Shimano front thru-axle 100mmx12mm ESMAX720F10012

Shimano E E-THRU thru-axle for front wheels with disc brakes

The Shimano SM-AX720 E-THRU, part number ESMAX720F10012, is a 12 mm front through-axle designed for bikes fitted with a front wheel meeting the 12 x 100 mm standard. It is primarily intended for road and city bikes fitted with disc brakes and a fork compatible with this standard. Shimano s the product officially under the designation SM-AX720-100x12, with a total length of 121 mm.

Thanks to its E-THRU system with a cam lever, this axle allows for quick wheel attachment whilst ensuring consistent clamping force. Its integrated adjustment mechanism also allows the lever position to be adjusted.

Key features of the SM-AX720 Shimano

• Shimano reference: ESMAX720F10012.
• Model: SM-AX720.
• 12 x 100 mm thru-axle.
• Position: front wheel.
• Axle length: 121 mm.
• Thread: M12 x 1.5.
• Aluminium construction.
• Shimano E-THRU fastening system.
• Cam-action clamping lever.
• Adjustable lever position.
• Integrated adjustment system.
• Colour: black.
• Claimed weight of around 65 g according to Shimano documentation and distributors.

A 12 x 100 mm thru-axle for the front wheel

The 12 x 100 mm standard corresponds to a 100 mm mounting width and a 12 mm axle diameter. This is a common standard on many modern road bikes with disc brakes.

The SM-AX720 is specifically designed for this configuration. It should therefore not be confused with the rear version, the SM-AX720-142x12, which uses a 142 mm mounting width and a different axle length.

Please note: the 12 x 100 mm dimension alone is not sufficient to guarantee compatibility. You must also check the thread pitch and length, as well as the specific compatibility of the fork.

Shimano ’s E-THRU technology

The E-THRU system is designed to provide a rigid and secure wheel attachment. The SM-AX720 uses an integrated cam-lock mechanism that allows the wheel to be locked in place without the need for an Allen key each time it is removed.

The lever can be positioned so as not to interfere with the operation of the bike or the disc brake. Shimano also provides a system for adjusting the lever’s position.

This design is particularly practical for cyclists who regularly remove their front wheel for transport or maintenance.

A lightweight aluminium construction

The Shimano SM-AX720 usesaluminium for the axle and the lever. The 12 x 100 mm front version is reported to weigh around 65 g by several sources, helping to keep the weight of the drivetrain to a minimum.

The axle thus combines lightness, stiffness and ease of use, with a discreet black finish suited to most modern set-ups.

Technical specifications

Shimano ’s specifications indicate a 100 x 12 mm configuration, a length of 121 mm and the part number ESMAX720F10012.

In summary

The Shimano SM-AX720 ESMAX720F10012 is a 12 x 100 mm E-THRU front thru-axle, primarily designed for road and city bikes compatible with disc brakes. Its aluminium construction, cam lever, integrated adjustment and low weight make it a practical and reliable solution.