BMX Hubs Buyers Guide

Whether you're shopping for a hub on its own to build your own Custom Wheel or looking at complete pre-built wheels, understanding what features you need in a hub is key. Different hubs have features which will suit different types of riding. Read on to learn more and what will suit you and your riding style.

Size Standards

BMX hubs (except race-specific hubs) typically have standard sizes, so they will fit nearly all BMX bikes. As standard, all wheels/hubs on a BMX wheel use 36 spokes, and front hubs come with 10mm (3/8") axles and rear hubs come with a stronger 14mm axle diameter. Unlike other bicycles, BMX hubs are a standardised width, so they will fit all forks and frames.

Freestyle Front Hubs

Front hubs are simpler in design, typically using sealed bearings for smooth, low-maintenance performance. Many freestyle riders choose front hubs with hub guards, which protect the hub and spokes during grinds.

Freestyle Rear Hubs

Rear hubs are more complex and come in two main styles: Cassette Hubs and Freecoaster Hubs. Both types typically are supplied with a one-piece cog/driver, such as a 9t or 10t size, which are best paired with 25t - 30t size sprockets.

Cassette Hubs – These are the most common choice for BMX, offering a reliable engagement system with a crisp, instant response when you start pedalling. Cassette hubs are great for street, park, and dirt riding.

Freecoaster Hubs – Freecoasters allow you to coast backwards without the cranks turning, ideal for technical tricks, fakies (riding backwards) and flatland riding, though they can feel slightly heavier and tend not to be as responsive or reliable as cassette hubs.

Male or Female Axles Explained

BMX hubs use either male or female axles. Male axles are traditional and use nuts on the outside of the dropouts for strength, making them ideal for heavy street riding. Female axles use an internal bolt system for a cleaner look and lighter weight. Premium female axles are not necessarily weaker than male axles nowadays, and keep axles out of the way when not running pegs. Female axles are nearly entirely used on front hubs now.

Race Hubs

Race hubs are similar to freestyle hubs but typically come in more options and variations, prioritising lightweight construction and strength in the drivetrain to preserve pedalling force reaching the track. Some variations of race hubs are explained below

Instant engagement: this is a term used to explain a premium mechanism in cassette hubs which don't have any gaps between freewheeling and pedalling - this allows for instant power when pedalling out of the gate or turns.

Disc brake compatible: Race hubs are often available with disc brake mounts

Axle Sizes: Race hubs are available with more options of axle sizes, such as standard 10mm, 15mm or 20mm thru-axles. The size of the axle needs to match your frame/fork sizes.