How does a Chris King Hub R45 Work and what makes it different

We talk a little about what it is that makes a Chris King hub different from other hubs in it's class. We disassemble the hub and show you the internals and explain how they work.

[Newtttton]

CK (Chris King) bike hubs are amazing when it comes to engagement and producing that satisfying hub sound. However, compared to DT Swiss hubs that use a star ratchet system, they can be a bit tricky to service as they require a special tool. DT Swiss has prioritized serviceability in their hub design, which makes them much easier to maintain than CK hubs. In fact, servicing a DT Swiss hub is quite easy - if you can fix a flat tire, you can handle the job. No special tool is required, making it a convenient option for those who like to do their own bike maintenance. So, when choosing between the two, serviceability may be a significant factor to consider.

[KimHDRoberts]

Brilliant video explaining the inner workings of CK hubs, thank you for taking the time to make and post this. CK R45 on half my fleet - problem free, simple to service. long lasting - you really do get what you pay for - top shelf product.

[adampatterson]

I have had King hubs for over 15 years but I have had 3-4 hub shells crack in that time. King has wonderful warranty and every time they took care of the problem for me.

[lafayette]

Exactly the level of detail I was looking for. Thank you.

[michaelw.lemaster]

I’ll add my 2 bits in with everybody else. I have them on all my MTB’s front/bacK, BB, headset, it’s the first thing I order after I purchase a bike or if I’m building one. I currently have 8 sets, and am saving up to build another bike, Best there is, just today I pulled a BB on a Cannondale Black inc, Scalpel b/c of some creaking. Clean, lube, Done creaking all gone. The Best Chris King. 👍😎

[crankybloke]

The maximum number of degrees for engagement is 360 / number of engagement points on the hub, (not divided by 3 in the regular hub). The CK has more engagement points giving a smaller angle of engagement.

[irsmedic]

"...[L]isten to all the sweet dulcet tones of a Chris King hub."


Brilliant!

[OneBikeForAll]

Rob, I met you when you just started experimenting with wheel building. My times of Voytek Glinkowski’s Chicagoland various Teams. I remember quality, durability over quantity focus. I could tell you would stay true to those. Thanks and CHEERS! 🚵🏻🚴🗽🍻

[Mumpitzable]

bought 7yrs old turqouse set of chris king r45 hubs and nothreadset. he said it ran 20000km... everything inside looks/works like new, the headset is smooth like butter... the golden nothreadset ive bought 15 years ago with already a little bit of rough lower bearing, was again built upside down a few yrs ago in the 2nd frame (3rd with pre owner). the formerly lower bearing (now upper) of course dont gets better, but it didnt get worse in ~30tkm of urban use with 5bar at the front... the other bearing is still perfect! so yes, its somehow worth the money, at least when you like staring at your own bikeporn.

[dwaynepedals]

Great video. I'm looking into a wheelset and considered the Chris King R45 hubs.

[andystone]

Been using CK stuff for 10 years now. MTB to begin with and 7 years of the R45s, both Road and CX disc. Only had to replace 2 main R45 hubshell bearings in 7 years. Bear in mind that I live 6 miles from the wettest place in the UK.
I'D say you get what you pay 👍

[stephenbrown]

Fantastic review guys, much appreciated and a very good lesson, 😉👌

[CHAT]

Very informative. Thank you for the video...

[binjones]

Chris King vs Joseph Kousac vs Phil Woods for wheels? I’m on a Brompton CHPT3 v3.

[jun-juncunanan]

i need to replace my driveshell bearing on iso disc hub. where can i get? im from philippines.

[theylivewesee]

did that one mechanic lost in a bet or something?? cause now I'm more interested in those painted nails then chris king hubs

[cclemoyne]

Interesting. I do like the idea of quicker engagement and that they are slightly higher flange hubs, making for shorter spokes and a stiffer wheel.

[sesarman]

How old is this 45 point ratchet design by Chris king? Asking because I'm considering buying one used bit not sure if it will be the same system

[rabs]

Mine have a little play in the back do I need a special tool to tighten it up

[greggie]

Probably the best vid explaining how they work that I've seen, thanks! But it looks like a copy of the DT Swiss star ratchet. Who was first??? Also, can someone explain what this pre-load and bearing adjustment business is all about? My DT Swiss hubs don't require any of that after reassembly. Seems unnecessary and is the main reason stopping me from trying CK...