DT Swiss and Reserve Just Solved the Kickback Paradox
Reserve Wheels and DT Swiss launch Degree of Freedom hubs. They eliminate pedal kickback with zero weight penalty. Here is why it matters for your ride.
Suspension engineering is often a battle against parasitic forces. When your rear wheel strikes a square-edged hit, the axle moves backward to absorb the impact, yanking on the chain and forcing your pedals to rotate backward. This is pedal kickback: it introduces harshness to the ride and unnecessary fatigue to your legs.
Reserve Wheels and DT Swiss are tackling this with the new Degree of Freedom system. Unlike complex idler pulleys or drivetrain overhauls, this system allows the hub ratchets to float. By introducing a calibrated "dead zone," the wheel can move through its travel without tugging on the cranks, effectively decoupling your fitness from the terrain.
The Spec That Matters: Zero Weight Penalty ⚖️
Usually, "better suspension performance" comes with a weight tax. This system adds zero grams to the hub while offering three adjustable settings (0°, 10°, 20°).
"The design lets your suspension work more smoothly... and makes it easier to stay composed."
You get the immediate engagement of a 90T ratchet for the climb, and the plushness of a decoupled system for the descent. It’s a rare instance of "free speed"—both in terms of friction and actual dollars—that lives up to the name.
⚡️ Why It Matters
- The Fatigue Factor: Less kickback means less feedback through the pedals, keeping your legs fresher for the final climb.
- The Customization: Swappable settings (0°/10°/20°) let you tune the hub based on terrain, not marketing hype.
- The Cost: It’s a performance upgrade included at no extra cost on new Reserve wheels.
- The Simplicity: No extra moving parts creates a high-reliability system for the garage tinkerer.
