Rohloff all seasons oil - looking for alternatives

[Gear11]

Has anyone ever tried a different oil besides the Rohloff brand All Season Oil in their Speedhub? I'm needing to do another oil change in mine soon and am thinking of taking the plunge and trying out a different gear oil.

It is not so much about the price (although it is a consideration...), but more the principle of the thing; surely they haven't gone to the trouble of adding the colonel's secret herbs and spices to their oil?

[RonK]

It is not so much about the price (although it is a consideration...), but more the principle of the thing; surely they haven't gone to the trouble of adding the colonel's secret herbs and spices to their oil?

It's not something I'd consider. Is it worth risking an expensive hub to save a few dollars (or to prove a point)? If you think it is, then Mobil One has been mentioned on some forums and ATF on others.

[Gear11]

Thanks, I'll look into Mobil One and ATF.

It is a risk, but on the other hand, how many people out there would appreciate hearing the outcome?? I'd certainly like to hear if this has ever ended in success or disaster!

To work out which oil to try first - anyone got access to an organic chemistry lab? Mass spec?

[il padrone]

I do think you'll void your hub warranty. If that is not a consideration for you, go right ahead

Me, I prefer to have the security of that product warranty.

[mitzikatzi]

A slow day has had me on Google

A common question is someone spends a $1000 plus on a hub and wants to spend less than $25 every 5000km on the recommend oil. Why?
SJS UK sell 1l bottles. Maybe split a bottle with other hub owners.
On forum post stated that Harris Cyclery was a cheap place to buy 25ml bottles of oil.

Some "fatbike" forums think "Surly Pugsley" have used different oil due to riding in ultra cold conditions. Mobile 1 was mentioned.

Considering Rohloff hubs last for ever or 150 000km with maintenance I would use the proper oil.

Cyclists are used to spending lots of money on little bottles of oil for there chain lube. I would use mobile 1 on my chain and proper oil in my hub to save money.

[rustguard]

for warranty yes stick with, But I agree with your principles they should list the specification of the oil they use. Gear oil does not normally use additives. But unless you get the specifications on the viscosity/type of oil you would be really guessing. Its probably just (Hydraulic)Machine oil. Email the manufacturer and ask them for the specs on their oil.