Rohloff gear can only shift between 3 and 4, even when gear disconnected from hub My Rohloff gearhub will only shift between gears 3 and 4 (I think; display long ceased to be readable, but it's two low gears).  I tried adjusting the shifter cable tension but it makes no difference.  When I disconnect the gearbox from the hub it still doesn't shift.



The owner's manual troubleshooting section has an item "twist shifter does not turn freely", but beyond 3 and 4, my twist shifter does not turn at all, not even under considerable force.  When I do shift (heavily) between 3 and 4, I do see a slight movement in the cables.  I am not able to manually pull the cables out of the gearbox.

Until yesterday, shifting worked through all gears albeit somewhat heavily.  I took the bicycle on a train, where I strapped it.  After I got off the train, the problem appeared.

What might cause this?
Check the cables.

Rohloff classifies the gear shifter cables as a consumable.  They may wear out and need replacement over the years.  Check the gear shifter cables carefully for any damage; they might need replacement.  Be aware that they are not ordinary cables, but that you need special Rohloff gear cables to fit.

In my case, there was a damage in the gear shifter cables.  Replacement resolved the problem.