3X3 Nine hub FAQs
GENERAL
How do I know which combination of parts to get?
We have a tool for this! Visit https://3x3config.vpl.bike to go through a step-by-step process to pick out all the correct parts. You can even load them into a cart and purchase them without having to do anything manually.
Can you retrofit the 3X3 NINE yourself?
In principle, this is possible. Through our network partners 3X3 Service Hubs and Dealers, you will find trained workshops and dealers from the 3X3 Alliance who will be happy to provide you with first-class support.
GEAR SHIFTING
Is it possible to shift while still standing with the 3X3 NINE?
Yes, that is an advantage of gear hubs over derailleur systems. They can be shifted even when standing still and also multiple gears at once. As an example: If you are cut with a fully loaded cargo bike and thus forced to decelerate heavily, it is very difficult to get into a lower starting gear with a derailleur system. In addition to endangering road traffic through lurching starts, this is also bad for the material and further increases wear.
Can multiple gears be shifted at once with the 3X3 NINE?
Yes, shifting several gears at once or even shifting while standing still are no problem with the 3X3 NINE gear hub.
SERVICE & MAINTENANCE
Can you clean the 3X3 NINE gear hub with a high pressure washer?
The 3X3 NINE is protected against the intrusion of moisture according to the latest standards. However, we strongly advice against cleaning the gear hub using a high pressure washer.
Who is my contact person in case of warranty?
Contact the dealer where you bought the bike – the dealer will then contact us. Of course we are always happy to answer any questions you may have.
Is it permitted to open the 3X3 NINE gear hub and repair it myself if necessary?
No, otherwise the warranty will be voided.
TECHNOLOGY
What are the hub dimensions of the 3X3 NINE needed for spoking?
Number of spokes: 32- or 36-hole
Spoke flange distance left:
| 135mm QR | 27mm |
| 142x12mm TA | 27mm |
| 148x12mm TA | 30mm |
Spoke flange distance right:
| 135mm QR | 27mm |
| 142x12mm TA | 27mm |
| 148x12mm TA | 24mm |
Spoke flange diameter: 134mm (left and right)
Spoke hole diameter: 2.8mm
Spoke flange width: centre of spoke hole 4mm
Maximum spoke tension: 1500N
Preferred spoke pattern:
| 20" | 1-cross |
| 24" - 29" | 2-cross |
Recommended spokes: Sapim Strong ED 2.34-2.0 in combination with Sapim Poly-Achs Secure nipples
For which area of use is the 3X3 NINE approved?
The 3X3 NINE is approved for wheel use according to ISO 15194:2017 and EPAC45. For more information and inspection reports, please send us an email.
Which eBike systems are compatible with the 3X3 NINE gear hub?
Class 1 and Class 3 pedal-assist eBikes are compatible with the hub. Class 2 (throttle) systems are not recommended.
What is the maximum permitted torque input to the 3X3 NINE gear hub?
The maximum torque the hub can handle is 250Nm. You calculations must include the maximum torque generated by the eBike drive unit and the rider, and how torque is amplified the gear ratio created by the sprockets and chain/belt in the final drive.
Can the 3X3 NINE also be used as an intermediate gearbox?
This should be considered on a case-by-case basis depending on the application. Please feel free to contact us by e-mail.
Can the 3X3 NINE gear hub be used with a coaster brake?
No, the 3X3 NINE gear hub is not compatible with a coaster brake.
What is the maximum permitted system weight of the 3X3 NINE gear hub?
The maximum system weight of the gear hub is 180 kg. The system weight is the sum of the rider, clothing, luggage, if permitted, the trailer and its contents.
What are the gear ratios of the 3X3 NINE?
| Gear | Ratio 1/i |
Ratio i |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | 0.527 | 1.898 |
| 2 | 0.654 | 1.529 |
| 3 | 0.811 | 1.234 |
| 4 | 1.000 | 1.000 |
| 5 | 1.241 | 0.806 |
| 6 | 1.539 | 0.650 |
| 7 | 1.898 | 0.527 |
| 8 | 2.356 | 0.424 |
| 9 | 2.920 | 0.342 |
Can the electronic gear shift control of the 3X3 NINE gear hub also be installed on a bicycle without an e-bike system?
No, the electric shifting can currently only be used with a Bosch Smart System (BES3). The power supply for the shifting unit and the gear indicator is provided by the e-bike system. Further solutions are already in the works.
Can the 3X3 NINE gear hub be installed using a thru axle?
Yes, the gear hub is compatible with 142 and 148 mm thru axles with 12 mm bore. This makes the rear ends of the bike significantly stiffer than with quick-release versions.
Is it possible to adjust the gear ratio of the 3X3 NINE gear hub?
The individual gears of the 3X3 NINE cannot be changed. By adjusting the primary gear ratio (front sprocket and rear sprocket), the entire gear ratio can be shifted to fast and slow. For e-bikes, observe the specifications for component replacement in order to comply with the legal requirements!
Can the 3X3 NINE gear hub be driven using a belt?
Yes, as long as the bicycle frame is suitable for a belt drive. Please refer to the technical manuals of the company Gates Carbon Drive.
WARRANTY
What is the warranty on a 3X3 NINE hub?
The warranty will cover all manufacturing defects and issues with the hub for a period of two years after purchased by the consumer.
Will the 3X3 NINE gear hub be warrantied if I use an unlimited class motor?
No. The 3X3 NINE hub is only suitable for applications that conform to ISO 15194:2017 and EPAC45 regulations. If more than 250Nm is delivered to the input of the hub at any point in time, the warranty will be voided.