Why Carbon Wheel Brands Are Switching to EXP Hubs: Engineering the Next Level of Performance

Introduction: A New Era in Carbon Wheel Technology

Over the last few years, there’s been a quiet revolution in the carbon wheel market and it’s not just about rim profiles anymore. Brands are increasingly upgrading the one component most riders overlook: the hub. More specifically, we’re seeing a widespread move toward EXP-style hubs, known for their improved engagement, durability, and power transfer.

But why are the best carbon wheels now built around this newer hub architecture? And what does it actually mean for your performance on the road or trail? As an engineer working with high-performance cycling tech, I’m breaking down the real-world reasons behind this design evolution and why brands like Velocite Wheels have fully adopted EXP hubs in their latest models.

What Is an EXP Hub?

The term "EXP" comes from “expanded engagement” or “extra engagement points”, depending on the brand. While specifics vary, the general EXP concept focuses on a single-piece drive mechanism with fewer moving parts and faster engagement compared to traditional ratchet or pawl systems.

EXP hubs typically offer:

• Faster engagement (often 6–10° of rotation vs. 20+° in older hubs)

• Stiffer axle interface

• Simplified construction

• Improved long-term durability

• Lower maintenance requirements

Why Carbon Wheel Brands Are Embracing EXP

1. More Power, Less Lag

One of the core goals of carbon wheels is maximising power transfer. With an EXP hub’s faster engagement, the delay between pedal input and wheel response is nearly eliminated. On climbs, in sprints, or out of corners, this micro-efficiency matters. You get more power to the ground, more quickly.

Traditional hubs could lag 15–20 degrees before engaging. That’s valuable momentum lost especially for competitive riders. EXP hubs minimise that gap, providing a snappier, more direct ride feel.

2. Stronger, Lighter Design Suited for Carbon Integration

Modern carbon wheelsets are pushing the boundaries of low weight without sacrificing stiffness. EXP hubs contribute by:

• Eliminating excess parts (like dual ratchet rings or multiple springs)

• Using a single shared axle that increases torsional stiffness

• Reducing rotational weight at the hub center, where it matters most

For brands like Velocite, this lets engineers fine-tune the balance of strength-to-weight at the hub without compromising the rim’s structural integrity.

3. Longer Lifespan, Lower Maintenance

Let’s be real most cyclists aren’t rebuilding their hubs every month. EXP designs are inherently more durable thanks to:

• Fewer moving parts

• Better load distribution

• Less wear on engagement teeth

When combined with sealed bearings and precision machining (as seen in Velocite’s EXP hubsets), riders benefit from extended service intervals and consistent performance in all conditions.

4. Better Compatibility with Disc Brakes and Thru-Axles

Modern road and gravel bikes are all-in on disc brakes and thru-axles. EXP hubs are engineered with these standards in mind:

• Enhanced stiffness across 12mm and 15mm thru-axles

• Superior rotor interface tolerances (important for consistent braking)

• More consistent spoke tension across disc-side and non-disc flanges

This makes EXP hubs the go-to for carbon wheels built for disc brake performance, particularly in endurance, gravel, and race builds.

Engineering Advantages of EXP: A Deep Dive

Here’s a quick comparison between traditional pawl-based hubs and modern EXP hubs:

Why Velocite Wheels Adopted EXP Hubs

At Velocite, we’re driven by one goal: engineering the best carbon wheels on the market. The transition to EXP hubs wasn’t about following a trend—it was about solving long-standing rider problems with data-driven design.

Our EXP hub systems:

• Deliver nearly instantaneous power transfer

• Withstand abuse from cobbles, gravel, and steep gradients

• Provide unmatched reliability for endurance and race conditions

Combined with our U-shaped carbon rim profiles, this hub architecture ensures aero performance, crosswind stability, and instant responsiveness in every ride scenario.

Is It Worth Upgrading to EXP Hubs?

If you’re still riding on legacy pawl or older ratchet hubs, here’s what an upgrade to EXP hubs gives you:

• More efficient climbs and sprints

• Smoother ride quality

• Less hub drag

• Longer service life

• Increased bike stiffness

In essence, the hub—once the forgotten component of wheelsets is now a performance multiplier. Especially when paired with high-end carbon rims, it’s the key to unlocking more speed with less effort.

Conclusion: EXP Is the Future of Carbon Wheels

The best carbon wheels are no longer just about deep-section rims or lightweight layups they’re about system integration. The hub, rim, and spokes must work in harmony to deliver real-world gains.

With EXP-style hub designs, brands like Velocite Wheels are setting new benchmarks in performance, efficiency, and durability. Whether you race crits, ride sportives, or grind gravel, switching to EXP hubs means you’re not just going faster you’re riding smarter.

Ready to upgrade?
Explore Velocite’s carbon wheels built around advanced EXP hub technology designed for cyclists who demand the very best.