DT Swiss Freehub Replacement - Quickly and Easily Explained
Do you want to change the freehub on your DT Swiss wheelset? Then you have come to the right place.
The DT Swiss Ratchet system is one of the simplest and easiest-to-maintain freehub systems available. The change takes just a few seconds - with no special tools.
In this example, we are replacing a Shimano HG freehub with an SRAM XDR freehub.
- Remove the old freehub
- Check the spring
- Install the new freehub
- Let it engage
- Done 🚴
1. Remove the old DT Swiss freehub
The existing Shimano HG freehub can simply be pulled off by hand.
This is normally very easy to do on the DT Swiss Ratchet system and requires no tools.
👉 Important: Pull it straight off and do not tilt it.
2. Check the spring
Before installing the new freehub, the spring should be checked.
👉 It must be reinserted correctly and seated in the new freehub.
If the spring accidentally remains attached to the old freehub, simply remove it carefully and insert it into the new freehub.
3. Install the SRAM XDR freehub
The new SRAM XDR freehub is now simply placed onto the hub.
Once the spring is correctly positioned, the freehub engages properly.
The appropriate end cap must then be installed.
👉 And with that, the conversion is complete.
Why the DT Swiss Ratchet system is so popular
- Quick freehub change
- Possible without tools
- Very easy to maintain
- High reliability
- Easy switching between Shimano and SRAM
Shimano HG vs. SRAM XDR
The Shimano HG freehub is often used for classic Shimano cassettes.
SRAM XDR, on the other hand, is used primarily for modern SRAM road and gravel groupsets.
👉 Important: The cassette and freehub must always be compatible.
Conclusion
Changing the freehub on DT Swiss Ratchet hubs is one of the quickest and easiest maintenance tasks on a bike.
With just a few simple steps, you can easily switch between Shimano HG and SRAM XDR.