What size is the rear axle on a gravel bike?
The rear axle size on a gravel bike is typically 12mm in diameter. Gravel bikes are designed for riding on mixed terrain, including paved roads, gravel paths, and light off-road conditions, and the 12mm rear axle provides the necessary strength and durability for this type of riding.
Understanding Gravel Bike Rear Axle Specifications
Gravel bikes are a relatively new category of bicycles that have become increasingly popular in recent years. These bikes are designed to bridge the gap between road bikes and mountain bikes, offering a versatile platform for riding on a variety of surfaces. One of the key components that distinguishes a gravel bike from other types of bicycles is the rear axle size.
The rear axle on a gravel bike is typically 12mm in diameter, which is larger than the 9mm axle found on many road bikes but smaller than the 15mm or 20mm axles commonly used on mountain bikes. This 12mm axle size provides a balance between the strength and stiffness required for off-road riding and the weight and efficiency needed for on-road performance.
Why 12mm Rear Axles are Ideal for Gravel Bikes
- Strength and Durability: The 12mm rear axle is more robust than the 9mm axle found on many road bikes, allowing it to withstand the increased stresses and impacts encountered on gravel and light off-road terrain.
- Improved Handling: The wider axle diameter provides a more stable and responsive platform for the rear wheel, enhancing the bike's handling characteristics and overall ride quality.
- Compatibility with Thru-Axle Systems: Many gravel bikes are equipped with thru-axle systems, which offer improved wheel retention and alignment compared to traditional quick-release skewers. The 12mm rear axle is a common standard for these thru-axle systems.
While the 12mm rear axle is the most common size for gravel bikes, it's important to note that some models may use slightly different axle diameters, such as 12.5mm or 15mm, depending on the specific design and intended use of the bike. It's always best to consult the manufacturer's specifications or the bike's documentation to ensure compatibility with any accessories or replacement parts.
What size is the rear hub on a gravel bike?
12×142
HUB AXLE STANDARDS
By the time “gravel bikes” were officially a thing, so was the 12×142 rear thru axle. So, even if you're buying used, it's highly likely that's what you'll get. Don't buy a “gravel” bike with a quick-release skewer holding the wheels in place.
What is the standard rear hub size?
The most common hub spacing standard for road bikes is 100/130mm for quick releases, while for mountain bikes is 110/142mm thru-axle. However, there are also other hub spacing standards, such as 12x142mm, 15x135mm, and 12x150mm.
What size is the rear axle on a bike?
Rear thru-axles usually measure 142mm long and have a 12mm diameter, but you used to be able to find a few bikes with 135mm thru-axles. Thru-axles often have a lever built into them, which gives you tool-free removal if you need to fix a puncture or swap a wheel.
What is the standard gravel bike hub?
Most road, CX, and gravel bikes come with 12X100mm thru axle front and 12X142mm thru axle rear. Most mountain bikes come with 15X110mm thru axle front and 12X148mm thru axle rear.
What is the axle width of a gravel bike?
Most every modern disc brake road, cyclocross and gravel bike uses a 12×100 front hub standard, and a 12x142mm rear hub standard.
What does 12x142 thru axle mean?
12 mm is the axle diameter, 142 mm refers to overall shoulder to shoulder width of hub (end cap to end cap)
Should gravel bike be same size as road bike?
However, a gravel bike will often have a longer frame reach, but ridden with a shorter stem and short reach handlebars, meaning the overall reach is similar or slightly less than a road fit, but with the benefit of less toe overlap and, in combination with a slacker head tube angle, increased stability.
