Hubs

Those who build their bicycles from the ground up to maintain maximum control over every aspect of riding behavior also assemble their wheels from necessary individual components. The bicycle hub is of central importance here, as it has developed into a true marvel of engineering in its technical characteristics. The bicycle hub comprises an axle, hub shell, and bearings, among other components that hold the spokes and can be complemented with a sprocket, freewheel, or brake.

A modern bicycle hub consists at least of an axle, bearings, and hub shell. Using a screw or quick-release axle, the wheel is secured in the fork ends or dropouts of the bicycle frame, while the bearings form the movable hub body on the axle. The purpose of the hub shell is to accommodate the bearings, and possibly the gear system and freewheel, and to be connected to the rim via spokes at the hub flange. As a cycling enthusiast with technical knowledge, you can customize your own bicycle hub according to your wishes from a variety of possible models and materials. However, pre-assembled bicycle hubs considerably reduce the workload. If you are searching for a pre-fabricated bicycle hub, always keep in mind that these are usually designed for a specific type of bike, such as road bikes, singlespeed bikes, fixies, mountain bikes, or city bikes, and therefore have different driving properties, axle widths, and different axle variants such as thru-axles, hollow axles for quick-release systems, or solid axles for axle nuts that must be compatible with the corresponding frame or the frame's dropouts. Generally, there is a distinction between front hubs and rear hubs, which are fundamentally constructed differently.

Bicycle hubs generally consist of an axle, bearings, and a hub shell. The axle is solidly mounted in the frame, while the hub shell transfers the rotational motion through the spokes, rim, and tire to the ground. The bearings inside the hub play an important role. The bearings allow the rotation of the wheels while also absorbing all the vertical, horizontal, or tangential forces that arise during riding and braking. Typically, there are 2 bearings in the front hub and up to four in the rear hub. Various types of bearings are used. In modern wheels, deep groove ball bearings that meet industrial standards are often used. Industrial bearings are wear parts that are pressed into the hub and positioned between the hub body and axle. The advantage is that they are generally well sealed against moisture and dirt, are maintenance-free, and can be replaced with relatively little effort when worn out. The downside is the seemingly immense variety of sizes and types. Finding the right bearing for your hub can sometimes be difficult. Cone bearings: the classic option. In older, classic, or simple bicycles, cone bearings are usually used. However, leading manufacturer SHIMANO also continues to use cone bearings in their hubs well into the Dura-Ace class - and for good reasons! Cone bearings consist of two concave cones (a fixed cone sitting on the axle and a loose cone that is part of the hub shell) between which balls or ball retainers are freely movable. Cone bearings are, compared to industrial bearings, more maintenance-intensive - but also maintainable. The bearing play in cone bearings can be adjusted due to wear. Cone bearings can be easily opened, cleaned, and re-greased. Components like the fixed cone or the balls sitting inside can be replaced. A well-maintained cone bearing can last significantly longer than many industrial bearings.

Bicycle hubs for front wheels usually have a width of 100 mm, which corresponds to the current industrial standard. Front hub shells are often made of aluminum, and in more expensive variants, carbon, while ceramics can be used as a particularly high-quality and more costly material in the bearings. Front hubs may be equipped with an optional hub brake or a hub dynamo but are generally simpler in construction than rear hubs since neither the drive nor the gearing needs to be considered in the front wheel.

The rear bicycle hub can also be made from various materials ranging from aluminum to carbon but usually has a hub width of 130 to 142 mm. The essential difference from a front hub is that a rear hub must accept the driving force from the cyclist via the bicycle chain and transfer it through a sprocket or sprocket set via spokes, rim, and tire to the road.

In a derailleur hub, either a freewheel body is mounted on the hub to which a sprocket set or cassette is attached, or - in simpler or older systems - a cogwheel with an integrated freewheel mechanism is directly screwed onto a thread on the hub body, similar to singlespeed and fixie hubs. In both cases, the bicycle chain rests on a cogwheel set. Shifting to other smaller or larger gears is facilitated by redirecting the bicycle chain from one cog to the next using a derailleur. In a bicycle hub with an internal gear hub or gear hub, the chain runs only over a sprocket attached to the hub. The actual gear shifting mechanism is located inside the hub shell in the form of a gearbox, which can lead to less maintenance, but simultaneously may add a bit more weight and typically a more costly initial purchase as well as a "rigid" translation spectrum of the respective gear levels due to the construction.

High-quality hubs come with a range of features that enhance their performance and durability:

• Low Weight: A light hub reduces the rotational force required and improves the overall weight of the bike.

• Excellent Sealing: Good sealing protects the hub from dirt and water, thereby extending maintenance intervals.

• Stability and Rigidity: A stiff hub ensures a direct riding feel and optimally accounts for forces encountered.

• High-Quality Bearings: Durable and high-quality industrial ball bearings offer longevity and minimize the need for frequent maintenance.

The hub not only directly affects the power transmission from the pedals to the road but also influences the stability and riding feel of the entire bike. A stable, lightweight, and well-constructed wheel improves agility when accelerating and reduces inertia - particularly noticeable when climbing. A stiff hub can cause the bike to feel sluggish and lose dynamism.

A high-quality bicycle hub is not only crucial for the functionality of your bike but also for your everyday riding experience. Whether you're a cycling enthusiast looking to assemble a simple singlespeed bike or a complex racing bike—the hub is a central element that should meet your needs. Explore the variety of high-quality hubs in our BIKE PUNK WEBSHOP and find the perfect solution for your custom bike project.

At Bike Punk, your reliable partner for everything related to singlespeed and fixed-gear bikes, we specialize in the needs of riders like you who value quality, reliability, and individuality. Our extensive range includes a carefully curated selection of proven hubs from reputable manufacturers, known for their durability and excellent performance. Whether you are looking for a classic hub in simple colors or an eye-catching model with a robust design, you will find the right solution with us. Our hubs are available in various color options and spoke counts, giving you the opportunity to customize your bike according to your personal preferences and requirements Trust in our expertise and discover the ideal product for your singlespeed or fixie bike—because at Bike Punk, the passion for cycling is at the forefront!

We at BIKE PUNK offer a wide range of front and rear hubs. We offer hubs of different models, quality levels and manufacturers such as BLB, Dia-Compe, Miche, Ridea or Paul with focus from track hubs or hubs for track bikes and singlespeed. If you have questions about our range of hubs, are not sure whether or which are compatible with your bike and drive train or want a general advice, contact us via email or just visit us in our BIKE PUNK SHOWROOM in Berlin-Kreuzberg! If we do not have a certain product in stock, we will try to get it for you in a timely manner. We are happy to advise and accompany you on all topics related to your bike. For the latest products, inspiration and information follow us on Instagram!