Quick Releases and Thru-Axles for Bikes: Variants, Benefits, and Tips
In the field of bicycle components, quick releases and modern thru-axles play an essential
role. They reliably secure wheels to road bikes, mountain bikes, gravel bikes, or trekking bikes.
But which is the better solution – thru-axles or traditional quick releases? Here, we provide you
with an overview of the characteristics of both axle systems, their individual benefits, and what
to keep in mind when purchasing.
want read more.
Quick Releases – Classic, Lightweight, and Proven
The so-called quick releases are classic bike components, well-known from road cycling and leisure riding. Utilizing a simple lever mechanism, wheels can be attached quickly and without tools to the bike's frame or fork.
Advantages of Quick Releases:
- Easy handling: Wheel-changes can be done rapidly, in seconds, without any tools.
- Low weight: Especially popular with road bikes and older-model mountain bikes.
- Wide availability: Spare parts and accessories widely available in large variety.
Typical Applications:
Ideal for road bikes, city bikes, lightweight hybrid bikes, and older mountain bikes with lower stress levels.
Thru-Axles – Modern Stability and Precision
More contemporary thru-axles are gaining increasing popularity, particularly found on mountain bikes, gravel bikes, and newer generation road bikes. Thru-axles offer significantly enhanced stiffness, safety, and precision, as the axle is directly threaded through the frame or fork.
Advantages of Thru-Axles:
- Significantly higher stability: Improved handling, more precise steering, and reduced torsion under aggressive riding conditions or challenging terrains.
- Increased safety: Reduced risk of wheels loosening unintentionally.
- Improved braking performance: Optimized alignment of disc brakes prevents rubbing and boosts braking efficiency.
Typical Applications:
Best suited for mountain bikes, enduro, all-mountain, gravel bikes, and high-quality road bikes with disc brakes.
What Should You Pay Attention to when Buying Quick Releases or Thru-Axles?
Before purchasing quick releases or new thru-axles, consider these crucial points:
- Axle Diameter: Thru-axles typically come in diameters of 12 mm or 15 mm (front), and 12 mm or, less commonly, 10 mm (rear). Standard quick releases typically have a 5 mm axle diameter.
- Installation Width (Axle length): Check carefully the measurements of your frame and fork (e.g. 100 mm, 110 mm boost front; 135, 142, or 148 mm boost rear) to ensure compatibility.
- Thread Type of Thru-Axles: Thread pitch and thread length differ depending on the bike manufacturer. Check the technical specifications or contact the manufacturer directly if in doubt.
- Material and Weight: High-quality materials such as aluminum or titanium ensure weight savings and a longer lifespan for your components.
Buy Quick Releases or Thru-Axles
Do you want to upgrade your bike with new quick releases or modern thru-axles? We offer you a large selection of high-quality products from renowned brands. Quickly find the ideal solution for your road bike, mountain bike, or gravel bike – we're here to support you professionally throughout your product search!
Accessories for Quick Releases and Thru-Axles
At R2BIKE, we also provide specific accessories such as suitable adapters, replacement levers, and lightweight tuning options for various applications. Optimize your bike effortlessly—whether for road races, extensive bikepacking tours, or demanding trails.