In the realm of World Cup downhill mountain bike racing, fractions of seconds can mean the difference between top of the podium and “thanks for coming out”. To minimize the chance that their athletes are in that latter category, the new SRAM XO DH rear hub adds a lot of features that we’re hoping trickle down to all of their hubs very soon.
Strength is important, and we’ll get to that. But when your pedaling comes in fits and spurts and every damn stroke has to translate into the most forward moment possible, it comes down to engagement. The new hub is bumped up to 52 points of engagement for a quick 6.9º, yet it does so without compromising durability. Inside and around the freehub body are precision machined bearing bores made alongside the bearing races so they fit perfectly together and won’t develop slop between runs. Outside, spokes get straighter, axle swaps get easier and you have your choice of standard or XD driver bodies. Here’s how it all goes down…
The front hubs show off two new features: Seeker and Side Swap. Seeker refers to the 3D forged and machined flanges that are angled to send the spokes straight to the rim, reducing bending stresses for a stronger wheel and reduced likelihood of snapped spokes.
Side Swap are the new symmetrical axle end caps, making it easier to swap them out. Left is the same as right, and they pop on and off without tools. Take your pick from QR (seriously), 15×100 and 20×110, they’re all included.
The rear hub keeps those same features and adds the new internals:
The 26-tooth ratchet combines with offset pairs of pawls to create 52 points of engagement. The benefit of this design is that the pawls and ratchet teeth keep larger contact patches. That means no slipping and reduced wear and quick engagement. By limiting it to just four pawls, they keep drag down, too.
Specs & Features:
• NEW Rear DH option: 12×150 and 12×157
• 20×110 interface already available on existing front hub
• Tapered aluminum axle is stronger without added weight
• DOUBLE TIME mechanism for quick engagement
• SPEEDBALL bearings for smooth action
• 32 spoke holes
• Glossy black with silver accents and sand-blasted black with red label
• 3D forged hub shell with SEEKER flanges
• Convertible to all axle types
• Available in XD or 10-speed driver body
• Weight: 130g (front), 265g (rear)
The new XO DH hubs will be available August 1, 2015.
