BMX Part
Hub Guards
Hub guards are protective covers that fit over BMX axle ends and hub bodies to shield them from damage during grinds and landings.
Updated 3 min read555 words
Hub guards are protective covers that fit over the axle ends and hub body of a BMX wheel. They shield the hub and axle from damage when you grind rails and ledges or land on them.
What it does
When a rider grinds, the axle and nuts can scrape along a rail or ledge. Without protection, the nuts round off and the axle can bend or the dropout can get damaged. A guard sits over the vulnerable part and takes the scrape instead.
Hub guards are mostly used by street riders. They are lighter and cheaper than a set of pegs, and they still protect the hub. They do not add as much grind surface as pegs, so riders who want to grind on the wheel use pegs instead.
Types and standards
Materials
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Plastic (nylon) | Light, cheap and slides well. Easy to replace. | Wears faster. Can crack if hit hard. |
| Aluminium alloy | Stronger than plastic. Good wear. | Heavier. Can bite or snag on some surfaces. |
| Steel | Very tough. Lasts a long time. | Heavy. Scratches ledges and costs more. |
Driver side and non-drive side
| Side | Notes |
|---|---|
| Driver side (rear) | Sits on the side with the cassette or freecoaster driver. Often a larger guard shaped to cover the driver and axle end. The chain and sprocket sit nearby, so fit and clearance matter. |
| Non-drive side (rear) | Sits on the opposite side. Usually a simple axle guard. |
| Front | A front guard protects the front axle. It can be used on either side. |
Some guards are sold individually. Others come as pairs or sets for front and back.
Sizing and compatibility
- Axle diameter: guards are made for a specific size. A guard for a 14mm axle will not fit a 3/8 inch axle.
- Axle style: male (threaded ends with nuts) or female (hollow with bolts). Some guards clamp over a nut. Others need a bolt through the middle.
- Driver size: rear driver side guards are built for particular driver shapes. See cassette hub and freecoaster hub.
- Frame and fork clearance: the guard must clear the dropout and the chainstay or fork leg.
- Chain and sprocket clearance: the driver side guard must not rub the chain.
Always check the maker's listing for the hubs and axles a guard supports. If you use pegs, check that the guard and the peg can both fit on the axle.
How to choose
- Identify your axle size and style. Measure the axle end if you are unsure.
- Decide how much protection you need. Light riders on smooth ledges can use plastic. Heavy grinders may prefer alloy or steel.
- Choose a driver side guard that matches your rear hub.
- Think about weight. Plastic is lightest. Steel adds the most.
- Buy a spare set if you ride street often. Guards wear out.
Hub guards are a low cost part. Plastic is the cheapest, and alloy and steel cost more.
Maintenance
- Check the guards are tight each ride. A loose guard can spin or fall off.
- Replace any guard that is cracked or worn thin.
- Check the axle nuts or bolts underneath after a hard grind.
- Keep grit out from between the guard and the dropout.
- Remove the guard when you service the hub, and clean the axle ends.
- See BMX maintenance basics.
Related parts
Cassette hub, freecoaster hub, front hub, pegs and cranks.
Frequently asked questions about Hub Guards
Do I need hub guards?
If you grind rails and ledges, they are a worthwhile protection. They stop the axle and nuts from being chewed up. If you ride park or dirt only, you can skip them.
Are hub guards the same as pegs?
No. Pegs are separate grind tubes that bolt on to the axle. Hub guards are lighter covers that protect the hub. Some guards can double as a small grind surface, but they are not a replacement for pegs.
Will any guard fit my hub?
No. Check your axle size (3/8 inch, 10mm or 14mm), male or female style, and the driver size on the rear. Guards are made for specific axle and driver types.
Shop at LUXBMX
Popular picks for this article from LUXBMX, an Australian BMX store.
G-Sport Uniguard Rear Hub GuardView the G-Sport Uniguard Rear Hub Guard at LUXBMX
G-Sport Gland MK IV Universal Hub GuardView the G-Sport Gland MK IV Universal Hub Guard at LUXBMX
Colony Wasp Nylon Front Hub GuardView the Colony Wasp Nylon Front Hub Guard at LUXBMX
Photos: LUXBMX
BMX Wiki and LUXBMX share an owner. Links to the store are not paid placements and do not change what articles say. About this relationship
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