What’s the engagement on your MTB hub?

We want to know how much fast your current MTB hubs engage, and whether you'll go up or down with your next wheelset.
By Jeff Barber
   Last Updated:
  3 comments
Singletracks may receive compensation for purchases made through any affiliate links in this article.
Close-up of a bicycle hub showing the bearings and surrounding spokes, with some dirt and wear visible on the surface. The background features a textured surface, suggesting an outdoor setting.

There’s a wide range of choices when it comes to mountain bike hub engagement, and it seems most riders prefer more points of engagement (POE) over less… to a degree.

A high engagement hub will start to drive the rear wheel more quickly than a low engagement hub. For example, with a low engagement hub, you may need to rotate the cranks forward by several degrees before the rear wheel begins to move. Faster engagement means a more responsive ride, though it can also add resistance or negatively affect the suspension on some bikes.

How much engagement does your rear MTB hub offer?

A lot of us are just running what our bike came with, so tell us if your next wheelset will have more or less engagement than your current one in the comments below. 👇

 
A close-up image of a copper-colored plumbing connector resting on a wooden surface, showcasing its detailed texture and design.
Hubs
Are high engagement hubs better? It's complicated.
Two bicycle wheels with bright green spokes, leaning against each other in a store aisle filled with boxes. The background shows shelves stocked with various bike parts and accessories.
Wheels
Lightweight Industry Nine Solix M Trail 285 wheels boast 0.59° engagement angle [Review]
Image of a purple bicycle hub with a black component on one end, featuring multiple holes around its circumference and engraved branding. The hub is positioned on a white background, showcasing its polished finish and intricate design.
Hubs
All-new OneUp Hubs sacrifice high engagement for lower weight and cost
Close-up view of a precision-engineered mechanical component featuring a red adjustment dial and intricate metal parts, highlighting the internal mechanics of a device. The cylindrical structure and gears suggest functionality related to machinery or automotive systems.
Drivetrain
New e*thirteen Sidekick hubs promise to (nearly) eliminate pedal kickback