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Freewheel defective

Stromer models with a chain have a motor located in the hub motor. Freewheel. It is an independent mechanical component and connects the motor to the cassette. It decouples the cassette, chain and cranks from the driven rear wheel so that they do not continue to rotate when you roll without pedaling. The rear wheel is therefore able to overtake the stationary crank in terms of speed, which is why freewheels are also called 'overrunning clutches'.

Type

The Stromer freewheel is a pawl freewheel. For the models ST7 | ST5 ABS | ST5 2018 | ST3 2018 | ST1 LCI | ST1 2019 it is a Cannondale Formula freehub body (FH-528 -11 gears)

The pawls and the spring are not available separately from Cannondale. As the user 'Henry' in the NL Stromerforum in a self-experiment, almost identical clicks from DT Swiss can be used. They are slightly less high and symmetrical. They should even be quieter in operation than the originals.

The spring has a diameter of 26 mm

Defects / repair

Defects are rare and are usually caused by incorrect installation. 

When removing the rear wheel, make sure that the freewheel is only attached and can come loose together with the cassette and fall to the ground.

A suitable grease (not oil) must be used for assembly, e.g. the Park Tool HPG-1 Park Tool high-performance grease.

Ensure that all pawls are properly engaged in the freewheel mount of the motor. > See Installation video.

One error pattern can be a seized freewheel due to a lack of lubrication. The pawls then lose their function.

Speaking of lubrication:
It is sufficient to lubricate the pawl pocket with a drop of grease. A film of grease is also sufficient for the gearing in the motor.

Updated on August 19, 2025
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