What size is the rear axle on a gravel bike?
As gravel biking continues to gain popularity, many enthusiasts are curious about the specifications that can enhance their riding experience. One crucial aspect of a gravel bike's design is the rear axle size, which plays a significant role in performance, stability, and compatibility with various components. In this article, we will explore the common rear axle sizes found on gravel bikes and their implications for riders.
Common Rear Axle Sizes
Gravel bikes typically come with two main rear axle sizes: 135mm and 142mm. Understanding these sizes can help you make informed decisions when purchasing a bike or upgrading components.
- 135mm: This is the traditional size for many gravel bikes, especially those designed for versatility and compatibility with older mountain bike components. It allows for a wider range of wheel options.
- 142mm: This size is becoming increasingly popular due to its enhanced stiffness and stability. It is often found on newer gravel bike models and is designed to accommodate wider tires and disc brakes more effectively.
Choosing between these sizes often depends on your riding style and the specific features you desire in a gravel bike. If you prefer a bike that can handle a variety of terrains and conditions, a 135mm axle may be suitable. However, for those seeking improved performance and stability, a 142mm axle is recommended.
Benefits of the Right Rear Axle Size
Selecting the appropriate rear axle size can significantly impact your gravel biking experience. Here are some benefits associated with each size:
- 135mm:
- Greater compatibility with older components.
- More options for wheel upgrades and replacements.
- 142mm:
- Increased stiffness for better power transfer.
- Improved handling and stability on rough terrain.
- Better alignment for disc brakes, enhancing braking performance.
Ultimately, the right rear axle size can enhance your bike's performance and your overall riding experience. It's essential to consider your riding style and the types of terrain you plan to tackle when making your choice.
Conclusion
Understanding the rear axle size on gravel bikes is crucial for both new and experienced riders. Whether you opt for the traditional 135mm or the more modern 142mm, each size offers unique benefits that can cater to different riding preferences. By making an informed decision, you can ensure that your gravel bike meets your needs and enhances your adventures on the trails.
Frequently Asked Questions
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 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 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 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 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.
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.
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)
