MI5 Rear Hub

Which is better, the Mi5 hub or T11 hub?

Neither is “better”, they just have different applications.  The T11 is a lighter weight rim brake road hub and the Mi5 is a little beefier for touring and mountain bikes, but can be used on road bikes if you want a more stout hub.

What type of service should I be performing on my hubs, and how often?

This depends on the type of climate you’re riding in, and how often.  To check the bearings, remove the wheel once a month and spin the axle with your fingers to check for roughness which would indicate a bearing/bearings need to be replaced.  At least once a year pull the hub apart to inspect and clean/regrease the freehub body parts (pawls etc).  In extreme conditions do this more often.  In wet climates you can smear extra grease on the faces of the outer bearings to help protect them.  For this, we like to use Sta-Lube Water-Resistant Marine Grease.

What type of grease do I use inside the freehub body?

We use Lubriplate brand No. 105 grease during assembly. Small, 10 oz tubes are sold as “Lubriplate No. 105 Motor Assembly Grease” at auto parts stores.  This grease has a “NLGI #0” consistency which is similar to brown mustard (that’s how the grease scientists describe it).  But any quality grease with the same consistency (or slightly thinner) will work.  A small amount smeared into the teeth of the Ratchet Ring and in the pawl pockets of the freehub body is all that’s needed.  Too much will interfere with the operation of the freehub pawls and cause skipping.  You can also use Phil Wood Tenacious Oil or Dumonde Freehub Oil if you prefer a bit louder sound.

Can I get this hub in a 12mm x 142mm Thru axle?

Yes, but you’ll need to call us to order it.

Can I swap from the QR axle to the 12mm x 142mm Thru axle? And is that difficult?

You can swap from one axle to the other, but you will need to purchase a new axle kit.  Those are on the Axle Kits page. Instructions are in the Rear Hub Assembly document, but it’s not a complicated procedure and does not require special tools.  You’ll either:

• • For non-Micro Spline freehub bodies: “12mm x 142mm Thru Axle for XMR (non Micro Spline Driver), part #KITR12X14211
  • For Micro Spline freehub bodies: “12mm x 142mm Thru Axle for XMR (Micro Spline Driver), part #KITR12X142MS11

Can I swap to a different freehub body? And is that difficult?

You can swap from one freehub body to any of the others.  Those are available on the Freehub Bodies page.  If you are swapping to or from a Shimano Micro Spline freehub body, you will also need to purchase the appropriate axle kit on the Axle Kits page.  Instructions are in the Rear Hub Assembly document, but it’s not a complicated procedure and does not require special tools.

How can I restore that shiny silver finish on my polished raw aluminum White Industries parts?

Use “Mothers Mag and Aluminum Polish” with a microfiber rag.  Start with heavy pressure and lighten up towards the end.

Can I get these in a custom anodized color or hole drilling?

Unfortunately we do not offer those options.