BMX Axles and Hubs: A Comparison Between Male and Female Variants (Determining the Superior Option)
In the world of BMX, the choice between male and female hubs and axles can significantly impact a rider's experience. While both types deliver impressive strength, they differ in design and functionality.
Male axles, a common choice, are solid axles that extend through the dropout holes, with nuts or bolts securing the axle at the ends. They fit standard 14mm dropouts with 10mm (3/8") bolts and are known for their straightforward, sturdy setup. An example of this is the BSD Back Street Pro hub, which uses a male chromoly axle[1].
On the other hand, female axles are hollow axles that receive the bolt inside the axle itself rather than outside at the end. This design requires compatible dropouts and bolts, often 10mm (3/8") as well, but the bolt runs inside the axle. The BSD Revolution hub features a female axle kit that replaces a male axle and fits into 14mm dropouts with internal bolts[3].
The choice between male and female axles depends on riding style and preference. Male axles are generally preferred for riders who want a simple, strong, and easy-to-service hub. They are often favored for street riding and park riding where maintenance access and axle strength are critical.
Female axles, however, may be better suited for riders looking for a minimalist setup with cleaner aesthetics. They can sometimes provide a cleaner look and may reduce the risk of bike or hub damage from axle nuts protruding. Some BMX riders on pump tracks or dirt jumps might prefer female axles to avoid axle nut strikes and for ease of wheel removal.
In most cases, BMX front hubs and wheels are female by default. However, for heavy grinding, a male version is recommended for the rear wheel. For beginners, both types of hubs can be suitable, but female hubs might be more user-friendly due to their lighter weight and ease of maintenance.
It's important to note that the impact on performance between male and female hubs is minimal, with female hubs being lighter and offering a slight advantage in certain competitive scenarios, while male hubs are valued for their ruggedness in more aggressive riding.
Many brands offer the same rear hub model in both male and female versions, with a few exceptions like the GSport Roloway hub, Odyssey Clutch freecoaster, and Odyssey Antigram cassette. A shemale axle/hub is rare in the BMX world.
In conclusion, male axles offer a traditional, robust option good for street and park BMX, while female axles offer a cleaner setup preferred by some riders in pump track and dirt jump disciplines. The choice ultimately depends on the hub compatibility and rider preference for maintenance and style.
[1] BSD Back Street Pro Hub: https://www.bsdbikes.com/products/back-street-pro-hub [3] BSD Revolution Hub: https://www.bsdbikes.com/products/revolution-hub-kit
Riders who prefer a simple, strong, and easy-to-maintain hub for street and park riding often opt for male axles, while those seeking a minimalist setup with cleaner aesthetics for pump track or dirt jump disciplines might prefer female axles.
In many cases, BMX front hubs and wheels are female by default, but a male version is recommended for the rear wheel for heavy grinding. Riders should choose between male and female axles based on their riding style, preference for maintenance, and the hub compatibility.
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