Chris King's Precision Components: Revolutionizing Hub Tuning with Goldstone-Approved Internals
Chris King Precision Components, a long-standing sponsor of the Santa Cruz Syndicate, has made significant strides in enhancing the performance of their hubs, a component often overlooked by casual observers. These updates, inspired by the Syndicate's pursuit of precision, aim to deliver marginal gains that can make a substantial difference in high-stakes racing.
One of the key innovations is the introduction of a 36-tooth RingDrive option, a departure from the traditional 72-tooth design. This change, as explained by Chris King's President, Kirby Bedsaul, results in reduced drag, allowing the hub to roll faster. Bedsaul recalled a conversation from last summer where he hinted at these updates, driven by the desire to extract every possible millisecond advantage.
The Syndicate team, driven by data and a quest for excellence, embraced this concept. Jackson's victories in key races last season on the prototype 36T hub underscored the benefits of reduced hub drag and noise. This development exemplifies the team's commitment to pushing boundaries.
While the engagement deadband change from 5° to 10° may not suit all riders in every situation, Chris King's decision to offer tuning options is commendable. Their hubs have cultivated a dedicated following, renowned for their durability and ease of service. This new flexibility caters to those eager to experiment.
The new RingDrive is designed for backward compatibility with all ISO, Classic, and Boost Chris King hubs manufactured since the 1990s. RingDrive kits are priced at $150 USD and are available directly from Chris King or through their authorized retailers. This accessibility ensures that enthusiasts can easily upgrade their hubs.
In addition to the RingDrive updates, Chris King is expanding its product line with 6-bolt hubs in SuperBoost spacing. This move brings a widely accepted standard to their Mountain Hub lineup, complementing the Centerlock options. Initially, Chris King had phased out 6-bolt hubs, but the recent resurgence in demand prompted this strategic reintroduction. The SuperBoost 6-bolt rear hubs are priced at $590 USD.
For those eager to explore these advancements, Chris King's website (https://chrisking.com/) provides detailed information on the various options and pricing. This comprehensive approach ensures that enthusiasts can make informed decisions and fully leverage the potential of their upgraded hubs.
