Chris King is shaking things up in the world of cycling! The iconic brand has just unveiled a game-changer for riders seeking every possible advantage.
Chris King Precision Components, a renowned name in the industry, has a long-standing partnership with the Santa Cruz Syndicate. While the hub specifications on a World Cup DH-winning bike might go unnoticed by many, Chris King is proving that small changes can lead to significant performance gains.
Here's the twist: Chris King is introducing a 36-tooth RingDrive option for their hubs, replacing the traditional 72-tooth version. This seemingly subtle change has a big impact. By reducing the number of teeth, the hub experiences less drag, allowing it to roll faster. Kirby Bedsaul, the president of Chris King, hinted at this innovation during a summer conversation, and the results are now clear.
But here's where it gets controversial... The Syndicate team is all-in on this idea, believing it will shave off those crucial milliseconds in race conditions. Jackson, a team member, even won key races last season using a prototype of this 36T hub. However, there's a catch. The new RingDrive has a 10° engagement deadband, which might not suit every rider's preference. It's a trade-off between speed and engagement precision.
Chris King's new Buzzworks 36T RingDrive is compatible with all their hubs made since the 1990s, offering an easy upgrade path. The RingDrive kits are available for $150 USD, a small price to pay for those seeking that extra edge.
Additionally, Chris King is reintroducing 6-bolt hubs in their SuperBoost spacing option, catering to popular demand. These hubs start at $590 USD, providing riders with more choices to customize their ride.
And this is the part most people miss: Chris King's attention to detail and willingness to innovate could be a game-changer for competitive cyclists. Are these marginal gains worth the investment? What do you think? Share your thoughts in the comments, especially if you've had first-hand experience with these new hub options!
