Minnesota-based hub manufacturer Onyx might be best known for its instant-engagement BMX race hubs, but more recently the company has released cyclocross hubs that we're anxious to try. However, that review will likely be a bit further delayed, as the company is redesigning its patented sprag clutch to make freehub body swapping a cinch.
Last month at Interbike, Onyx’s Shannon Hansen displayed a new and improved version of their sprag clutch that reportedly simplifies manufacturing, lighten the rear hub, and improve durability. The new design is also compatible with DT Swiss star-ratchet freehub bodies.
The improved sprag clutch design which maintains Onyx's reputation for instant engagement and drag-free coasting. Onyx's new freehub design. 2018 Interbike. © Eric Takayama / Cyclocross Magazine
Onyx’s current generation freehub bodies are integrated with the steel body that the sprag clutch rolls on. With that design, switching freehub bodies exposes the clutch to contamination and usually requires a new axle.
Switching freehub bodies on Onyx's current freehubs often exposes the clutch to contamination. Onyx's new freehub design. 2018 Interbike. © Eric Takayama / Cyclocross Magazine
The new design machines the star ratchet into the clutch’s stainless steel body, allowing it to stay in place whenever the freehub body is removed. The new design makes the hubs compatible with any DT Swiss star-ratchet freehub body, including the soon-to-come Shimano 12-speed MicroSpline standard.
The product will launch in Spring 2019—maybe at Sea Otter.
Previously, switching the freehub meant removing the body upon which the sprag clutch rolls on. Onyx's new design machines the star ratchet into the clutch's stainless steel body, allowing it to stay in place whenever the freehub body is removed. Onyx's new freehub design. 2018 Interbike. © Eric Takayama / Cyclocross Magazine
Onyx also has a new "anti-notch technology" star-ratchet Shimano/SRAM freehub body for its DT Swiss compatible hubs. Onyx inserts what look like steel paperclips into a lightweight aluminum freehub, promising to guard against dreaded cassette notching. The stainless steel inserts are user-replaceable and will retail for approximately $10 a set. We've seen similar steel bite guards on FSE's freehubs and the now-defunct American Classic freehubs.
The new freehub will be available early in 2019. The price is TBD.
Onyx's Anti Notch Technology freehub uses replaceable stainless pins to prevent scarring and is compatible with all DT Swiss star ratchet hubs. Onyx's new freehub design. 2018 Interbike. © Eric Takayama / Cyclocross Magazine
Hansen noted that the redesigned sprag clutch and the "anti-notch" freehub will be important for consumers wanting to use their hubs on performance and high-wattage e-bikes.
For those who are looking for a wheelset to match their frame or kit, you're in luck. There are over two million hub configurations/colors that Onyx already offers, and the updated product will also feature such color combinations.
Onyx claims over 2 million hub and color configurations are possible with their product assortment. Onyx's new freehub design. 2018 Interbike. © Eric Takayama / Cyclocross Magazine
More info: onyxrp.com
See our ever-growing archive of new products from Interbike 2018 here.
Photo: Gallery Onyx Sprag Clutch and Anti-Notch Freehub
Previously, switching the freehub meant removing the body upon which the sprag clutch rolls on. Onyx’s new design machines the star ratchet into the clutch’s stainless steel body, allowing it to stay in place whenever the freehub body is removed. Onyx’s new freehub design. 2018 Interbike. © Eric Takayama / Cyclocross Magazine
