A classic mountain bike wheel hub is a hub that typically uses a classic hub design with cones and is designed for rim brakes. Here is a description of the key features and characteristics of this hub:
- Material: The hub is usually made of lightweight and durable materials, such as aluminium alloy. This helps maintain strength while minimizing unnecessary weight.
- Axle compatibility: Classic hubs are typically equipped with "quick-release" (QR) axles.
- Number of holes: For compatibility with most mountain bike rims, common numbers of holes per spoke are 32 or 36.
- Nut compatibility: The nut is the part of the hub that the cassette is installed onto, its body is designed to allow the installation of a suitable cassette with a specific number of gears.
- Hub width: The width of the hub is an important factor and should match the spacing of the bike's frame and fork. Common mountain bike hub widths are 100 mm at the front and 135 mm at the rear with traditional QR axles.
When choosing a classic mountain bike hub, riders should consider factors such as compatibility, durability, weight, and ease of maintenance. It is also recommended to pick a hub from a reputable manufacturer.
How many hole hubs should I choose?
The number of spoke holes on a hub depends on the specific rim you plan to use. Common hole counts for mountain bike rims are 28, 32, and 36. Heavier riders may want to consider wheels with a higher spoke count for added strength and support. Aggressive riding styles or rougher terrain may require a higher number of spoke holes to help the wheels handle the increased stress and impact.
What are the main differences between a front and rear hub?
Rear hubs are wider than front hubs to accommodate a cassette. The most common spacing for rear hubs on mountain bikes is 135 mm for quick release axles and 142 mm for thru axles. Front hubs are typically 100 mm wide.
Can I upgrade my hub to a different brand or model?
In most cases, you can swap your hub for another brand or model if it is compatible with your bike's frame width, rim, axle type, and brakes.
How often should I service my hub bearings?
This depends on the conditions and frequency of driving. Regular maintenance is recommended, for example cleaning and greasing the bearings for tapered roller bearings, which can be done once a year or after driving in wet or muddy conditions. For industrial bearings, regular inspection is necessary. If the bearing seizes or makes a noise, it needs to be replaced.
