DT Swiss

The Ratchet EXP is DT Swiss’s freehub body engagement system, featuring 36 engagement teeth. Compared to the classic Ratchet (18 teeth), the EXP offers more responsive engagement (twice as many engagement points) and simplified maintenance (tool-free removal). It is featured on all 240 hubs and on many DT Swiss complete wheelsets. The freehub body can be replaced in 5 minutes: simply screw it in and out using the two wrenches provided.

DT Swiss 240 hubs are considered among the best in terms of smoothness, durability and maintenance. Their non-adjustable bearing preload (patented DT Swiss design) guarantees long-lasting zero play. The bearings are industrial-grade (SKF) and very well sealed. The smoothness of rotation is comparable to high-end ceramic hubs, but at a much more affordable price and with superior durability.

Yes, DT Swiss was founded in Biel (Switzerland) in 1994, specialising in wheel components: rims, hubs and spokes. The brand is recognised worldwide for the quality of its spokes (DT Champion, Competition, Aerolite) and has expanded its range to include complete wheelsets and MTB suspension systems. DT Swiss hubs and wheels are used by many OEM manufacturers (Specialized, Trek, BMC, Pinarello).

DT Swiss offers a Fair-Share policy: in the event of an accident, DT Swiss contributes financially towards the replacement. This policy covers accidental damage to carbon wheels, which is rare in the industry. The standard warranty against manufacturing defects is 2 years. The Fair-Share policy is activated via the DT Swiss website with proof of purchase.

Replacing the DT Swiss freehub body takes less than 5 minutes and requires no special tools. Remove the wheel from the bike. Insert the two DT Swiss prongs into the notches on the freehub body and unscrew anti-clockwise. Fit the new freehub body (Shimano HG, SRAM XDR, Campagnolo) and screw clockwise. DT Swiss recommends applying a little grease to the threads before fitting.

The ARC 1100 is the top-of-the-range model (premium carbon, 240 Aero+ hubs), whilst the ARC 1400 is the more affordable performance version. The ARC 1100 is around €300–€400 more expensive than the ARC 1400, with a weight difference of approximately 50–80 g. For the vast majority of amateur cyclists and competitive cyclists, the ARC 1400 offers virtually identical performance. The ARC 1100 justifies its higher price tag only for competitors looking to shave off the last few grams.

The latest DT Swiss wheels are compatible with 12x100 mm (front) and 12x142 mm (rear) thru-axles, which are standard on most modern bikes. Adapters for quick-release skewers (9 mm) are supplied with the wheels to ensure compatibility with older bikes. DT Swiss disc wheels use the Center Lock mounting system: a 6-hole adapter is available if required. The cassette must be ordered separately depending on your groupset: Shimano HG, SRAM XDR or Campagnolo.

Yes, DT Swiss is world-renowned for its spokes, sold individually or in sets. DT Champion (steel, robust, training), DT Competition (double-butted, value for money) and DT Aerolite (flattened, aerodynamic) spokes are available in custom lengths. This range allows artisanal wheel builders to incorporate DT Swiss quality into their builds.

Yes, the ERC range is particularly well suited to gravel and road endurance riding. The ERC 1400 in 35–45 mm with a wide rim (22–25 mm internal) accommodates tyres from 28 to 40 mm. Their robustness, versatility and ease of maintenance make them a popular choice for all-road cyclists. DT Swiss also offers specific gravel wheels (GR range) with features suited to varied terrain.