Industry Nine Hydra2 Hub: Unmatched Engagement & Durability?

As we adavanced a month ago Industry Nine has finally revealed the Hydra2 hub. Building upon the legacy of its predecessor, the Hydra, the Hydra2 offers significant enhancements in engagement, durability, and performance, making it a standout choice.

One of the most remarkable features of the Hydra2 hub is its near-instantaneous engagement. With a staggering 870 points of engagement, the Hydra2 has a minimal 0.41° engagement angle. This improvement is achieved by upgrading each pawl to three teeth, increasing surface contact during engagement. This advancement ensures that riders experience immediate power transfer, which is particularly beneficial in technical terrains where split-second responsiveness is crucial.

Durability has been a focal point in the Hydra2's design. The hub features a more robust axle and larger 61903 sealed cartridge bearings, addressing previous concerns about axle failures and bearing longevity. Additionally, the incorporation of dust seals near both end caps and a radial lip seal helps keep bearings cleaner for longer periods, reducing maintenance needs.

The drive ring has also been upgraded to a stronger material, further enhancing the hub's resilience under demanding conditions.

An often-overlooked aspect of hub performance is coasting drag, which can affect a rider's efficiency. The Hydra2 addresses this by achieving a 60% reduction in coasting drag compared to its predecessor. This improvement allows for smoother and faster coasting, contributing to an overall enhanced riding experience.