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Hexlox launches one-size-fits-all modular thru-axle systemhexlox axle4

Hexlox launches one-size-fits-all modular thru-axle system

One size fits all thru-axle system developed by Hexlox
by David Arthur @davearthur
Tue, Jul 24, 2018 15:37
8

​Hexlox has launched the HexThru modular thru-axle that is claimed to be compatible with most disc-equipped road bikes on the market and offers security via optional locking nuts.

Standards for disc brakes have largely settled down with 12mm front and rear axles becoming the main choice, but there’s no actual standard for the thru-axle itself. I’ve tested many disc-equipped bikes that use different axle systems, it seems no two are the same.

- Everything you need to know about disc brakes

The HexThru Axle aims to change that with a choice of three sizes that thanks to a telescopic design can be adjusted to suit any width dropout easily, with instructions laser etched on the axle.

The axle has variable length and interchangeable thread to adapt to the various different thread pitches used by different thru-axle designs currently in use in the bike market.

hexlox axle2

The company also reckons its HexThru offers a performance advantage. “Performance-wise stiffness and steering responsiveness is maximised as the axle threads completely into the fork, ensuring the hub or fork sits squarely on the axle, not the thread,” it explains.

A low profile conical steel head and plastic cap protects the aluminium axle from dirt and grit.

As well as replacing a standard thru-axle, the HexThru Axle is part of Hexlox’s Bike Security System with the patented lock coming in 4, 5, 6 and 8mm sizes using coded keys.

Replacing the stock thru-axles on your disc-equipped bike might not be the most obvious upgrade, but if you’re not happy with the way your current axles work, these could be an interesting upgrade. If you ride in the city the security measure is a nice touch to prevent somebody running off with a wheel.

The HexThru Axles will cost €45 and be available in October. More at https://hexlox.com/

Hexlox
thru-axle
disc brakes
David Arthur @davearthur

David worked on the road.cc tech team from 2012-2020. Previously he was editor of Bikemagic.com and before that staff writer at RCUK. He's a seasoned cyclist of all disciplines, from road to mountain biking, touring to cyclo-cross, he only wishes he had time to ride them all. He's mildly competitive, though he'll never admit it, and is a frequent road racer but is too lazy to do really well. He currently resides in the Cotswolds, and you can now find him over on his own YouTube channel David Arthur - Just Ride Bikes. 

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8 comments

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hawkinspeter | 6 years ago
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I've had a good thunk about this and have pre-ordered a front and a back. The main reason is that it bugs me when the open/close levers on my thru-axles don't line up horizontally.

Avatar
Canyon48 replied to hawkinspeter | 6 years ago
1 like

hawkinspeter wrote:

I've had a good thunk about this and have pre-ordered a front and a back. The main reason is that it bugs me when the open/close levers on my thru-axles don't line up horizontally.

Couldn't you just use the DT Swiss levers which you can position yourself (or remove the levers entirely)?

Avatar
hawkinspeter replied to Canyon48 | 6 years ago
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Canyon48 wrote:

hawkinspeter wrote:

I've had a good thunk about this and have pre-ordered a front and a back. The main reason is that it bugs me when the open/close levers on my thru-axles don't line up horizontally.

Couldn't you just use the DT Swiss levers which you can position yourself (or remove the levers entirely)?

I looked at the DT Swiss ones, but as far as I could work out, they're not the same thread pitch/size that I need.

Avatar
Innerlube | 6 years ago
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I have Hexlox on my saddle and seat post nuts protecting my Brookes seat. Not been pinched yet.

Lock-able thru axles would certainly be an attractive option as the pitlock type systems don't work for thrus,  and I couldn't find a Robert Axle version (to combine with a standard Hexlox) which fitted.

Avatar
antigee | 6 years ago
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also look pretty useful as an emergency spare in the boot of the car if this bit is fully correct:

"The axle has variable length and interchangeable thread to adapt to the various different thread pitches used by different thru-axle designs currently in use in the bike market.

i've no idea what the pitch is on mine and pretty sure one day  I'll take the wheels off to load bike in the car and leave an axle behind somewhere

Have used the original qr replace ones on my gym/shopper useful if grab U Lock but forget the cable - not lost a wheel yet 

 

'

Avatar
SteveAustin | 6 years ago
0 likes

That picture makes want to fetch my pliers...

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ktache | 6 years ago
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Has anyone used the original Hexlox, have they proven to be a proper deterent, has anything locked with them been nicked?  Building my ultimate commuter at the moment and thinking about getting a lot of these.

Avatar
hawkinspeter replied to ktache | 6 years ago
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ktache wrote:

Has anyone used the original Hexlox, have they proven to be a proper deterent, has anything locked with them been nicked?  Building my ultimate commuter at the moment and thinking about getting a lot of these.

I bought the original Hexlox from their KickStarter campaign (just a pair of 6mm wheel security inserts) and they seemed to work fine. I didn't have my wheels nicked so I'm happy with them.

When I got a new Thru-Axle bike, I was hoping to change the axles to a 6mm hex bolt type, but the only suitable ones I could find where from the Robert Axle Project https://robertaxleproject.com/hexlox-compatible-thru-axle/ though I ended up not wanting them enough to muck around with their axle selector and pay lots of money.

I might go for these new ones, but haven't decided yet.

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