Why Are MTB Hubs So Loud?

There’s no denying that a bike’s rear hub has its own unique voice when freewheeling, and some hubs are much louder than others. Generally, the chatter is due to the freehub body, which contains the drive mechanism for sprockets. Before the advent of the cassette system, the sprocket set was simply screwed onto the rear hub.

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Fast engagement

Fast engagement on MTB hubs provides the rider with a number of advantages. Firstly, it makes it easier to accelerate out of a corner and to transfer power quickly. This can be a huge advantage, especially when tackling technical climbs.

More pawls

A more expensive mtb hub will typically have more pawls than its lower-end counterpart. These pawls are a way to increase the amount of power the wheel can generate when pedalling. Each pawl has its own angle and pushes against a toothed ring. This action results in more noise, but more pawls means more power.

Longer cranks

Longer cranks can cause MTB hubs to be very loud, particularly when mated with large chainrings. However, you should note that you can reduce the noise by using hubs that feature a low angle of engagement. This will reduce the backlash in the cranks. The angle of engagement between the crank and hub will depend on your bike’s gearing and crank size.

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Cheap hubs

Cheap MTB hubs are loud for a few reasons. First, they produce loud sounds, which are important for alerting you to freewheeling or other bike noises. Secondly, they drown out other bike noises, making it easier to focus on the road.

Steel

While many steel mtb hubs are noisy, there are several factors to consider before purchasing one. Some people may choose to go with a hub that doesn’t make a sound while others may choose a loud hub that is easy to hear. Generally, you should choose a hub that is quiet and well-constructed rather than one that is loud and unsightly.

Aluminum hubs

Aluminum hubs are a common component of road and mountain bike hubs. They are lightweight, durable, and made of lightweight aluminum and titanium. The King hubset weighs in at just under five hundred grams per pair. It comes in black, silver, and red. It is made in the United States, and the suggested retail price is $485.

BMX hubs

There are a few reasons why BMX hubs are so loud. For one, they can make people around you more aware of your presence. Others say that the sound helps them focus when they’re on the road. However, it can also make passing other cyclists a difficult task, especially if you’re riding in a residential area.

Shimano freehubs

Freehubs can be very loud. Some are much quieter than others. Shimano produces a much cheaper freehub that barely makes any noise. However, this feature may not trickle down to lower-priced hubs or wheels.