after a couple of years the color started to fade(red).
Similar Products Used:
headset
Bike Setup:
rocky mountain vertex t.o., raceface, xtr,chris king hubs and headset
Bottom Line:
wonderful product, but didn't get a chance to get the shell replace due to the store's closing. wondering if the company still can make the exchange after the warrenty period ran out.
gave it 3 chilis because my otherwise awesome looking bike is marred only by the faded hub.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dustin
a Weekend Warrior
from NC, USA Date Reviewed: December 10, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Tsali, Oak Mountain (AL), Big Mountain (MT)
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
ebay
Strengths:
Bulletproof (for me at least), Impeccable customer service, Hubs are on their second build
Bike Setup:
Kona Explosif w/ xt, xtr, race face
Bottom Line:
I snagged a built wheelset on ebay for less than $400. Get a good deal if you can, 'cause they're pricey if you pay retail.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
depp
a Cross Country Rider
from Methcondido Date Reviewed: October 2, 2008
Favorite Trail:
Elfin forrest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Ebay
Strengths:
Stiff as they come, the sound is appealing, and unique. The hub is indistructable, and bearings can be serviced by the purchaser. Compared to Mavic crossmax there is no comparison. This will be the only hubs you'll buy. Customer service is top notch.
Weaknesses:
Price but hey you get what you pay for, and they need to move to straight pull spokes for durability issues, regarding the spokes of course.
Similar Products Used:
Crossmax Crossride whats the differance.
Bike Setup:
Intense tracer Chris King USA
Bottom Line:
These hubs are the last hubs you'll buy. Dont buy the foreign junk. If you want the best these are them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brady
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, Utah, USA Date Reviewed: July 13, 2007
Favorite Trail:
Moore Fun
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
lbs
Strengths:
Durable, Instant engagement, User serviceable, smooth as butter.
Weaknesses:
None
Bike Setup:
Chris King Head & Hubs
Bottom Line:
I've had these hubs for eleven years, I HAVE NEVER EVER HAD ONE SINGLE PROBLEM WITH THEM, AND THUS, NO REGRETS. I have worn out three sets of rims and two bicycles with this single set of hubs! They are now on a third bike! I believe the secret to their success is all due to the engenieering genius of Chris King, and his brilliant idea of a user friendly design. You don't need three hands and a vice to service these hubs, two 5mm hex wrenches slide in where your skewer lives and pow! you're in! On the trail, at the camp site or in the garage. this ease of service makes it quick and simple for you or your mechanic to tune (clean & repack) that you'll do it more often thereby extending the hubs life. (This is a preseason ritual for me.)I've put tens of thousands of miles on these hubs, oh did I mention I weigh two hundred pounds and that I love to climb and descend the harsh-bump-and-grind, trials-like, technical trails? Anyone who rides technical cross country or trials will tell you the more points of engagement your freewheel has, the better. In other words, the less you have to ratchet your cranks to find a point of engagement the easier it is to keep your pedals in their power "sweet spot" for greater control. Beg, borrow, pan-handle or simply save enough money to buy Chris King hubs! If you don't, remember this, you'll be buying twice as many inferior hubs for the same amount of benjamins and you will have spent less time on the trail! (happy trails guys and gals.)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve holcomb
a Weekend Warrior
from tampa florida Date Reviewed: March 30, 2007
Favorite Trail:
n/a
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
beyond bikes
Strengths:
5yrs old and going strong w/1000's of miles on them. Granted, I ride in "clean conditions" and rarely on dirt roads or when it is raining. These are the best hub I have every owned, and I have cycled 10's of thousands of miles.
Weaknesses:
After 5yrs, I have found no weaknesses. About a month after starting to ride on these hubs, they loosened up alittle, which is normal for the "break in period". I easily adjusted them, AND HAVE NOT HAD TO ADJUST THEM AGAIN, EVER !
Similar Products Used:
Campy Record and Campy Super Record Hubs, and they are great too, but I rate Cris King a step above
Bike Setup:
doesn't matter.
Bottom Line:
If you can afford these hubs, get them, they are the best hubs on the market in my opinion.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian
a Cross Country Rider
from Saint Louis, Missouri USA Date Reviewed: December 13, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Berryman
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Indestructable and jewell like quality. A really nice set of hubs.
Weaknesses:
The seals for the bearings, making them last such a long time, are WAY TOO STIFF!!!
Similar Products Used:
Various Shimano, Phil Wood, etc...
Bottom Line:
I hand built a set of Chris Kings with Mavic rims and Wheelsmith spokes, blahblahblah... Bottom line was that I put over 1000 miles on these hubs and the seals for the bearings still dragged way too much. They talk break-in mileage for these things, but it was rediculous. I have built a set of Phil Wood hub wheels and they roll way better than the Chris Kings, even after 1k on the CK's.
The hubs are really nice and built well, no doubt about it. But the drag from the seals is way too much. Loosen up, Chris (Pun intended)!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from Cleveland, OH Date Reviewed: November 20, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Somewhere in GA
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Strengths:
Still strong and smooth. Good service (I did pester them a bit 'cause I thought they could be faster)
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
None.
Bike Setup:
Full rigid Stumpy (2nd frame)
Bottom Line:
This is a follow-up to a previous post (see below) The ratchet wore out after 10 years of all kinds of riding. I sent the wheel back to Chris King where they gutted the hub and put in all new + upgrades for $25. It cost me more to ship it than the repair cost. It is better than new, and for those of you who perceive added drag from the ratchet, I out-coasted 13 other bikes including 2 guys on 29ers on several dirt roads in PA last month just to test them. I'm 185#, running 2.3" Vertical Pros at 35-40 psi. The front hub has been adjusted maybe twice, and survived a 4" post going through my spokes (call that a minor trajectory miscalulation - oops) Thses hubs are great!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Maxim
a Cross Country Rider
from Urawa Date Reviewed: September 15, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
72pt
Weaknesses:
Price If you tell something they'd like not to hear, chris king won't give you warranty Customer service 5-year kid level drilling job bearing rolling resistance
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
All of my bikes were equipped with king hubs and won't in the future
Bottom Line:
The one I purchased today was the worst hub. (king SS rear hub)
Spoke hole drilling was worse than the chinese hub.
I mailed king and they rejected my mail address.
I've paid $400 and got the botch.
I complaint Ms Adrian Knapp about bearing price before and sounds like she put my address to black list.
You can try my e-mail address vengo_subito@hotmail.com and chris king rejects it and other fake email pass.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Maxim
a Cross Country Rider
from Urawa Date Reviewed: September 15, 2006
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
72pt
Weaknesses:
Price If you tell something they'd like not to hear, chris king won't give you warranty Customer service 5-year kid level drilling job bearing rolling resistance
Similar Products Used:
none
Bike Setup:
All of my bikes were equipped with king hubs and won't in the future
Bottom Line:
The one I purchased today was the worst hub. (king SS rear hub)
Spoke hole drilling was worse than the chinese hub.
I mailed king and they rejected my mail address.
I've paid $400 and got the botch.
I complaint Ms Adrian Knapp about bearing price before and sounds like she put my address to black list.
You can try my e-mail address vengo_subito@hotmail.com and chris king rejects it and other fake email pass.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brian Jay
a Cross Country Rider
from Cleveland, OH Date Reviewed: July 7, 2006
Favorite Trail:
somewhere in Georgia
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
one-eyed man in an alley
Strengths:
This set is 10 years old! ...and they're still just as PURPLE as the day I laced them up. They have been on a fully rigid bike the whole time and have survived the roughest terrain: Snowshoe, W.VA (like Gut Hammer and the like); Windy Gap, Fort Mt., and Bull Mt. GA; Laurel Highlands and Wolf Rocks PA.
Weaknesses:
I think the ratchet finally wore out (must be coasting too much). I can't find anyone local with the King hub service tools. They are also very expensive - more than I would currently spend for hubs of any sort.
Similar Products Used:
There's nothing like them.
Bike Setup:
Full rigid X-C Stumpy w/ Instigator fork (in its 3rd revision)
Bottom Line:
When the flange rips off a Nuke Proof front hub (laced x-3) and the freehub strips out of the rear, what do you replace them with?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
T.J. Hogan
a Weekend Warrior
from Tucson Date Reviewed: July 3, 2006
Favorite Trail:
everything Sedona....
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Strengths:
Made in U.S.A. by American kids (how often can you say that in this day and age of unrivaled greed?) Customer Service Department is the greatest. Smooth, quick engagement. Product pride.
If you have the ca$h, don't be afraid to buy the best. Expect nothing but great service and even better support from the folks at Chris King. I beat the s*** out of these hubs! They are OVER ten years old and just recently needed a rebuild. I am hard on stuff and unforgiving of s*** that doesn't work. Buy and ride with complete confidence that IF something goes wrong, they will have your back. NEVER seen a company stand behind their product like Chris King. I stick with what works and my next bike(s) will have CK hub(s) and headset(s).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert Perkins
a Racer
from Brampton Ont Canada Date Reviewed: May 5, 2006
Favorite Trail:
Anything built by Sean Rupple
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Daves Speed Dream
Strengths:
Re-Post,I wanted to give Chris King a futher review.My complaint was excessive drag.I removed two plastic washers,very thin behind the bearings.Wheels spin very freely and no complaints. All the good points listed in reviews are true and my only complaint corrected.It could have been i just set the bearings in to tight on adjustment but i don't think so. I had bearings removed by shops and when rebuit problem remained. Washers out hubs spin great with no problems.They are not my race wheels anymore and use them to train in spring winter rain mud snow etc.No maintance or reliabilty issues. Will change my score to fives.
Similar Products Used:
presently owned cross max, 2003XTR and two 2001 XTR wheel sets
Bike Setup:
Titus racer-x Specilized s-works epic Don't ask still old man with little boy i want it therefore must need it mentality.
Bottom Line:
Good product as I set up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Kirk Denetclaw
a Cross Country Rider
from Albuquerque, New Mexico Date Reviewed: March 31, 2006
Shimano STX, LX, XT, Bontager Superstock, Real Designs, Ringle
Bike Setup:
Jamis Dragon, Marz. X-Fly 80, Race Face Turbine Cranks, Truvative Giga-pipe BB, XO rear der., XTR front der., Chris King Classic Hubs w/Rhyno Lite Rims, Thomson Stem, Monkeylite XC handle bars, Stans no-tubes, and Syncros seat post.
Bottom Line:
These hubs are great for the desert and various mountain ranges in the area. After a break in period of three weeks I tightened them according to the instructions and they have been great ever since. I have had literally Zero problems or complaints with them. I ride an average of 60 miles a week. I mainly do XC riding with some rock beds and they have done a great job of handling my big butt(250 lbs). I rather like the loud characteristics of the hubs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rico Mundy
a Cross Country Rider
from Angwin, CA Date Reviewed: August 29, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Palisades
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
They look beautiful. The cartridge bearing seals are the best out there. Easy to disassemble and maintain with standard tools.
Weaknesses:
I stripped out the ringdrive gear mechanism once and two times had the rear hub start loosening itself.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight
Bottom Line:
This is a follow up to a another review I put in several years ago.
Here are my current riding stats for these hubs: 7100 miles 5 years
That says quite a bit to me. They have proved quite durable over the long run with minimal maintenance. I do want to mention one problem that I did have when they were about 4 years old. BTW I do maintenance on the hubs 2-3 times a year. I was riding up a steep singletrack and at the top I went to do the final power stroke to clear the hill. There was a metallic cracking clinking sound and my pedal swung down hard. At first I thought I had stripped the teeth off my cog but further inspection revealed I had stripped all the teeth off the ring drive mechanism. Luckily I was still under the King 5 year hub warranty and when I sent it in they decently replaced the whole freehub body and ringdrive mechanism with the latest version. It was excellent service and I was glad to see they stood behind their warranty. However, I don't feel like I'm quite so much an advocate of King hubs since the incident. I love their headsets though
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Lo-Fi Superfly
a Cross Country Rider
from Boulder, CO Date Reviewed: June 10, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Salida Independence Day Single Speed Ride (88 miles)
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
mtnhighcyclery.com
Strengths:
Amazing durability, light, low-maintence
Weaknesses:
After 5 years on the same set I haven't found any
Bike Setup:
Intense Tracer, XTR components, easton carbon post and bars, King hubs and headset, bontrager Mustang rims, Talus fork, etc
Bottom Line:
The Kings with Mustang OSB rims were the most remarkable wheelset I've ever owned.
Five seasons and the hubs never had to be adjusted or worked on. Ever. Not even during the 100-mile break in period. And I ride hard too: lots of 100-mile and 24-hour races, lots of technical riding. The wheels never had to be trued. (I suppose that speaks more for the wheelbuilder than anything.) The only thing that ever wore out was the freehub body a couple years ago, but that is normal and cheap to fix.
The only reason I gave the wheels up is because the bike got stolen. But I'm damn sure putting Kings on my new ride.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Travis
a Racer
from Michigan Date Reviewed: April 23, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Vassa
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$220.00
Purchased At:
my secret...
Strengths:
FAST AND SMOOTH AS BUTTER! Never rode a quicker, smoother hub in my life. The ring drive in the rear hub is amazing, and, although many people dont like the noise...the ring drive's distinct noise is AWESOME.
Weaknesses:
Not ONE!! The price most people would pay isnt even a drawback, worth every penny.
Similar Products Used:
Deore, Deore LX, Deore XT, XTR, Hope XC, Powertools, Sun Abbah, other Shimano hubs, Spinergy
Bike Setup:
Trek 9.8 Carbon, Sid World Cup, X:0 R. Der. XT front der, PC-99HP chain, Race Face Deus XC, Cane Creek ZS 6, Thomson, and Mavic XM819's to Chris King Classics.
Bottom Line:
If you are A) a very experienced rider or B) You're a poser and just want the best of the best...BUY THESE HUBS.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Chris
a Cross Country Rider
from Gainesville, FL Date Reviewed: February 19, 2005
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Looks. Reliability.
Weaknesses:
Price.
Similar Products Used:
coda expert, hope XC, XT,
Bike Setup:
Yeti Kokopelli, XT-XTR, Hope hubs, Hayes mag plus
Bottom Line:
These hubs seemed great for the 2 years I had them but switched to disc and did not want the expense of a new set of Kings. It didn't seem worth to have CK change the shells over to disc. I decided to go with hope XC hubs. So far they are just as good, but time will tell. King hubs are nice and have the bling factor but I am not sure they are worth the expense. I could buy 3-4 sets of hopes for the price of kings and look at the reviews they are the same.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Martijn
a Cross Country Rider
from H.I.Ambacht Date Reviewed: January 4, 2005
Favorite Trail:
Portes Du Soleil
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Bikescene Dordrecht
Strengths:
In use since spring 1999 and still like new, even after lots of hard use. Need I say more???
Weaknesses:
None aside from the fact I can't buying a new set of wheel without being stupid.
Similar Products Used:
XT, Bici
Bike Setup:
Cube Airwing Blackline, full of XTR, Thomson, Tune, Syntace, Fox Forx, DT Swiss SSD210L, Race Face and lots more.
Bottom Line:
Still the perfect hubset! In use since spring 1999 and still going strong! Used them hard and long but they still ride like the day they where new. I service then once or twice a year depending on the weather and the millage I did. Servicing is verry easy and quick to do yourself, no special tools required for normal service. I use them with Sapim CX-ray bladed spokes and Mavic X618 Ceramic rims. Verry stiff and strong wheelset! Got myself a pair of Chris King Disc hubs for my other bike, also verry good and hopefully just as durable!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Cross Country Rider
from East Bay, Ca, USA Date Reviewed: November 18, 2004
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
Dave's Speed Dream
Strengths:
Light. Durable - or so I've read
Weaknesses:
Loud ratchet. Drag.
Similar Products Used:
XT
Bottom Line:
First off, KING is a wonderful company with great customer service and unusually high respect for the environment. This review is for the classic hubs, although my comments apply to the disc hubs as well. King hubs beautiful and lightweight. The black is actually a very dark purple, but that seems somewhat common with black anodizing. I understand the hubs are durable, but I haven't had a set long enough to prove it. The ratchet is so annoyingly loud there is no need for a bike bell (but please use one anyway if you ride multi-use trails). The hub bearings have noticeable drag but improve somewhat once they break in (100 hours or so) as long as you get the adjustment just right which is a fun guessing game when you realize that you have to consider the hubs tighten up a bit further under QR tension as well. At least the hub bearing adjustments are relatively easy with a pair of allens. (I never felt the need to remove any plastic washers as indicated in a previous post - I would definitely contact King before removing anything). The freehub has so much drag that if I back pedal too fast I can cause reverse chain suck. Now, I realize that backpedalling is not a critical function, but it gives you some idea of how much drag the freewheel is creating - ie: it won't even spin backwards under the weight of the chain. I guess the energy to create that nasty buzzing noise has to come from somewhere. Bottom line: if they shut up that buzz and made them spin better, these hubs would be worth every penny.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
R PERKINS
a Racer
from BRAMPTON ONT CANADA Date Reviewed: October 14, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Anything built by Sean Rupple
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
DAVES SPEED DREAM
Strengths:
Hope to find out
Weaknesses:
would not spin without excessive drag
Similar Products Used:
XTR
Bike Setup:
TITUS RACER-x,Set up by old man with little boy I want it mentality
Bottom Line:
Felt I should post a comment just in case some one else with Hubs is experiencing same problem. First off had wheel set built by Dave at speed dream and frankly he is the best person in industry I have delt with. The problem with hubs was they just would not spin without drag.Called Chris King and they were very easy to talk to with lots of time but the bottom line was there was no problem as "there product has no design flaw" Suggested the maintaince cleaning which I did plus had three bike shops service them.As stated by King it is simple but problem persisted. All shops agreed hubs did not spin free(duh spin them and they just stopped soon.Finally had someone decide to not put the thin plastic washer,they call it a seal found behind bearings. Hubs spin Fantastic. Hope this helps some one as I expect the hubs to work as well as my headset now.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeff M.
a Cross Country Rider
from Edmond, OK, USA Date Reviewed: August 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
any and all
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$400.00
Strengths:
King design and customer service, weight, looks, oh and that buzz!!!
Weaknesses:
Price. Other than that, not a one. But you get what you pay for...
Similar Products Used:
Shimano, Bontrager
Bike Setup:
Klein attitude comp, XTR, Mavic XC717 rims
Bottom Line:
WOW!!!!!! After previously buying a set of these hubs which I never got around to getting built up, I finally took the plunge and had my LBS lace me up a set with the new Mavic XC 717s and black DT Revolution spokes. I never really figured that a wheelset could make so much a difference in not only the way the bike feels and handles, but also in the confidence that you get from a top notch set of hoops under you. Simply, the King's are the best upgrade that I have ever done for my bike. The engagement is psychic which means you can get up to speed so much faster than with other hubs. The King design and attention to detail is just amazing. As for the buzz, I hated it on my first ride, but like so many others, I am now really fond of it, although my rear seems to only make really loud buzzing intermittently--I have not re-adjusted the bearing preload yet. All in all, if you can afford these, do not hesitate for a second to pick up a set. You will absolutely not regret it. Four Chilis only because of the initial investment to get them but I'd give 'em 10 overall if I could. Just an outstanding product!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
peter
a Cross Country Rider
from yarmouth, maine USA Date Reviewed: August 7, 2004
Favorite Trail:
whatever i'm on
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
MTBR.com classifieds
Strengths:
stiffness, instant engagement, durability, manufacturer support
Weaknesses:
1. maybe the wasp's nest bzzzzzzzzzzz......... (while coasting) my riding buddy chides me that we're not going to see any wildlife due to the noise. but i think he might secretly be jealous. it is pretty loud, though, compared to shimano hubs.
2. the price of these things is not for everyone. if you only ride weekends or have other habits, shimano hubs will work fine. i'd like to think that thes hubs are for those who are really truly into the sport. then again, you probably have a lot more dough than me, so go ahead and buy them. support chris' company. they're pretty progressive in the grand scheme of things.
Similar Products Used:
2002 XTR, 2002 XT, assorted shimano back in the day
Bike Setup:
full-slut moots YBB.
(OK, so you want specifics: fox vanilla RLC 100, '02 XTR shiftpods, levers, Vbrakes, F&R der., and cables. RF turbine LPISIS cranks, king HS & hubs, Mavic 618ceramic rims, moots post, thomson stem, monkey lite risers, ti fly saddle, etc....) i maintain my bike like a freak in my own garage and she is beauuuuuuuu-tiful.
Bottom Line:
my bike and my wife are my favorite things in the world (on mostly alternating days). my lifestyle allows me to ride most every day that it is not below freezing. on those days my moots is on my 1-up USA trainer (for those of you who live in parts of the world that experience winter, BUY ONE) and i get to spin anyway.
bottom line? CHRIS KING HUBS ARE LIKE 4WD FOR YOUR MOUNTAIN BIKE.
repeat: CHRIS KING HUBS ARE LIKE 4WD FOR YOUR MOUNTAIN BIKE.
period. like i said, i ride pretty much every day, on dirt, 7 months a year. i know the difference between XT and XTR. i rode XTR hubs on the same rims for 3 years, and loved them. great hubs. thought they were a strong improvement over the XT wheelset i rode for the 3 years before that, and the the suns before that, etc....but i always dreamed about a king wheelset based on what i had read and heard.
then i found a pair of used classic hubs laced to some schwag rims on the classifieds last winter for $325. bought 'em for the hubs, clipped the rims and they sat for 6 months until i could track down and afford new (no longer made) 618 ceramic (double wall, double eyelet) rims. great for 200-lb hammerheads like me.
finally got 'em built by my buddy muzz, the zen master of all things mountain bike. if you don't know it yet, MUZZY IS THE MAN. go to the mt washington valley, ride the echo lake area, and stop in and see muzz and carl. (please go to the red jersey cycles in intervale, NH. it is hands down the best bike shop in northern new england.)
i noticed the differences the first ride out my back door. sure, the hornet's nest sound while coasting takes a little getting used to. but if you ride alot and know how your bike handles and what you need to do to get through the most challenging sections of your favorite trail, king hubs will improve your riding and boost your personal satisfaction level. these hubs engage IMMEDIATELY. i heard about this, and thought shiite, my XTR hubs are pretty damn instantaneous too. guess what? not even close.
i ride tight, twisty, rocky, rooty, slick new england singletrack. sometimes you go fast and sometimes you don't. when you can't, and you're balancing your bike and body for optimal tire position and just trying to break inertia and trying to stay on your pedals and you just shift your body weight a little tiny bit onto your non-drive side pedal HOLY SHIiTe! i just moved a little bit and i'm over that damn root going straight uphill in granny 3 and it's all melting away. tough climbs? easier. need to accelerate fast? i feel like it's faster. i am lance armstong....oh wait, no i'm not. i'm happily married to deb, and i don't even know cheryl crow.
yeah so maybe that's it and maybe i should go to bed. but they really do work - stiff, bombproof, and like 4WD. you just go as soon as you hit the pedal. it's crazy. muscle twitch = forward movement.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Smart
a
from Dayton, Oh Date Reviewed: June 27, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Ceasers Creek
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$340.00
Purchased At:
Bike World
Strengths:
Already been said on here time and time again.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Shimano crap
Bottom Line:
Here is what I would like to try to get across to all the people out there that keep saying that price is a weekness... On 31 July 1998 there is a posting on here saying that King hubs cost $350 and tonight Cambria has them for $378. That is $28 price increase in 6 years. I bought mine a complete wheel build with mavic 517s for under $500
On 10 Aug 1998 someone posted on the XTR review that they paid $150 and again tonight Cambria has the XTR 960 for $262. That is a $112 price increase in the same time period.
Hell in the past 6 years a gallon of gas has doubled in price.
CK has a 5 year warrenty compaired to XTR's 3 year.
All I am saying is that for a company that builds the best hub out there and could raise the price and would still have buyers, they haven't done so.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jim Turner
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas Date Reviewed: May 5, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Mt Snow Vermont expert loop/Flume Trail Tahoe
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Ardvark
Strengths:
Bullet proof -- never have to rebuild, ride through water, mud (all types) and these things come back for more. Quality you get!
Weaknesses:
price
Similar Products Used:
bontrager (pos), rolf, mavic, xtr
Bike Setup:
Klein Adroit Pro, XTR, King/Mavic, easton - 21.5 lbs
Bottom Line:
Bullet proof! These hubs are the best. I can't say enough about these. Everyone said 4 years ago that you would have to rebuild and they were a pain in the ass -- BS! These things have never failed me and I have POUNDED them into the dirt and rocks. I have bent several sets of rims in all types of spoke configurations. I ride aggressive throuigh some of the toughest trails in the world and these hubs have never even whimpered! WTF
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Hardtailforever
a Racer
from Roseville, MN. USA Date Reviewed: February 7, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Lebanon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
King EPP
Strengths:
Light Instant engagement when pedaling Beautiful candy-red finish Smooth rolling Minimal maintenence Easy spoke installation That beautiful, unmistakable King BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
Weaknesses:
They've spoiled me, and I can't afford to buy more at retail for all my other bikes.
Similar Products Used:
Various Shimano, Mavic XMax and Ksyriums, Paul SS, AC
Bike Setup:
'01 Homegrown, XTR shifters and Derailleurs (02), LX crank, Thomson stem, Titec Flat-tracker bar, Answer Carbolite with Aliante ti,
Bottom Line:
I know there isn't much that hasn't been said about King's nearly perfect hubs, but I'll do my best.
I've tried a number of hubs and none enguages as instantaneously as my King Classics. In technical XC riding, there is no substitute. Also, of all the lightweight hubs my team mates and I have used (including Hugi, AC/WTB, Paul, White, etc), the Kings are the only ones never to fail under ANY circumstances. They also have the prettiest finish of any hubs I've worked with, and are super easy to maintain and adjust. They are not the very lightest, but for 20 or 30 grams, I'll take knowing that my wheels will never fail.
These are absolutely the best hubs money can buy, hands down, and I'd be willing to pay any money for such a quality product from such a progressive company. Support Chris King components, improve your riding experience, and buy some King Classics. If I could I'd rate them 6 out of 5.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vince
a Cross Country Rider
from Sacramento Date Reviewed: February 1, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Auburn/Forest Hill
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$325.00
Purchased At:
LBS
Strengths:
Ease of maintaince, modular design, great customer service, long lasting products.
Weaknesses:
Not one weakness, many say price but then I say don't buy Chris King if you really can't afford it. Like everything else in this world buy a product at your price point.
Similar Products Used:
XT, older XTR, Bullseye
Bike Setup:
Sugar 2, King wheelset, King Headset, XTR/XT mix, Thompson post, flite saddle.
Bottom Line:
I had my wheels built by a certified Mavic wheel builder which is why they have lasted for six years. I expect my rim braking surface to wear out first. Yes, at first they need to be adjusted but if you follow King's instructions then the bearing/seal drag goes away. I can't say enough about Kings customer service....in my humble opinion they set the standard in the bike industry. They let the consumer order small parts directly which is another big plus because it saves time and usually the LBS doesn't want to deal with small parts orders.
I have Chris King hubs, and head sets on all my bikes: two mtn bikes, road bike, and BMX. I guess I've found a product that realy works....just like XTR shifters....gotta love 'em. Peace
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Robert
a Cross Country Rider
from Chico Date Reviewed: January 10, 2004
Favorite Trail:
Bidwell Park
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Cycle Shop
Strengths:
Light, strong, reputable product, rebuildable, not likely to become outdated or unusable. Smooth rolling and gliding. Keeps overall weight of a wheel to a minimum. Overall top notch performance, very durable. After servicing and re-lube and adjustment, they are as good as new.
Weaknesses:
These hubs are expensive, and are often out of the build kit budget for many riders. Generally are not specified as OEM equipment, so many riders will not get to experience these fine hubs during new bike test rides. They generally require aftermarket locating and custom wheel buildup - which can carry a hefty price tag. But these are not PRODUCT weaknesses, just situational complicationis
Similar Products Used:
Gawd awful and usually inconsistently made and assembled Shimano hubs. XT, STX, STX-RC and LX. Shimano grouppos are made in diffent places, and sometimes the inexpensive parts work quite well. Sometimes the upper-end parts are not assemble or lubed well and fail. A one time expense of these hubs - they will last and can be rebuilt.
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Heckler , with XTR cranks, XT remaining drivetrain. Fox Float R, Rock Shox SID. King/Mavic wheels. Carbon fiber bar and seat stem. RaceFace stem
Bottom Line:
These hubs roll and glide along very well. The rear hub has a noisy coast, but is otherwise virtually silent. The instant engagement of the rear hub makes for very responsive riding. The serviceability of these hubs comes as a welcome change to the planned product deletions and performance declines of hard to service or un-repairable hubs. Mine are the shiny silver and I keep them proudly polished. They give years of years of service, even if you thrash on them.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Shank
a Cross Country Rider
from Fort Walton Beach, FL Date Reviewed: November 23, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Hard Time in Ashville N.C.
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$325.00
Purchased At:
Bike World.com
Strengths:
So many colors to choose from, I got the blue and it turns heads. King quality is top notch. That cool buzz. Easy to adjust, Ok, I would have bought the hubs anyway but that fact that Chris King is doing so much to prevent his company from impacting the world in a negative way is a huge bonus. I wish I could get paid to ride to work.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
LX, XT, Bontrager
Bike Setup:
03 Dean Colonel x-lite, King classic hubs on Mavic 618's, King headset, XT cranks,BB, shifters, FR and Rear derailers, cassette, Avid 7 brakes, Avid TI levers, Skareb Super Shock, Salsa QR's, Race Face prodigy seat post and stem, Easton handlebar, Egg Beater pedals, Sealle Italia genuine gel seat, Bontrager Jones tires
Bottom Line:
I was looking to build my dream bike and the only thing I knew for sure was titanium frame, King hubs and headset. Everything else was open to whatever I found to put on the bike. I could not and would not build a bike ever again without King hubs since they out perform anything I have owned and on top of all that they are by far the best looking hubs out there. The buzz may not be for some but I love it. I am sure that 5 years from now these hubs will still be going strong so that is when I will post my next review. 5's all the way around
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wskr Bskt
a Cross Country Rider
from Dallas Date Reviewed: November 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Grapevine
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Bike World
Strengths:
Bomb Proof
Weaknesses:
Noisy
Similar Products Used:
Rolf, XTR, Bontr, Mavic
Bike Setup:
Klein Adroit Race, Mavic Citrons, Carbon Manitou, CK HS, Easton risers, Hayse Disc
Bottom Line:
This hub set is bomb proof! I ride lots of hardcore trails with water and lots of drops. I've never had to service these HUBS after 5 years of use. I don't like the buzz, feel like a training coach is yelling at me to keep pedaling. You should never hear the buzz! If you're looking for a maint. free hub and $ is no object get these hubs! The Mavic/King wheel set is considerably heavier than the Rolf wheel set I have, but the Rolf hubs split down the side from too much torque (I'd like to think).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
M Landzaat
a Cross Country Rider
from H.I.Ambacht Date Reviewed: November 20, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Portes du Soleil/Les Gets
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Bikescene
Strengths:
Durable, light, effective, verry nice looks and sound
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
1997 XT, Bici, STX-RC
Bike Setup:
Cube Airwing Blackline, XT-disc/Magura HS33, Thomson stem and post, all XTR and lots of Tune.
Bottom Line:
These hubs are perfect! I've used these hubs since march 1999, and used them in every place and any condition. They still run smooth as new and look like new. They are on the third set of rims, now spoked with X618 ceramic rims and Sapim CX-ray spokes. Once had to adjust them after brake-in period, but never again. I realy love thes hubs! Now that i'm looking for disc hubs I bought a set of King ISO disc hubs. Same high quality al finish. One word for these baby's; PERFECT!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
charles rediger
a Cross Country Rider
from san francisco Date Reviewed: September 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
any single track
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Purchased At:
park cycles
Strengths:
I'v riden my chris king hubs for almost 5 years now and to my shame not one cleaning have i done. to chris kings honnor these hubs are the best ! after the break-in adjustmet i havent had to touch these hubs.now im about to service them and the chris king web site is awesome. pdf manuels and videos on how-to. the only hub ill buy!
Iv ridden these hubs through everything and lots of jumps. every wheel set i get will have chris king hubs!the web site even offers free upgrades of the latest internal design. damn, i just like these things.they are exspensive but you get what you pay for.this is a company worth support!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
jay bee
a Racer
from Rockford Date Reviewed: June 4, 2003
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Durable, long lasting.
Weaknesses:
The rear hub has come loose a few times, and needs tightening. Then the whole thing broke one day. Called costomer service, and they sent a new hub out pronto. Of corse I had to pay a shop to put my wheel back together. the new hub comes loose just as the old one. Also I think they are overpriced.
Similar Products Used:
LX, XT, XTR hubs.
Bike Setup:
Klein adroit pro. Bontrager Race Light Rims.
Bottom Line:
Ive had theese for 3 years and just now decided to write a review. The reason is because I broke my rear rim and need a replacement. Well, Its almost impossible to find a 24 hole front rim, and a 28 rear rim matching. Sure bike shops sell these as a wheelset, but everyone I called wont sell me just the hoops. Ticked me off enough to give CK a bad chili review for the trouble. As far as working, they work just fine, better than XT, same as XTR. Its just the stupid odd number spoke count. Im still looking for my replacement rim.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Win
a Weekend Warrior
from New York, NY Date Reviewed: May 10, 2003
Favorite Trail:
any
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Larry & Jeff's (LBS)
Strengths:
1.) Lightweight, yet durable 2.) RingDrive is powerful and fast-engaging 3.) Totally user-serviceable 4.) Backed by 5-year warranty and King's legendary customer service and support
Weaknesses:
The unique buzz of the RingDrive is an acquired taste. I think it's great but some aren't crazy about it.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano, Bontrager
Bike Setup:
1998 Merlin XLM w/ XTR, Chris King, Thomson & Race Face components
Bottom Line:
For me, the best thing about these hubs is their simplicity and durability. I haven't a single breakdown with them, and I'm brutal on hubs and BB's. The RingDrive really is as tough as advertised. When I did my first overhaul, I was amazed at the precision and simplicity of all the parts. I don't think any other rear hub out there has a simpler and more reliable drive mechanism than King's RingDrive. The perfect fit and finish are icing on the cake. If you ever need to get spare parts, they can easily be ordered direct from King (unlike Shimano where if something goes wrong, you have to buy a whole new hub). I posted a review after 6 months and I wanted to do a follow-up after putting the hubs through at least 2 years of hard riding. Final verdict: KING IS THE BEST.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ben
a Racer
from Nashville, TN, USA Date Reviewed: May 5, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Tsali, LBL Canal Loop, Chickasaw Trace
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Strengths:
Durability, craftsmanship, light weight, outstanding customer service
Weaknesses:
Even after break-in they still don't roll as freely as my old (now training wheels) Ringle's do
Similar Products Used:
Ringle Super Eight (stripped a couple of them) & Super Duper Eight(bullet proof but heavy) rear hubs, Bubba & Suber Bubba front, Campy Record (on the road)
Bike Setup:
Yeti ARC hardtail, XTR, Marzocchi, everything else is of highest quality; wheels built with Mavic 517's
Bottom Line:
Super light weight and durable. Hard to get both in the same hub - especially the rear. I'm 205 (Clydesdale) and stripped several rear hubs prior to changing to Ringle - even stripped two of the Super Eights. Super Duper Eight still going strong, but it's an anchor. My Chris King wheelset with the 517's and "real" sized spokes (2.0-1.8's)are lighter than Crossmax's and I haven't had any problems from the hubs. These are my race wheels and they get thrashed on race day, but I had them overhauled last year only to find out that after two years of hard use they were in almost pristine condition inside. A note about customer service: front hub anodization discolored, so I called them to see what they would do. They sent me out a new shell for the hub even though the hub was two years old....and they were very friendly and seemed happy to have the chance to help out. Great company and great products. BTW I have purchased 5 CK headsets - all still in service except the turquoise blue 1 1/4" for my old John Parker Yeti (frame died, but the headset is still in great condition after 6 years of service).
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Andrew
a Cross Country Rider
from Auckland, New Zealand Date Reviewed: March 11, 2003
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Well finished. Superb speed of free hub engagement.
Weaknesses:
Don't believe the hype. The bearings don't run freely. Front and rear anodizing different colour.
First, I am a huge Chris King headset fan. No doubts, they are the best you can buy. BUT the hubs were disappointing. I look for a hub that runs smoothly and freely, and the Kings don't. Freewheel the hub on a work stand and do the same to a good quality traditional cup and cone hub and see which stops first. It will be the King in 10 out of 10 cases. I also had trouble with them coming lose all the time. Don't get me wrong, they are good hubs. Well finished, well sealed etc etc. BUT they don't wipe the floor clean with every other hub like Chris King headsets wipe the floor with all other headsets. Put it this way, they aren't worth the premium price over a good quality cup and cone like XTR or Record on the road but. They are quite good, but don't believe the hype, they aren't THAT good.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daemon
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore Date Reviewed: January 28, 2003
Favorite Trail:
Bukit Timah
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Strengths:
Good looks Durability Smoothness Bombproof Rolling sound when not pedaling
Weaknesses:
Rolling sound when not pedaling
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT, LX hubs
Bike Setup:
GT Zaskar Custom
Bottom Line:
2 years of riding, and the hubs are holding great... not needing any service or whatsoever. It is a little pricey though but well worth it. Absolutely smooth and I love the sound of the hubs spinning.. though some of my friends hate it cos when they hear it, it means i'm not pedalling and still going the same speed as them :)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim tidball
a Cross Country Rider
from medford oregon Date Reviewed: January 15, 2003
Favorite Trail:
any singletrack
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
won at "Poker Ride"
Strengths:
strength, quality, meticulously built, looks, they even sound cool! 10 colors to choose from!!!
Weaknesses:
they are expen$ive!
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager. Stock garbage.
Bike Setup:
Specialized Stumpjumper (hardtail)
Bottom Line:
These hubs are worth if you want the best that's out there. You will notice a huge "spin" diference than what you're use to. Smooth ride. They are light and easy to service.
Great customer service department. It's nice to talk to people in the bike business that actually ride! These guys most definately do!
What's all the buzz about?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Erik
a
from Sumter SC, USA Date Reviewed: December 12, 2002
Favorite Trail:
All with dirt and hills
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
Engagement of hub pawl sytem is like ESP. It rules for MTB riding. Lightweight, strong.
Weaknesses:
COST!!! You have to pay for the great design.
Similar Products Used:
Rolf, Hugi, Shimano
Bike Setup:
Trek 8K Hardtail
Bottom Line:
Great product, It cost a bunch. They are light and strong. If you have the extra $ then pick a wheelset made with them or build up you own.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kevin
a Racer
from chicago Date Reviewed: August 9, 2002
They take a while to break in. Honestly, I don't like the trademark sound but when your legs are burning and your getting your ass kicked, you don't think about it.
Similar Products Used:
bontranger race lite (Hugi?), XT, XTR, Mavic o Ksyrium road wheels as well as Dura Ace and Record.
Bike Setup:
fuel 100
Bottom Line:
I had these on another bike that was stolen out of my secured storage locker. If I here some posuer riding King hubs on the lakefront path and I hear that buzzzz, I'll chase him down and beat his ass. Few people aarouond here know what they are. Anyway, enough crying-These are the best hubs you can buy. Right now I have a Bontranger Race Lite wheelset stock, which is working really well and I may stay with it pending unreliability. Howevever, if you want to go out and build a wheelset to race with these are a must. I used them recreationally as well. Only next time, I will build them with Bontranger rims since the x517s needed a little bit more attention.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Leisure
a Cross Country Rider
from Salt Lake City, Utah Date Reviewed: June 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
desolation lake
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Light, durable, manly sounding. Nice colors, too.
Weaknesses:
pfff.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano stuff (lasted 3 months), Spinergy (front only, still doing fine after two years but retired to beater bike), SRAM (needed warranty coverage), blah blah blah.
Bike Setup:
RM Instinct built up with lots of gootchie stuff.
Bottom Line:
I've put in probably about 6000 miles or so on my rear hub, 2000 on the front. Plenty of abusively fast ugly technical riding and countless four foot drops and jumps. (Yeah, yeah, I could easily jump higher but want to stay kosher with my "XC" parts build up.) Besides the break-in adjustment, I only had the rear hub serviced for the first time earlier this year. I was told I could have gone a decent amount longer without hurting the hub. It spins so smooth now, not as sticky as when it was first breaking in. I'm not encouraging using these for freeride use, but other than that, with any marginal amount of maintainance, who knows how long this hub could go? The buzz sounds as nice as ever. Come to think of it, I think I'm overdue for a second set.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Clyde S. Dale
a Weekend Warrior
from Radnor, PA Date Reviewed: May 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
American Standard in Jim Thorpe
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Bicycle Therapy
Strengths:
The adage you get what you pay for is particularly true for anything sold by Chris King. These hubs are beautifully machined and so far are bullet proof. One word of caution however. The drive shell that supports the cassette seems to be narrower than the standard width and it is sometimes difficult to get enough thread contact to properly anchor the cassette. Chris King sells a lock ring with additional threads that solves this issue. The price is about $10 and I had to get it directly from Chris King because no LBS carried the item. Unparallelled customer service!
Weaknesses:
None really. Be careful when tightening/loosening the retaining nut with your 5mm allen wrench as the aluminum will deform under stress.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT and Bontrager
Bike Setup:
Klein Adept Race; Thompson stem and post; XT/XTR; Mavic 517 Ceramic; Rockshox Duke Race
Bottom Line:
Simply the best.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vince R
a Cross Country Rider
from Robbinsville NJ Date Reviewed: May 30, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Clayton!!
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Purchased At:
e-bay with Bontrager wheels
Strengths:
The clutch engagement is genious!! If you dont know how it works go to the web-site and find out!!!!
Weaknesses:
Lots of money!! but worth it!!!!
Similar Products Used:
Specialized Stout(very good for what they are)
Bike Setup:
99 FSR xc
Bottom Line:
This is the best hub on the market hands down! dont even look at anything else if your serious about this sport or you simply want the best product on the market. I love the BUZZZZZZZZZZZZ!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MITCH
a
from Lancaster, PA, USA Date Reviewed: May 19, 2002
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
Two years of absolute hard street and cross country riding and these hubs still bzzzzzzz like a bee. King Hubs surpase any expectations, they make the best hubs,
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
lx,xt,xtr,mavic
Bike Setup:
Just how I like it!
Bottom Line:
I you want to make a wheel set to last you for 5 years (not kidding). Buy Chris King.
King hubs have out lived my rims 2 times. They are just as reliable as my Subaru.
Check out www.kickbag.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve holcomb
a Weekend Warrior
from tampa, fl, usa Date Reviewed: May 18, 2002
Favorite Trail:
I ride the streets
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
internet catalog
Strengths:
I wrote a review 4/20/2002 when the hubs where in the break in period. I had some negative comments which I retract and want to apologize to Chris King for the review. After setting the preload the hubs have been flawless and silky smooth. The best hubs I have ever ridden on. I now have about 450 miles on the hubs, they are exceptional. Again, I apologize to Chris King and the readers on my review on 4/20. Chris King makes the best hubs available.
Weaknesses:
There are none. These are the best hubs you can purchase.
Similar Products Used:
Campy Record
Bike Setup:
Tsali,XTR,Rockshox Sid SL, Easton Stem and Bars. Chris King Classic Hubs built on Mavic 517's. Continental 25-559 tires. (26x1) Chris King Headset. I have the bike set up for city riding.
Bottom Line:
First, I am not a weekend warrior. I ride the city streets everyday 5 to 15 miles. I never ride off road. The hubs and headset should last me the rest of my riding days....I am 53yrs old...but still love to ride. Weather you ride off road or on road, the hubs and headset are the best out there. Sorry about the first review, it was premature. Thanks, Steve Holcomb (cmeche123@aol.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Willis Drummond
a Weekend Warrior
from Colorado Date Reviewed: May 9, 2002
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Simply the best products around.
Weaknesses:
They don't make entire bikes.
Similar Products Used:
Nothing else worth mentioning.
Bike Setup:
King hubs and headset...BB too if they ever get around to selling one.
Bottom Line:
The only thing I can add is that the company itself is as top quality as their parts. These guys are fanatical about the environment, they take pride in their products, and they take care of every customer. I personally like knowing that the parts I buy didn't create 2 tons of waste water pumped into my backyard. You think the CEO of shimano cares if he kills a few trees? Not if there is a dollar to be made.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
steve holcomb
a Weekend Warrior
from tampa, fl. usa Date Reviewed: April 20, 2002
Favorite Trail:
none
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
n/a
Strengths:
Too early to tell have been testing these hubs for less than 1 month.
Weaknesses:
Already have to adjust the preload (bearings) front and rear...especially the rear. Now I know the manuel states that some "settling" will occur during the break-in period, but up to two to three adjustments? Come on, I have riden the same set of campy record hubs for over 14 yrs. and have only adjusted them twice, one was with an over-haul I did and the other was as recently as last week. If king hubs are engineered to such exact tolerences why the adjustments? Please, someone get back to me on this with explanations. Thanks, Steve at: cmeche123@aol.com
Similar Products Used:
Campy record, campy grand sport, Avocet sealed hubs.
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Tsali, xtr, easton stem and bars, mavic 517 built on chris king classic hubs
Bottom Line:
The hubs look good, they are light, they are very expensive. From reading may of the reviews, they seem to lose preload on the bearings quite oftem....could this be an engineering flaw?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Sean S
a Cross Country Rider
from Ventura, CA, USA Date Reviewed: March 28, 2002
Favorite Trail:
the one I am on!
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Cambria Bike Co.
Strengths:
Everything about these hubs is a 'strength'. Very stiff, very light, and supper easy to work on, with hardly any maintenance needed.
Weaknesses:
Be carefull when servicing the rear hub yourself. If you use non-approved wear hub lub, the ring gears will not engage properly thus having a 'free-wheel' affect pedaling forward. (stupid user mistake, which required a hub servicing from King, which they were more than willing to do and at no cost)
Similar Products Used:
OLD Lx hubs.
Bike Setup:
GT Zaskar LE.....built from the ground up in 1996.
Bottom Line:
This is the best money I have ever spent. As a product strength, I was going to put ZERO maintenance, but I would be lying as I tried to service the rear hub myself using non-approved lub, which caused a few problems, but that was it. The front hub is supper easy to adjust and very easy to disassemble for cleaning. The o-ring seals are excellent, which means you dont' have to clean them. I have had these hubs 5 years, and rarely ever touch them. I have done all kinds of riding, from hardpack dirt to muddy streams, and the bearings are always dry and butter smooth.
The rear hub is great! I have noticed some wear in the alluminum hub body, but that is expected, as I mentioned, 5 years. Again, sealed mechanism is fantastic, water, dirt, do not penetrate (I haven't submerged the hub in water) and the Buzzzzzzzzzzzzzz....everybody knows its me behind them when we hit the downhill sections! I love the buzzzzzzzzzzz......Chris King signature. These hubs are worth every penny....invest now and ride for a LONG LONG LONG time. One last note, these hubs have actually outlasted my rims, as I have had to rebuild the rims recently, but never considered getting rid of the hub!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
gary park
a Cross Country Rider
from oaktown, california Date Reviewed: March 17, 2002
Favorite Trail:
toad's
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Purchased At:
cambria
Strengths:
Top rate design, materials, production, durability and customer support.
Weaknesses:
???
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT
Bike Setup:
For long XC rides.
Bottom Line:
Honestly, I had no complaints with the Shimano XT hubs, but that bike got stolen and so I took the plunge on the Kings.
While riding down the trail, I cannot tell the difference between my old XTs and the Kings. The Kings are lighter, have better quality bearings, are probably stiffer, and have that ingenious ring drive mechanism, but I don't race or trials ride, so I can't detect these incremental improvements over the XTs while in the saddle.
I do love my Kings, though, and I think they are a smart buy because of their reputation for durability and the fact that these hubs can be easily serviced and rebuilt. That cannot be said for XT or XTR.
Also, that buzzzzzzzzz is so damn cool...
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
George Budd
a Racer
from London Date Reviewed: March 5, 2002
Favorite Trail:
Magic Hill
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$400.00
Purchased At:
Action Bikes, Staines!!!
Strengths:
5 years old. Still works. Compared to my hugi 240 front hub on my ROAD bike (which I do not ride through rivers on) this thing is amazing. The hugi has fallen apart after 9 months. How crap is that!!! Kings are still going strong.
Weaknesses:
Rear needs special grease otherwise it seizes
Similar Products Used:
XTR, Hugi 240 (rubbish!!), XT (Broke freewheel)
Bike Setup:
XTR, King, Ibis stem/bars (RIP Ibis), Avid arch supreme brakes, moots ti post, nisene cow saddle,
Bottom Line:
I hate buying expensive stuff that breaks. This has not let me down yet!!! Also, its really cheap when you consider how long it lasts. Everyone should have one!! They even make slightly larger replacment parts to allow for wear. How cools is that!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Tony
a Weekend Warrior
from Greensboring NC USA Date Reviewed: February 18, 2002
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Colorado Cycling
Strengths:
Light, reliable, good craftsmanship, tight tolerances, fast, and everyone knows you ride Chris Kings
Weaknesses:
Everyone knows you ride Chris Kings!
Similar Products Used:
XTR, XT, Bontrager
Bike Setup:
98 Trek OCLV, Styff Lower with SID Upper, Air Englund inside, Chris King hubs, King headset, Raceface cranks, Yada yada
Bottom Line:
From an engineering and mountainbiker standpoint....they are simply the standard that all hubs should follow.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
darryl flaig
a Weekend Warrior
from montreal Date Reviewed: December 2, 2001
best hub for trials, if you do trials i recomend the stiffer srping they make so it wont skip and the bolt on axel for stiffness and the steel drive shell. these will cost u another 100 grame but still lighter than xtr, if you do xc stick with the standard hub, best out there
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Scott Simpson
a Weekend Warrior
from Mt.Juliet, TN, Wilson Date Reviewed: November 29, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Lock 4
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$350.00
Purchased At:
Bikers Choice
Strengths:
super light,super strong, engagement, bearings, looks
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
xt, specialized
Bike Setup:
2001 FSR/XC PRO, CK headset and hubs, DT spokes 3x , 517
Bottom Line:
Chris King makes the best bike products hands down. These Hubs have been nothing but great. Reajusted after a few rides and they stayed tight for 10 months. If your going to fork out the dough for a good wheelset, go with the King hubs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
coverider
a Racer
from philadelphia PA Date Reviewed: October 12, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
fastest engagement of any hub
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
XTR
Bike Setup:
cove hummer + atom bomb
Bottom Line:
I'm gonna compare these to XTR because I think XTR and king are the two best xc type hubs available. Both XTR and King have silky bearings. XTR are actually smoother than XT in case you wondered. Theoretically cup and cone (XTR) bearings are better for bike wheels, but nobody has problems with kings cartrige bearings so practically they're even. King may have an edge in ease of bearing adjustment (you only need 2allen wrenches instead of cone wrenches) but you need to check king adjustment during break in and every once in a while afterward. You should be able to go with the factory adjustment on XTR and only need to adjust once after any cleaning (providing you know how to tighten properly). So were still tied. XTR comes with a ti axel that should be the strongest of any hub, But I've never heard of a king axle breaking, so were still tied. Weight? They're close enough to the same. Sealing? XTR is really good. You can ride em for a year in mud and get just a little dirt in and its easy to overhaul the axel bearings maybe once a year. King is well sealed also, but some more contamination gets past the outer seals. The thing is it won't effect the bearings unless you leave it in there and it is so easy to clean out. So with the king you have to inspect it more often, but the overall maintainance hassle is about the same over the course of a year. Still tied. It all comes down to the freehub body. Shimano invented it, King perfected it. The King engagement is so much quicker and solid. Major bonus points here. The other issue is durability. You can't dissassemble the XTR freehub and you can't do too much to clean the internals. So if it breaks or gets super contaminated you have to throw your wheel away. (Well you could replace the freehub body, but it costs as much as the whole hub.) You can easily fix the King freehub no matter what happens to it, But they seem to last as long as most people keep their frames. Major bonus to King. If you're serious about your bike parts the king is more of a joy to own and you will be happy with the instant engagement-it's worth the money on it's own. Don't bother with any supposed high end beside XTR or king. They all have problems that won't occur with KING or XTR. Any of the problems people complained about with their king hubs could have been solved by adjusting them properly. XTR is the value leader of all hubs until your freehub body breaks right after you rebuilt you wheel with a ceramic rim. King is really a good value considering that nothing matches it performance.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dave
a Cross Country Rider
from Coeur d'Alene, ID Date Reviewed: September 27, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Cave Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Purchased At:
Speeddream.com
Strengths:
Light, strong, great engagement, looks great, precise build quality, rebuildable and adjustable, color selection.
Weaknesses:
$$$$Whoa Nellie!!!, need special King tool for some maintainance. Manual could be a little better but website has good info.
Similar Products Used:
generic OEM POS hubs
Bottom Line:
They are just plain good. High priced but worth it on high-end wheels. These are part of the Dave's Speeddream wheelset. Light, strong platform around which to build a great wheel. The engagement of the rear is particularly good. Very fine tolerance engagement(probably fifty-percent more fine than the OEM hubs). Also, the angry-hornet sound is cool despite what others say. The manual says that it takes 60 hrs of riding to fully seat the hubs yet 85 percent of that seems to take place within the first 10 hrs. They feel less resistant to rolling already. Will need to adjust the rear soon but that's expected in fine tolerance equipment. High quality gear costs more but it's worth it in the long run. Really a 4.5 value but if you can't afford it you just can't afford it so they get a 4 officially.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
eldino
a Cross Country Rider
from Colorado Date Reviewed: September 7, 2001
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Light, strong, excellent design and quality craftsmanship, easy to service, good bearings and seals.
Weaknesses:
none
Similar Products Used:
XT, XTR
Bottom Line:
I ride C.K. hubs on two bikes. Not cheap, but worth every penny. The first MB hubs I have not chewed up within 3 month of use. Same can be said for their head-sets, by the way.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
timchi
a Racer
from Canada Date Reviewed: August 25, 2001
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$250.00
Strengths:
weight ring drive
Weaknesses:
aluminum freehub body
Similar Products Used:
xtr and other shimano
Bottom Line:
I have stripped the freehub body threads twice. First time they convinced me I overtightened so I paid $50 for a new aluminum body. This morning after the wheel's been sitting around for a year I put a new cassette on and the threads stripped before i got even close to the recommended torque. Does XTR lock nut not have threads that are deep enough for this hub??? I don't have time or money to keep paying for an anual supply of freehub bodies. Next time I'm trying a different hub.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Adam
a Weekend Warrior
from Lancaster, UK Date Reviewed: August 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
The Street
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
The Edge Cycleworks
Strengths:
Light, stiff axle, great pickup (im a trials rider), nice noise :)
Weaknesses:
I broke the RingDrive in 2 days!!!! i went for a gap jump, and it slipped, shooting me over the bars! Im not best pleased... i thought they were meant to be indestructible?!
Similar Products Used:
Goldtec (cracked in 48 places in 5 days), Hope (damaged pick-up ring and freehub body within a week) Sh|Tmano (dont ask...)
Bike Setup:
Orange Zero, Middleburn, XT/Dura Ace/Ultegra, HS-33s yadda yadda...
Bottom Line:
nice, amazing hubs - top quality. I think mine was just bad luck... hopefully!!! 1 and 2 for now - i'll post another review when ive had some more time using the hub!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rico
a Cross Country Rider
from Angwin, CA 94508 Date Reviewed: August 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Palisades
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
eBay
Strengths:
(1) Low maintenance and easy to maintain. (2) Light weight. (3) Chris King durability.
Weaknesses:
If you don't periodically (once every 6 months or so) loosen the axles, the aluminum can seize and gall so they can't be undone.
Similar Products Used:
TNT (garbage bearings), XTR (good hub but takes a bit of work to overhaul)
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight
Bottom Line:
I enjoy these hubs, bought them on recommendations and comments from people here on MTBR.com. They are probably the most satisfying trouble free part on my bike except for the CK headset. Like I mention in the weaknesses, though, it is good to loosen up the axle periodically, so the aluminum doesn't weld together, CK even recommended this to me after mine froze and I sent it in for repairs. Other than that it keeps happily buzzing away. Actually the buzz is not as loud as I expected based on comments made by people here. I don't even notice it. The ringdrive ratchet has gotten dirty on mine in 14 months and 2100 miles of riding, but it was easy to clean. I do recommend getting some of their Ringdrive grease. Really quiets things up and it's good for other lube jobs as well.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mike
a Weekend Warrior
from Edmonton Canada Date Reviewed: July 25, 2001
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
Revolution Cycle
Strengths:
Light, durable, crazy cool buzzing sound when you first buy them.
Weaknesses:
Yeah right.
Similar Products Used:
XT rear, LX front
Bike Setup:
Rocky Mtn Hammer Race, 99 Judy XC, lots of Race Face and the rest XT/LX
Bottom Line:
You cannot beat this hub. Period. I'm not a hardcore trailblazer, but I ride a fair bit, and even I can vouch that these hubs are worth every penny. I got a great deal on them (the only reason I would pay so much for something) and they now serve where my shimano hubs did formerly. The engagement is amazing and the bright green colour makes them look like a million bucks. The Chris King website is great too. If you are looking to make one of your first upgrades, you can't go wrong starting with King hubs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a Downhiller
from Lincoln Date Reviewed: July 5, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
These are the lightest hubs on the market.
Weaknesses:
NONE
Similar Products Used:
Everything
Bottom Line:
I ride downhill, so I dont need these hubs. Both front and rear hubs have never been used and are both black. Front spacing is 110mm and rear is 135mm. These hubs are still in the box and have never been used. They also come with a full 5 year warrantee. Both are 32 spoke count. Send me an E-mail and I will send pictures. I want to sell the pair for $300 and I will pay shipping, so let me know. downhillerdan@hotmail.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Steve
a Cross Country Rider
from Gilroy, CA Date Reviewed: June 30, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Demo forest
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$286.00
Purchased At:
Colorado Cyclist
Strengths:
Light weight Reliability Looks great Great Customer service when needed. Look at previous reviews High quality and close tolerances
Weaknesses:
Expensive, but you get what you pay for. Takes about 60 HOURS to break in.
Similar Products Used:
XTR Hubs White Ind. Ringo Hubs XT
Bike Setup:
'01 Specialize FSR Pro w/Mountain linkage, Marzocchi '01 Atom Race Chris King Headset
Bottom Line:
After 3 Chris King headsets on 3 bikes and a Chris King front hub, I was convinced that Chris King's quality and customer service are the best money can buy. The rear hub did not disappoint. Rachet gearing engages in 1/2 the click of an XTR or White Ind. rear hubs. There's a buzzing noise instead of the standard clicking which you get used to and sounds very unique. I like it. The only weakness would be the long break in period. The manual and website is both informative and easy to follow. You have to readjust the bearing after 20 miles and check it every so often while it is breaking in. It's very easy to do with two 5mm allen wrenches. Just loosen the axle with both allen wrenches and hand tighten until it contacts the bearing. 60 hours is a long time to break in a product, but after the break-in period, it runs as smooth as any hub out there. I expect years of good use out of these hubs and they are very easy to service yourself. The manual is very detailed and easy to follow. Another fine product from Chris King. Four doo-hickys on Value due to it's high price, but 5 hum dingers for a very well made product.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from San Dimas, Ca. Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$250.00
Strengths:
Bearings. Reputations. Quality. Super smooth and if you purchase the hub tool you can easily disassemble the entire unit easily. The hub tool is a work of art.
Weaknesses:
Are you kidding?
Similar Products Used:
Shimano, Hugi, Hope, Coda
Bike Setup:
Single Speed Bianchi with front King disk hub and rear King single speed hub.
Bottom Line:
You complain about high price once, but you will complain about poor quality every time you throw your leg over your bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mark
a Cross Country Rider
from San Dimas, Ca. Date Reviewed: June 13, 2001
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$250.00
Strengths:
Bearings. Reputations. Quality. Super smooth and if you purchase the hub tool you can easily disassemble the entire unit easily. The hub tool is a work of art.
Weaknesses:
Are you kidding?
Similar Products Used:
Shimano, Hugi, Hope, Coda
Bike Setup:
Single Speed Bianchi with front King disk hub and rear King single speed hub.
Bottom Line:
You complain about high price once, but you will complain about poor quality every time you throw your leg over your bike!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kenny
a Cross Country Rider
from springfield, va, usa Date Reviewed: June 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
fountain head
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$190.00
Purchased At:
Pro-Deal from Chris King
Strengths:
Weight Rear Engagement Strength Looks Customer Service
Weaknesses:
NONE!
Similar Products Used:
there are no comparisons to Chiris King
Bike Setup:
2000 Schwinn Moab 1, red king hubs on sun zero degree xc's, xtr rear d., xtr v-brakes, titec bar/stem/post, xt shifters/cranks/front d.
Bottom Line:
These hubs were the best possible upgrade i could make for my bike. I saved nearly 1 full pound and the hubs are fast, fast, fast! The engagement is instant and the power transfer on the rear hub makes for great climbing and accelerating. They are also indesturctale. Submerge them, jump them, mud, dry dirt, whatever the hbs are awesome. And the customer service from king is unbelievable. Love the buzz man!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Dan
a
from Lincoln, NE Date Reviewed: May 24, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Purchased At:
Present
Strengths:
These hubs are the lightest hubs on the market. They are over 3 ounces lighter than the XTR hubs. They come with a 5 year warrantee. They are brand new and still in the origional box with all paper work present for both front and rear hubs. These hubs were a birthday present from my parents. I ride downhill and i use a 20mm front and a 12mm rear so these dont work for me. I want to sell them for $300
Weaknesses:
Are you kidding it is a Chris King hub set. No weaknesses
Similar Products Used:
Paul, XTR, Syncros
Bike Setup:
I ride a downhill bike, so i dont need these hubs.
Bottom Line:
These hubs were a present from my parents. I ride downhill so i have no use for them. They are brand new and have never been used. They have never even been built up into a wheel. I have all origional paperwork and boxes and everything for the front and rear hun. They are for a mountain bike with 32 count spoke drilling both front and rear. Both hubs are black and i will sell for $300 for the set. Contact me and i can send pictures. downhillerdan@hotmail.com
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rodeoking
a Cross Country Rider
from Hopkins, MN, USA Date Reviewed: May 20, 2001
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Eriks Bike
Strengths:
Price is for a complete wheel build from the shop. These hubs are machined works of art. Nitrious Oxide fast engagement. Killer bee buzz is more effective than salt for getting pokey slugs off the trail.
Weaknesses:
No bike shops around town spec them on even the high end bikes, can anybody say vendor kickbacks?
Similar Products Used:
Shimano Super Crap
Bike Setup:
Custom Amp-Research B5
Bottom Line:
The high approval rating of Chris King hubs should not come as a suprise. They make the best product in the business. When you ask as much for hubs like this your customers demand the best and CK will be my first choice for the next bike I build.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
olly toogood
a Cross Country Rider
from london Date Reviewed: April 25, 2001
Favorite Trail:
leith hill
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
mail order shop
Strengths:
this hub is amazingly light, like a feather, also the freehub has amazing pickup thanks to quite a few ratchets
Weaknesses:
Sealing, i am afraid that these hubs were obviously not designed with brittish winters in mind, after just a couple of cross country rides in mud, i was fnding i was having to service the beggers, which is not satisfactory from a product with this price tag, it's not even as if i was riding downhill on them.
Similar Products Used:
i have since been forced to replace it with a hope TI-glide (British engineered), which has not given me such hastles as they have lasted the winter without having needed a service. nice.
Bike Setup:
GT Zaskar LE, HOPE, Middleburn, TA, XTR, Easton, Race Face, Time, Mavic
Bottom Line:
i was very impressed with these hubs untill i started to ride during the winter, where the sealing was just not up to scratch, however if you rarely ride in mud for day long rides (if you have ridden during a British winter you will know what i mean) then these hubs will probably be perfect for you. i am just sorry to say that i have not been happy with them, and as it is not really a manufacturers defect, they cant be warrentied so that was $450 basically down the drane (they don't even make a very good paper weight as they don't weigh enough)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
kevin
a Racer
from Tulsa,Ok,USA Date Reviewed: April 9, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Strengths:
Light weight, good looks, ease of maintenance
Weaknesses:
I should probably wait until I have some more time on these hubs, but I thought my experience might be of interest. I noticed a large amount of drag on this hub and can only hope that in time this will go away. Note to all potential buyers that CK hubs may require up to 60 hrs(!) for breakin according to their manual. I did a rolling distance and top speed test down my driveway pitting my age old XTRs against my new CKs. XTR top speed was 6.9 mph while CKs were 6.6mph. Rolling distance on the XTRs just blew away the CKs which traveled only about 60 yards. Yeah, I know there are some issues re differences in tire types in this hub "test."
Similar Products Used:
XTRs
Bike Setup:
Fisher Sugar
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is be prepared for a significant amount of drag on your CKs until they are worn in. I was hoping to race the CKs(Daves Wheels) ASAP but not a chance. They are way slow right now. I figure by the time I break them in I'll be in the next racing age group!More Later.
Gorgeous, reliable, light. A unique yet functional and intelligently-executed design. Much manlier than Shimano.
Weaknesses:
Apparently, the reviewer below has found out that they are not downhill/freeride hubs. (Not to be harsh, but with the weight of these things that should have been obvious.)
Similar Products Used:
Mostly Shimano stuff.
Bike Setup:
RM Instinct with lots of really, really nice stuff.
Bottom Line:
I just replaced my Spinergy front wheel with a Chris King/Sun 0D lite wheel to match my rear. I've already written a review on these hubs, I just wanted to say how nice the front and rear look together. I feel like Homer Simpson drooling over donuts. Oh, the front hub tracks really nicely, too. I was a bit worried about going back to spokes with the great tracking and damping of the Spinergy, but wanted the weight reduction and lack of tire pressure problems of an old-school wheel. I don't feel most spoke wheels hold up to the Spinergy when it comes to steering precision, but this King hub/DTHugi 3-cross spoke weave/Sun 0D lite combo (same as my rear) doesn't seem to lose much of anything in this regard. I couldn't be happier.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
James Allan
a Weekend Warrior
from London Date Reviewed: March 31, 2001
Favorite Trail:
trials stuff
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
a shop
Strengths:
very light, quite strong ,well built but with faults
Weaknesses:
freehub is not strong, looks nasty, axel is not strong as well. Is not woth the money(no hub is worth the price of marzocchi Z1's)
Similar Products Used:
HOPE!!, shimamo whis is trash(exp XTR)
Bike Setup:
Norco trials, middleburn, hope azonic. and a zaskar cross country with bonty, hope, middleburn
Bottom Line:
These hubs will stun you when you pick them ub for the first time, you will wonder how little there is in the thing! then when you ride them they fell light responsive, and the pick up is instant. but thre make a buzzing noise which is pants. then you ride them for long periods and hard and you come across problems. such as the freehub, yes people it sucks. the way they make that hub so light is that it has very weak areas because lumps of important metal was removed. Dont even think about trials beacause if you are doing large drops 6foot and up then goodbye hub.
In America people praise these, that is because they have not experienced Hope, Hope is the best you can get, people dh, jump the weakest of their cross country hubs because they are certain to last. I dont want to be a bike component facist, but British bike stuff outstrips the American counterpart.
Everyone should buy HOPE HUBS.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim keating
a Cross Country Rider
from denton Date Reviewed: March 11, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Bar-h
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
Aardvark cycles
Strengths:
light, rebuildable, instant engagement, beutiful, long lasting bearings
Similar Products Used:
XT, LX, XTR, Hugi 240, Mavic
Bike Setup:
IBIS Mojo, Z-2 atom 80, Sun o degree xc rims, DT rev. spokes and alloy nipples
Bottom Line:
these are the best hubs ever. i have only done light maintenece since i bought these hubs and they still work perfectly! i just rode in the mudiest race ever down in warda texas and after i got home nothing worked including my rear hub. The mub was very wet and sandy, and it got into everything. everybody's hubs were trashed but i just took mine apart and cleaned and lubed them and they are perfect again. some other people with integrated wheels and such have tosend thers back for repair. that sucks! why would anybody want to do that. do your self a favor and get a pair of these hubs built with regulr spokes and rims. easy to repair and replace in spokes get broken and such. no doubt about it these are the best!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Rick
a Racer
from Tampa, FL Date Reviewed: February 28, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Razorback
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
-Superlight -Bombproof -Great Customer Service
Weaknesses:
?
Similar Products Used:
XTR Hubs
Bike Setup:
S-Works w/ Dave Thomas' Wheels- Kings/Valients
Bottom Line:
These hubs are great. I read up on all of the different hubs available before I purchased any, and no one had a bad thing to say about King. Now I understand why. These hubs are super smooth, have instant engagement and are a real eye-catcher too. What else can you say about these hubs? They're what everything else is judged by.
As far as some people posting one chili (ahem- a few posts below) when they don't own a set, and obviously aren't familiar with the hub- don't pay attention to it. IF HE HAD READ THE HANDBOOK THAT CAME WITH THE HUBS he would have seen that they tell you that THE HUBS LOOSEN UP DURING BREAK IN. Yes, that means you have to get your hands dirty and tighten them up slightly after the first ten hours of use. It's not like King doesn't warn you about this from the get go.
Anyway- they're excellent hubs- go buy a set, you'll love them!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ian
a Racer
from Spokane WA Date Reviewed: February 17, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Beacon Hill
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Friend
Strengths:
Instant Engagement Smooth Light Clean Lines Great Customer Service Bzzzzz
Similar Products Used:
XTR CrossMax Ritchey
Bottom Line:
Bottom line is these are the best hubs on the market period. The instant and positive engagement spoils you quickly! Plus the Bzzzz is pretty adicting. If you race, or just like high quality components buy KING hubs. If you have any problem with them they will take tem back no questions asked. That alone puts KING hubs on top. I also can honestly say that these wheels have made me faster. They role a whole lot smoother/faster than my XTR's and Xmax's ever did. Buy these hubs, and you will not be sorry. If you are worried about the bzzz being annoying, you dont even hear it after about a week of riding them. Plus I can almost guarentee that they will make you a faster rider. But don't take my word for it ride them for yourself.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Joe
a Cross Country Rider
from Baton Rouge, La Date Reviewed: February 10, 2001
Favorite Trail:
Poison Spider, Moab, UT
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
mail order
Strengths:
Look good, lite, super quick engagement, great customer service.
Weaknesses:
very minor weakness, you have to adjust the bearings during breakin. Very easy to do though.
Similar Products Used:
Ringle, Shimano STX
Bike Setup:
Litespeed Obed, U.S.E seatpost, Manitou TiSX fork, Race Face cranks and BB, Christ King hubs, Specialized body geometry pro seat.
Bottom Line:
Great hub.
I have a Ringle rear hub that I bought about 6 years ago (maybe more)and it started giving me trouble engaging about a year and a half after I bought it. At that time, I stopped using it because I bought a new Litespeed bike and a wheelset built with Christ King hubs. I recently sent the old Ringle rear hub back to Ringle through my LBS and they told me that the hub was worn out and there was nothing they could do. Worn out! There is no way I wore that hub out. Also recently, my Chris Kings were acting a little stiff, like they were dragging inside. I wanted the pros at Chris King to rebuild them for the upcoming race season, so I called them and they said sure no problem, send them in. Within one week the rebuilt hub was at my door. Chris King had rebuilt it with an oversize bearing, flushed and repacked all bearings, new free hub body and new seals. All at no charge! I don't think that I'll ever buy any other hub than Chris King. I know they are a little expensive, but if you weigh in all of there benefits, they are way better and cheaper than any other top hubs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
brian
a Weekend Warrior
from Salt Lake City Date Reviewed: February 8, 2001
Duration Product Used:
Tested or demo'ed only
Strengths:
Cool Factor, Superlight
Weaknesses:
Rear Hub comes loose, special tools
Similar Products Used:
most
Bike Setup:
hardtail
Bottom Line:
These hubs are highly overrated. First of all, if everyone is writing about their rear hub coming loose, why do they still rate the hub as five flames? Who wants a hub that comes loose?
I rate this hub 1 flame for value because you pay $400 for a hubset that comes loose and that everyone knows about and 1 flame for overall for all those people who rated a 5 flame when they complained about the hub coming loose.
Don't get me wrong, The hubs are light, strong, engages fast, and cool, but the price and rear hub problem bothers me.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
peter
a Cross Country Rider
from marietta Date Reviewed: February 8, 2001
Favorite Trail:
bear creek
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Price Paid:
$450.00
Purchased At:
boneshaker bicycles
Strengths:
strong, easily serviced, buzzing sound gets people out of your way on a crowded trail, ck customer support better than any company i've ever dealt with
Weaknesses:
my front hub loosened a few times the first week-tightened them and rebuilt them twice since then w/no more problems
Similar Products Used:
xt,specialized,lx,
Bike Setup:
m2 stmpjmpr,racelites,full race-face, xtr r-r
Bottom Line:
i bought a set of chris king race lites (almost new) from a friend, these hubs are great! the only problem was w/the fr hub the 1st week loosening-i tightened it and watched it closely, for some reason they never did it again, i assume they just needed to be broken in, i probably wouldn't have spent the money on a set of these but after owning a pair-i won't ever have anything else, i truly believe in supporting domestic companies as opposed to the big-s (canada included) by the way: chris king's website is great for tips on hub maintenance
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
john charles
a Downhiller
from phoeniz,az Date Reviewed: January 22, 2001
Favorite Trail:
national trail
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
start to finish
Strengths:
light,bombproof & make a sweet sound! very easy to service quick engagement.
Weaknesses:
after the initial break in the rear hub comes loose but after you re-ajust it you should not have any problems (they should include the tools to work on them cause not every shop is equipped with there tools.
Similar Products Used:
numerous shimano hubs.
Bike Setup:
GT i-drive 1000 race face full xtr
Bottom Line:
if you live on your bike like I do & do not own a car it's worth it! they are pricey like everyone say's but i've ridden hard core on these hubs toured thousands of miles any normal hub would have been toast by now not these! just take them apart once a year clean them repack-em good as new! it should be the last pair of hubs you'll ever need to buy. (and it's really cool when you ride by people & they have this odd look on there face when they look at your bike & wonder what is that annoying sound i'm hearing?)
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MacWin
a Racer
from Soquel, CA, USA Date Reviewed: January 19, 2001
Favorite Trail:
demo forest
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
Just like a Timex, it takes a lickin' an' keeps on tickin'. Anybody with any other hub has replaced them since I got my Kings for Xmas '97.
Weaknesses:
They need a catchy jingle or some animated TV characters like the California Raisins or the M&M guys. Get REAL. They ain't got no weaknesses, people.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano, Nuke Proof
Bike Setup:
Santa Cruz Superlight, SID XC, Hutchison, XTR
Bottom Line:
There is no comparison. These are THE awesome hub out there. I wore out the rims (X217) and now have x517's laced to them. I swear they have less rolling resistance than Shimano based hubs (like everybody). That means faster. Be there or be square.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
tim sexton
a
from cincinnati, ohio Date Reviewed: January 9, 2001
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
quick, solid engagement light
Weaknesses:
-self-loosening bearing preload adjuster ring -requires its own special tool to retighten the chronically loose self-loosening bearing preload adjuster ring -seals aren't terribly impressive
Similar Products Used:
xt
Bike Setup:
litespeed obed
Bottom Line:
this is the quickest-engaging hub on the market, as far as i know, and feels extremely solid when it does engage. but... i ride trials on mine and it is CHRONICALLY loose- and it requires its own special tool to retighten. right now i have the bearing preload set up too high so the rear wheel doesn't wobble to such a degree that i can feel it when riding. still, there is some wobble, even though the bearings are tightened to the point that when i pedal backwards the chain nearly comes off. it's also starting to skip on me, which can make for some really sketchy moments when pedal kicking, even just riding up a hill. also, the seals aren't very good, i ride almost exclusively when it's dry and when i take the hub apart to clean it, there is still quite a bit of gunk and nastiness inside, even after only a month or so of riding. the bottom line- when it works, it works like no other- but that hasn't been very often for me, and the price is pretty high for the performance i've gotten. i'm glad to hear everyone else's hub works so well, though. maybe i just got a bad hub, or maybe my type of riding is too hard on xc parts.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
John Moorhouse
a Racer
from Orlando Florida Date Reviewed: December 25, 2000
Favorite Trail:
1996 Olympic Mtn Bike Course at Conyers Georgia (24hrs solo)
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Came with Bontrager Wheels
Strengths:
-very low maintenance -about the lightest hubs out there -THE most reliable and bombproof bearings and drive mechanism
Weaknesses:
price?????? (but you get what you pay for!!)
Similar Products Used:
-Shimano XTR,LX -DT Hugi
Bike Setup:
Green 2001 Ellsworth Truth ICT with the lightest/most durable stuff out there
Bottom Line:
I have run these hubs now for over 2 years. This is what they have been through during that time: 5 24hour solo races, 5 12 hour solo races, about 8 NORBA XC races, and all the ususal training miles and riding that would go along with all this competition. Needless to say, i have put these hubs through the ringer. You will NOT (I repeat NOT) find a more quality hubset. About the lightest available, and DEFINITELY the strongest/longest lasting.
Note: It is common for King hubs to loosen after the first ride....it's like an initial break-in. Simply re-adjust, go ride, and forget about them!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
They are worth the extra money considering how long they last!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
martijn
a Cross Country Rider
from holland Date Reviewed: December 13, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Brunsemerheide(limburg)
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$250.00
Purchased At:
bikescene Dordrecht
Strengths:
Sound of the rear hub. Overall look. overall quality is superb!
Weaknesses:
To nice to use for hard riding.
Bottom Line:
The best hubs money can buy! Iff your looking for something that will last for ages go with Chris King! Make yourself heard, use a King rear hub. Iff you have the money, spent it on these hubs!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Wolfgang Jung
a Weekend Warrior
from Eugene Date Reviewed: December 12, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
pauls bike shop
Bike Setup:
I got a bontrager and they came with it, so technically they were free...
Bottom Line:
Whats with that weezing sound? At first i hatted this cuz it was so anoying. But i took that plastic disk off behind my freewheel and now it sound like a badass motorcycle. Vroom Vroom!! Fact is most people get out of my way on the trails cuz they think im a dirt bike, what with the sound and speed.And if they dont get out of my way i run um over.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Noks
a Weekend Warrior
from University Place Date Reviewed: December 7, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Capital Forest
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
From Chirs King (Emp purchase)
Strengths:
Light, stroong, smooth, pretty.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Machine Tech, DT Hugi, Shimano XTR
Bike Setup:
98 stump, Judy SL, ESP 9.0sl, King H-set/hubs, Raceface Crankset/Ti BB, and other cool stuff
Bottom Line:
These hubs are built like everything else that Chris King has ever made. It high quality stuff. It's must own hubset (especially if you work at a shop), if not, it's still worth the food money you'll give up.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Daemon
a Weekend Warrior
from Singapore Date Reviewed: November 23, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
The strongest hub ever created... Able to stand a lot of trashing without noticable damage.. Nice looks, a combination of form and function
Weaknesses:
If only it was cheaper...But it's well paid for at that price...
Similar Products Used:
XTR, XT, Bontrager
Bike Setup:
GT ZaskAr LE
Bottom Line:
After long periods without riding, sometimes I dream of the sweet Bee-hive sound of the rotating hubs
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Brent Kirwan
a Cross Country Rider
from Ottawa, Canada Date Reviewed: November 21, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Gatineau park
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Price Paid:
$300.00
Purchased At:
Unchained Indendent Cycles
Strengths:
This is the best hub out there. No doubt. Strong. Light. There is more engineering in this hub than you can imagine. Nothing else on the market comes close.
Weaknesses:
None.
Similar Products Used:
XT. XTR. Sachs. Hugi.
Bike Setup:
'97 DeKerf Team FS. XT/XTR drive train.
Bottom Line:
Look at the other reviews. Everyone is raving for a reason. This is the best hub. Anyone who says different probably does not know what they are talking about. Pull a CK hub apart... it's aerospace quality stuff. Maybe better. I've thrashed my hub for 4 seasons. It is still LIKE NEW inside. My hub has never, ever let me down. They are absolutely, undeniably worth the money... in fact, I'm surprised they don't cost more. Need a new hub? Save your cash until you can buy one of these. Do not buy anything else. No one else comes close... the Phil Wood hub is nice, but heavy and not as well-designed. The Hugi is not as good, either. This hub is not a marketing exercise... it is a purpose-built piece of equipment: made to be ridden on your bike and last forever (or thereabouts) Oh, and if you need service help... I've phoned CK a number of times. I get to talk to real people who actually know what they are doing. Friendly, fast, service. CK is a fantastic company.
Only one recommendation: Get the stainless steel free-hub body. It's tougher than the aluminum one, if you are a punishing sort of rider.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Alex
a Cross Country Rider
from WI Date Reviewed: November 19, 2000
Favorite Trail:
John Muir
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$200.00
Purchased At:
Spring City Cycle
Strengths:
Lighter than Kate Moss, Sharper looking than big freakin needles, and a quick engagement. Oh those colors, so...so..pretty
Weaknesses:
Price(you get what you pay for) Do not use steel freewheel or it will damage the freebody
Similar Products Used:
Bontrager, Rolf
Bottom Line:
For those people who say the freewheel sucks you need to ride more and wear them in. The adjustments are easy. the srevice is good, but I'm not looking forward to needing the tool to replace the bearings. these hubs have treated me very well giving me the lightest possible wheelset on earth.(595g and 850g). I have had no problems with these after the initial break in period. Keep riding!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ryan Parlin
a Weekend Warrior
from Pasco, WA Date Reviewed: October 22, 2000
Favorite Trail:
My backyard
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
MTBR Marketplace
Strengths:
Customer service! Light weight Instant engagement Strong The "buzz" Their new factory
Weaknesses:
Price, but you get what you pay for.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano
Bike Setup:
Ted Wojcik frame, DT spokes, Mavic 221 rims.
Bottom Line:
You've heard it all before--light, instant engagement... My big thing is customer service. My rear hub was dragging a bit, and since I had it out of my wheel I decided to try to send it in to get rebuilt. Usually companies will tell you, "Hey, no receipt, no warranty" but Chris King had NO problems with that. The fact that I bought the hubs used didn't matter to them! They didn't charge me for the work and paid for the return shipping. I might expect this if I was the first owner, but having bought them used... They went ahead and replaced the axle, needle bearing and race, drive and driven rings,and the hubshell bearing. They said that the hubs needed more frequent overhauls, which pretty much tells me that they really want to take care of their customers. Another thing I was impressed with, reading through their catalog, is their new factory. Every precaution seems to have been taken to make it as clean and pollution free as possible. Finally a company that is more concerned about the environment than making more money.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Zeus
a Weekend Warrior
from Berrien Springs, MI Date Reviewed: October 8, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The Rubicon
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
$400/wheelset @ Universal Cycles
Strengths:
Light, low rolling resistance, engineering and machining are perfect, simple to maintain/adjust, look clean, and buzz is sweet! Warranty...
Very lightweight, reducing rolling weight. Bearings are smooth as silk.
Totally servicable, including the bearings in the drive shell. The RingDrive is simple to re-lube and as said in the previous posting, can be quieted a bit. King recommends their own grease... any idea where to get it?
Drive shell is aluminum, so make sure you're casette cogs are tight. I didn't and one of the loose gears slipped and gouged the shell.
These hubs hava a 5 year warranty, but I doubt you'll need it if you keep them maintained. The service manual is also pretty comprehensive, yet easy to understand, making maintenance even easier.
These are worth every penny you pay!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeroen van den Brand
a Cross Country Rider
from Boxtel, The Netherlands Date Reviewed: October 6, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Ardennen
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Purchased At:
Kivada Wielersport
Strengths:
Light, tuff, engages quick, sound and the looks
Weaknesses:
They're not completely 100% watertight, but I believe that's impossible do make. I had some problems with waterintrusion after riding a real wet and long tour a few weeks ago. But since the hub is easily serviced, I could clean the hub.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XT, XTR, Hugi, Tune, and so on...
Bike Setup:
Balance AL750 '97, Judy SL (rebuild with SID legs and Judy Race crown)CK headset & hubs, Magura, Mavic 517, Michelin, ESP 9.0sl & XT.
Bottom Line:
Although they are not 100% watertight I really love those hubs. The sound is incredible and the engagement is terrific. For people that don't like the buzz (hardly imaginable...), take the rear hub a part and put a few drops of syntetic oil between the teeths of the RingDrive. The buzzing will be less after a few miles. After many miles it's possible that the buzzing will also be less, although you didn't put any oil or so in the hub. This problem can be solved by stretching the RingDrive spring behind the rings. Only problem doing this is, that you need the Hub tool from CK, please let a trained King mechanic perform this job. I also tune a lot with King hubs and I've ordered a green rear hub a few weeks ago to put on my (soon coming) VooDoo Bizango. The hubs are not cheap put like any other CK product it's good, very, very good!!! If you have any troubles with CK hubs, let me know, I might give you some advice. (I have developed a method of cleaning the RingDrive system without using the Hub Tool and without taking the RingDrive a part, mail me if you want to know the details!)
Greetings,
Jeroen van den Brand Kivada Wielersport Middelrode/Berlicum The Netherlands
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Stan
a Weekend Warrior
from Niles, IL Date Reviewed: October 5, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Anything Technical
Duration Product Used:
2 Years
Purchased At:
Kalo MTB
Strengths:
Perfect - light and beautiful
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
Shimano STX, LX, XT
Bike Setup:
Ibis Mojo
Bottom Line:
Best hubs tha money can buy. I have had zero problems with these hubs and I ride hard (and I am 200+ lbs). Anyhow, I cannot recommend these hubs enough. You will not be disappointed.
By the way, CK is a great company - they have always been helpful when I have needed information etc.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luke
a Weekend Warrior
from Pekin Date Reviewed: September 29, 2000
Favorite Trail:
The Friendly Trail
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$500.00
Purchased At:
Cambria Bike
Strengths:
Flawless design, never skips, hops, disengages, light weight, confidence inspiring, possessed by demons from an alternate bike dimension.
AEON Joker, Rock Shock XL, XTR Drive Train, Race Face headset & cranks, Tioga tires & seat, and the usual.
Bottom Line:
THESE HUBS RULE! CHRIS KING IS THE MAN!!! THE QUALITY IS UNTOUCHABLE. The only downside is the cost. I would bet my left nut that if King sold as many of his hubs as Shimano puts out, his price would be 1000% LESS. Kinda makes you wonder were Shimano putting all of its profits...hmm, anyone remember Pearl Harbor?
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Geno
a Racer
from Oak Grove KY Date Reviewed: September 21, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Price Paid:
$600.00
Purchased At:
Barnfeld's Raging Isle, Haleiwa HI
Strengths:
Warranty, Great Service Dept. Outstanding design
Weaknesses:
That's a joke right? Weakness?
Similar Products Used:
XTR,XT
Bike Setup:
GT I-drive mavic 521 laced to CK hubs. I had a bullet proof wheelset built after a Taco tire
Bottom Line:
Yes, They are expensive. Yes you need a special tool to fully rebuild them. Quality always comes with a price. 5mm allen wrenches are all you need to do basic service. I bought the tools needed for a full tear down and it was worth it. I have seen inside the hubs and it is awe inspiring. Buy them or not. I would sell blood and plasma to get these........or your soul.....its a cheap price for perfection
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
MAD AUSSIE
a
from ARIZONA Date Reviewed: September 18, 2000
Duration Product Used:
6 months
Strengths:
Finish, smooth bearings, bzzzzzzzzz.
Weaknesses:
Rear hub keeps on coming loose
Similar Products Used:
Shimano XTR, XT
Bottom Line:
After having the hubs for a couple of months the rear one came loose, no biggie, I had it tightened at the shop that built the wheels. It has persisted on coming loose ever since. Even with the shop loctiting everything, it still comes loose. The shop is now contacting Chris King to figure out what to do. I still love the hubs, but for the money, I shouldnt have any problems. My XT hubs lasted 4 years in mud and slush without me touching them. FYI I only weigh 140lb.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Mache
a Cross Country Rider
from Germany Date Reviewed: September 10, 2000
Duration Product Used:
More than 3 years
Strengths:
adjustable bearings very light very strong good looking
Weaknesses:
none
Bike Setup:
Yeti Pro F.R.O.
Bottom Line:
I've only got the Chris King front hub and it works great! The sealed bearings are excellent and the hub can take some hard rides. If you are into "a-bit-more-expensive" parts, you can buy these without worrying.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Luis Paz
a Cross Country Rider
from San Diego Date Reviewed: August 24, 2000
Favorite Trail:
Noble Canyon
Duration Product Used:
Less than 1 month
Price Paid:
$320.00
Purchased At:
Mission Cyclery
Strengths:
Its Super Light, Smooth action, No take up on the Crank, Great workmanship, very Precision and Looks great too.
Weaknesses:
None
Similar Products Used:
XTR hubs
Bike Setup:
Kastan Frame 3.1 lbs, 98 Sid Race 2.5 lbs. All XTR mega9 componenets, Kore stem, Easton handlebar, Red Chis King hubs on red 517 mavics.
Bottom Line:
If your looking for the best, then look no further than Chis king hubs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Don
a
from Poughquag NY Date Reviewed: August 22, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
ChrisKing provides a first class product and matches that with first class support. After a year of abuse my hub is holding up like new. When I do service it I know I can count on being able to rebuild it if I need to. Do you want to know the difference between a "king" hub and all the rest. Go to their website www.chrisking.com and read the tech help sections. This is a company that takes pride in what they make. I called the tech helpline today and talked to Joe. His enthusiasm for his product and company was very evident. He patiently took me through inspecting and adjusting the hub over the phone. He followed that up with mailing me the lube I need for the next service and enclosed some tech supporting doc. WOW!. The competition might as well get out of the business now. These guys not only make the best product on the market they also have the best attitude. Hey Joe in Tech support....Thanks !!!
Weaknesses:
This product will exceed your expectations, it has no weak points.
Similar Products Used:
XTR
Bike Setup:
Trek Y33, fox rear, Marzocchi Z2-super fly front,XRT drive line, ChrisKing hubs & headset, Mavic CD sup rims
Bottom Line:
Quality parts. Do it right and you will only need to do it one time......which leaves more time to ride ! Buy-em, there really is no comparison... these simply set the standard all other hubs try to live up to.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Jeroen van den Brand
a Cross Country Rider
from Boxtel, The Netherlands Date Reviewed: August 8, 2000
Duration Product Used:
1 Year
Strengths:
BUZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZZ
Weaknesses:
HuH??
Similar Products Used:
Shimano stuff and some other tiawanese stuff...
Bike Setup:
KING, KING and huh KING!
Bottom Line:
THE BUZZZZZZZ IS SO COOL, I STOPPED PEDALLING AND I MADE MY INSTEAD MY FRIENDS PUSH ME SO I CAN HERE THE BUZZZZZZZZZZ, COOL, GREAT, I WISH MY HEADSET MADE THE SAME NOISE (!?) MY MOM CALLED THE DOCTOR TO GET ME INTO SOME SORT OFF MENTAL INSTITUTION SINCE THE ONLY THING I SAY, DO, DREAM, OR EAT MUST BE BUZZZZZZZZZZZ'n KING!!!!!
THERE IS NOTHING BETTER THAN THIS!!!!!! XTR? HUHUHUH...KING! KING! KING! KING!
10 Flamin'Chilis!!!!
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
1080 Brady
a
from Colorado Springs Date Reviewed: August 8, 2000
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Everything that is a hub...I pass everyone coasting
Weaknesses:
I don't know maybe you cheep o's who don't want to have a good bike.
Similar Products Used:
xt's and no names
Bike Setup:
santa cruz superlight...decked with everything I wanted
Bottom Line:
Simply buy theese hubs if you want something to last and to work well. They make a cool buzzing that real bikers reconize and I guess that's cool...but I bought them for their product not their name. Just give blood or whatever it takes and get a pair.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Vernon
a Cross Country Rider
from Vancouver, BC Canada Date Reviewed: August 3, 2000
Favorite Trail:
UBC Endowment Lands
Duration Product Used:
3 months
Strengths:
Instant engagement, light, and beautiful craftsmanship. Coast for very long, and fast.
Weaknesses:
Require special tools to service. Should be included in the price. Like the sound but the volume can get a bit deafening. Also, I'm irritated by others telling me "Hey Vern, I hate to tell you this, but I think something is wrong with your bike. It doesn't sound right." I fondly call it "The Angry Bee Hub"
Similar Products Used:
Spot Singlespeed hub
Bike Setup:
Brodie "Unibomber" Singlespeed Mavic 517 Annodized, Alloy nipples and ti spokes, Kenda Kozmik Lite tires, panaracer greenlite tubes Race Face DH stem, and forged cranks, Ti BB, Blackspire 34T Chainring, King Kog 18T rear Easton Carbon Monkey Lite Bars and seatpost Avid Supreme Arch, Single Digit 25 Mag, travel Agents Avid Ultimate levers Selle San Marco Ti Eras saddle
Bottom Line:
Rear singlespeed hub needs adjustment after 200km break-in period. I have now 1,100km no further adjustments needed. Totally dependable so far. I love the instant engagement and no more clinking sound that drove me mad when Spot freehub is inbetween engagement and freewheeling. Sounds like a salmon fishing reel. Great for when someone is in your path and you're wanting to go by. No bells required. Go for it if you're looking for the best singlespeed hub without a doubt in mind! Make sure you can learn to live with the volume of "The Angry Bee Hub" or wear ear plugs.
Value Rating:Overall Rating:
Submitted by
Ken
a
from Salt Lake City, Ut Date Reviewed: August 3, 2000
Sound does not quite have the sense of refined understatement of the latest Hugi hubs. At this price point, more mature hues of anodizing should be made available. Sand, olive drab, near-black purple, maybe even some pastel colors. No infrared remote hub-body release.
Similar Products Used:
Shimano stuff
Bottom Line:
Great hub, even for the asking price. It's all about near-black purple!
$ 455.00
Overall Rating:
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