What to choose: freecoaster or cassette hub?

In this Q & A with our team rider Martin Paarup, we try to give you the answer about whether you should choose a freecoaster or cassette hub for your BMX setup. Get the answer here.

Are you unsure about the difference between a freecoaster hub and a cassette hub, and what the pros and cons of each are? Find the answer below.

So Martin, tell us what's the benefit of riding a freecoaster?

"A freecoaster hub gives you the freedom to ride backward without pedaling, which also means you can ride at a higher speed. If you are into fakie tricks, a freecoaster hub is essential. You don't have to time your balance with the alignment of the pedals before you jump, which significantly improves the timing"

It all sounds great, but aren't there any cons of using a freecoaster on your BMX bike?

"Unlike cassette hubs, freecoasters have "slack". This is the amount of play in the clutch of a coaster before you can create the force to pedal forward. You need to be aware of that because if you pedal full force forward due to the lack of resistance, you risk flying over the handlebar or hitting your knee against the bar."

So, what should I consider before getting a freecoaster?

"Well, freecoasters can be used by street, park, and dirt riders. Just try it to see if it's for you. If you have a friend that has a bike with a freecoaster, take it for a ride. Some people love it from the start, others need to get used to it. I also know a guy who bought a freecoaster, rode it once, and switched back to a cassette hub"

So, if I'm a beginner, should I just go for a freecoaster right away?

"Yes, you could do that, but I would rather recommend starting on a BMX with a cassette hub. It's just easier to learn the basic stuff such as bunny hops and manuals, and also riding backward because you can brake by pedaling forward."

So why not just keep a cassette hub instead of a freecoaster?

"The downside with a cassette hub is the timing. You always have to pedal around and jump at the precise moment where your right and left feet are perfectly aligned. If you miss that moment, you need to pedal for another round, and that means a lot if you are on your way down to a ledge or obstacle!"

But is a cassette hub primarily ridden by beginners then?

“No, not at all! A lot of park, flow, and dirt riders use a cassette hub because they need to be able to go full throttle from the first stride. Furthermore, they also need to trust that their pedals aren’t moving when they take their feet off them in the air. Tricks like tail taps are also easier with a cassette than with a freecoaster.”

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Want to try riding a freecoaster hub? Find it right here.