A freecoaster is different from a cassette for a BMX, is a wheel that is fitted with metal or rubber spokes. It was used to make freehand bicycling easier by giving the rider more control and helping them to stand up after a fall. It is found for sale at most bike shops, making it an affordable option for young bikers who want to have a bit more control. A cassette, on the other hand, is a wheel that fits into a bicycle hub and includes multiple small cogs that allow it to drive the chain. It is often made of metal, but can also be made of plastic, and it will allow riders to benefit from shifting while they ride.
How a freecoaster works
A freecoaster is a hub-less bicycle wheel. Instead of the spokes attaching to a fixed axle like in traditional wheels, they attach to a tire that spins freely on an axle and then is welded in place. The bearings would typically be part of the sprocket mechanism.
There are many advantages to using a freecoaster, not least of which is needing less maintenance than most other hubs due to the lack of complicated moving parts such as axles and bearings with added seals and lubricant or grease points. It also offers better traction than with normal gears due to its design, with some riders maintaining tight control over their back cog by means of slapping tricks for instance.
The working of a freecoaster hub is similar to that of a fixed-gear freewheel mechanism, with the exception of the removable cog. The hub’s ratchet action is produced by two spring arms pushing against each other with teeth on one side and lips on the other. A cog is placed between these arms, under the spring tension.
The cog has teeth on its circumference that engage with the lip-equipped side of the spring arms. When pedaling, the teeth push against the lips causing them to slip slightly. As this happens, it becomes harder for the ratchet mechanism to hold onto the cog as it tries to spin (due to friction).
The freecoasters advantages come from the fact that the cog is easily disengaged from the hub so it can be removed and replaced with another cog when a new one is needed. This makes for a quick gear change very easily done by grabbing the hub at its nubbin and pulling up or down on it, then hooking in a new cog.
Freecoasters are unusual in that there is no way to regulate their speed, meaning they can travel very slowly if required, but they also have no friction on their sprocket mechanism like fixed gear freewheels do which means no stopping (or slowing) gears can be used to transition between gears.
The only way to stop the hub is to break its ratchet action (which can be done with a hammer), or use the brake mechanism of the rear wheel which is not usually practical.
This is not meant to be detrimental in terms of functionality, however many riders find the lack of gears disconcerting, especially on longer rides. Overall it can become harder to keep up the pace when out of gears, rather than having power at their fingertips when they want it most.
How a Rear Gear Cassette Works
At the simplest level, a gear cassette is made up of a number of sprockets that are engaged by a drive chain. It typically sits on an axle between the gears and cassette body. However, there are some variations to this, for example, not all cassettes have axles.
The principle behind a gear cassette is simple. The teeth of a sprocket engage the teeth on a chain and if this principle applies to all the sprockets in the cassette, then the sprockets can be moved from one sprocket to another, making it easier to change gear ratios. In other words, you could get a smaller ratio by moving the largest sprocket which allows you to get up hills easier.
There are several variations of how a rear gear cassette works. Most have at least four gears and 1×9 has 9 speeds while 1×10 has 10 speeds and so on. However, there is a difference between 1×9 and 11-speed cassettes. The rear derailleur on a 1×9 bike shifts the chain across eight cogs, whereas it shifts across ten cogs on a 1×10 bike.
A cassette that has 9 speeds (1×9) will normally have the largest sprocket at the back and smallest at the front. The tooth system is designed in such a way that when the chain is on its smallest sprocket, it will be in front of the smallest sprocket when using all other gears. The last sprocket requires a smaller-gearing device than the others and is sometimes not available on small-chainring bikes.
A cassette with different numbers of gears usually includes fewer cogs than the same gear range would have on a derailleur-equipped bike. The reason for this is that it conserves space and weight on the bike and not because of some inherent efficiency gain made by using more than one chainring and one sprocket per gear. You may also see multi-step cassettes with two or three steps between gears, potentially saving space while making use of wider cogs. In some cases, there are steps up from the smallest to the largest cog allowing for a larger range in each gear.
Freecoaster VS Cassette BMX
Word sign: If the keyword “cassette” comes in that item, there is a high possibility that it is a BMX cassette mechanism. If there is a description such as “F/W” or “freewheel,” it may be a BMX freecoaster mechanism.
The unique feature of the free coaster (a mechanism that only the wheel turns when you stop rowing) is its integration with the gear: This gear part is called “boss free” or “freewheel.” The corresponding hub is sometimes called a “boss hub.” Most sports bikes that use this mechanism are now 6 to 7-speed models.
Unlike boss-free, they integrate the free part with the hub. There is no free mechanism on the gear side. This gear part is often called “cassette sprocket” or “sprocket.” The free part of the hub is often called the “free body” and the hub is often called the “cassette hub.” Most models with eight or more rear external gears have this mechanism.
If you cannot decide whether to drive a freecoaster or a cassette, we will analyze the advantages and disadvantages of both hub types in this section. According to bike experts, the biggest advantage of a freecoaster is that you can reverse faster with it than with a cassette hub.
You do not have to worry that the pedals are in the right position when jumping. This difference makes some fake tricks easier. However, it is difficult to control the speed when reversing with a freecoaster, because there is no possibility of braking by counter-pressure on the pedals. This counter-pressure can also be helpful with fakie manuals, especially when doing them as a G-turn.
Many specialists admit it is probably all a matter of practice. And all tricks can be done with either type of hub. What we dislike about a freecoaster at all is the so-called slack. It is a fact that the hub does not engage directly when you pedal. It can lead to problems, especially when riding jump boxes or when a spot has only a little run-up.
What we think is amazing about a freecoaster is that things are noiseless. You can only hear the tires while driving. However, there should also be people who turn it up and for whom a cassette hub cannot be loud enough.
As the last point, it is the reliability and durability of freecoasters. There has been tremendous progress in this area in the past few years that is certainly true. We had no problems with his Cult Freecoaster during the six-month experiment phase. But we still believe that cassette hubs are still much less prone to failure than freecoasters.
What Is a Freecoaster BMX
The clutch shaft (freecoaster) is a rear axle unique to BMX. To explain briefly, the clutch shaft is a rear axle that allows the chain and cranks not to follow the flywheel to rotate backward when your wheels turn backward. Early clutch shafts were mostly available in the rear wheel action of the BMX flat-land fancy event.
Because the traditional rear axle will drive your crank in the backward motion of the rear wheel, it makes the practice more challenging. So, almost all the rear axles of the flat racers use the clutch axle.
Besides flat riders, many BMX street riders also use clutch axles instead of traditional rear axles. Today, when clutch shafts are becoming popular, a critical problem in the design and structure of clutch shafts has been exposed. It is the clutch shaft phantom (Slack).
The definition of vacant position means that when the clutch shaft is ideal. There will be a certain amount of stepping in the air, especially when in the clutch environment. This range can sometimes reach 180 degrees that are more dangerous for street riders in some sense. But again, some BMX flat riders are frustrated by the lack of space.
As a result, the clutch effect is not good. The larger the vacant position, the greater the stopping distance, and the better the clutch effect. The smaller the vacant position, the smaller the stepping range, and the worse the clutch effect.
There are two types of clutch shaft structures currently on the market: the KHE clutch system and the NANKAI clutch system. The clutch shaft structure of the KHE clutch system is relatively simple, and the change is also relatively convenient. The brand clutch shafts that use this system are ODYSSEY, COLONY, and ST MARTIN. Currently, 95% of clutch shafts on the market use THE clutch systems.
Unlike cassette hubs, freecoasters suffer from slack. It takes to engage the pedals and thus be able to push forward. Be careful because if you try to pedal at full strength. You risk falling forward. It is because of the low resistance initially offered by the pedals, and hitting the handlebars with your knees. “
What Is a Cassette BMX
Cassette BMX is responsive pedaling that we have to counter. The pedal clothespins make noise when opening and closing. The problem with cassette hubs is timing. You can never stop pedaling and you can only jump at the exact moment when your feet are perfectly aligned. If you do not take the time correctly, pedal to go back and try again. It is an enormous waste of energy before returning to attack a curb or other obstacle.
So, do novices mostly use cassette hubs? Not at all! Lots of parks, flow, and dirt riders use a cassette hub because they need all the momentum they can get from the first pedal stroke and do not want the pedals to move while in the air. Plus, several tricks, like a tail tap, are easier with a cassette hub.
Main Differences Between Freecoaster and Cassette BMX
If you’re seeking for more speed and higher accelerations, then a cassette BMX is your best choice. Cassette hubs are faster than the freecoaster because it reduces slack and prevents the drivetrain from turning during backpedaling, which leads to a more direct power transmission. Check out our guide on types of BMX seats to understand the importance of having a comfortable seat while riding.
Mechanism
Freecoaster and Cassette BMX can be distinguished by whether the free mechanism is on the gear side or the hub side. The top is a freecoaster hub, and the bottom is a cassette hub. The red line part is distinct.
Number of Teeth
The cassette type has more variations in the number of teeth. Depending on the grade, you can combine the number of teeth you like one by one. Since the freecoaster gear is integrated, it is not possible to combine fine numbers of teeth.
Consider the number of teeth you want on your BMX freecoaster or cassette hub. While freecoaster hubs typically have fewer teeth, about 9-11, cassette hubs can have between 9-12 teeth. Learn more about the size and type of teeth suitable for your BMX hub at Hood MWR.
Shaft Comparison
There is a ball push part that holds the bearing in place. We also have a nut that holds the ball push in place. The top is the axle of the cassette hub, and the bottom is the axle of the freecoaster hub. The bearing position is unique, so the ball pushing position is also different.
If you compare the width of the part surrounded by red, you can see that the cassette hub is wider. The width of the bell push is different means that the width that supports the weight is different.
The wider this width, the more stable the weight can be supported. When considering harder riding, the stable cassette hub will be the best choice.
It is a tough part to understand at first glance. But this step is the most crucial part. It is a part you want to check in advance when choosing a great BMX bike.
Checkpoints for Repairs and Replacements
Check the following when repairing or replacing a boss-free hub.
If the hub shaft breaks,
We can consider bending or breaking of the hub shaft as a failure. It occurs in the freecoaster hub. Shimano always sells shafts, but in most cases, unbranded hubs are more popular. So, there is a high possibility that it will completely replace the hub. Here are the standards that you should know when replacing the hub.
Overlock nut dimensions
The width is between the nuts on the outside of the rear hub. Most MTBs are 135MM, and cross bikes are 130MM. If this width is different, the hub will not fit. If you do not know, measure the width of the rear hub directly.
Stay using freecoaster or make it a cassette hub
We can use both quick release type and locknut type with both freecoaster and cassette hubs as long as the number of rear stages is correct. By replacing the freecoaster, we can repair BMX at the lowest cost.
Replacing with a cassette BMX will incur additional costs, as you will also need to purchase the rear gear. Because of the difference in the ball’s position pushing part mentioned above, the cassette is more durable. So, if you have a budget, we recommend upgrading the system. Keep this in mind when looking for a repaired good wheel for your bikes.
Can you pedal with a freecoaster?
Yes, you can pedal with a freecoaster, but there are some conditions that come into play when pedaling with one. This post discusses these conditions and why they exist in the first place.
The long and short of it is that while it is possible to pedal on a freecoaster if you’re aware of certain factors and take necessary precautions, it’s not recommended for beginners or those who aren’t used to skating or riding one.
The free coasters frame offers enough clearance for standard bicycle tires at least, but if you want to pedal on one, be aware that certain clearance is required. The bottom bracket of the frame sits just above the floor of the skatepark, so even existing skaters may bump into it when walking around.
The frame’s width also prevents standing on the frame when rolling. Pedaling is also not recommended unless you’re doing so correctly or else it will create a chorus effect in which your wheels will make noise at different speeds in conjunction with each other. Keep in mind that the frame’s chain tension also matters, too.
A quick summary of what you can and can’t do on the frame itself.
Should i Get a Freecoaster Bmx?
The benefits of the freecoaster BMX are numerous and include things like; improving balance, toning muscles, increasing stamina, and much more. The novelty factor is also an added benefit that can help increase motivation by making it seem like an easy task at hand. Overall, the freecoaster BMX is an amazing addition to anyone’s fitness routine and will benefit you in so many ways.
Contrary to its name, the freecoaster BMX does not make exercising and staying fit and healthy any easier. In fact, it can make it more difficult because many of the motions required to ride a freecoaster BMX are new and will need to be learned over time. Also, with most freecoaster riders opting out of using helmets for safety reasons, there is a greater risk of injury than with other forms of exercise such as running. However, if you do decide to use a helmet while riding your freecoaster BMX, you will be able to enjoy all the health benefits mentioned above without the risk of injury.
Conclusion
The BMX world will continue to be divided into two camps for the foreseeable future because both freecoaster and cassette hubs have their advantages and disadvantages. In the end, it depends on your personal preferences and your bike mechanic skills what you choose.
