Attention all cycling enthusiasts and gearheads! We've got some exciting news that will spark a debate among the community. The legendary Chris King Precision Components has just unveiled a game-changer for their renowned hubs.
For years, Chris King has been a trusted partner of the Santa Cruz Syndicate, and their hubs have been a staple in the world of downhill racing. But here's where it gets controversial: the team at King has decided to shake things up with some innovative updates to their time-tested hubs.
Traditionally, King hubs featured a 72-tooth RingDrive, but they're now introducing a bold new option - a coarser 36-tooth RingDrive. This seemingly small change has a significant impact on performance, as it reduces drag and allows the hub to roll faster. It's like giving your bike a secret weapon to shave off precious milliseconds!
Kirby Bedsaul, the president of Chris King, had hinted at these updates last summer, mentioning their quest for even more rolling speed. And the results speak for themselves. The Syndicate team, always on the hunt for that extra edge, has embraced the concept and the data. Jackson, a key rider, dominated last season's races with the prototype 36T hub, proving its ability to reduce hub drag and noise.
But here's the part most people might miss: the new Buzzworks 36T RingDrive also changes the engagement deadband from 5° to 10°. While this might not suit every rider's preference, it showcases King's commitment to offering customization options. Their hubs have built a dedicated following, known for their impressive durability and ease of maintenance.
The best part? The new RingDrive is backwards compatible with all Chris King hubs made since the 90s, whether ISO, Classic, or Boost. So, if you're a loyal King fan, you can easily upgrade your existing hubs. RingDrive kits are available for $150 USD, directly from Chris King or their authorized retailers.
And that's not all! Chris King is also launching 6-bolt hubs in their SuperBoost spacing option, bringing this common standard to their entire Mountain Hub lineup alongside the Centerlock options. This move is a response to market demand, as King had previously phased out 6-bolt hubs but is now reintroducing them incrementally. SuperBoost 6-bolt rear hubs start at $590 USD.
So, what do you think, cycling enthusiasts? Are these updates a brilliant innovation or a controversial move? Will they revolutionize downhill racing, or is it just a minor tweak? We'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Don't forget to check out Chris King's website for more details on these exciting new options and pricing.
