Understanding hub spacing standards can be a daunting task for someone who is just getting into cycling. Whether you’re an experienced rider or new to cycling, understanding hub spacing standards is important, as it affects the compatibility of wheels and wheelsets.

Hub spacing standards vary by country, so it’s important to understand which standards are used by the manufacturer of your bicycle. A different hub standard may require a different axle or wheel to fit your bike safely.

The most common hub spacing standards for bicycles are 130mm, 135mm, and 142mm. 130mm hub spacing is used on most road bikes and mountain bikes and is the most common hub spacing. 135mm hub spacing is found on track bikes, but it is becoming more common for road and mountain bikes. hub spacing 142mm is an uncommonly used standard, usually found on single speed bikes and cyclocross bikes.

To determine what hub spacing your bike requires, you will need to measure the distance between the center of the hub and the outside of each locknut. This will usually be either 130mm or 135mm, but may be a different measurement if your bike is using an uncommon hub spacing. Make sure you double check your measurements and double check compatibility with a qualified mechanic or bike shop before ordering a new wheel, hub, or axle.

When buying a new hub, it’s also important to understand your axle size. Usually, hubs are available in either quick-release or bolt-on axle sizes. Make sure to get the correct axle size for your hub spacing. Quick-release axles are usually 100mm for road bikes and 135mm for mountain bikes. Bolt-on axles can range from 110mm to 150mm, depending on the hub spacing.

Finally, it’s important to make sure that the hub and axle you’ve chosen are compatible with the frame and forks of your bike. Knowing the width of the frame or fork, and the designation of the frame (such as ‘road’ or ‘mountain’) are all important factors when selecting a hub and axle. Make sure to use a qualified mechanic or bike shop to ensure that the components you choose are compatible with your frame and fork.

understanding hub spacing standards is an essential part of understanding your bike and being able to choose the best components for your bike. Learning how to measure and identify your hub spacing is a great way to ensure that your bike is safe and ready for all your cycling adventures. With the correct hub spacing, your bike will be compatible with the components you need to get the most out of your ride.