Wet conditions
Riding in wet conditions necessitates more frequent service. Often this is as simple as
removing the axle and driveshell from the hub, removing any moisture from inside the
hub shell, and applying more lube to the RingDrive assembly. This should not replace
periodic complete disassembly and maintenance, especially in extreme or prolonged
wet conditions. Since it is nearly impossible to seal a hub from water and still have it
spin freely, we have designed our hubs to be able to operate normally with some water
intrusion. Although the bearings are stainless steel and will resist water induced corrosion,
the lubricant will eventually deteriorate, leading to premature wear and possible failure.
High-pressure spray washing, transporting or riding the bicycle in the rain, or submersion
in water while riding can all lead to lubricant contamination by water. Be aware of these
situations and service more frequently when they occur.
Cold conditions
If cold weather riding is anticipated, we recommend servicing your rear hub to ensure
that no water is present in the drive components. At temperatures below freezing,
water contamination inside the hub can freeze and thus impede hub engagement
mechanisms.
Lubrication
R45 RingDrive™
We recommend using a quality 10w synthetic oil (such as Mobil 1® 10w-30 or equivalent)
on the RingDrive assembly and helical splines on the driveshell. Oil provides optimal
low drag, low viscosity lubrication for road riding applications. RingDrive lube is also
acceptable. Do not substitute other brands of grease as they may be too thick or sticky
for the helix of the RingDrive and cause hub engagement problems.
R45 stainless steel bearings
For R45 bearings with stainless steel balls, apply a bead (approximately .3ml or half of
the circumference) of RingDrive Lube around the top of the hub bearings. Rotate the
inner race to work the lube throughout the ball area.
R45 ceramic bearings
For R45 bearings with ceramic balls, apply enough RingDrive Lube to lightly coat the
balls inside the bearing, using approximately .1ml (a pea-sized amount) of lube. This
can be accomplished by applying a light bead of lube 1/8 to 1/4 of the way around the
bearing. Rotate the inner race to work the lube throughout the ball area. In wet and/
or muddy conditions, apply more lube to the bearings to help seal the bearings from
contaminants.
Solvents
Use of light duty mineral spirits-based solvents or cleaners is acceptable (i.e. WD-40™).
Use of caustic or acidic cleaners may result in damage to
the anodized coating.
Bearing preload adjustment
R45 will require occasional bearing preload adjustment
as the hubs break in. The best way to determine if a hub
requires adjustment is to clamp the hub into a frame
or truing stand. If side-to-side play is detected when the
wheel is moved laterally, then the bearing preload requires
adjustment. Correct adjustment of the rear hub is necessary
for proper engagement of the RingDrive.
If the hub is run
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