Shimano IG-3 speed gears - Obscure? parts?

azillio

Hi.. New to the forum & new to getting into 'proper' bikes..

I'm looking at buying a used bike which uses Shimao IG-3 gears.. The system sounds ideal as I don't want hundreds of options...

However, I'm wondering whether it's an obscure system which may give me trouble in the long run (parts availability, servicing etc..) I am planning to ship the bike to France for leisure & some off road but will be in the UK often enough to be able to bring parts over when needed..

Can of worms or relatively straightforward?

Many thanks.

PeterBL

Durability on those hubs are great, so chances are you won't be doing much service at all.

That said, here in Denmark (where 80% of bikes are IGH), 3 speed gearhubs and various parts like shifters and some spares, are readily available. So they are still being made. Where to get them in the UK I don't know, but you should be able to get what you need in either UK or France.

veetent7

Hi I hope somebody can be of help, I bought a Specialize Globe and the rear hub is fitted with the Shimano IG 3 speed Centre lock. Unfortunately the previous owner lost the centre pin / rod which fits into the axle.
(As you do this you will see there is a small rod inside the axle of the wheel revealed) as describe in this article
I am in South Africa Cape Town and the San Francisco Specialized Globe 2 bikes not freely available over here, spears none existing. Is it possible to order or buy the rod or do I have to buy a new hub? If somebody can help me I will appreciate it greatly.
My mail address is veetent7@gmail.com

nicklouse

it is a part that aniy shimano dealer can get for you.

most bike shops that deal with bike with hub gears will have them in stock as they often need replacing.