Hub spacing is one of the key factors to consider when selecting the right wheels for your bike. This critical measurement determines how the wheel fits into the frame. Bike hub standards can be confusing, and the wrong measurement can lead to incompatibility.

In this blog post, we aim to provide you with a clear understanding of hub spacing standards to help you make an informed decision when choosing your bike's wheels.

1. Quick Guide to Bike Hub Spacing Standards

There are four common bike hub spacing standards. They are:

- 100mm front quick-release spacing

- 135mm rear quick-release spacing

- 110mm front thru-axle spacing

- 142mm rear thru-axle spacing

Thru-axle refers to a type of axle that threads through the wheel hub and is secured on the other side, while quick-release refers to the skewer that tightens down on the axle to hold the wheel in place.



2. What’s the difference between quick-release and thru-axle?

Quick-release hubs are often used on rim brake bikes, while thru-axle hubs are used for disc brake bikes. Thru-axle hubs have a larger diameter than quick release, which means they provide more stiffness and stability. They also help to reduce rotor rub and wheel flex – two of the biggest issues that can lead to poor braking performance.

3. What hub spacing is most common?

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. Before purchasing a new wheelset or bike frame, always check the hub spacing to ensure compatibility.

4. What hub spacing should I choose?

The perfect hub spacing you need should depend on the type of biking you intend to do. If you’re a roadie, you would most likely need a 100/130mm quick-release spacing. For mountain biking, you would most likely need a 110/142mm thru-axle. Remember, when choosing hub spacing, it’s always better to go with the standard size. This will make it easier to find replacement parts, such as wheels and cassettes.

5. How do I measure hub spacing?

If you want to know the hub spacing of your bike, you need to measure the space between the inside of the dropouts where the wheel fits in. For quick-release hubs, measure the distance between the two ends of the skewer. For thru-axle hubs, measure the internal width of the dropouts which will be the same as the distance between the two ends of the axle.

Conclusion:

Understanding hub spacing standards is essential when it comes to choosing the right wheels for your bike. Knowing the right hub spacing measurement ensures compatibility with your frame and helps to ensure that you can easily replace your wheels and other parts when it matters the most.

Remember, taking a little time to research and understand the hub spacing standards will save you time and money in the long run. So, take the time to check the measurements before making any purchase, and always ride safely with the perfect wheels for your bike.