Hubs: DT180EXP vs DT240EXP, the difference?
04-12-21, 07:42 AM
#1
Gravelist
Thread Starter
Hubs: DT180EXP vs DT240EXP, the difference?
As the title implies, I'd like to understand more of the difference between the DT Swiss 180EXP and 240EXP hubs (let's assume same 36T on both). All the official site tells me is that the 180EXP is lighter and costs more, but what else differentiates the two models?
Is the 180 less durable because it has more material removed?
Is the 240 quieter?
Etc.
(If it matters, I'd be using these for "all road" riding.)
Is the 180 less durable because it has more material removed?
Is the 240 quieter?
Etc.
(If it matters, I'd be using these for "all road" riding.)
04-12-21, 07:46 AM
#2
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As the title implies, I'd like to understand more of the difference between the DT Swiss 180EXP and 240EXP hubs (let's assume same 36T on both). All the official site tells me is that the 180EXP is lighter and costs more, but what else differentiates the two models?
Is the 180 less durable because it has more material removed?
Is the 240 quieter?
Etc.
(If it matters, I'd be using these for "all road" riding.)
Is the 180 less durable because it has more material removed?
Is the 240 quieter?
Etc.
(If it matters, I'd be using these for "all road" riding.)
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04-12-21, 08:45 AM
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04-12-21, 09:13 AM
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04-12-21, 11:16 AM
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Noise depends on how many teeth on the ratchet rings AND how clean/well lubricated they are. 180 has ceramic bearings and some holes in certain places to make them a tiny bit lighter. If your freehub internals are clean and recently lubricated they're pretty quiet, 6-12 months later...not so quiet.
04-12-21, 02:08 PM
#7
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180 uses an aluminum axle that presses straight into the bearings. 240 uses either steel reinforcement or an entire steel axle.
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04-12-21, 08:07 PM
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04-12-21, 08:16 PM
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DTS 350 is about all the hub anyone needs, but I guess it's sexy to spend more money.
04-12-21, 08:34 PM
#10
Gravelist
Thread Starter
Noise depends on how many teeth on the ratchet rings AND how clean/well lubricated they are. 180 has ceramic bearings and some holes in certain places to make them a tiny bit lighter. If your freehub internals are clean and recently lubricated they're pretty quiet, 6-12 months later...not so quiet.
For example, I've noticed that DT Swiss doesn't put 180s on any of their "gravel" oriented GRC offerings. Perhaps for pricing reasons, not durability?
Last edited by BlueRaspberry; 04-12-21 at 08:39 PM. Reason: Clarification
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04-12-21, 11:40 PM
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Thanks. Am thinking 36T. I will do regular maintenance so keeping them clean and lubed wouldn't be an issue.
Does the aluminum make them less durable? Should 180s not be used for rugged use cases such as off-road bikepacking?
For example, I've noticed that DT Swiss doesn't put 180s on any of their "gravel" oriented GRC offerings. Perhaps for pricing reasons, not durability?
Does the aluminum make them less durable? Should 180s not be used for rugged use cases such as off-road bikepacking?
For example, I've noticed that DT Swiss doesn't put 180s on any of their "gravel" oriented GRC offerings. Perhaps for pricing reasons, not durability?
Maybe there are differences in durability, but in my estimation it ends up a distinction without difference. DT makes good stuff, reliable and long wearing. 180 is not spec’d on The GR line because gravel is not as weight conscious as road racing is. 240 is more than sufficient, and as pointed out, a lot less expensive. 350 is excellent as well. You can upgrade the bearings in a 240 hub (maybe 350) to ceramic if you really desire.
Last edited by Badger6; 04-13-21 at 01:11 AM. Reason: typos
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04-13-21, 10:27 AM
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