Unveiling the New Chris King Hub Tuning Revolution: A Game-Changer for Mountain Biking Enthusiasts!
The quest for speed and precision in mountain biking has led to an exciting development from Chris King Precision Components, a long-time partner of the Santa Cruz Syndicate.
While the average rider might not delve into the intricacies of hub specifications, the pros at the top of their game are always seeking that extra edge. And that's exactly what Chris King is offering with their latest innovation.
The Secret Sauce: Unlocking Speed with Reduced Drag
Traditionally, King hubs have featured a 72-tooth RingDrive, but the brand is now introducing a game-changing 36-tooth option. This coarser RingDrive allows for faster rolling, thanks to reduced drag. It's a subtle yet powerful upgrade, and one that Chris King's president, Kirby Bedsaul, hinted at during a conversation last summer.
The Data-Driven Decision: Santa Cruz Syndicate's Stamp of Approval
The Syndicate team, always on the hunt for those precious milliseconds, has put their faith in this concept. Jackson, a key rider on the team, won last season's races on the prototype 36T hub, which significantly reduces hub drag and noise. Kirby Bedsaul emphasizes, "The team believes in the concept and the data. At this level, every millisecond counts, and this update is a meaningful step towards that goal."
A Cult Following, Reinforced: The Appeal of Chris King Hubs
But here's where it gets controversial: while the 10° engagement deadband might not suit every rider in every scenario, Chris King is opening up a world of tuning options for those who crave experimentation. Their hubs have garnered a dedicated following, renowned for their impressive durability and ease of service. It's a testament to the brand's commitment to quality and innovation.
Backwards Compatibility and Accessibility
The new Buzzworks 36T RingDrive is backwards compatible with all previous ISO, Classic, and Boost Chris King hubs dating back to the 1990s. This means riders can easily upgrade their existing hubs without starting from scratch. The RingDrive kits retail for a reasonable $150 USD and are available directly from Chris King or their authorized retailers.
Expanding Horizons: Introducing 6-Bolt Hubs
In addition to the new internals, Chris King is also launching 6-bolt hubs in their SuperBoost spacing option. This move brings the more common standard to their full Mountain Hub lineup, alongside the Centerlock options. King had previously phased out 6-bolt hubs but has now reintroduced them to meet the demands of their diverse customer base. The SuperBoost 6-bolt rear hubs start at $590 USD.
The Bottom Line: A Revolution in Hub Tuning
Chris King's latest offerings are a testament to their commitment to innovation and rider satisfaction. With these new tuning options, riders can fine-tune their setup to their exact preferences.
And this is the part most people miss: it's not just about the components; it's about the experience and the journey. Chris King invites riders to explore, experiment, and find their perfect setup.
So, what do you think? Are you ready to join the Chris King cult and unlock the full potential of your mountain biking experience? The choice is yours, and the possibilities are endless.
For more information on these exciting new options and pricing, be sure to check out Chris King's website (https://chrisking.com/).
