Frequently Asked Questions
What is SpeedRelease™?
Quite simply, it's an advanced thru-axle system that is faster and easier to operate than a standard thru-axle.
Why do I need it?
SpeedRelease™ has all of the features of a standard thru-axle, but makes wheel removal/installation much simpler, faster and easier to use.
Why/How is it better?
SpeedRelease™ is an improved axle system that is intuitive and simple to operate. It’s uncomplicated design overcomes the disadvantages of conventional thru-axles.
SpeedRelease™ axles are faster: Just a quick shuttle to engage and disengage the wheel from the frame. No need to completely withdraw the axle from the wheel and frame.
The axle now stays with the hub, even off the bike - so you can’t lose your axle and it won’t be dropped in the dirt. Now you don’t need a third hand to hold the conventional thru-axle.
Timed release: Both the left and right dropouts simultaneously disengage from the axle. This insures proper thread alignment, and easy, one handed operation.
Eliminates binding: Axle can’t bind or get hung-up in the frame (unlike conventional thru-axles).
I'm a cyclist. How do I get SpeedRelease™ on my bike?
Speedrelease-compatible axles require a compatible dropout configuration for proper function. Therefore, a compatible frame and/or fork are required. Please see our supplier list for suppliers of compatible frames and forks.
Is it for both front and rear?
Yes the 12mm SpeedRelease™ axle system has been developed for front (100mm or 110mm O.L.D.) and rear (142mm or 148mm O.L.D.)
I'm an OEM frame maker. How can I make my frames and/or forks Speedrelease compatible?
We offer a no-fee license to frame and fork makers. Please contact us for license information and specifications.
I'm a custom frame maker. Is there anyone that supplies SpeedRelease compatible dropouts for frame makers?
Yes. We offer a no-fee license to frame and fork makers. Please contact us for license information and specifications. SpeedRelease-compatible dropouts are available from the following dropout manufacturers.
Which bicycles use SpeedRelease™?
SpeedRelease-compatible bicycles are available from the following bicycle companies.
My company makes hubs and/or axles. How can I make them SpeedRelease compatible?
Please contact us for license information and specifications.
Where can I get a SpeedRelease-compatible axle?
SpeedRelease-compatible axles are available from the following axle manufacturers.
Can I revert to a standard 12mm axle with my SpeedRelease-compatible frame?
Yes, as long as the threads and length are compatible. Please see our technical specifications.
Can a SpeedRelease-compatible axle be used with my old closed through-axle dropouts?
Yes, as long as the diameter (12mm), threads and length are compatible.
Can I use SpeedRelease™ on my existing frame and/or fork?
Not really. As with all through-axle designs, SpeedRelease-compatible dropouts are required and are available on replacement forks and on new bikes.
But, in a pinch, and as long as the diameter (12mm), threads and length are compatible, you can use a SpeedRelease™ axle with conventional thru-axle frame/fork. However, you won’t have the superior functionality associated with the SpeedRelease™ system.
Are SpeedRelease-compatible axles heavier than conventional through-axles?
No. For a given axle design, a SpeedRelease-compatible axle weight is the same or even lighter.