SEVEN DAY CYCLIST
CYCLING, BUT NOT USUALLY RACING

These, like their Aerorage family are sleeved, rather than being pinned, or welded. Debate rages regarding the pros and cons. However, Ison tell me they’ve opted for a sleeved joint. Primarily, because of the stable and well aligned connection. This also avoids potential degradation of material strength, which can easily occur during welding.  I opted for machined sidewalls but there’s a disc specific option. Tubeless ready design is another definite plus.

​

Talking of which, their relatively low profile, supposedly promotes a very compliant ride. I’ve run ours with tubeless ready tyres, such as Soma Shikoro and its narrower Supple EX counterpart, touring rubber including Vee Tire Co Zilent MK2   with no problems. 

​

Regardless of pairing, run at various pressures have all delivered a comfortable passage, whether I’ve been hustling along lumpy lanes, battle scarred town centres, or moderate forest trails.

​

With the hub’s centre lock disc mount, I’m inclined to agree. While primarily earmarked for my disc braked ‘cross inspired fixed gear winter/trainer, I also wanted a hoop that could be ported between that and cantilever braked ‘cross/touring rigs.

​

Hub

​

This is laced two-cross via black chrome double butted stainless steel spokes, with ED coated brass nipples. Butting has a very gentle transition, meaning they are less susceptible to stress riser failure.

​

The Shutter Precision Super Light (SL) 9 dynohub. is golf-ball sized and reputedly, a good deal lighter than its PD8 cousin (which I am still delighted by, some twelve months later). Ironically, the complete wheel is 80g heavier than the Halo White Line Classic/PD8 pairing .

​

Not that I’ve noticed in the everyday, real world sense, running identical tyres and indeed, tubes. Talking of which, depending on the angle, its side profile is little bigger than a conventional hub.

​

Now, to comply with strict German StVZO regulations, the SL9 is listed as 6V1.5W. While output can dip very slightly below 6V 3W at very slow speeds, built into a 700c or 26inch wheel, at normal pace, you’ll get maximum output. Similarly, it is fully compatible with all 6V 3W lamps and accessories.

​

The shell is made from anodized 6061 aluminium alloy. Again, there are several alternative colours, if gloss black’s not your bag. The hub is designed for centre lock discs, such as this Shimano, although it will also accommodate the six-bolt type, with a suitable adaptor (Halo produces a very nice example).

​

Some have criticised the lack of user serviceability. As with the PD8, servicing is a return to factory affair. However, this applies to most contemporary generator designs-irrespective of brand. Shutter Precision hubs come with a two-year warrantee and Ison Distribution (their UK distributors) offer a shipping/return service, as and when units need overhauling. Much as a good jeweller would, with a premium grade, precision watch.

​

Cartridge bearings turn on a strong, lightweight Cro-moly axle- both extremely smooth and well-sealed from the elements. Bodes very well for long and happy service life, provided you’re not regularly subjecting it to river crossings, jet washing and other abuse. I’ve run our PD8 year-round, through snow, sleet and slush. Its never missed a beat, and still looks factory fresh.

​

Anecdotal comparison, running identical tyres, tubes and lamp over 50miles suggested the SL9 produces less drag than the PD8. The latter is comparable with my long serving Shimano Ultegra unit. However, whereas I’ve been inclined to switch the PD8 off, where appropriate, especially on longer rides. I’ve left the SL9 on, throughout.