Collection: Bicycle Hubs & Spares

A bicycle hub is the central part of the wheel that connects the rim to the bike via the spokes and axle. It houses the bearings, which allow the wheel to spin smoothly, and the freehub or freewheel mechanism, which controls how the bike engages and coasts. As a critical part of the wheel, the hub plays a major role in performance, efficiency, and durability.

There are two main types of hubs: front hubs and rear hubs. Front hubs are simpler, consisting of an axle and bearings that allow the front wheel to rotate. Rear hubs are more complex because they also house the freehub or freewheel mechanism that drives the bike when you pedal. Rear hubs can be designed for different drivetrains, axle types, and spacing standards, so it’s important to choose the right one for your bike.

Signs that your hub needs servicing include rough or gritty feeling bearings, excessive play or looseness in the wheel, and unusual noises such as grinding or clicking. Poor engagement when pedalling or slipping under load are also signs that the freehub mechanism may require attention. Regular servicing can prevent damage and extend the life of both the hub and wheel.

Hub spares typically include replacement bearings, freehub bodies, axles, end caps, and pawls or springs for the engagement system. These spares allow you to maintain and repair your hub rather than replacing the entire unit. At BETD, we supply high-quality replacement parts for various hubs to help keep your wheels running smoothly and efficiently.

Our hub spares are designed for specific hubs and models, so compatibility depends on the brand and type of hub you own. For example, different freehubs are required for Shimano, SRAM, or Campagnolo drivetrains, and bearings must match the exact size used in your hub. Each product page lists compatibility details, and our team can help if you are unsure which spare you need.

How often you service your hubs depends on riding conditions and mileage. For regular road or trail use, hubs should be checked and serviced every six to twelve months. Riders in muddy, wet, or sandy environments may need to perform maintenance more frequently. Regular inspection and timely servicing help prevent costly damage and keep your wheels spinning freely.

In many cases, yes. If your rim and spokes are in good condition, you can replace or upgrade just the hub by having the wheel rebuilt by a skilled wheel builder. This allows you to enjoy the benefits of a higher quality or more modern hub, such as better engagement or improved sealing, without the expense of a completely new wheel.

The freehub body is the part of the rear hub that your cassette attaches to. It contains the engagement mechanism, usually pawls or ratchets, that drive the bike forward when you pedal. Over time, freehub bodies can wear down, develop notches from cassette sprockets, or lose engagement precision. Replacement is necessary if engagement becomes unreliable or if the freehub develops excessive wear.