How to choose a hub suitable for your bicycle

2024-08-15

Hello everyone, this is Koova Hub. As cycling enthusiasts explore the different parts of their bicycles, they'll eventually want to know about hub replacement. Generally, replacing a bicycle hub isn't a one-step process. You need to understand how each part of the hub works together; otherwise, you might face installation issues after purchase. In the essay, we will learn how to choose the same type of hub according to your existing bicycle, through this tutorial, you will learn through the spokes specifications, brake interface, cassette specifications, axle four aspects to choose the right bicycle hub for you.

1： So first, we need to understand the spoke specifications: First of all, the spoke openings can be divided into two types: straight pull and elbow side pull. As shown in the figure below, the spokes of the straight pull hub do not need to be bent. The openings are directly towards the spoke holes of the rim, while the elbow side The pulled spokes are curved so that they align with the spoke holes in the rim.

Secondly, the elbow side-pull hub only has a One-to-one spoke hole distribution. For example, a 32-hole elbow side-pull hub has 16 holes on both the drive side and the non-drive side. The most straightforward example of this is the KTS100.On the other hand, straight-pull hubs can be distributed either in a One-to-one or One-to-two configuration. For instance, a 24-hole straight-pull hub with a One-to-one distribution has 12 holes on both the drive side and the non-drive side. If it's distributed in a One-to-two configuration, the non-drive side has 8 holes and the drive side has 16 holes. A typical One-to-one straight-pull hub is the KTS500, while a typical One-to-two straight- pull hub is the KTR006.

Finally, after understanding the above two points, just confirm the number of holes in the hub. Elbow side pull hubs usually have three types: 28 Holes，32 holes，36 Holes, and Straight Pull Hubs are usually 24 Holes.

2：For the second point, we need to understand the braking interface:

There are only three types of Bicycle Brake interfaces on the market: the six-bolt installation method，the center-lock installation method and rim brake. Generally, the difference between these is in their attachment points.

Six-bolt hubs have six threaded holes on the left side of the outer body, secured by six torx screws, making it the most widely used structure.

On the other hand, center-lock hubs feature a combination of external spline teeth and internal threads. To install a center-lock disc, you align it with the spline teeth, insert it into the slot, and then secure it with a lockring.

The rim brake uses a clamp to clamp the wheel rim to achieve braking effect, while on the hub, there is no braking interface

3：Let’s talk about the combination of Freehub and Cassette:

The cooperation between the cassette and the hub is also crucial. There are usually four types of cassettes: HG and MS by Shimano, and XD and XDR by SRAM.HG features external splines and internal threads, with one spline tooth being narrower. It fits 8-11 speed cassettes. MS, a mountain bike model similar to HG, has a slightly smaller radius and equally divided, thinner spline teeth.XD, also for mountain bikes, consists of short spline teeth and external threads. It fits 11-12 speed cassettes. XDR is a road bike model that is 1.85mm longer than XD, suitable for 12-speed bikes. XDR can be converted to XD using a 1.85mm spacer, but not the other way around.

4：The last thing is the choice of axis: In the Rear Hub, the specific dimensions are this size, and the corresponding front drum sizes are this size respectively. Usually, the 9 millimetre diameter is called a quick release, and the 15 millimetre diameter is called a thru-axle.

The above are the key parameters that you must pay attention to when purchasing bicycle hubs. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us!