Are all free hubs the same?

Are all free hubs the same?

Almost always, the answer is no, there is no interchangeability between different brands – and often limited interchangeability within a brand.

How long do free hubs last?

If it wears out completely you end up pedalling fast and going nowhere. Mine seem to last about 5,000 to 10,000 miles and the usual signs of wear are noises and play.

Are all freewheels compatible?

All freewheel hubs have the same thread and are compatible with single, 5, 6, 7 and maybe some 8 speed freewheels. Position of the hub is set by dishing of the wheel and spacers on the axle. It’s an interesting question.

What free hub do I need?

Knowing What Freehub You Need

• If you have 10, select a Shimano/SRAM freehub.
• If you have 12 gears, select an XDR freehub.
• If you have 11, look at your crank.
• If there is one chainring up front, select an XDR freehub.
• If there are two or three chainrings (gears) up front, pick a Shimano/SRAM freehub.

Why are some freehubs loud?

Loudness in the freehub/freebody is usually due to the very light oil used to lubricate the inner parts. Thicker oil can be used to lessen the noise and even grease in some cases, but it’s high viscosity is pointed at for not being so efficient.

What is the difference between freewheel and freehub?

The difference between a freewheel system and a freehub system is in the location of the coasting mechanism. On a freewheel system, the coasting mechanism is built into the gear cluster. The term “freewheel” refers to the whole gear cluster with the coasting mechanism inside.

Do wheel hubs make a difference?

Hubs that are “louder” usually have more engagement points. This means your drivetrain picks up faster, so less energy is lost. Hubs that have sealed cartridge bearings or needle bearings usually never need to be replaced, they’re far stronger and stay cleaner.

What is the difference between a freewheel and a freehub?

Freewheel VS Freehub Rear hubs are explained in the Bicycle rear hub post, while here the emphasis is on sprocket sets (i.e. cassettes) themselves. Sprocket sets come in two standards: freewheel, or a freehub (with a cassette). Depending on the type of rear hub, one or the other type is used. An image speaks clearer than a thousand words:

Where is the ratchet mechanism on a freewheel?

In the old days it was a common bike-shop service to replace or add custom gearing to freewheels with any desired combination of sprockets. The ratchet mechanism — the thing that allows you to pedal backwards — is located on the cogset with freewheels.

Do all multi-speed bikes have a freewheel?

All modern multi-speed bikes use either a freewheel or a freehub system on the rear wheel, unless they are using an internally geared rear hub. Most bikes with 7 gears or less on the rear wheel use a freewheel; most bike with 8 gears or more on the rear wheel use a freehub, although there are some 7-speed freehub systems in use.

What’s the difference between freewheels and cassettes?

One of the main difference is that freewheels typically have a threaded hub. Bikes equipped with cassettes do not have a threaded hub, but instead, slip onto the hub with splines. But the differences, without getting too technical — go deeper than that.