Answering buyers who search for reliable 170mm fat bike hubs, this guide highlights five solid options that balance durability, compatibility, and easy maintenance. The best pick depends on your setup: front hubs, rear hubs, and those that support wider fat tires with quick-release or bolt-on configurations. Below, you’ll find quick-fit summaries, followed by detailed sections to help you compare at a glance.
| Product | Hub Type | Size | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Tracer Fat Bike Hub (B0CLJFVK5X) | Rear/Fat | 170mm | Smooth ride on wide tires; quick-release |
| Origin8 HUB RR OR8 FB2000 | Rear | 170mm | 8-10 speed cassette; simple maintenance |
| Tracer Fat Bike Hub (B0CLJ5G77H) | Front/Rear Fat | 135mm | Compact fat hub; versatile mounting |
| Tracer Fat Bike Hub (B0CLJ66F55) | Front/Rear Fat | 135mm | Double-check front vs rear compatibility |
| BuleVina Fat Tire Hub | Rear/Front (195mm open front, 190mm rear) | 135mm | Snow/rough-terrain setups; quick release |
Tracer Fat Bike Hub, 170mm Rear Quick-Release
Best for: Riders needing a rear fat bike hub compatible with 3/8 x13G spokes, 36 holes, and quick-release. This hub supports a 170mm rear axle and 210mm length options, which can accommodate wider frames and fat tires. Its precision-machined steel bearings aim to deliver smooth rotation and reliable power transfer in challenging conditions.
Why chosen: The model emphasizes a robust build for fat-tire bikes with easy installation and standard disc-brake compatibility. Quick-release helps with maintenance and wheel swaps. Suitable for riders prioritizing straightforward assembly and dependable performance on loose or tough surfaces.
Caution: Availability of exact axle lengths varies; confirm your frame’s rear spacing and brake type before ordering.
Origin8 HUB RR OR8 FB2000 BO 6B 36×170 8-10s
Best for: Fat bike riders seeking an aluminum rear hub designed for 8-10 speed cassettes with bolt-on installation. The loose-ball bearing setup is straightforward to service and tends to resist dirt ingress in messy conditions.
Why chosen: The hub’s aluminum construction keeps weight down while providing stable engagement. It’s a practical choice for riders who value easy maintenance and compatibility with standard 8-10 speed cassettes on fat bikes.
Caution: Loose-ball bearings require periodic maintenance; ensure you have basic tools and spare bearings on hand for long-term use.
Tracer Fat Bike Hub, 170mm Front/Rear (135mm) Options
Best for: Riders needing a versatile hub with 135mm spacing suitable for front or rear Fat Bike use, including quick-release configurations. It includes both 135mm and 170mm sizing options to fit different wheel builds.
Why chosen: This hub offers compatibility across multiple wheel configurations, reducing the need for multiple hubs if you own different bikes or plan upgrades. It suits riders who want a single hub family for fat tires.
Caution: Confirm whether your frame requires front or rear-specific dimensions and mount types before purchase.
BuleVina Fat Tire Hub, Open 195mm Front / 190mm Rear
Best for: Snow bikes and aggressive-tender terrain where space for larger hubs matters. Front hub uses 195mm front open spacing, with 190mm rear open spacing, suitable for wider fat tires and robust frame geometry.
Why chosen: The dual-length open measurements support wider tire setups and snow-specific rigs, making it a strong option for extreme conditions. The aluminum alloy construction helps keep the overall wheel weight manageable.
Caution: The 195mm/190mm open design may require careful alignment with frame dropout spacing; verify compatibility with your fork and frame.
Buying Guide
What to consider when choosing a 170mm fat bike hub
- Compatibility with rear vs front hubs: Ensure the hub matches your wheel position and your frame’s dropout spacing.
- Axle type and spacing: Quick-release vs bolt-on, and whether the hub supports 170mm or 135mm widths, including any 170mm rear lengths.
- Cassette compatibility: If you run a wide-range cassette, confirm the hub’s compatibility (e.g., 8-10 speed) and the freehub/bolt-on system.
- Bearings and maintenance: Look for precision-machined bearings and consider ease of servicing (loose-ball vs cartridge).
- Material and weight: Aluminum hubs help keep weight down while providing adequate strength for fat bikes.
- Durability for terrain: If you ride snow, sand, or rough trails, choose hubs with robust construction and protective seals where applicable.
FAQ
- What is the advantage of a 170mm fat bike hub? It accommodates wider frames and tires, improving stability on fat-tire platforms.
- Do 170mm hubs fit all fat bikes? Not always. Confirm dropout spacing, axle type, and whether the hub is designed for front or rear use on your bike.
- Is quick-release better than bolt-on for fat bike hubs? Quick-release offers easier wheel changes, while bolt-on can provide greater rigidity in some setups.
- Can I use a 135mm hub on a fat bike? Some hubs are versatile, but many fat bikes require wider spacings; verify your frame’s requirements before purchasing.
- Do these hubs support disc brakes? Most fat bike hubs shown are compatible with common disc brake standards, but verify exact rotor and mounting specs for your frame.
- How do I maintain a fat bike hub? Regularly clean bearings, check for play, lubricate as needed, and follow the manufacturer’s service intervals.