Introduction

This article focuses only on ratchet-style freehubs. If your hub uses pawls, the mechanics are different.

Many riders assume a loud freehub means more drag—but in ratchet hubs, that’s not true. The clicks come from the ratchet teeth snapping into place, not from wasted effort. Let’s explore why some ratchet hubs are loud yet extremely smooth.

1. Why Ratchet Hubs Make Noise

In a ratchet hub:

• Ratchet teeth engage and release repeatedly
• Lubricant acts like a sponge, holding oil and releasing it gradually
• Each engagement produces a small click as energy passes through the thin oil film

The clicking noise is a sign the ratchet is working correctly—not extra friction.

2. What Determines Smooth Coasting

Smooth hub rotation depends on:

1. Lubricant viscosity – low-viscosity oil flows easily, reducing drag
2. Ratchet design & tooth contact – wider teeth distribute load evenly
3. Bearings condition – clean, well-preloaded bearings minimize resistance

Sound does not directly indicate drag in a ratchet hub.

3. How Lubrication Tunes Sound and Drag

Think of grease like a sponge holding oil:

• Thick grease → more damping → quieter clicks, slightly higher drag
• Thin oil or light grease → less damping → louder clicks, extremely smooth coasting

Loud ratchet hubs often feel faster because the lubricant flows easily and lets teeth snap instantly.

4. The Trade-Off Triangle

Ratchet hub lubrication balances three factors:

1. Sound – louder for feedback, quieter for stealth
2. Drag – lower for smooth coasting, slightly higher for damping
3. Durability – thicker grease lasts longer; thinner oil needs frequent service

No single setup is perfect; the right choice depends on riding style, climate, and maintenance preferences.

Conclusion

A loud ratchet hub doesn’t mean more drag. The clicks are caused by the ratchet teeth engaging through the oil “sponge,” ensuring smooth coasting and long-lasting performance. Understanding this helps you get the most out of your ride.

Learn more about our koova components and explore the different models, including the S10 hub and S60 hub, to find the hub that fits your riding style.