the gear mechs in steps of 30, so that nearly every frame type can receive an optimum cable routing.

Torque securing

On the simple three-speed hubs a flat sided axle is sufficient to secure the torque within the dropout. On a high
performance internal gear hub like the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 the method of anchoring the torque must be
considerably more stable due to the wide range of gear ratios.

axleplate
1) Standard
with long torque arm

A (axle peg)

The amount of torque produced is shown in the following table:


Torque in percent of crank torque with a 42/16 sprocket ratio

1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10 11 12 13 14
98% 82% 68% 55% 44% 34% 25% 18% 11% 5% 0% 5% 9% 12%

Gear

Backward rotation

Torque

Backwards torque rotation

Exclusively
for frame types
A, B, C and D
(see "Frame types")

Forward rotation

see picture below or next page, pictures 1, 2 and 3

When the rider applies 20kg onto the pedal, he produces a crank torque of 34Nm. In gear #8 this results in
6Nm torque on the torque arm (18% of crank torque). With the same crank torque of 34Nm in gear #1 this
results in 33Nm torque on the torque arm (98% of crank torque). Gear #11 is the direct drive (1:1) the torque
on the torque arm is always zero.

The long torque arm is bolted behind the axleplate. The narrow end B is secured to the frame by means of a clamp or a
quick release block. The axle is prevented from turning through these two points. When removing the wheel, the
torque arm must first be released from the frame at the narrow end B.

2) OEM axleplate

A (axle peg)

Exclusively for frame


types F and G
(see "Frame types")
B (support block)
The mounting of hubs with an OEM axle plate is only possible on frames fitted with Rohloff OEM dropouts. The
OEM axleplate sits in the dropout slot of the OEM dropout. The axle peg A slides in first followed by the support
block B into the same slot. The dropout itself prevents these two parts from turning. When removing the wheel, the
two parts fall out the dropout together once the axle has been loosened.

3) OEM2 axleplate

B (axleplate seat)

Exclusively for frame


types D and E
(see "Frame types")
A (axle peg)

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC OEM mounted in a frame with


adjustable Rohloff OEM dropouts
25

Mounting the SPEEDHUB 500/14 using an OEM2 axleplate is only permitted on frames with international standard
(IS1999) disc brake mounts. The OEM2 axleplate sits with its axle peg A in the dropout. The axleplate seat B secures
itself around the supporting peg of the Rohloff SPEEDBONE or MonkeyBone (when mounted on a bike with disc
brakes) or around the support bolt fastened through the lower brake caliper mounting hole (when mounted on a bike
with rim brakes). When removing the wheel, the axleplate falls away from the support bolt/Rohloff SPEEDBONE /
MonkeyBone and out of the dropout once the axle is loosened..

26

Securing to the frame

Securing to the frame

Frame types

Frame types for OEM2 mounting

The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 requires a frame spacing of 135mm, all frames with different frame spacing or for
thru axles are not suitable for the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14. The inner side of the left hand dropout must be flat in a
diameter of 40mm around the center of the axle so that the axle plate can sit firmly and evenly against the dropout.
There are different Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions available (for the different dropout types) with the suitable
axle and axle plate along with the corresponding parts for mounting. The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 does not
include a brake. To mount a brake (disc or rim), the frame must have the correct brake mounts.

For frames with vertical dropouts and international standard disc brake mounts (IS 1999), the use of an OEM2
axleplate is highly recommended. With this, the disc brake mount will be used to secure the torque of the hub. Two
mounting possibilities are to be decided between:

Frame types for the long torque arm:

2) Mounting without a disc brake on the rear wheel


The Rohloff SPEEDBONE/MonkeyBone is not necessary. A support bolt secured through the lower disc brake
mount can be used to support the torque.

On frames with horizontal dropout slots, it is only possible to mount the


Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 in the TS threaded axle versions (TS and TS
EX). The CC versions with a quick release lever will not hold the wheel
secure enough and the wheel could be pulled crooked whilst riding.
When the slot lenght is shorter than 25mm (A), a chain tensioner (Art.
#8250) must be fitted as there is not enough adjustment room within the
slot to tension the chain.

Slot length
shorter than 25mm

ATTENTION
When mounting on Tandems even without the use of a disc brake, the Rohloff SPEEDBONE/Monkey Bone must be
mounted and its supporting peg used to support the torque of the OEM2 axleplate. A chain tensioner must also be
mounted in conjunction with the use of the OEM2 mounting, except on frames built around an eccentric BB system.
SPEEDBONE

MonkeyBone

The following versions of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are, therefore,


suitable:
TS
TS EX

SPEEDBONE

On frames with vertical dropout slots (C) the mounting of the Rohloff
SPEEDHUB 500/14 normally suggests a CC quick release version (CC or
CC EX). This as opposed to the TS versions (TS and TS EX) allows for a
quicker wheel removal/installation without the use for tools.

eccentric BB is being used.. The chain tensioner


should be ordered with the initial product as it is not
to be found in the regular package.
27

MonkeyBone

On frame types (E) with a Horst Link, the mounting is only


possible with the use of the OEM2 axleplate.
All Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions can be mounted on
this frame type, the only accessory needed is the OEM2
axleplate.

Horst Link
The following versions of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are , therefore,
suitable:
CC
CC EX
TS*
* These versions must be used in conjunction with a
TS EX*
chain tensioner (Art.No. 8250) except when an

On frames (D) with international disc brake mounts (IS 1999),


the OEM2 mounting is recommended. As an alternative the
long torque arm could also be used (see frame type C).
All Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions can be mounted on
this frame type, the only accessory needed is the OEM2
axleplate.

When the slot lenght is longer than 25mm (B), a chain tensioner does not
have to be used as there is enough adjustment room within the slot to
tension the chain.

Slot length
larger than 25mm

The following versions of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are, therefore,


suitable:
TS*
TS EX*

1) Mounting with a disc brake on the rear wheel


The torque is secured through the Rohloff SPEEDBONE (Art. #8550), MonkeyBone (160mm= Art. #8553/
180mm=Art. #8554), then through the disc brake mounts and secured tightly into the brake disc caliper.

Horst Link, named after his inventor Horst Leitner.

ATTENTION
When mounting the hub with the use of the OEM2 axle plate, the disc brake mounts will be used to secure the torque
of the hub. Therefore, permission must be obtained from the frame manufacturer to ensure that the guarantee is not
affected. The mounting instructions for the OEM2 usage must be read carefully (see "Mounting instructions for
OEM2").
28

Securing to the frame

Securing to the frame

Frame types for OEM mounting

Mounting necessities OEM2

Rigid frames with Rohloff OEM dropouts are specially designed for the mounting of all Rohloff SPEEDHUB
500/14 OEM versions. The long slot in the left hand dropout holds the support block of the OEM axle plate.

ATTENTION

For safe OEM2 mounting with the support bolt or the Rohloff SPEEDBONE / MonkeyBone, the following points
must be well noted:
The disc brake mounts must be one piece with the dropout itself, be of international standard (IS1999) and have the
following minimum dimension requirements:

Securing holes for the brake caliper


R > 6 mm
Frame types (F) have adjustable Rohloff OEM dropouts. With these dropouts on a hardtail frame, the need for a chain
tensioner is eliminated because the wheel (once secured into the dropout inserts) can be pulled backwards to tension
the chain. The dropout inserts are available from a variety of manufacturers with or without disc brake mounts and are
all interchangable (supply information is available under www.rohloff.de). All Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 OEM
versions are suitable for these frame types.

Dropout with
disc brake mounts

6.2 mm

G
Requiremental for the OEM2 mouting of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 with a support bolt is the position of the
disc brake mounts. When the mount hole nearest the axle is behind a vertical line C up from the axle center (diagram
1), then the support bolt can be used. When the hole is in front of the vertical line C (diagram 2), then the use of the
support bolt is not permitted.
Fig. 1
Frame types (G) have unadjustable Rohloff OEM dropout and are specially designed for rear suspension models. A
chain tensioner must be mounted, because the distance between the chainring and sprocket varies as the rear
suspension is activated.All Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 OEM versions are suitable for these frame types.

Fig. 2

Position on
the correct
side
Dropout with
disc brake mounts

Position on
the incorrect
side

ATTENTION
All versions mounted to frame types G must be used in conjunction with a chain tensioner (Art.No. 8250) except
when an eccentric BB is being used. A chain tensioner should be ordered with the initial product as it is not to be found
in the regular OEM package.

ATTENTION
No matter what shape the left-hand dropout is, a surface of 40mm diameter around the center of the axle must be flat
to allow the axle plate to sit firmly and evenly againt the inner side of the left-hand dropout. This area is shown in the
diagram below.
40
40
40

min. 40

ATTENTION

When permission has not been granted by the frame manufacturer to mount the Rohloff SPEEDBONE / MonkeyBone
or the support bolt through the disc brake mount, then mounting of the OEM2 versions is at your own risk.

min. 40

Diagram 1: Flat left dropout surface and three different axle plates
29

Further compatability information can be found under:


www.rohloff.de > FAQ > SPEEDHUB >Axleplates and Dropouts
30

Cable routing

Cable routing

Internal gear mech

External gear mech

With the internal gear mech the shifter cables run from the twist shifter to the cable guide, which can be mounted to the
left hand brake boss or clamped to the left hand chainstay. The internal gear mech involves the use of two hub cables.
They must be connected to the shifter cables by the use of bayonet connectors which allow a quick separation for
wheel removal. The internal gear mech is not compatible with the use of a rear disc brake as the hub cables and
bayonet connectors may rub on the disc. The hole pattern in the axle plate allows the adjustment of the gear mech in
steps of 30. Therefore, an optimum cable routing can be achieved for nearly all frame types.

With the external gear mech the shifter cables run directly from the twist shifter to the cable box. There is no separate
cable stop necessary. For quick and easy removal of the rear wheel, the cable box can be removed from the external
transfer box. All disc brake versions (DB) of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are equipped with the external gear
mech. The hole pattern in the axle plate allows the adjustment of the gear mech in steps of 30. Therefore, an optimum
cable routing can be achieved for nearly all frame types.

Left hand
brake arm

Cable guide (13)

Cable
separated for
wheel removal

Cable box
detached for
wheel removal

Shifter cables

Cable box

Brake boss
Bayonet
connectors

External transfer box


Mounting options with external gear mech and the standard axleplate with long torque arm

40m

an 2

er th

Hub cables
with concertina
tubes

Long

Shifter cables

The diagrams show examples of the internal gear mech routed via the brake boss with standard, OEM and OEM2 axle
plates.
Mounting options with external gear mech and an OEM axleplate

Cable guide (0)


with frame clamp
(Art. #8260)

Chainstay
Longer than 240mm
The diagram shows an example of the internal gear mech routed via the chainstay with the standard axle plate and
long torque arm using the 0 cable guide and frame clamp.
Mounting options with external gear mech and an OEM2 axleplate

31

32

SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions

The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is available in different versions in accordance to the individual
requirements. Pictures 1 to 3 show examples of three possible versions.

Explaining the model codes


The first part of the model codes (CC/TS) refers to the axle type. Two different axle types
are available:
CC: -

TS: -

SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions

Internal gear mech

Cross Country
Hollow axle for use with a quick release lever (quick release axle)
(axle as shown in pictures 1 and 2*).

Standard hub cap


Quick release axle

Threaded Spindle axle


Threaded axle with axle nuts M10x1 (axle as shown in picture 3*).

Standard CC axleplate
with long torque arm

The following part of the model codes refers to additional hub specifications:
EX: -

External gear mech


With external gear mech (gear mech as shown in pictures 2 and 3*).

DB: -

Disc Brake
With a disc brake hub cap and external gear mech EX
(hub cap and gear mech as shown in picture 2*).

OEM: - OEM version (Official Equipped Manufacturer)


With CC OEM or TS OEM axleplate according axle type
only for frames with Rohloff OEM dropouts
(axleplate as shown in picture 2*).
OEM2: - OEM2 version
With CC OEM2 or TS OEM2 axleplate according axle type
for frames with international standard (IS1999) disc brake mounts
(axleplate as shown in picture 3*).
T: -

XLB:

Tandem version.
With longer shifter cables (2.5m) for tandem or recumbent use.

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC silver


2

Disc brake hub cap


External gear mech

Quick release axle


CC OEM axleplate

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC DB OEM black

Xtra Large Black fr Rahmen/Fatbikes mit 170mm Klemmbreite.


Verfgbar nur als DB-Version, in schwarz eloxiert, mit 32-Speichenlchern.

All Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions are available in three different colors:

Standard hub cap

Silver: - anodized (polished aluminum up to 10/2013)


Red: - anodized
Black: - anodized

TS OEM2 axleplate

* see next page

External gear mech

Threaded axle

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 TS EX OEM2 red


33

34

SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC mounted with a long torque arm

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC OEM mounted in a frame with


adjustable Rohloff OEM dropouts
35

SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC OEM2 mounted with the support bolt

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC DB OEM2


mounted with the Rohloff SPEEDBONE and a disc brake
36

SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions

SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 with a disc brake

Advantages of the separate options

The mounting of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 with the use of a disc brake requires a frame with disc brake mounts
of international standard (IS1999). The hubs are available with the choice of axle, quick release (CC DB versions) or
threaded axle (TS DB versions). The particulars of the DB versions are:

Threaded axle TS

1) The hub cap includes a center disc mount. It is on this side that the external gear mech is also to be found. Normal 6bolt brake discs of international standard are not mountable, a special 4-bolt Rohloff disc with only four securing
holes for bolts M8x0.75 must be fitted due to the large diameter of the hub seal. Rohloff offers a range of discs from
160mm to 203mm for nearly every type of disc brake currently on the market. More details are to be found on the
web under www.rohloff.de > FAQ > SPEEDHUB > disc brake
2) The disc brake versions of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are only available with the external gear mech, because
the brake disc/caliper could interfere with the hub cables of the internal gear mech.
The interchangable parts system allows the conversion of any Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 to a disc brake version
(DB versions). The conversion of a hub to a DB version can only be carried out by the Rohloff service department.

The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions with a threaded axle are required for frames with horizontal dropout
slots. It is, however, also possible to mount this hub in dropouts with vertical slots. For downhill riders the
possibility of using a more secure TS threaded axle will increase rear wheel stability much like a thru axle.

Quick release axle CC


The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions with quick release axles are exclusively for use on frames with vertical
dropout slots. They allow for a quick removal/installation of the wheel without the need for tools.

Internal gear mech


The internal gear mech is on all Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions with the exception of EX and DB models.
It requires a minimum distance of 240mm between the axle and the cable guide mounting point. To prevent the
possibility of the bayonet connectors coming into contact with the brake disc, a combination of disc brake and
internal gear mech is not available. The internal gear mech model is the lightest of the two gear mech versions
with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC weighing approx. 1700g.

External gear mech EX


The models with an external gear mech allow the shifter cables to run uninterrupted from the twist shifter to the
cable box, so the need for a separate cable stop is also eliminated. Because of this, the external gear mech is
especially useful for frames with a short chainstay length (20" wheels) or uncommon rear triangles.
The external gear mech is approx. 100g heavier than the internal gear mech, but, therefore, more robust as no
separate hub cables are in use. In the case that the shift cable should break, this system allows the user to select
any gear from the outside of the external transfer box making this especially useful for the everyday and the
touring rider.
The disc brake versions (DB) of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are equipped with the external gear mech as the
hub cables of the internal gear mech would come into contact with the brake disc.

OEM
The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 OEM versions require the use of Rohloff OEM dropouts where the left hand
dropout slot is long enough to house the support block of the OEM axle plate which replaces the long torque arm.
On hard tail frames with adjustable Rohloff OEM dropouts, the need for a chain tensioner and chain guide is
eliminated, therefore, the system looks cleaner, tidier and also has a higher level of functional safety, ideal for
extreme riding situations.

OEM2
With the OEM2 mounting the disc brake mounting holes in the frame are used to prevent the axle from turning
(torque securing). The OEM2 axle plate replaces the long torque arm and gives a cleaner and tidier look to the
system. However, a disc brake mount of international standard (IS 1999) needs to be used under consideration of
the mounting requirements. Through simply replacing the axle plate every version of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB
500/14 can be converted to OEM2 usage. An OEM2 axle plate uses the disc brake mounts to secure the torque of
the hub. Therefore, permission must be obtained from the frame manufacturer to ensure that the guarantee is not
affected.

XLB
Rohloff 4-hole discs

37

Bei der Version XLB wird ein speziell fr 170mm Klemmbreite angepasstes Gehuse mit weiteren
Sonderbauteilen verwendet. So kann auch bei Fatbikes eine symmetrische Einspeichung mit mglichst breiten
Reifen ermglicht werden. Die XLB Versionen (CC/TS) sind nur in schwarz eloxiert, als DB Version mit 32
Speichenlchern verfgbar.
38

SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions

SPEEDHUB 500/14 versions

Model variations
For a better summary of what comes with each model, below is a list of the model variations and the parts
included in the respective package.

All models are also available as 36-spoke versions and/or tandem versions with cables of 2.5m in
length. The 36 spoke versions receive an additional number 6 before the article number. Tandem
hubs receive the letter T after the article number (e.g. 68025 or 8025T).

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC (silver Art. #8000, red Art. #8001, black Art. #8002)
Contents: Hub with quick release axle, twist shifter, cables, quick release parts, long torque arm and a
chain tensioner.

Upgradable/additional parts that can be ordered:

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC OEM (silver Art. #8005, red Art. #8006, black Art. #8007)
Contents: Hub with quick release axle, twist shifter, cables and a CC OEM axle plate for torque support.
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC EX (silver Art. #8010, red Art. #8011, black Art. #8012)
Contents: Hub with quick release axle, twist shifter, cables, quick release parts, external gear mech, CC
axle plate with long torque arm and a chain tensioner.
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC EX OEM (silver Art. #8015, red Art. #8016, black Art. #8017)
Contents: Hub with quick release axle, twist shifter, external gear mech, cables and a CC OEM axle plate
for torque support.
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC DB (silver Art. #8020, red Art. #8021, black Art. #8022)
Contents: Hub with quick release axle, hub cap with mounting for Rohloff special brake discs (compatible
with IS1999), external gear mech, cables, twist shifter, chain tensioner, quick release parts and a CC axle
plate with a long torque arm.
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 CC DB OEM (silver Art. #8025, red Art. #8026, black Art. #8027)
Contents: Hub with quick release axle, hub cap with mounting for Rohloff special brake discs (compatible
with Is1999), external gear mech, cables, twist shifter and a CC OEM axle plate for torque support.

CC OEM2 axle plate (Art. #8227)


TS OEM2 axle plate (Art. #8228)
Chain tensioner (Art. #8250)
Chain guide CC (Art. #8290)
Rohloff SPEEDBONE (Art. #8550)
MonkeyBone IS-PM Adapter (160mm = Art. #8553 / 180mm = Art. #8554)
Sprocket (13 tooth) (Art. #8219)
Sprocket (15 tooth) (Art. #8220)
Sprocket (17 tooth) (Art. #8222)
Downhill-Kit (Art. #8293) consisting of:
DH chain tensioner (Art. #8245)
DH chain guide (Art. #8291)
(also available separately)
Cable guide 0 (straight) type with frame clamp (Art. #8260)

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 TS (silver Art. #8040, red Art. #8041, black Art. #8042)
Contents: Hub with threaded axle, twist shifter, cables and a TS axle plate with long torque arm.

DD spokes (2.0/1.8/2.0mm) for 26"-wheels.


Spokes between 228mm and 244mm in increments of 2mm.

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 TS OEM (silver Art. #8045, red Art. #8046, black Art. #8047)
Contents: Hub with threaded axle, twist shifter, cables and a TS OEM axle plate for torque support.

Rohloff special 4-hole brake discs for the corresponding brake type.

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 TS EX (silver Art. #8050, red Art. #8051, black Art. #052)
Contents: Hub with threaded axle, twist shifter, cables, external gear mech and a TS axle plate with long
torque arm.

ATTENTION

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 TS EX OEM (silver Art. #8055, red Art. #8056, black Art. #8057)
Contents: Hub with threaded axle, twist shifter, cables, external gear mech and a TS OEM axle plate for
torque support.
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 TS DB (silver Art. #8060, red Art. #8061, black Art. #8062)
Contents: Hub with threaded axle, hub cap with mounting for Rohloff special brake discs (compatible with
IS1999), twist shifter, cables, external gear mech and a TS axle plate with long torque arm.
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 TS DB OEM (silver Art. #8065, red Art. #8066, black Art. #8067)
Contents: Hub with threaded axle, hub cap with mounting for Rohloff special brake discs (compatible with
IS1999), twist shifter, cables, external gear mech and a TS OEM axle plate for torque support.

39

When ordering the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 variation needed, it is necessary to pay attention to
which additional parts are needed to mount the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 to the bike. Example:
Rohloff chain tensioner, Rohloff SPEEDBONE, MonkeyBone, spokes in the correct length and the
correct Rohloff special brake disc for the brake type in use.
These include for example:
- Rohloff chain tensioner,
- Rohloff SPEEDBONE / MonkeyBone,
- spokes in the correct length,
- the correct Rohloff special brake disc for the brake type in use,
- Rohloff Chain guide for either CC or DH,
- Cable guide 0 with frame clamp,
- Long chain tensioner bolt for use with the 13 tooth Sprocket,
- TS axle plate long, for use in conjunction with a trailer mount from the company Weber,
Pitlocks, or stands which are mounted directly on the axle.
40

The wheel

The wheel

Wheel stability

Spoke lengths 32/36 spoke hole rims

When the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is built up into a 32/36 spoke wheel, it is considerably more robust than the
common 36 spoke wheels. The stability is approx. the same as a 48 spoke tandem wheel.

The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 uses a spoke hole circle diameter of 100mm with 2.7mm diameter spoke holes
(2.5mm up until Serial No.44321). When lacing the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 into a 26 wheel, the spoke sizes
required will usually prove fairly difficult to find in the average bike shop. For this reason silver Sapim Racespokes
2.0/1.8/2.0mm with Polyax 12mm nipples are available from Rohloff in lengths of 228mm to 244mm. The most
commonly used spoke length (for 26" wheels) of 238mm is also available in black. Below is a table showing the
required spoke lengths for 32/36 spoke rims. Due to the symmetrical hub flanges of the SPEEDHUB 500/14, the
spokes are the same length on both sides of the wheel:

The spoke flanges of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are built symmetrically. This allows the spokes to be at the same
angle on both sides of the finished wheel, this in turn leads to a much stronger wheel due to the evenly distributed
spoke tension.
To build up a strong wheel, the spokes must be tensioned to a minimum 1000N. The spoke tension on the cassette
side of normal derailleur hubs,is considerably higher (over 1200N) due to the dished way the wheel must be laced.
This can also lead to problems with the nipple seat of the rim (see MTB comparison below, the pretension in the 9speed cassette here is reduced to just 600N).
Due to the increased diameter of the hub flanges used by the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14, spokes laced in a two-cross
pattern enter the rim at roughly the same angle as a three-cross lacing pattern on smaller flanged hubs. There is less
load on the spokes because of the large spoke hole PCD. The spokes pull further away from the axle center, therefore
the hub flange has a better lever to pull the wheel around (torque = force x lever length).

Anzahl
Laufrad Kreuzungen /
gre /
Number of
Wheel
Spoke
Size
Crosses
18"

1-X

20"

1-X

24"

1-X

26"

2-X

The comparison below shows the maximum spoke loads. The numbers in brackets are the pretensioned min.
force of the spokes after lacing, truing and tensioning with an inflated tire (tire pressure 60p.s.i.):
MTB:
Wheel with Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14, 32 spokes
Wheel with 9-speed derailleur gears, 36 spokes
Rider 80kg, riding whilst standing
Transmission SPEEDHUB 500/14: - gear #4 (48/16)
Distance travelled per crank revolution: - 2.52m
Transmission derailleur gears: - 36/30
Distance travelled per crank revolution: - 2.47m
Tire Pressure: - 60 P.S.I.

Tandem:
Wheel with Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14, 32 spokes
Wheel with 9-speed derailleur gears, 48 spokes
Two riders 80kg each, riding whilst standing
Transmission SPEEDHUB 500/14: - gear #4 (48/16)
Distance travelled per crank revolution: - 2.52m
Transmission derailleur gears: - 36/30
Distance travelled per crank revolution: - 2.47m
Tire Pressure: - 60 P.S.I.

650B

28"

29"

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14


32 spokes
135mm frame spacing
Flange distance 30mm/30mm

9-speed rear hub


36 spokes
135mm frame spacing
Flange distance 37.3mm/20.2mm

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14


32 spokes
135mm frame spacing
Flange distance 30mm/30mm

9-speed rear hub


48 spokes
145mm frame spacing
Flange distance 31.3mm/24mm

The figures for the 9-speed tandem wheel are better than those of the solo MTB wheel due to the fact that the spokes are
not at so steep of an angle and there are 48 of them regardless that there are two riders on the tandem. But even here, the
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 wheel with 1206N against 1409N is the better option.
41

2-X

2-X

2-X

ERD*
341-343
344
372-373
374-377
378-381
382-385
386-389
390-394
472-476
477-480
481-484
485-489
490-493
494-497
498-501
502-503
516-519
520-523
524-527
528-531
533-535
536-539
540-543
544-547
566-568
569-572
573-576
577-580
581
586-588
589-592
593-596
597-600
601-604
605-608
609
610-612
613-616
617-620
621-624
625-628
629

32-Loch
Speichenlnge / 32hole Spoke
lengths

Anz ahl
Laufrad Kreuzungen /
gre /
Number of
Wheel
Spoke
Size
Crosses

128
130
142
144
146
148
150
152
192
194
196
198
200
202
204
206
226
228
230
232
234
236
238
240
250
252
254
256
258
260
262
264
266
268
270
272
272
274
276
278
280
282

18"

1-X

20"

1-X

24"

1-X

26"

2-X

650B

2-X

28"

2-X

29"

2-X

ERD*
341-342
343-344
372-375
376-379
380-383
384-387
388-392
393-396
472-474
475-478
479-482
483-486
487-490
491-494
495-498
499-502
503
516-517
518-522
523-526
527-530
531-534
535-538
539-542
543-546
547
566-570
571-574
575-578
579-580
586-587
588-591
592-595
596-599
600-603
604-607
608-610
610-611
612-615
616-619
620-623
624-627
628-629

36-Loch
Speichenlnge / 36hole Spoke
lengths
126
128
142
144
146
148
150
152
190
192
194
196
198
200
202
204
206
222
224
226
228
230
232
234
236
238
248
250
252
254
256
258
260
262
264
266
268
268
270
272
274
276
278

empfohlene Gre / recommended rim size

On wheel sizes 26" and 28" the wheel must always be laced in a two cross pattern. Therefore, the table above shows
the spoke lengths for a two cross lacing pattern. On wheel sizes 24" and under, the spokes must only be laced in a one
cross lacing pattern. For this reason, the table above shows the spoke lengths for a one cross lacing pattern.
Aconstantly updated list of spoke lengths can be found on the internet under www.rohloff.de.
A spoke length calculator can also be found on our homepage to help work out other correct lengths of spokes that
may be required (www.rohloff.de/en/technical/speedhub/spoke_lengths/index.html).
42

The wheel

Anzahl
Laufrad Kreuzungen /
gre /
Number of
Wheel
Spoke
Size
Crosses
26"

ATTENTION

2-X

ERD*
516-519
520-523
524-527
528-531
532-535
536-539
540-543
544-547

32-Loch
32-Loch
32-Loch
Speichen- Speichen- Speichenlnge / 32- lnge / 32- lnge / 32hole Spoke hole Spoke hole Spoke
lengths
lengths
lengths
20mm
12.5mm
7mm
Offset
Offset
Offset
228
230
232
234
236
238
240
242

226
228
230
232
234
236
238
240

226
228
230
232
234
236
238
240

Nipple eyelets are currently being reduced in size to save as much heavy steel as possible in the construction. In
cases such as these, the nipple is however hindered from aligning itself correctly for lacing large flange hubs
and this results in a small kink in the spoke where it joins the nipple. This will lead to premature spoke failures
at the kink.

The wheel
Determing the effective rim diameter (ERD)
Should the effective rim diameter need to be measured because the rim was not listed in the previous
table, the following steps can be used to determine this:
- Measure the head height K of the spoke nipples that ar e intended for use.
- Measure the spoke length S from beginning of the thread to the inside of the 90 bend.
- Thread a spoke through the rim and screw the nipple onto this so that the end of the spoke is level with
the head of the spoke nipple.
- Place a second spoke through the spoke hole of the opposing side of the rim and screw the nipple onto
this spokein the same way.
- Pull these two spokes together and measure the distance X.
The effective rim diameter can now be determined using the formula: d = 2 x S + X - 2 x K

For this reason, rims should be used where the rim eyelet has an inner diameter of at least 4.4mm, or if possible,
rims should be used which are angularly drilled.

K
Calculating the spoke length (32 + 36):
The formula below can be used to calculate the correct spoke length should your rim ERD not listed in the table.

Spoke nipple

(0.25 x d ) + 3400 - (50 x d x c)


c = 0.707 with 2 cross pattern (32 hole)
c = 0.770 with 2 cross pattern (36 hole)

Calculation example with 32 spokes:


Effective rim diameter: d = 539mm; 2 cross pattern:

Spoke length:

L=

Spoke

d: effective rim diameter in mm


c = 0.924 with 1 cross pattern (32 hole)
c = 0.940 with 1 cross pattern (36 hole)

L=

Spoke length:

c = 0,707

(0.25 x 539 ) + 3400 - (50 x 539 x 0.707)

L = 238,69mm (always round up/down to the nearest even number. Here: 238mm)

ATTENTION
It is not permitted to radially lace wheels built with a Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14, because the drive force is
delivered through this wheel.

Rim

Due to the large spoke hole circle diameter of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14, the entrance angle between the
spokes and the rim is considerably small. All 26" and 28" wheels must not be built in more than a 2x lacing
pattern.All wheels smaller than 26 (24 and under) are only permitted to be laced in a 1x pattern.
43

44

Particular options

Particular options

Which components are recommended?


Chains:
All 1/2"x3/32" 8 and 9 speed chains are compatible with Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 sprockets. 1/2x1/8 chains
can also be used with all Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 sprockets however although these thicker chains may be
slightly stronger, they do not offer any improvement regarding durability or lifespan and are therefore not
recommended for use with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14. In addition, these 1/2x1/8 chains are incompatible
with the Rohloff chain tensioner due to their width. When using a 15 tooth sprocket, it is important to make sure
that the chain does not measure more than 8.5mm in height (over the joint), otherwise it is possible that rub/wear
marks could appear on the hub shell.
Chain rings:
All chainrings for a 1/2"x3/32" chain can be used for the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14.
It is important to check the concentricity of the mounted chainring when utilizing an eccentric BB or adjustable
dropouts so that the tension of the chain is correct in all crank positions.
Cranks (chain line):
The use of sprockets 15, 16 or 17 teeth on the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 require a chain line of approx. 54mm
from the frame center. This needs the use of the outer chainring from triple cranksets such as standard Shimano
(Largest chainring: 54mm, middle chainring 47.5mm). The middle and smallest chainrings are usable. After the
disassembly of the middle and smallest chainrings, the bolts for securing the largest chainring are now too long,
because they are now only securing one chainring to the crank. For this reason the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14
small parts bag includes five chainring spacers to distance the original bolts. For retrofitting with double
chainring cranksets, the outer chainring should definitely be used.
Reversibel sprocket with 15, 16 and 17 teeth (Art. #8220, #8221 and #8222)
The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 comes fitted with a 16 tooth sprocket. 15 and 17 tooth reversable sprockets are
available as alternatives. Hereby, an individual sprocket/chainring combination can be applied (see "Technical
data" - "chainrings"). The 15, 16 and 17 tooth sprockets are reversable, and therefore, can be used from both drive
sides. For sprocket removal, a special Rohloff sprocket removal tool (Art. #8501) is needed. When using a 15
tooth sprocket, it is important to make sure that the chain does not measure more than 8.5mm in height (over the
joint), otherwise it is possible that rub/wear marks could appear on the hub shell.
Sprocket with 13 teeth (Art. #8219)
For the use of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 on small wheeled bicycles (e.g. 20" folding bikes and recumbants)
the special 13 tooth sprocket is needed. It uses a different chain line (58mm instead of 54mm) and is not reversable.
When using a Rohloff chain tensioner on frames with dropouts thinner than 7mm, the longer chain tensioner
mounting bolt (Art. #8255) must be separately ordered. For sprocket removal, a special Rohloff sprocket removal
tool (Art. #8501) is needed.
Rohloff chain tensioner (Art. #8250)
Mounting a chain tensioner is necessary on frame types A, C, D, E and G (see "frame types"), because the chain is
not tensionable by simply sliding the wheel within the dropouts. The chain tensioner is just as necessary on frames
with rear suspension, this is because the distance between the chainring and sprocket varies as the rear suspension
is activated. The span capacity of the Rohloff chain tensioner is 10 links or 20 teeth. The use of the Rohloff chain
tensioner also requires the use of a chain guide up front.
Rohloff DH chain tensioner (Art. #8245)
The Rohloff DH chain tensioner is specially designed for extreme downhill use. As opposed to the regular Rohloff
chain tensioner it has a shorter link arm that is not able to swing on the mounting point. This keeps the chain
securely in position against the sprocket, guaranteeing a positive run from the chain onto the sprocket even in
extreme riding conditions. The use of the Rohloff DH chain tensioner also requires the use of a chain guide up
front.
Rohloff chain guide CC (Art. #8290)
The Rohloff chain guide CC prevents the chain from springing off the chainring on all bikes fitted with a chain
tensioner. The Rohloff chain guide is adjustable depending on the chain line (distance between chainring and
frame center) between 52mm and 62mm. The chain springing off the chainring in extreme riding conditions is not
45

Rohloff DH chain guide (Art. #8291)


The Rohloff DH chain guide is specially designed for extreme downhill use. It eliminates the chain from falling
off the sprocket and onto the hub casing which could happen in extreme riding conditions.
Rims
The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is only available in a 32/36 spoke version. The ideal rims to be used are triple
hollow aluminum rims from known manufacturers with reinforced spoke eyelets (min. 4,4mm) or alternatively,
rims which are diagonally drilled or with countersunk nipple seats (e.g. ANDRA, GRIZZLY and EDGE 7 from
Rigida/Ryde or the Ex19 rim from Exal).
Spokes/nipples
Because the spokes have a large say over the stability of the overall wheel, exclusive quality spokes from well
known manufacturers should be used. Double thickness spokes from DT-Swiss and Sapim are good examples.
When applying a lot of force on the wheel (pannier bags, tandem use, extreme use), the spokes should be fitted
with self-locking spoke nipples (lock nipples) during the wheelbuilding process. This reduces the risk of the
spokes loosening whilst riding. On rims without reinforced nipple holes, only spoke nipples with rounded heads
should be used (Sapim Polymax or DT swiss Prohead), this spreads the spoke tension evenly through the nipple
head against the rim.
Quick release lever
The CC versions of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are supplied with a hollow Q/R axle to secure the hub to the
frame. To be sure that the hub is correctly secured into the frame, it is advisable to use a Q/R lever with a steel
skewer. The use of lightweight Q/R levers with aluminium or titanium skewers is at the riders own risk! Make sure
that the maximum 7Nm closure torque is not exceeded when using a Pitlick or other Q/R systems!
Racing handlebars
The twist shifter of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 can only be used on straight handlebars with a diameter of
22.2mm and, therefore, is not compatible with regular racing handlebars. Special racing bars (eg racing bars from
the firm Norwid (www.norwid.de) or Van Nicholas (www.van-nicholas.com) allow the mounting of the twist
shifter. Further information can be found in the FAQs under www.rohloff.de. Another alternative is a special
seperatable twist shifter for racing handlebars. Gilles Bertoud (www.gillesberthoud.fr) and Co-Motion cycles
(www.co-motion.com) both produce such shifters. Further information over this can be found on our homepage
in the FAQ section.
Use of a rear disc brake
The Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 DB versions are equipped with an external gear mech and a special hub cap for
the mounting of a brake disc. Only brake discs with a Rohloff mounting hole diameter of 65mm and a center hole
diameter of 52mm can be used. Information about the various brake discs currently available can be found on the
web under www.rohloff.de.
Axle plates
The various axle plates are all available separately, and therefore, making it easy to change any version of the
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 over to a different method of torque support. When a longer axle thread (TS) is
required, simply add an L to theArt. No.
Axle plate CC
(Art. #8232)
Axle plate CC OEM (Art. #8234)
Axle plate CC OEM2 (Art. #8227)

Axle plate TS
(Art. #8233) -long
Axle plate TS OEM (Art. #8235) -long
Axle plate TS OEM2 (Art. #8228) -long

(Art. #8233L)
(Art. #8235L)
(Art. #8228L)

The CC/TS OEM axle plates are also available as stronger tandem versions (T) with only one mounting option.
Rohloff Speedbone (Art. #8550) or IS-PMAdapter MonkeyBone (160mmArt. #8553 / 180mmArt. #8554)
The Rohloff Speedbone is an adapter that allows bikes that are fitted with disc brakes to also use the OEM2 method
of torque support. The Rohloff Speedbone is compatible with all disc brake types of international standard (IS
1999). The Speedbone is required when using an IS brake caliper with an IS frame. IS frames using PM brake
calipers can use either a Speedbone (Art. #8550) or Monkeybone (160mm = Art. #8553 / 180mm =Art. #8554).
Gear mech
The external gear mech (Art. #8213) and the internal gear mech (Art. #8572) can be ordered separately. This
allows an easy change of the gear mech.
46

Special applications
Particulars

Particulars

Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 on tandems

Use of an enclosed chainguard.

All versions of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 are available for tandem use (assuming that the frame spacing is
135mm). The typical coding of a tandem version is the letter T (eg CC-T or TS EX-T ). The Rohloff
SPEEDHUB 500/14 tandem versions come with shifter cables of 2.5m in length. The number of spoke holes is
still 32 or 36 (see wheel stability). For stability reasons the use of double butted DD spokes 2.0/1.8/2.0mm.is
recommended.
The correct spoke lengths for 26 wheels are readily availible from Rohloff dealers. Spokes for 28 are available
from a number of quality manufacturers (Sapim /DT Swiss):

The chainguard must not rub against the hub shell. This rubbing effect could result in deep brush marks appearing
upon the hub shell, possibly eventually wearing completely through it! This damage could lead to accidents
through oil leakage or even a complete blockage of the gear unit itself.
Sprockets used with on a bicycle fitted with a Hebie Chainglider may not be reversed. The Chainglider uses the
exposed seal surface to support itself. This use may have caused damage or wear which would lead to excessive oil
loss if then rotated and used as a seal surface.

Use of a carbon handlebar in conjunction with the Rohloff shifter

Small wheels
Wheels with a smaller diameter than 26 should only use a one cross lacing pattern, because this helps to keep the
spoke at the correct angle against the rim. Radial lacing of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is not permitted. The
Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 should not be laced into a wheel smaller than 18 in diameter, because, due to the
hubs large flange diameter, the spokes would enter the rim at a too accute of an angle.

The Rohloff Shifter (Art. #8200) is not approved for installation on any sort of carbon handlebar. The Rohloff
AG will not be held responsible for accidents resulting from the mounting of the Rohloff shifter on
carbon handlebars.
The Rohloff Shifter (Art. #8206 / 8207) is approved for carbon handelbar use.

Eccentric BB or adjustable dropouts on frames with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB

Halfstep
Through the use of two chainrings with a size difference of approx. 7% (racing cranksets with 39 and 34 tooth
chainrings) the change in gear ratio increases could reduce from 13.6% by approx. half. This additional feature is
interesting for road racing applications.

Usage of two chainrings


In extreme riding conditions, where the use of a greater gear range is necessary, it is possible to use the Rohloff
SPEEDHUB 500/14 in conjunction with two chainrings. This increases the number of actual gears by about two.
When applying this feature, make sure that there is a difference of approx. 13% between chainring sizes for one
additional gear and approx 29% for two additional gears (eg 50/39 chainrings).

It is especially important to use a concentric mounted chainring when utilizing an eccentric BB or adjustable
dropouts, otherwise the chain tension could vary extremely. The chain tension should be set so that the chain has
approximately 10mm play when lightly pushed from underneath and under no pressure.
If using adjustable dropouts in collaboration with the internal gear mech, then it is important to check that there is
enough room for the cable adjusters to accomodate the moving of the rear wheel as the chain wears/stretches.(if
not, the housing may have to be shortened).

Using the Schlumpf Speed-drive or the High Speed drive


The Schlumpf Speed-drive/High Speed drive works like two chainrings with a large difference in size. With the
additional transmisson of 1:1.65 or 1:2.5 the gear ratio of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 used in conjunction
with the Schlumpf Speed-drive will be increased to 868% or 1315%. It is still important not to undercut the
smallest permitted sprocket ratios (see "sprocket ratios").
The Schlumpf Mountain-drive is not permitted for use with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14.

Using the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 as an intermediate frame mounted gear-unit


Should the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 be mounted within the frame itself, the smallest permitted sprocket
ratios from the cranks to the gearbox must not be undercut (see sprocket ratios). Sprockets used for the
transmission from the gearbox to the rear wheel can be of any size.

Using a Bicycle trailer in conjunction with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14


The use of a trailer mount in conjunction with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is normally not a problem!
However, the problem could arise with different types of trailer models where the long torque arm (when in use)
must be carefully adapted. In case of queries please refer back to the manufacturer of the bicycle trailer to find out
if they have any experience or special adapters for the mounting in conjunction with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB
500/14. Alternately refer to www.rohloff.de - FAQ > SPEEDHUB > TRAILER.

Using an axle mounted bicycle stand with the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14
A bicycle stand which is mounted directly on the rear axle of the Rohloff SPEEDHUB 500/14 is available from
the company Point bike innovation GmbH, phone 0049 2206 95800. (Bicycle stand Cd93 black, adjustable for
26 - 28). The SPEEDHUB axleplate TS long with the longer thread should be used together with this sort of
bicycle stand.
www.rohloff.de > FAQ > SPEEDHUB > TORQUE SUPPORT >AXLE PLATES.

47

min. 6,5 mm

max.
10 mm

min. 15mm

Use of Tuning parts


http://www.rohloff.de/en/technology/tuning_parts/index.html

Belt drive transmission system Gates Carbondrive:


When utilizing a bicycle equipped with a Gates Carbondrive belt transmission, it is important to adhere to the
manufacturers instructions printed within their owners manual.Furtehr information can be obtained from:
http://www.g-boxx.com/pdf/Gates-Rohloff.manual-en.pdf

MonkeyBone IS to PM adapter:
Compatible with the OEM2 axleplate in combination with a
Postmount disc brake caliper.
160mm disc = Art. #8553 / 180mm disc = Art. #8554
Further information over these parts and many others is available on our homepage under:
www.rohloff.de/en/servicemenue/faq/index

Rohloff chain tensioner (Art. #8250)


Tension capacity of 10 links

Rohloff chain guide CC (Art. #8290)


48

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