My Brompton is ticking is that normal? Hub gear noise

A question we often come across / get asked is … my rear wheel is ticking a lot - is that normal
The simple answer is (normally) yes
It happens to a different extent based upon which gear is being used and if you are pedalling or freewheeling
Gear 3 makes the most noise
This video is in 4 parts - so you can skip to where you would like to go
Intro 0:01
Why it ticks - a quick look inside the Sturmey Archer hub gear 8:40
Different sounds 6:30
Outtakes - where we got It wrong 8:40
We also have added some of the key parts / tool used in the Brompton hubs / video
Below is a list of the items with the Sturmey Archer ref and some links - if there is anything missing - let us know and we will update it in these comments
Gear indicator chain - HSA126 / Brompton part QGICH-SA[2]
Cone nut - HSA101 - 2 used - one on each side of the hubbrilliantbikes.co.uk/brompton...
Clutch spring cap - HSA129 - we didn’t show this in the video
Clutch spring - HSA128
Sliding clutch - HSA536
BWR Axle / planet / cage assembly - HSA797 - this is difficult to get hold of as it is made specially for Brompton
Sturmey Archer Ball Cup spanner - HTR145
brilliantbikes.co.uk/hub-and-...

[@BartAnderson_writer]

As a former tech writer, I appreciated the methodical way you explained the mechanism, going step-by-step and with demonstrations and illustrations. Well done!

[@j.a.maldonado4681]

Just 2-weeks into Brompton Bike-riding: and this explains all the different gear & ticking hub noises. I was thinking that it was the pedal powered front and back lights that were adding extra noise. But it turns out it just sounds different from my other bikes. Thanks for making this so clear for beginners.

[@urbanfireblade]

I bought an M3L today! The first thing I noticed was the ticking noise when pedalling in gear 2 and 3 but in gear 1 it was silent?!? Watching this video I’m glad to see it’s normal with your demonstration near the end of the video.

[@TVplanetclaire]

Really enjoyed this. The inside of a Sturmey Archer hub had been a total mystery to me ever since I had a Hercules Viscount as a child.

[@johnlaw3323]

Great vlog always wondered what the inside of the hub looked like, thanks to you I now know.

[@finncarlbomholtsrensen1188]

I did buy a Sturmey Archer spanner, as security, when I bought my Brompton Lightweight, but I didn't actually knew where to use it - but now I know!

[@MrRoyck10]

The ticking noise is quintessential Brompton signature. Nice explanation.

[@amandaleigh3852]

Just BRILLIANT...of course! I find my tick reassuringly pleasing and wouldn’t want to stop it even if I could 😁 Fascinating to see the inner shenanigans of the hub, but don’t think I’d ever want to go there 😬😂 Thanks and Stay Safe 🤗

[@basilboris]

Great video, thank you. We dismantled our hubs recently as we figured a regreasing was in order. We got it all back together without to much Hassle. Fascinating but a little bit scary!

[@brightlightdun]

lovely, you make it looks so easy to take the hub apart.

[@cliveleonard2473]

That is a fantastic explanation and demonstration. Thank you !

[@flpirate4565]

Very creative on your videos. If there were really two identical you it would be a dream come true. Thanks . Be safe

[@chriswong2012]

It really amazing and informative video. Thanks a lot! And a friendly reminder, if you wish to use the time line function, you may wish to rewrite the timeline as shown below in the description. Always start with

[@nancymckittrick5230]

Wow you ladies are impressive! I loved your video! My Brompton is in for its first service. Missing it terribly 🚴🏼‍♂️

[@chrispig7748]

Love these videos! Thanks so much for making me smile!

[@jonathanleach3914]

Very informative. Thank you

[@CycleEveryday]

Nice video. Really interesting to see the inside of the hub and also have the ticking noise explained in more detail as very different noises to other bikes! 👍

[@devjon123]

I’m going to use that ticking as my phone message tone 👍

[@capeman10]

Love the videos,thank you for sharing your knowledge and experience.

[@geoffbrompton822]

I think that is your best video to date.Thanks