Wheelset specialist Stan’s NoTubes has rolled out new M-pulse hubs, which feature… ‘a bombproof locking engagement system with six pawls equipped with Neodymium rare earth magnets.’
The company notes that, with 216 points of engagement, M-pulse hubs need only 1.66° of rotation to start putting power to the rear wheel. When engaged, multiple teeth on each pawl lock into a hardened steel ratchet ring while each pawl’s magnet ensures alignment.
‘This not only lets M-pulse freehubs engage more reliably and consistently than traditional spring-based pawl designs, but also provides an even more important advantage: less friction and rotational resistance when not engaged. Less friction holding you back means more you going fast, and with less effort.’
The M-pulse engagement system is based on the Project321 magnetic pawl design, and all freehub body shells, magnetic pawls, ratchet rings, spacers, and axles are manufactured at Project321’s small-batch CNC shop in Bend, Oregon. Each M-pulse hub is then assembled at Stan’s headquarters in Big Flats, New York.
The M-pulse hub’s six magnetic pawls and hardened steel ratchet ring are built to outlast conventional mechanical springs, which can fatigue, lose tension, and become misaligned over time. With better durability, stronger engagement, and less drag, the M-pulse design is claimed to be ‘a better way to build a hub’.
M-pulse hubs feature an adjustable preload that decreases drag and resistance for less effort and more speed. Adjustable preload also prolongs bearing life by allowing the hub’s bearing tension to be tuned with greater precision in contrast with most hubs that tension unevenly by relying solely on how much the bike’s axle has been tightened.
M-pulse hubs are available as complete wheelsets (MSRP starting at $965) laced to the MK4 asymmetric rims, including the 30mm wide Flow MK4, 28mm wide Arch MK4, and 25mm wide Crest MK4 that were all launched last summer.
All carbon CB7 and the Podium SRD series wheelsets (MSRP starting at $1,987) will also roll on the new M-pulse hubs. However, M-pulse hubs will not be available on the downhill and enduro-ready EX3 and on the more affordable S2 series wheels. Both are built with the E-sync hubs introduced last June.
M-pulse hub options include Shimano Micro Spline, HG, or SRAM XDR freehubs, in 6-bolt or Centerlock brake style, and configurations to fit all popular through-axle widths.
All wheelsets equipped with M-pulse hubs are also part of Stan’s Connection program. With each wheelset registration, the company will donate US$10 to support a local trail group or cycling-related charitable organization of a rider’s choice.
Initially wheels with M-pulse hubs will be available through local and online bike shops. Eventually, consumers will also be able to purchase online directly from Stan’s.
www.NoTubes.com
www.project321.com
