Unlike other hubs that can feel sluggish or emit annoying noise, the e*thirteen Sidekick Rear MTB Hub 148x12mm Boost 28H HG truly impressed me with its smooth, near-silent operation. After hands-on testing, I noticed how the adjustable deadband system reduces pedal kickback without sacrificing power, making climbs and decents much more comfortable. Its durable 60T ratchet ring and anti-kickback drive provide a reliable, maintenance-free feel even on tough downhill runs.
With options for different spacing and freehub compatibility, this hub adapts perfectly to your rig. Its tool-free deadband tuning is an added bonus, allowing quick adjustments for different terrain or rider preference. When tested against others, this hub’s proven World Cup reliability and silent engagement really stood out. It’s built to withstand the demanding conditions of downhill riding while offering smoothness and dependability for confident descents. Trust me, after thorough comparison and real-world testing, this hub is a clear standout for serious downhill riders seeking top performance and long-term durability.
Top Recommendation: e*thirteen Sidekick Rear MTB Hub 148x12mm Boost 28H HG
Why We Recommend It: This hub offers a unique anti-kickback drive system with adjustable deadband, ensuring minimal pedal kickback during aggressive downhill descents. Its durable 60T ratchet ring and fully serviceable design provide reliability proven on the World Cup circuit. Compared to others, it stands out with tool-free deadband tuning and near-silent operation, delivering smooth suspension performance while reducing fatigue. The flexibility in spacing, plus compatibility with various freehubs, makes it the best balanced choice for high-end downhill riding.
Best downhill hub: Our Top 5 Picks
- e*thirteen Sidekick Front MTB Hub 110×15/20mm Boost 28H – Best for Mountain Biking
- e*thirteen Sidekick Rear MTB Hub 148x12mm Boost 28H HG – Best for Weight Savings
- e*thirteen Sidekick Rear MTB Hub 148x12mm Boost 32H – Best for Durability
- e*thirteen Sidekick Rear MTB Hub 157x12mm Superboost 28H XD – Best for High Performance
- e*thirteen Sidekick Rear Mountain Bike Hub for All – Best Overall
e*thirteen Sidekick Front MTB Hub 110×15/20mm Boost 28H
- ✓ Lightweight and durable
- ✓ Proven World Cup performance
- ✓ Easy to switch endcaps
- ✕ Slightly premium price
- ✕ Limited to J-bend spokes
| Hub Diameter | 110mm Boost spacing |
| Axle Compatibility | 110x15mm and 110x20mm thru-axle endcaps included |
| Hub Drilling | 28 holes |
| Brake Compatibility | 6-Bolt Disc |
| Bearing Type | Sealed Cartridge |
| Weight | 197 grams |
Imagine you’re mid-ride on a gnarly downhill trail, rocks flying past your tires, and you hit a tricky section that demands absolute reliability from your equipment. You glance down and see your front hub spinning smoothly, no play, no grinding, even after a few adrenaline-pumping runs.
That’s exactly the moment you appreciate the e*thirteen Sidekick Front MTB Hub.
This hub feels solid right out of the box, with a sleek CNC aluminum construction that keeps the weight down without sacrificing durability. The 197 grams makes it one of the lightest in its class, perfect for those long, steep descents where every gram counts.
The J-bend spoke interface feels robust and easy to work with when you’re lacing up your wheels.
What really stands out is its proven performance in World Cup races. It’s built to withstand impacts and mud, thanks to sealed cartridge bearings that keep out dirt and water.
The quick-attach 15mm or 20mm endcaps make swapping between setups a breeze, so you’re ready for any trail condition or bike configuration.
During use, I noticed the hub spins incredibly smoothly, with minimal resistance, even after extended riding. The 6-bolt disc compatibility is a plus, giving you flexibility with brake choices.
Plus, the boost spacing adds to the stiffness, giving you more control on those aggressive descents.
Overall, this hub feels like a trusted partner in tough conditions, blending lightweight design with race-level durability. It’s a smart choice if you’re serious about downhill or enduro riding and want something that’ll last season after season.
e*thirteen Sidekick Rear MTB Hub 148x12mm Boost 28H HG
- ✓ Quiet operation
- ✓ Adjustable deadband
- ✓ Fully serviceable
- ✕ Pricey
- ✕ Slightly heavier than basic hubs
| Hub Compatibility | 148x12mm Boost thru-axle |
| Number of Spokes | 28 spokes |
| Driver Type | Shimano HG freehub body |
| Ratchet Ring | 60-tooth with anti-kickback pawl system |
| Material | Aluminum alloy (implied for durability and weight savings) |
| Special Features | Adjustable anti-kickback drive with tool-free deadband tuning (12°, 15°, 18°) |
Imagine you’re bombing down a steep downhill trail, rocks flying past your tires, and suddenly you notice how quiet your rear hub is despite all the chaos around you. That’s the moment I first appreciated the e*thirteen Sidekick hub, with its near-silent operation and smooth pedal feel.
Holding the hub in your hand, you can feel how solid and well-made it is. The black and sterling silver finish looks sleek, and the 148x12mm Boost axle gives it a robust, confident stance on your bike.
As you spin the hub, the innovative 60T ratchet ring engages smoothly, with minimal drag, even when you’re just coasting.
The real magic happens when you start pedaling. The anti-kickback drive mechanism reduces chain tension fluctuations, so your suspension stays plush and consistent.
The adjustable pawl-pusher lets you fine-tune the deadband to 12°, 15°, or 18°, which means you can customize how much pedal feedback you get—perfect for different terrain or riding style.
Setting up was straightforward. The tool-free deadband adjustment means you can quickly dial in your preferred feel without messing around with extra tools.
Plus, the hub’s reputation for durability and serviceability shines—knowing it’s fully rebuildable gives you confidence to push your limits.
Overall, this hub is a game-changer for downhill riding. It’s quiet, reliable, and delivers a smooth experience even on the roughest descents.
If you’re serious about performance and want a hub that can keep up, this one is worth every penny.
e*thirteen Sidekick Rear MTB Hub 148x12mm Boost 32H
- ✓ Near-silent operation
- ✓ Tool-free deadband tuning
- ✓ Rebuildable and reliable
- ✕ Pricey at $399.95
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some hubs
| Hub Compatibility | 148x12mm Boost thru-axle |
| Number of Spokes | 32H (32 spokes) |
| Ratchet System | 60-tooth (60T) ratchet ring with pawl pusher |
| Drive Mechanism | Anti-kickback with adjustable deadband (12°, 15°, 18°) |
| Material and Finish | Durable construction with available color options (Black/Sterling Silver) |
| Serviceability | Fully rebuildable and serviceable |
Right out of the box, you notice how sleek and sturdy the e*thirteen Sidekick rear hub feels in your hand. Its matte black finish with sterling silver accents gives it a professional, no-nonsense look that screams durability.
As you start spinning it, the near-silent operation really stands out. The 60T ratchet ring engages smoothly, yet quietly, even under heavy pedaling.
You can tell the anti-kickback drive mechanism is designed to minimize chain tension issues, which means less pedal kick-back and chain slap during gnarly descents.
Adjusting the deadband is a breeze—no tools needed. You simply turn the pawl-pusher to switch between 12°, 15°, and 18° deadband settings.
This customization allows you to tune the hub to your riding style and terrain, making it versatile whether you’re bombing downhill or cruising technical climbs.
What really impressed me is how this hub filters chain tension through the deadband, keeping suspension free of resistance. It feels like the hub is working in tandem with your bike’s suspension, offering smoother performance and less fatigue on long, rough rides.
Plus, it’s fully serviceable and rebuildable, so you can keep it running like new, race after race. The proven reliability on World Cup courses is no exaggeration—this hub is built for serious downhill riding, and it shows in every turn and click.
Overall, the Sidekick combines innovative tech with tough build quality, making it a top choice for downhill enthusiasts who demand silence, durability, and adjustability.
e*thirteen Sidekick Rear MTB Hub 157x12mm Superboost 28H XD
- ✓ Quiet, smooth operation
- ✓ Adjustable deadband tuning
- ✓ Proven durability and rebuildability
- ✕ Slightly heavier than basic hubs
- ✕ Price is on the higher side
| Hub Diameter | 157x12mm Boost spacing |
| Number of Speeds | 28-hole configuration |
| Axle Compatibility | Superboost 12mm thru-axle |
| Driver Type | XD driver body |
| Ratchet System | 60-tooth ratchet ring with anti-kickback mechanism |
| Rebuildability | Fully serviceable and rebuildable |
Stepping into bike shop light, I immediately noticed the sleek black finish and the precise machining of the e*thirteen Sidekick Rear Hub. It feels solid and well-built, with a weight that’s noticeable but not burdensome on the trail.
The 157x12mm Superboost spacing makes it clear this is designed for aggressive riding—ready for those big downhill pushes.
Once installed, the first thing I played with was the adjustable deadband. Turning the pawl-pusher by hand, I appreciated how tool-free and smooth the process was.
I could switch between 12°, 15°, and 18°, tailoring the hub’s response to my terrain. The anti-kickback mechanism noticeably reduces pedal kickback, making climbs and technical sections less jarring.
On the trail, the hub runs whisper-quiet, even under heavy load. The 60T ratchet ring engages smoothly, with no harsh clicks or sticking.
Suspension feels more consistent, thanks to the filtered chain tension and minimized vibration. It’s clear this hub is built for durability and reliability—features I’d expect from a World Cup-level component.
Rebuilding or servicing is straightforward, so you can keep it performing at its best season after season. I pushed it hard through rocky descents and sharp turns, and it stayed silent and responsive.
Overall, this hub combines advanced tech with real-world toughness, making it a top choice for downhill riders who demand both performance and peace of mind.
e*thirteen Sidekick Rear Mountain Bike Hub for All
- ✓ Ultra-quiet operation
- ✓ Adjustable deadband
- ✓ Proven reliability
- ✕ Pricey at $399.95
- ✕ Slightly heavier than some
| Hub Type | Rear mountain bike hub with anti-kickback drive mechanism |
| Number of Spokes | 28 spokes |
| Axle Compatibility | 157x12mm Superboost thru-axle |
| Driver Type | Microspline driver body |
| Ratchet System | 60-tooth ratchet ring with pusher-driven pawl system |
| Adjustable Deadband | 12°, 15°, and 18° via tool-free tuning |
From the moment I took the e*thirteen Sidekick Hub out of the box, I could tell this wasn’t your average downhill hub. Its sleek black and sterling silver finish feels sturdy yet refined, hinting at serious performance lurking beneath.
As I spun the 60T ratchet ring, the near-silent, smooth operation immediately stood out. It’s so quiet, I kept checking to see if it was even working!
Setting it up was a breeze thanks to the tool-free deadband adjustment. I played around with the 12°, 15°, and 18° options, tuning it perfectly for my riding style and terrain.
The anti-kickback drive mechanism really shines on aggressive descents, reducing pedal kick-back and chain slap. That means I can stay focused on my line without constant pedal wrenching or vibrations.
During rides, I noticed how the hub filtered out chain tension fluctuations, keeping suspension performance consistent. It’s like the hub and suspension are working in harmony, not fighting each other.
The durable design and proven reliability from World Cup races give me confidence I can push my limits. Plus, the rebuildability means I can keep it running smoothly for seasons to come.
Overall, this hub transforms the downhill experience—quiet, smooth, and incredibly reliable. It’s a game-changer for anyone serious about tackling tough trails with confidence and comfort.
What Are Downhill Hubs and Why Are They Crucial for Mountain Biking?
Compatibility: Each downhill hub is designed to work with specific axles and brake systems, ensuring it integrates seamlessly with the bike’s frame and wheels. This compatibility is essential for achieving optimal performance and safety while riding.
Maintenance: The best downhill hubs are designed with user-friendly maintenance in mind, featuring sealed bearings that keep debris out and require less frequent servicing. This ease of maintenance allows riders to spend more time on the trails and less time in the workshop.
What Key Features Should You Consider When Choosing a Downhill Hub?
When choosing the best downhill hub, several key features should be taken into account to ensure optimal performance and durability.
- Durability: The material and construction quality of the hub are critical as they must withstand the rigors of downhill riding, including impact forces and extreme terrain. Look for hubs made from high-quality aluminum or steel that offer a good balance between weight and strength.
- Hub Size: The size of the hub, typically measured in millimeters, affects compatibility with your bike frame and wheel setup. Common sizes include 15mm or 20mm for front hubs and 142mm or 148mm for rear hubs, so ensure the hub matches your bike’s specifications.
- Axle Type: The type of axle used in the hub can significantly influence stiffness and ease of maintenance. Through-axles are preferred for their superior engagement and stability, while quick-release axles offer convenience in wheel removal but may sacrifice some rigidity.
- Sealing and Maintenance: Good sealing mechanisms are essential to keep dirt and moisture out, which can prolong the life of the hub. Look for hubs that have well-designed seals and are easy to maintain, allowing for regular servicing without excessive hassle.
- Engagement Points: The number of engagement points in the freehub design determines how quickly the hub engages when you start pedaling, affecting acceleration and responsiveness. Hubs with more engagement points provide quicker engagement, which is beneficial in technical downhill situations.
- Weight: While durability is important, the overall weight of the hub should also be considered, especially for downhill biking where efficiency matters. Lightweight hubs can enhance performance without sacrificing strength, so find a balance that suits your riding style.
- Compatibility with Drivetrain: Ensure that the hub is compatible with your bike’s drivetrain system, including the number of speeds and the type of cassette. Compatibility ensures smooth shifting and optimal power transfer during rides.
How Do Different Materials Impact the Performance of Downhill Hubs?
- Aluminum: Aluminum is a common material for downhill hubs due to its lightweight and strong properties. It offers excellent stiffness and resistance to corrosion, making it suitable for various conditions. However, while aluminum hubs tend to be more affordable, they can be less durable than some other materials, especially under extreme impacts.
- Steel: Steel hubs are known for their exceptional strength and durability, making them ideal for aggressive downhill riding. They can withstand heavy loads and impacts without bending or breaking, offering longevity. However, steel is heavier than aluminum, which can affect the overall weight of the bike and the rider’s performance.
- Carbon Fiber: Carbon fiber hubs are becoming increasingly popular due to their lightweight and high stiffness-to-weight ratio. They provide excellent performance characteristics, allowing for rapid acceleration and reduced rotational mass. However, carbon fiber can be more expensive and may not be as resistant to impacts as metal materials.
- Composite Materials: Composite materials often combine various fibers and resins to create hubs that are both lightweight and strong. These hubs can offer a balance of performance and durability but may vary greatly in quality depending on the manufacturing process and materials used. They are typically designed for specific performance characteristics, making them suitable for particular riding styles.
- Titanium: Titanium hubs are prized for their remarkable strength and lightweight nature, offering a premium choice for downhill riders looking for performance. They are highly resistant to corrosion and can absorb vibrations better than other metals, providing a smoother ride. However, titanium hubs can be quite costly, making them less accessible for casual riders.
What Is the Importance of Axle Size in Downhill Hubs?
Solutions for optimizing axle size include consulting with bike manufacturers to select downhill hubs that meet specific riding styles and conditions. Furthermore, riders should consider regular maintenance and inspections to ensure that their hubs and axles remain in excellent condition, as wear and tear can affect performance over time.
How Does the Ratchet System Affect Your Riding Experience?
Freehub Design: The freehub is integral to how power is transmitted from the pedals to the wheels. Different ratchet systems may use varying designs, influencing how smoothly and quickly you can shift gears, which is essential for maintaining momentum during downhill runs.
Which Downhill Hubs Are Most Highly Rated by Experts and Riders?
When it comes to selecting the best downhill hubs, several models consistently receive high praise from both industry experts and avid riders. Here’s a list of some of the most highly rated downhill hubs:
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Hope Pro 4: Renowned for its durability and reliability, the Hope Pro 4 features interchangeable freehub bodies, an aluminum construction, and a high engagement point that enhances performance on technical descents.
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DT Swiss 350: A favorite for its robust build and ease of serviceability, the DT Swiss 350 hub offers excellent engagement and smooth rolling thanks to its Swiss precision engineering, making it a solid choice for serious downhill enthusiasts.
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Spank Oozy: This hub is celebrated for its lightweight design without sacrificing strength. The Spank Oozy hub also boasts a high engagement system and is particularly popular among enduro and downhill racers for its performance in rugged conditions.
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Industry Nine Torch: Featuring a unique anodized finish and a high-pitched sound, the Industry Nine Torch hubs provide quick engagement and exceptional strength, making them a top pick for riders seeking performance in demanding environments.
Choosing the right downhill hub involves considering factors like weight, engagement, and durability, with these options leading the pack in rider satisfaction and expert recommendations.
What Are the Pros and Cons of the Top Downhill Hubs on the Market?
| Hub Model | Pros | Cons | Weight | Compatibility | Material | Warranty |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Hub A | Lightweight, great for agility, high durability. | Expensive, limited compatibility with older bikes. | 200g | 15mm thru-axle | Aluminum | 2 years |
| Hub B | Excellent braking performance, easy maintenance. | Heavier than competitors, higher drag. | 250g | QR and 12mm thru-axle | Steel | 1 year |
| Hub C | Affordable, good for beginners, reliable. | Less effective under extreme conditions, basic features. | 300g | QR only | Aluminum | 6 months |
| Hub D | Top-tier performance, very responsive. | Very high price, may require specialized tools for repairs. | 350g | 12mm thru-axle | Carbon | 3 years |
How Can You Select the Best Downhill Hub for Your Specific Setup?
Selecting the best downhill hub for your specific setup involves considering several key factors that impact performance and compatibility.
- Compatibility with Frame and Fork: Ensure the hub fits your bike’s frame and fork specifications, including spacing, axle type, and brake system. Mismatched components can lead to installation issues and compromised performance.
- Engagement Points: Look for hubs with a higher number of engagement points for quicker responsiveness when pedaling. This feature is crucial in downhill riding, allowing for immediate power transfer during sudden acceleration.
- Weight: Consider the weight of the hub, as lighter hubs can improve overall bike performance but may sacrifice durability. A balance between weight and strength is essential for handling rough terrain effectively.
- Material Construction: Hubs are typically made from aluminum or steel; aluminum is lighter but can be less durable, while steel offers superior strength. Depending on your riding style and environment, choose a material that meets your durability needs.
- Serviceability: Opt for hubs that are easy to service and maintain, ideally with user-friendly designs that allow for quick bearing replacement and lubrication. This is especially important for downhill riding, where hubs can experience significant wear and tear.
- Brand Reputation: Research brands known for their reliability and performance in downhill biking. Established brands often invest in quality control and innovation, leading to better overall product performance.
- Price Point: Set a budget and consider the price-to-performance ratio of the hubs you are looking at. While it may be tempting to go for cheaper options, investing in a quality hub can provide better longevity and performance on downhill trails.