Hub TypeUpdated 2 months ago
Getting the right hub type for your riding style is a sure fire way to shred with confidence. Always ensure you get the right Drive Side for your hub, Spoke Holes and Axle Size.
1-Cassette
2-Freecoaster
3-Hybrid:
4-Freewheel:
5-Planetary:
Cassette:
Cassette hubs are the most common in modern BMX bikes. They feature a driver mechanism that engages when pedalling, offering premium power transfer. This responsiveness is crucial for tricks and quick accelerations. Cassettes are known for their durability and ease of maintenance. They allow for backward pedalling without engaging the drivetrain, which is essential for proper BMX riding.
Freecoaster:
Freecoaster hubs allow riders to roll backward without engaging the pedals, enabling smooth fakie (backward) riding and tricks. They use a clutch mechanism that disengages the driver when rolling backward. This hub type is popular among street and park riders for its ability to perform certain fakie tricks more easily. However, they typically have a "slack" before engagement when pedalling forward.
Hybrid: (switchable from Cassette to Freecoaster)
Hybrid hubs offer the versatility of both cassette and freecoaster functionalities in one unit. Riders can switch between the two modes. This allows for the use of a cassette when needed and the backward-coasting ability of a freecoaster. Hybrid hubs are ideal for riders who enjoy both riding styles but don't want multiple bikes. You will need to disassemble the hub to switch between modes. This can usually be completed in around 30 minutes depending on the hub.
Freewheel:
Freewheel hubs are an older design, less common in modern BMX. The freewheel mechanism threads onto the hub body, allowing for coasting. They're simpler in construction compared to cassettes but generally less durable and can't run low tooth gears.
Planetary:
Imagine a free coaster hub that feels like a cassette hub, weighs roughly the same as a cassette hub, has a pedal gap like a cassette hub and sounds like a cassette hub. That's a planetary.