Chris King's Precision Components has recently made some exciting updates to their hub tuning options, with a focus on improving performance and offering more customization. The company, a long-standing sponsor of the Santa Cruz Syndicate, has introduced a new 36-tooth RingDrive option for their King hubs, which promises to enhance speed and reduce drag. This development is particularly significant for professional riders, as it can contribute to those crucial milliseconds in high-level competitions.
The new 36T hub is a result of Chris King's collaboration with the Syndicate team, who believe in the potential of this innovation. According to Kirby Bedsaul, Chris King's president, the team saw notable improvements in speed and noise reduction during testing. This is a bold move, as the traditional 72-tooth RingDrive has been a staple in the industry for years. But here's where it gets controversial: some riders might prefer the familiarity of the older design, while others will embrace the faster, more efficient option.
The new RingDrive is designed to be compatible with all previous ISO, Classic, and Boost Chris King hubs, ensuring a smooth transition for existing users. This backward compatibility is a thoughtful consideration, as it allows riders to upgrade without having to replace their entire wheel setup. The RingDrive kits are available for purchase at a retail price of $150 USD, either directly from Chris King or through their authorized retailers.
In addition to the new RingDrive, Chris King is also expanding its hub offerings with the introduction of 6-bolt hubs in SuperBoost spacing. This move brings a more common standard to their full Mountain Hub lineup, providing riders with more options to suit their specific needs. The company had previously phased out 6-bolt hubs, but has now re-introduced them to meet demand. The SuperBoost 6-bolt rear hubs are priced at $590 USD, offering an affordable entry point into the world of Chris King's advanced hub technology.
These updates demonstrate Chris King's commitment to innovation and performance, while also acknowledging the importance of rider preference and customization. As the company continues to push the boundaries of hub design, it will be interesting to see how these new options are received by the cycling community. So, what do you think? Are you a fan of the new RingDrive or the classic 72-tooth design? Share your thoughts in the comments below!
