The new SuperBoost hubs from Chris King Precision Components add 6-bolt brake mounts to the range. Previously, the SuperBoost version was only available with a centre lock standard. This will particularly please owners of Pivot, Devinci or BH bikes, who can now also combine Chris King hubs with brake discs with a classic mount.
RingDrive with 36 or 72 teeth
However, the much more exciting news is hidden between the supposed SuperBoost innovation. Chris King is adding a new option to his iconic RingDrive freewheel system, which most bikers will recognise by its unmistakable sound. The traditional 72-tooth RingDrive system offers fast engagement for technical manoeuvres. The hub rotates freely only 5° before the freewheel engages. The new 36-tooth version doubles this value to 10° of free rotation. According to the manufacturer, this should reduce the hub resistance and at the same time create a balanced relationship between pedal engagement and low resistance.
The development of the 36-tooth version is based on the work with the Santa Cruz Syndicate Team. Downhill world champion Jackson Goldstone won important races last season on prototypes of the 36T hub. The team was looking for ways to save milliseconds. Bedsaul comments: "The team believes in the concept and the data. At this level, they are looking for milliseconds and they see this as a significant contribution to that goal."
Revised gearing and lubrication
The new RingDrive version redesigns the teeth of the drive ring. Smaller contact surfaces are intended to further reduce hub resistance. The design creates more space for the RingDrive 2.0 lubricant, which gets between the rings and protects them from wear. Both drive rings - the 72T and the new 36T - work with all ISO, Classic and Boost hubs that Chris King has built since the 1990s.
The Syndicate team tested the system in the second half of the season. Bedsaul reports: "The biggest realisation was how quiet it was. Jackson and other riders at this level actually want to hear their bike on the track. It gives them important feedback." The riders could better perceive their own feedback tyre-ground interaction, rim and chain noise, suspension movements and the bike as a whole.
Recommended applications and availability
Chris King continues to recommend the standard 72T hubs for most riders. Even the Syndicate riders use these hubs when frequent pedalling is required. The 36-tooth version is aimed at gravity-orientated use. The drive rings can be exchanged with little effort depending on the terrain.
The hubs work with bearings that, according to the manufacturer, retract instead of wearing out. All products are designed for durability and maintainability. Tight tolerances and materials are used to ensure long-lasting performance.
Chris King SuperBoost hubs - Info
- Model: SuperBoost 6-Bolt hubset
- Brake mount: 6-bolt (centre lock also available)
- RingDrive options: 36-tooth or 72-tooth
- Engagement angle 72T: 5°
- Engagement angle 36T: 10°
- Compatibility: Backwards compatible with ISO, Classic and Boost hubs since the 1990s
- Availability: Available now from authorised Chris King dealers
A Chris King hub that rolls over the trails in a whisper instead of with the sound of an angry swarm of bees? Hard to imagine, really. In addition to the extremely durable technology, the unmistakable sound has always been one of the main arguments in favour of the noble hubs from Portland. However, the new freewheel option could offer advantages, especially on demanding trails where you are dependent on the feedback from your bike. Stefan Frey - BIKE Editor
Stefan Frey
Editor
