Get ready to dive into the world of cycling innovation, where even the smallest details can make a significant difference! The quest for speed and precision never ends, and Chris King Precision Components is leading the way with some exciting hub upgrades.
Chris King, a long-time supporter of the Santa Cruz Syndicate, has been quietly working on some game-changing hub internals. While it might seem like a minor detail, these updates could be a game-changer for downhill racing.
The King hubs have traditionally relied on a 72-tooth RingDrive, but now, they're introducing a new 36-tooth option. This might not seem like a big deal, but it's all about reducing drag and increasing rolling speed. Imagine a bike that can glide faster and smoother - that's the promise of these new hubs.
I had an insightful chat with Kirby Bedsaul, the president of Chris King, who shared their vision for these updates. They've been on a mission to squeeze every millisecond of speed from their wheels, and it seems they've found a way.
The Syndicate team, who are always on the hunt for those tiny advantages, believe in these updates. They're not just about winning races; they're about pushing the boundaries of what's possible. Jackson, a key rider, dominated last season with the prototype 36T hub, proving its worth.
But here's where it gets controversial... The new 36T RingDrive changes the engagement deadband from 5° to 10°. While this might not suit every rider's preference, it opens up a world of tuning possibilities. Chris King is known for its loyal following, and these new options will surely excite those who love to tinker and experiment.
And this is the part most people miss... The new RingDrive is backwards compatible! It works with all previous ISO, Classic, and Boost Chris King hubs dating back to the 1990s. That's a lot of bikes that can get an upgrade! RingDrive kits are available for $150 USD, and you can get them directly from Chris King or their authorized retailers.
But wait, there's more! Chris King is also launching 6-bolt hubs in their SuperBoost spacing option. This brings a familiar standard to their Mountain Hub lineup, offering more choices for riders. King had initially removed 6-bolt hubs, but they're back by popular demand.
SuperBoost 6-bolt rear hubs start at $590 USD, and you can explore all the options and pricing on their website (https://chrisking.com/).
So, what do you think? Are these hub upgrades a revolutionary step forward, or just a minor tweak? I'd love to hear your thoughts in the comments. Will you be giving these new hubs a spin? Let's discuss!
