There is plenty of sand, but I haven't gone to an internal hub on my MTB. With the Shimano 11 speed, I may be looking at getting a new MTB. Not many bikes allow an internal hub. Will be doing some research. Appreciate any suggestions. Must be a 29er.

I have the 8 Speed Alfine on my commuter and also love it. However, since I live in San Diego, I don't have to worry about the cold weather. I had wondered about the shifting in cold weather. The hub is filled with oil already. I have the oil replaced annually, and Shimano specifies a certain oil. Have you tried asking Shimano if they have another recommended oil for colder temperatures? I used to work on shipboard radar systems and the gear boxes called for a type of oil that would work in very cold temperatures anywhere in the world, so I know there are other oils out there. Curious to know more about the 11 speed. Will do some Google searching.