Looking for a 2-speed kickback hub that simplifies shifting and maintenance for urban commuting or light trail use? This guide highlights five well-suited options, explaining who each product serves best, and why you might choose one over another. Whether you want a retro coaster-brake setup, a modern kick-shift design, or a robust fixed-gear hub, these selections cover common needs like ease of use, durability, and compatibility for 26″ to 29″ wheels. Buyers here range from city commuters to fixie riders seeking a reliable, low-maintenance solution.
| Product | Key Benefit | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 36h | Kick shift with direct drive option; coaster brake available | Urban riders seeking simple gear changes |
| Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 32h | Backpedal action for shifting; retro coaster brake | City commuting with minimal maintenance |
| Sturmey Archer RR S/A 2sp S2C 36CB ALY | Duomatic kick shift; lightweight aluminum | Stop-and-go city riding |
| POLSO FH003 | Fixed-gear hub with CNC precision | Fixed-gear enthusiasts seeking smooth rotation |
| e*thirteen Sidekick GR Rear Hub | Anti-kickback with adjustable deadband | Mountain biking and aggressive terrain |
Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 36h 116mm Silver
The Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit 36h uses a 2-speed internal gear system with direct drive and 138% drive ratios. It supports a no-shifter gear change through the kick shift mechanism, which lets riders switch gears by pedaling in a backpedal or forward motion. This kit is best for urban riders who want clean aesthetics and minimal external cables. Its polished aluminum shell offers durability while keeping weight in check. A limitation for some is the need for wheel compatibility with a 116mm hub spacing and drum-brake or coaster brake configurations depending on build.
Who this is best for: Everyday city commuters who prefer low-maintenance shifting and a clean, cable-free setup. Best for riders who want a simple backpedal/forward shift without adding external shifters.
Sturmey Archer S2C Kick-Shift Hub Kit with Coaster Brake – 32h, 116mm, Black
This 32h version emphasizes the kick-shift feature that lets riders toggle gears via backpedal motion, paired with a retro-styled coaster brake. Its cable-free design reduces maintenance and potential snag points in daily rides. The 116mm spacing is a common wheel standard, making installation straightforward for many urban bikes. A potential drawback is fewer modern braking options for riders who want rim or disc brakes in the same hub family.
Who this is best for: Riders who value a vintage aesthetic with modern kick-shift convenience and want a compact, low-maintenance braking solution integrated into the hub.
HUB RR S/A 2sp S2C 36CB ALY KICKSHIFT SLw/21T COG
This hub uses Duomatic Kick Shift technology to enable seamless gear changes without external shifter cables. Constructed from lightweight aluminum, it weighs in at a practical level for urban use, and its 36H shell is compatible with standard city wheels. It’s designed for easy on-the-fly gear modifications, ideal for stop-and-go city riding and effortless gear management. A consideration is ensuring the 21T cog configuration aligns with your chainring and chain length for smooth shifting.
Who this is best for: City riders who want reliable cadence adjustments without added cables, and riders who appreciate a straightforward backpedal-forward shift approach in a lightweight hub.
POLSO FH003 20/24/32 Hole Fixed Gear Hub
POLSO FH003 is a fixed-gear hub designed for 20, 24, or 32-hole configurations and built from aluminum alloy for strength. Precision CNC machining ensures accurate dimensions, and sealed bearings contribute to smooth rotation and stability. This hub suits riders who want a robust, lightweight fixie setup with predictable performance in city streets and gentle gradients. A possible limitation is that fixed-gear hubs do not offer multi-gear functionality and require careful chain management and wheel alignment for optimal performance.
Who this is best for: Fixed-gear enthusiasts seeking a precise, CNC-machined hub with durable alloy construction and straightforward operation.
POLSO FH-007 Fixed Gear Hub 20/24 Holes
The POLSO FH-007 is a fixed-gear hub designed to accommodate 20- or 24-hole configurations with a hollow-aluminum design for a distinctive look and optimized weight. The CNC forging process is highlighted to emphasize strength and reliability, making it a solid pick for riders who prefer aggressive styling and solid performance in urban riding or trick-friendly setups. A caution is that fixed-gear hubs require careful alignment and may demand higher maintenance for precise single-gear operation.
Who this is best for: Fixie riders seeking a stylish, CNC-machined hub with reliable alloy construction for daily commutes and solo riding sessions.
Buying Guide
Key considerations when selecting a 2-speed kickback or fixed-gear hub include hub type, wheel compatibility, gearing options, and maintenance needs. Understanding these factors helps you match a hub to your bike and riding style.
- Purpose and terrain: Choose kick-shift hubs for urban commuting with stop-and-go traffic, or anti-kickback designs for smoother suspensions on varied terrain. Fixed-gear hubs suit riders seeking simplicity and weight savings.
- Wheel compatibility: Check spoke count (28h, 32h, 36h) and hub spacing (e.g., 116mm) to ensure a proper fit with your wheel build.
- Shift mechanism: Kick-shift systems allow gear changes through pedaling action, reducing external cables. Ensure your drivetrain supports this feature and matches cog counts (e.g., 21T, 23T) for smooth engagement.
- Brake integration: Coaster brakes and modern drum or hub brakes require careful selection to align with your braking needs and wheel configuration.
- Maintenance and durability: Aluminum shells reduce weight and corrosion risk, but fixed-gear hubs require precise setup and occasional adjustments for optimal single-gear performance.
FAQ
- What is a kick-shift hub? A kick-shift hub allows gear changes by pedaling backward or forward, eliminating the need for external shifters or cables.
- Are 32H or 36H hubs better? The choice depends on wheel compatibility and frame spacing. Higher hole counts improve spoke strength and wheel rigidity for certain builds.
- Can I convert a bike to a two-speed hub easily? Conversion feasibility depends on your frame spacing, dropout compatibility, and wheel availability for the hub model you choose.
- Do fixed-gear hubs require special maintenance? Yes. Fixed-gear hubs rely on precise alignment and chain tension; regular checks help maintain smooth operation.
- Is anti-kickback beneficial for mountain biking? Anti-kickback systems reduce pedal-induced suspension forces, which can improve control on rough trails and on descents.
- Which hub suits city commuting best? For minimal maintenance and cable-free shifting, kick-shift hubs like the Sturmey Archer S2C line are strong, everyday options.