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I have a Bosch/Rohloff bike that currently uses a 3/32 chain. Seems like that's the standard for Rohloff hubs. Problem is, I'd much rather use a 3/16 chain, i.e. a chain that's exactly twice as thick. Are there Rohloff sprockets designed for this? And if not, how difficult is it to manufacture a 3/16-compatible Rohloff sprocket?

Update: even though I'm still sticking with 3/32 chains, I'm now using the stupidly thick (8.8mm pin length) Connect 7R8 chains.

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  • Guessing - but its the internal width of the chain plates that matter. A thicker chain won't make any difference provided the plates are the same distance apart. And length will be the same - all normal bicycle chain is 1/2" pitch (ie between pins)
    – Criggie ♦
    May 11, 2018 at 8:30
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    Why do you want to use such a wide chain? 1⁄8" is the wider standard for single speed and hub geared bikes. I thought anything wider was for use on freight bikes and heavy adult tricycles.
    – Argenti Apparatus
    May 11, 2018 at 11:36
  • @ArgentiApparatus mainly because of the very heavy loads on the chain. I annihilate a chain in about 2-3000km of travel and changing chains is getting really annoying. I'd rather buy a heavy chain and do it less often.
    – Dmitri Nesteruk
    May 11, 2018 at 11:37
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    Rohloff seems to use a proprietary thread for their sprockets. Manufacturing one is easy - if you have a CNC mill and the ability to precision harden steel☺. I would have thought that others would manufacture compatible sprockets.
    – Argenti Apparatus
    May 11, 2018 at 12:10
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    seems pretty short to annihilate a chain if lubricated, unless you are riding in mud and sand. Perhaps a fully enclosed chain case is worth trying? Certainly the first thing I would get if I have a single speed chain setup. dutchbikebits.com/hesling-original-chaincase Had one on a motorbike once - it was beyond brilliant for chain life
    – Henry Crun
    May 11, 2018 at 14:13

2 Answers 2

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This maybe late but KMC now manufacture a 1/2" X 1/8" splined sprocket for Rohloff hubs https://www.kmcchain.eu/webshop-sprocket

With a matching 1/8" chainring you can now use a 1/8" chain no problem.

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You could use a wider chain, even with narrower sprockets. As long as it's got a matching pitch (1/2") and it doesn't rub anywhere on the bike when fitted.

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