Ratchet EXP – DT Swiss
Among the various hub technologies on the market, DT Swiss's Ratchet EXP is a benchmark for performance, reliability and maintenance simplicity. Adopted on the high-end wheels of the Swiss brand, this innovation improves hub engagement and pedaling efficiency. Let's figure out how it works and its benefits.
What is the EXP Ratchet?
The Ratchet EXP is an evolution of the famous DT Swiss ratchet system, which equips many hubs renowned for their strength and fluidity. This mechanism is based on two toothed crowns, which ensure quick and effective engagement of the freewheel.
With the Ratchet EXP, DT Swiss optimized this system by integrating several key improvements:
- Reduction in the number of springs : Unlike the old model that used two booster springs, the Ratchet EXP only works with one spring. This ensures more constant contact between crowns and reduces friction.
- One threaded body : One of the toothed crowns is now directly integrated into the hub body, which improves stiffness and reduces weight.
- Optimization of the engagement angle : With 36 or 54 tooth versions, the engagement angle is reduced (up to 6.6° on a 54T model), providing a more immediate response to pedaling.
- Rolling integrated into Ratchet : The Ratchet EXP system incorporates a bearing directly into the fixed toothed crown, which improves the stability of the axis and increases the durability of the hub by reducing the stresses on the bearings.
- Ease of assembly and disassembly : DT Swiss designed the Ratchet EXP for a simplified maintenance, with quick access to components without specific tool. The system can be dismantled and maintained easily, which facilitates lubrication and prolongs the life of the mechanism.
Why choose a hub with Ratchet EXP?
Adoption of the Ratchet EXP on the Swiss DT wheels brings several significant benefits:
- Improved power transfer
Thanks to the integration of a single crown into the hub and the removal of a spring, contact between toothed elements is more stable. That means less energy loss and better pedaling performance. - Increased sustainability
Unlike conventional ratchet systems, where only a few support points support the load, the Ratchet EXP distributes the pressure over the entire tooth surface. Outcome: less wear and tear and long-term reliability. - Simplified maintenance
The Ratchet EXP system is designed for rapid dismantling without specific tool. A simple periodic lubrication is enough to extend the life of the mechanism. - Interesting weight gain
By reducing the number of internal components, DT Swiss managed to lighten its hubs. For cyclists looking for performance, this gain of a few grams can make the difference, especially on carbon wheels intended for competition.
Conclusion
The Ratchet EXP is a major development that further improves the reputation of Swiss DT hubs. Lighter, more rigid and more reliable, it offers fast engagement and improved energy efficiency. For demanding cyclists, whether they practice road cycling or cycling MTB, it is a wise choice to optimize their performance while ensuring great durability.
