Recently, the BMX world has been abuzz with the innovative shift in hub technology: the emergence of planetary hubs. Brands like BSD have led this change, especially with their eye-catching Revolution model, sparking significant curiosity among riders. In this post, we’ll take a deep dive into the workings, advantages, and potential challenges of planetary hubs, offering a comprehensive guide for every BMX enthusiast out there.
What Are Planetary Hubs?
What Are Planetary Hubs?
What Are Planetary Hubs?
Planetary hubs, a notable innovation in the BMX community, have piqued the interest of many riders, especially with the introduction of the BSD Revolution. But what exactly are they? In essence, planetary hubs can be likened to a harmonious fusion between free coasters and cassettes. This unique blend allows riders to execute maneuvers like faking without the necessity of pedaling backwards, a feature reminiscent of a free coaster. Yet, they distinguish themselves by presenting a reduced slack, an aspect commonly found in cassettes.
planetary hubs can be likened to a harmonious fusion between free coasters and cassettes.
Though the concept sounds appealing, it’s essential to note that a rider’s experience with these hubs largely hinges on their riding style. While some may find the experience seamless and enjoyable, others might encounter challenges, especially if they’re unfamiliar with the nuances of planetary hubs. Adjusting to these hubs might require understanding certain quirks and adapting one’s riding techniques.
How do they Work?
Deep Dive into Planetary Hub Functionality
Deep Dive into Planetary Hub Functionality
How Have Planetary Hubs Made Their Mark in the BMX World?
Planetary hubs, initially inspired by potential technologies in cars, have significantly impacted the BMX arena. The trailblazing BSD Revolution paved the way for this innovative hub type in BMX. Following the launch of the Revolution, notable brands such as Colony and Alieation also presented their iterations of the planetary hub, showcasing its growing popularity and acceptance in the BMX community.
What Makes Planetary Hubs a Unique Blend of Free Coaster and Cassette?
The real charm of the planetary hub lies in its fusion of free coaster and cassette characteristics. It extends the privilege of executing a fake without the need to pedal backwards, much like a free coaster. However, when it comes to slack, planetary hubs emulate cassettes by minimizing the slack that’s commonly associated with free coasters. This dual nature enhances the riding experience, offering the best of both worlds.
Why Do Riding Experiences with Planetary Hubs Vary?
The experience of using a planetary hub isn’t universal, and riders report diverse encounters. A significant concern shared by some is the unexpected locking of the hub during stunts, posing potential safety hazards. This unpredictable behavior, upon closer inspection, seems closely linked to a rider’s foot positioning during tricks. Achieving the right foot placement can mitigate these challenges, leading to a fluid and safe riding experience. It’s essential to understand and adapt to this aspect to fully harness the advantages of planetary hubs.
How Are Planetary Hubs Evolving Over Time?
The journey of planetary hubs hasn’t been static. Transitioning from male to female axles, we can see the relentless drive to refine and advance this technology. As the BMX world delves deeper into planetary hub innovations, we can anticipate the emergence of hubs with fewer quirks. This progression promises an even more refined and pleasurable BMX riding experience in the near future.
Planetary vs. Other hubs
How Does a Planetary Hub Compare to Other Hubs?
| Hub Type | Features | Advantages | Drawbacks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Planetary Hub | Hybrid between free coaster and cassette | Allows faking without pedaling backward, reduced slack | Quirks related to foot placement, potential unexpected locking |
| Free Coaster | Allows backward coasting without the chain moving | Smooth backward coasting, less likely to cause unexpected locking | More slack, needs to pedal past slack for engagement |
| Cassette | Direct engagement, doesn’t allow coasting without pedaling | Instant engagement, more predictable | Cannot perform certain tricks as smoothly as with a free coaster |
How Does a Planetary Hub Compare to Other Hubs?
The world of BMX hubs is diversifying rapidly, and with the introduction of the planetary hub, riders are finding themselves amidst an evolution. The planetary hub offers a unique blend of features, pulling from both cassettes and free coasters, making it a category of its own.
Is a Planetary Hub Truly a Hybrid?
Yes, the planetary hub acts as a hybrid. While it allows riders to fake without pedaling backwards like a free coaster, it eliminates the excessive slack found in free coasters. This makes it feel more like a cassette in terms of its responsiveness. So, for those who’ve often wished they could combine the best aspects of both worlds, this hub comes close to fulfilling that dream.
What Makes the Planetary Hub Stand Out?
With other hubs, riders might be accustomed to a particular behavior when executing tricks. However, the planetary hub introduces a learning curve. It demands precision in foot placement, especially when landing tricks like the 180. Incorrect foot placement might lead to unexpected hub behavior, which can be disconcerting for the rider. Over time and with experience, many riders adapt to these nuances and learn to leverage the hub’s unique functionalities to their advantage.
With other hubs, riders might be accustomed to a particular behavior when executing tricks. However, the planetary hub introduces a learning curve.
Should You Expect a Completely Different Experience?
While the planetary hub is different, it’s not an alien concept. It does combine the mechanics of known hub types, but introduces its own quirks. Riders should be prepared for a different riding experience, but with the right mindset and practice, this hub can offer a refreshing and versatile addition to the BMX experience.
Who is it for?
Are Planetary Hubs Suitable for All Riders?
Are Planetary Hubs Suitable for All Riders?
Planetary hubs, having garnered significant attention in the BMX world, pose an important question for enthusiasts: Are they fit for every rider? While these hubs come packed with features that combine the best of both free coasters and cassettes, it doesn’t necessarily mean they cater to all riding styles.
For instance, some riders experienced unexpected locking of the BSD Revolution hub during particular tricks. Such an unexpected occurrence can lead to discomfort, or worse, accidents. This challenge can be attributed to the rider’s foot placement during stunts. If a rider has grown accustomed to a particular style with specific hubs, this transition might become a stumbling block. On the other hand, many have not faced these issues and have smoothly incorporated the planetary hub into their riding routines.
It’s also worth noting that with the evolution of the planetary hub technology, from male to female axles, the efficiency and user-friendliness of these hubs are bound to increase. But for now, a rider contemplating the switch should be aware of the hub’s quirks. Hence, before jumping onto the planetary hub bandwagon, considering individual riding styles, techniques, and preferences is paramount.
Conclusion
Is the Planetary Hub the Future of BMX Riding?
Is the Planetary Hub the Future of BMX Riding?
Planetary hubs, a recent innovation in the BMX world, have been drawing considerable attention. Originating with the BSD Revolution, these hubs represent a fusion of the free coaster and cassette design. The key feature? It allows riders to perform a ‘fakie’ without pedaling backward, offering reduced slack compared to a traditional free coaster, making it feel more like a cassette.
Why all the buzz? Ever since the introduction of the BSD Revolution, other manufacturers like Colony and Aléation have jumped on the bandwagon, unveiling their own versions of planetary hubs. The uniqueness of this hub stems from its ability to cater to individual riding styles. A fascinating aspect of the planetary hub is that two riders can have entirely different experiences. While some may face issues with unexpected locking during certain tricks, others might find it perfectly suited to their style after overcoming initial quirks.
However, as with any new technology, the planetary hub has its learning curve. The way you engage with this hub differs from traditional hubs, requiring a certain foot placement and balance. The hub’s performance is also affected by how you execute your tricks. For example, a trick like a manual 180 can exploit the hub’s cassette-like engagement, offering versatility not found in traditional free coasters.
While the planetary hub is revolutionizing BMX riding, potential buyers should be prepared for its distinctiveness. It’s neither a pure cassette nor a free coaster – it’s a unique hybrid. As the technology matures, we can anticipate even better planetary hubs with fewer quirks. If you’re considering an upgrade, weigh the pros and cons and decide if this innovative hub aligns with your riding style and expectations.
